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Thermally activated slab systems
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Also inside CELEBRATING
MODERN HYDRONICS
YEARS 1997-2012
2012
GETTING THE MOST
From Modulating Condensing Boilers RADIANT FLOOR HEATING & COOLING PRODUCT SHOWCASE WATER TEMPERATURE CONTROL STRATEGY WOOD GASIFICATION BOILER SYSTEMS CIRCULATOR SELECTION
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21 MODERN HYDRONICS 26 Boilers
TICKING TIME BOMBS
RADIANT FLOOR HEATING & COOLING
36 Radiant The Next Generation BY RYAN WESTLUND
40 Hydronic Product Showcase
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44 Controls Beyond The Basics BY MIKE MILLER
48 Marketing Initiative Gets The Word Out
Cover Image: Istock photo
Departments 4 6 8 72 76 77 77 78
Upfront Letters Industry News
BY THERESA KANE
50 Pumps Curves and Apps
Mechanical Supply News People The Source Training
2012
From Modulating Condensing Boilers
BY JOHN SIEGENTHALER
20 Together Forever
HVAC/R
1997-2012
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31 Geothermal
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< UPFRONT EquipmEnt LEssors BEwarE Having Had an experience myself witH a decrepit rental water Heater, i was particularly interested in tHe outcome of a recent small claims case in ontario. two homeowners took a tank rental company to small claims court after their tanks leaked. the following is a synopsis of the case summary from mccague Borlack llp, which represented the consumers. the appeals both involved property damage caused by the failure of leased hot water tanks and raised a number of issues relating to implied warranties in lease agreements, the application of the consumer protection act, the time period during which the implied warranties were operative, the time period during which the product was defective, the differences between sale and lease agreements, and the duty to warn. the hot water tanks were 10 and 19 years old at the time of loss. in each case the tank was already there when the plaintiff purchased the home, and the plaintiff assumed the existing rental agreement. in the small claims court decision from which the appeals were taken, it had been held that the implied warranty of fitness continued with each monthly lease payment as a new starting point. the lessor argued that the implied warranties applied at the start of the lease term and continued only for a reasonable period thereafter, and were no longer in place 10 and 19 years after the installation of the tanks. a major issue on the appeals was the standard of appellate review that was applicable. it was the lessor's position that the standard was that of correctness, while it was the plaintiffs' position that the decision of the small claims court judge could be overturned only if a palpable and overriding error was shown. the court accepted the plaintiffs' position. the decision in favour of the plaintiffs is important in all claims involving loss or damage from the failure of leased products where there are warranties that are implied either by the consumer protection act or under the common law. the decision stands for the proposition that, unless the contract provides otherwise (and is capable of so providing), those implied warranties will be effective throughout the term of the lease, regardless of how long a time has passed since the start of the lease, and not just during some relatively short period of time after that start date. in other words, a lessor has an obligation to supply a safe and properly functioning product in each and every lease payment period, and will be liable for loss or damage resulting from a breach of that obligation, regardless of how far into the lease term that might occur. to see the full case summary, visit www.mccagueborlack.com.
HPac Magazine 80 Valleybrook Drive, toronto, on M3b 2s9 tel: 416.442.5600 FaX: 416.510.5140 www.hpacmag.com
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Publications Mail agreeMent no. 40069240, registration no. 10815 Heating Plumbing air conditioning (established 1925) is published 7 times per year by big Magazines lP, a division of glacier big Holdings company ltd. HPac Magazine is the leading canadian business publication for the owner/manager of mechanical contracting businesses and their supply partners. issn: 0017-9418 contents copyright © 2012 by big Magazines lP, a division of glacier big Holdings company ltd., may not be reprinted without permission. SubScriber ServiceS: to subscribe, renew your subscription or to change your address or information please visit us at www.hpacmag.com. subscription Price per year: $40.00 cDn; outside canada per year: $80.00 us; single copy canada: $5.00 cDn. Heating Plumbing air conditioning is published 7 times per year except for occasional combined, expanded or premium issues, which count as two subscription issues. Mail PreferenceS: From time to time we make our subscription list available to select companies and organizations whose product or service may interest you. if you do not wish your contact information to be made available, please contact us via one of the following methods: tel: 800.387.0273, Fax: 416.442.2191; e-mail: jhunter@ businessinformationgroup.ca; or by mail: Privacy office, 80 Valleybrook Dr., toronto, on M3b 2s9. HPac Magazine receives unsolicited materials (including letters to the editor, press releases, promotional items and images) from time to time. HPac Magazine, its affiliates and assignees may use, reproduce, publish, re-publish, distribute, store and archive such unsolicited submissions in whole or in part in any form or medium whatsoever, without compensation of any sort. notice: HPac Magazine, big Magazines lP, a division of glacier big Holdings company ltd., their staff, officers, directors and shareholders (hence known as the “Publisher”) assume no liability, obligations, or responsibility for claims arising from advertised products. the Publisher also reserves the right to limit liability for editorial errors, omissions and oversights to a printed correction in a subsequent issue. HPac Magazine’s editorial is written for management level mechanical industry personnel who have documented training in the mechanical fields in which they work. Manufacturers’ printed instructions, datasheets and notices always take precedence to published editorial statements. We acknowledge the financial support of the government of canada through the canada Periodical Fund (cPF) for our publishing activities.
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HPAC | JaNUaRY/FEBRUaRY 2012
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re: smoke & mirrors and the real Deal Upfront, HPAC November/December 2011 i have two thoughts regarding people actually deciding to make the changes in their homes. first of all, i cannot speak about alberta because we do not do any residential work there, but here in Bc since the program started a few years ago, there has been a definite increase in the amount of retrofits being done here (just ask a couple of contractors). that indicates to me that it is not just appliances breaking down, which is leading to replacements, but that the grant is providing incentives to homeowners to upgrade their older, less efficient appliances. the second thought i have is, if a customer is going to have their current appliance changed due to necessity (breakdown or some type of failure) then why not take advantage of a program that is going to help cover the cost. i think right now that the federal program still offers $790 to upgrade to a high efficiency furnace that is a dc motor type and $375 for a standard high efficiency furnace. the province is also running a program that offers an additional $600 for a 95 per cent dc motor furnace and an additional $300 for a standard type high efficiency furnace 90 per cent or better. so, in a worst case scenario the customer ends up with an energy audit of their home and $300. personally, i believe these programs offer motivation for the average homeowner to become more energy efficient, as well as providing some form of education and awareness regarding our personal responsibility for the environment. that said, i think we could do a much better job on the education and awareness. John Worswick Allrite Heating & Ventilation Ltd. Prince George, BC Editor’s Note: At press time the ecoENERGY Retrofit-Homes program had just been cancelled after reaching its goal of 250 000 registrants (see page 8).
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HPAC | JaNUaRY/FEBRUaRY 2012
re: all-points Bulletin Plan reviews and field inspections: Under slab insulation By Robert Bean HPAC November/December 2011 your comment regarding the editing your article received touched a nerve with me. HPAC really has always been better than virtually all of the other trade magazines and tabloids, and to a large extent is exempt from my otherwise scathing criticism. even then, if HPAC had been accepting ad $$ for bubble pack, your article may not have made it. your own technical writing and choice of subjects is right on the mark. i do wish there were more like you. instead we get industry gurus with pom-poms who are completely restrained by the venue in their ability to critically review anything. generally, they talk down to their audience in a “mr. rogers’ neighbourhood” kind of way while they promote bad ideas; everything from rubber pipe to bubble pack insulation. it is not only insulting to the intelligence of a critical audience, it is also maladaptive for the industry. sadly, tradespeople often prefer to be uninformed. there is nowhere consumers can go for critical or credible technical information. Dale Prickard Radiant Engineering, Inc. Bozeman, MT Editor’s Note: To see the comment regarding “the editing,” visit www.linkedin.com/groups/wwwhealthyheatingcom-Journal-IndoorEnvironmental-Quality-3898754. hpacmag.com
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Industry news
SEE THE LATEST HPAC E-nEwSLETTEr @ hpacmag.com GivinG plumbinG its due
linde steps down as RmC seRviCe pRovideR
On March 11, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC), Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIPH) and World Plumbing Council (WPC) will join with other Canadian WPC members across the country to participate in activities designed to raise awareness of the importance of the Canadian plumbing industry. Promotional information and fact sheets are available at: www.worldplumbingday.org.
Linde Canada stepped down as a Refrigerant Management Canada (RMC) collection service provider on December 31, 2011. Wholesalers and contractors should send collection inquiries to Fielding Chemical Technologies inMississauga, ON, or Refrigerant Services Inc., in Dartmouth, NS. www.refrigerantmanagement.ca continued on page 11
eCoeneRGy RetRofit-Homes pRoGRam Gets tHe axe Reactions varied from shock, to disappointment, to ambivalence on the part of associations affected by the federal government’s decision to close the ecoENERGY RetrofitHomes program two months earlier than expected. The news appeared near the bottom of a “good news” press release issued January 29 by the office of Minister of Natural Resources Canada Joe Oliver, announcing an additional $117 million in funding over three years for the ecoENERGY Efficiency Initiatives. NRCan stated that the Homes program had reached its goal of 250 000 registered homeowners, so it would not accept any new registrations. “Obviously as an industry we’re disappointed,” said Warren Heeley, president of the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI). He said it was disappointing that the government decided to get back into the program and then end it two months early and noted that bringing it back for such a short period of time can do more harm than good. “That just plays havoc with the marketplace and with the residential customer,” said Heeley. Heeley said his organization understands that the retrofit program had a goal of 250 000 homeowners, but he did not believe it was necessary to end the program early. “We understand they had a target of 250 000 homeowners, but they also had a budget of $400 million of which they haven’t even made 50 per cent,” he said. “It just makes sense to us if you’re going to make that commitment and put that dollar figure out there, why wouldn’t they have looked at it and said, ‘Hey, we’ve hit the 250 000, but we still have dollars there we can provide to the homeowners and continue the program at least to what its target date is, the end of their fiscal year, March 31.’” Heeley added that he understands there is a new platform out by the federal government to balance the budget by 2015, but that these sorts of programs have long-term benefits to the country. 8
HPAC | JaNUaRY/FEBRUaRY 2012
HRAI is part of the Save ecoENERGY Coalition, along with several other associations, which have been trying to explain the benefits of the program to the federal government. Another coalition member upset with the government’s decision to end the program is Jeff Murdock, vice-president of Building Insight Technologies Inc., an energy audit firm in Vancouver, B.C. He said he couldn’t understand why the government decided to cut the program when it is estimated that the government allocated only $192 million of the $400 million. “It’s really just quite shocking,” he said. “Government rhetoric these days is all about the importance of job creation and the importance of securing Canada’s energy future and they cut a program early before they spend half the money.” Ralph Suppa, president and general manager of the Canadian Institute of Plumbing & Heating (CIPH) had a mixed reaction to the news. “The program in my estimation had it pros and cons,” said Suppa. “Pro: that it stimulated the economy; and con: at the expense of the Canadian taxpayer who funded the rebates.” He said CIPH would support the concept of a tax credit for home renovations to deliver stimulus for Canada's residential construction industry. Suppa noted that a tax credit of that nature would stimulate work for people who could potentially be laid off in the construction industry due to a slowdown in the housing market; and encourage homeowners to spend money on “readily available Canadian products, instead of governments providing money to taxpayers to spend in the form of rebates to spur consumption.” NRCan stated that the deadline for registered homeowners to get their post-retrofit evaluations and receive a grant will be extended to June 30, 2012, but all retrofit renovations still have to be completed by March 31, 2012. HPAC Magazine editor Kerry Turner discussed the contentious program in the November/December Upfront column in HPAC. To check it out, see the magazine archive at: www.hpacmag.com. www.nrcan.gc.ca http://saveecoenergy.ca hpacmag.com
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< Industry news
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HPAC | JaNUaRY/FEBRUaRY 2012
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< Industry news
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ontaRio CHapteR names new CHaiR
David Weishuhn, outgoing chair, Toronto chapter, HRAI contractor division, hands off the HRAI Governance Toolkit to incoming chair Dick Thomas at HRAI’s Greater Toronto Area chapter and the HVAC Coalition's annual general meetings on November 29 in Woodbridge, ON. www.hrai.ca
bC plumbinG assoCiation launCHes national CeRtifiCation pRoGRam The Plumbing Officials’ Association of British Columbia’s (POABC) executive committee voted in favour of permitting the Building Officials’ Association of British Columbia (BOABC) to provide certification exams. The exams will use International Code Council (ICC) certification process, and will be provided through an existing agreement between the BOABC and ICC. The initiative is the first provinciallyrecognized plumbing certification program in Canada. www.bcplumbingofficials.com www.boabc.org
hpacmag.com
Rpa membeRsHip Ratifies move to iapmo The Radiant Panel Association (RPA) officially joined the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) in January. RPA members ratified the move with a strong majority vote in December. RPA also officially changed its name to the Radiant Professionals Alliance. For more information on IAPMO and RPA, contact Kathleen Mihelich at 708-995-3003 or by e-mail at kathleen.mihelich@iapmo.org. www.radiantpanelassociation.org www.iapmo.org
nate RestRuCtuRinG foR futuRe GRowtH North American Technician Excellence (NATE) and the AirConditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) have entered into a restructuring and administrative servicing agreement. Both executive committees have agreed to several changes, including the following: NATE president Peter Schwartz will focus on improving NATE’s relationship with government and non-governmental organizations; the resignation of Patrick Murphy as vice president of certifications, to continued on page 12
JaNUaRY/FEBRUaRY 2012 | HPAC
11
< Industry news
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reconfigure the position to meet NATE’s technical and administrative needs; Warren Lupson, AHRI’s director of education, is acting as temporary director of certification for NATE; and chairman Don Frendberg is playing a direct role in the promotion and leadership of NATE. AHRI will offer additional administrative and operational support to NATE. www.ahrinet.org www.natex.org
Canadian eleCted to nKBa exeCutive Committee The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recently announced the election results for its 2012 executive committee. Carolyn Cheetham has been elected as treasurer for 2012. The Red Deer, AB native is an architectural technologist and certified master kitchen and bath designer (CMKBD). She began taking on leadership roles within the NKBA in 1993. Since that time Cheetham has held a variety of leadership positions, including national leader on the advisory council of designers, board of chapter representatives, board of directors, Canadian ad hoc membership parity committee, international task force, and sustainability task force. She has also served as a judge for two NKBA design competitions. www.nkba.org
CSa StandardS developS new HealtHCare FaCilitieS Standard CSA Standards recently announced the launch of Z8000 Health Care Facilities Standard, the first comprehensive national standard to tackle issues involved in the planning, design and construction of hospitals and healthcare facilities across Canada. The voluntary standard is designed to help hospitals and other healthcare facilities decrease the number of infections taking place. It was also created to assist in planning for pandemics, protecting newborns and the elderly, and caring for obese patients. A technical committee made up of volunteers representing various relevant industries – hospitals, long-term care facilities, government health ministries, architectural firms, physicians, consulting engineering firms, consumers, construction firms, and other professional associations – worked together to develop the standard. http://shop.csa.ca
doCumentary portrayS tradeSmen in real liFe A documentary called The Tradesmen: Making an Art of Work is now available for viewing online and for purchase. The 80-min. documentary by Richard Yeagley offers a look into the lives of several tradesmen and discusses issues relating to the trades and trades workers in contemporary America. http://thetradesmendocumentary.com 12
HPAC | JaNUaRY/FEBRUaRY 2012
riBBon-Cutting For aCCe Centre oF learning The Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence (ACCE) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony in late 2011, celebrating the 190 000-sq.-ft. centre of learning. Algonquin College’s $79million facility is designed to house 2500 full-time students and an additional 5000 part-time students. The building officially opened on August 29, 2011. The “Living Lab” offers 600 new construction trades spaces The ACCE building is equipped with a for construction, design, variety of green features, including a engineering and skilled five-storey, living biowall. trades students. The green facility is designed to be LEED Platinum certified, and to promote collaborative efforts between various disciplines, while offering students integrated, cross-program learning. Building features include: a stormwater recovery system for flushing toilets, solar thermal panels, a five-storey living green wall, an R50 insulated roof, air conditioning and heating provided by heat pump technology and a green roof. Many of the building and environmental systems were left exposed with viewing windows to provide students with an opportunity to see aspects of how the facility functions. www.algonquincollege.com/acce
plumBing, HvaC/r and water treatment expo re-loCateS to BC The CIPHEX West trade show will take place at the Vancouver Convention Centre on November 7-8, 2012. The trade show will focus on sustainability, new products and technologies and will showcase displays from manufacturers of plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, geothermal heating, solar/ hydronic combi-systems, fire protection, industrial pipe, valve and fittings, luxury bath and kitchen, as well as water treatment products from Canada, the U.S. and overseas. There will also be a comprehensive program of technical workshops and seminars. www.ciphexwest.ca hpacmag.com
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For E3Point product details and specifications, call 1-800-538-0363 or visit E3Point.com © 2012 Honeywell International Inc. All rights reserved.
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< Industry news
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inspected 16 technologies and practices including: electric tankless water heaters, ENERGY STAR heat pump water heaters, Northern Climate heat pump water heaters, add-on heat pump water heaters, condensing tankless gas water heaters, solar-assisted water heaters, condensing gas hybrid water heaters, non-condensing gas hybrid water heaters, ENERGY STAR non-condensing gas water heaters, condensing gas storage water heaters, advanced ground source heat pump approaches, drain water heat recovery, single-family on-demand recirculation pumps, commercial point-of-use applications, and multi-family building best practices. www.aceee.org (search researchreports/a112.pdf)
Hefty price tag for LangLey Street Loo City workers in Victoria, B.C. recently installed a stainless steel public washroom on Langley Street dubbed the “Langley Street Loo.” It is open 24 hours a day and replaces a temporary urinal previously installed at the same location. The washroom is expected to be more cost-effective in the long-term than the city’s portable urinals. It was purchased from the City of Portland for $90 000. The washroom is equipped with solar-powered lighting, a unisex toilet, exterior hand washing station and graffiti-proof coating. www.victoria.ca
caLLS for participation The HRAI Skills Competition Committee is seeking secondary school students, post-secondary students and experienced technicians interested in participating in the skills competitions at the 2012 CMX-CIPHEX National Trade Show & Learning Forum, from March 22-24, 2012 in Toronto. The committee is also looking for volunteers for: setup and takedown, practical and theoretical judges, interviewers, general assistance/ambassadors. To volunteer, e-mail Alexandra Wennberg at: awennberg@hrai.ca. www.hrai.ca
report tackLeS Hot water tecHnoLogieS The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) recently released a report on emerging hot water technologies and best practices for 2011. The ACEEE
canada cLeanS up at aSHrae tecHnoLogy awardS Canadian facilities came close to sweeping the 2011 ASHRAE Technology Awards, after a panel judges chose five of six winning facilities within Canada in October. The Canadian winners were: • New Commercial Buildings – Mountain Equipment Co-op (Longueuil, QC). Roland Charneux, P. Eng., Pageau Morel & Associates, Montreal, QC. Owned by: Mountain Equipment Co-op. • Existing Commercial Buildings – IKEA Brossard Distribution Centre. Ken Sonmor, Ecovision Consulting, Montreal, QC. Owned by: IKEA Distribution Services, CA LP. • Educational Facilities – Université de Sherbrooke, Campus de Longueuil. René Dansereau, Dessau, Longueuil, QC. Owned by: Université de Sherbrooke. • New Health Care Facilities – Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre. Paul Marmion, Stantec Consulting, Vancouver, B.C. Owned by: Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre • Existing Industrial Facilities or Processes – Arena Marcel Dutil (St-Gédéon-de-Beauce, QC). Luc Simard, Compressor Systems Control (CSC), Les Coteaux, QC. Owned by: Municipalite St-Gédéon-de-Beauce. The winners were honoured during ASHRAE’s Plenary Session at the 2012 Winter Conference, held from January 21 to 25 in Chicago, IL. www.ashrae.org
z
14
HPAC | JaNUaRY/FEBRUaRY 2012
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< Plumbing
Intersections of sewers by a second utility are not unusual.
Ticking Time Bombs
Cross bores: increasing safety and reducing risk BY MARK BRUCE
HOW DOES THIS OCCUR? Trenchless installation techniques are widely used. These methods provide minimal disruption to the surface, minimal disruption to traffic and potential economic efficiencies. However, use of plowing, percussive moles and horizontal directional drills do not provide visual confirmation of the location of the new utility. In 1999, one of the earliest records of the significance of cross bores was recognized in a Kentucky Utilities Commission ruling. In this case, a sewer utility complained that the gas distribution utility had, and was, continuing to damage its sewer infrastructure. The gas utility countered by stating that the sewers locations were not marked.
Cross bores are defined as an intersection of an existing underground utility, or underground structure by a second utility, resulting in direct contact between the transactions of the utilities that compromises the integrity of either utility or underground structure. Visit www.crossboresafety.org for more information.
16
HPAC | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
Simply put, the commission ruled that the gas utility must avoid damaging the sewers and the sewer owner is required to locate its sewers.
UNDETECTED DANGER Unfortunately, where intersections of sewers have been created by installation of natural gas lines, the risk is often latent and undiscovered until a drain cleaning company is called to open a plugged sewer line. Blockages result in backups and overflows and, unless promptly dealt with, damage to the interiors of homes and businesses can occur from water or wastewater damage. The unpleasant interruption of the use of toilets, sinks and showers calls for immediate attention. The plumber may not take the time to call the utilities, or â&#x20AC;&#x153;One Callâ&#x20AC;? line (if available). Typically, devices that have been used to open sewers include rotating cutters, which can be inserted in a plugged drain line. Often the problem may arise from foreign objects introduced to the system: roots in sewer lines, collapsed pipe and offset joints. Since the line is full of water and debris, the drain cleaner is working in the blind. Root cutters are typically electrically powered "snakes" that have a steel cutter on the end that can open sewers. These cutters can cut through plastic gas distribution, communication, water and other utilities inadvertently installed through sewers. If a cross bore is in a sewer line that is being opened by a root cutter, the utility line can be cut. If it is a gas line, gas will hpAcmAg.com
Photos: Cross Bore Safety Association
C
ross bores are the unintended intersections of utilities and are a threat to the safety of industry workers and the general public. In the case of gas lines intersecting sanitary or storm sewers, explosions, injury and death have resulted. Energized utilities, such as natural gas and electric distribution lines, have the potential for immediate and long-term danger.
Utilities are working to identify legacy cross bores.
Damage to sewer infrastructures is thought to be extensive.
be introduced into the connected structure. In a matter of a few moments, gas/air concentrations can reach the explosive range. Sparks from electric motors and switches or pilot lights for water heaters and furnaces can ignite the gas/air mixture with catastrophic results, including explosions and complete destruction of structures and loss of life. If electric lines are hit by the root cutter, shock of the operator can result in injury or death. Other utilities used for communications normally will not cause immediate injury, but communication with emergency services such as police
or fire departments is impeded. Delayed response can then result in loss of property, injury or death. Push rod cameras are ineffective in identifying a cross bore if the line is already backed up with water/sewerage, since visibility is limited. Regrettably, these scenarios are not a remote possibility. Reports from hundreds of miles of inspection projects to eliminate gas line cross bores from sewers has found a range of between two to three per mile of sewer and sewer laterals inspected. Each one is a “ticking time bomb” waiting to be energized when the home or business owner has a plugged sewer. In addition to homes, hospitals and schools have had natural gas cross bores in their sewer lines. If a home explosion does not get your attention, the catastrophic magnitude of a school or hospital cross bore explosion should.
SAFETY TIPS
Manyut ilities
• Contact your local utility (or have developed One Call if available) before safetypr ograms to mitigate the starting work. risk related to • If the local utility has a markcross bores. ing program for identifying sewer connections that have been inspected and cleared as not having cross bores, become familiar with the program. • Recognize that gas utility lines are most often plastic. Notice if plastic is on the cutting tool when the cutter is withdrawn for inspection. Other types of utility lines may have similar characteristics to observe. • If bubbles or gas are found to be escaping from the entry point of the cutting equipment, IMMEDIATELY exit the structure. Warn all inhabitants as well. • Do not flip any switches or use any type of phone until clear of the structure by a safe distance. • Since the structure can explode radially outward distances of 150 ft. or more, retreat to a safe distance. • Do not go back into the structure under any circumstances. • Once safely clear of the structure, call the emergency number, fire department, police and/or the local distribution utility. • Safety personnel should proceed with due caution. • When deemed appropriate and with concern for personal safety, notify adjacent property owners. In the case of a gas explosion, the force and debris can be lethal at a great distance. • Adjacent structures may not be safe locations. In some cases, a cut gas distribution line can cause other structures in the vicinity to have gas pressurized into them. • Do not return until professionals have cleared the area and structures.
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PREVENTION INITIATIVES Cross bores can be prevented. In the case of existing gas sewer cross bores, they can be found and eliminated. Many gas utilities now require an increased level of prevention during new construction activities. Post inspection is an alternative that is gaining favour in new construction of gas distribution lines. It is somewhat contrary to the “damage prevention” concept, but it has real advantages at times. Where the existing sewers are being inspected for cross bores from earlier construction activities (legacy cross bores), identifying that a sewer is free from a cross bore is the goal. The equipment may be the same as used in preconstruction locates. Competently designed and run legacy programs provide a shelter from punitive damages while providing public safety. <> Mark Bruce is president of the Cross Bore Safety Association and president of Can Clay Corp. He is vice president of Hydromax USA, a company that provides field data collection services for gas distribution, water, wastewater and dams and levees to owners, contractors and engineers. For more details visit www.crossboresafety.org. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012 | HPAC
17
< SHOW PREVIEW
P
rofessionals from across the mechanicals industry will be arriving by the thousands to check out the 20th edition of the CMX-CIPHEX Show, which will take place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, North Building, from March 22 to 24. The opening day will kick-off with “The Roundtable on Renewable Energy,” a panel discussion with solar and geothermal industry senior executives moderated by David Miller, former Mayor of Toronto and counsel of international business and sustainability with Aird & Berlis. The discussion will focus on the future of renewable technologies and applications in the HVAC industry. The panel will be made up of the following: Dan Ellis (president, ClimateMaster), Suni Bell (general manager, EnerWorks), Glenn Kaye (president, Maritime Geothermal), Harald Prell (president, North America, Viessmann Manufacturing) and Richard Conkling (director of commercial sales, Waterfurnace). New to the CMX-CIPHEX Show is an opening morning forum with individual presentations by Enerconcepts CEO Christian Vachon (The Future of Renewables), Stantec Consulting associate Nuno Duarte (Innovative Geothermal Installations) and Fraser and Company president Marion Fraser (The Future of Incentives and the Regulatory Perspective). Another show feature is the new Emerging Technologies Centre that will showcase cutting-edge technologies and groundbreaking advances throughout the mechanicals industry. There will be more than 25 seminars for attendees to choose from, including HPAC columnist John Siegenthaler’s presentation, Solar Thermal Combisystems: What Makes Sense and Why? Siegenthaler will offer a variety of in-depth examples of combisystems that can be created using currently available hardware and that will provide domestic hot water and a portion of a home’s space heating load.
ALSO ON THE AGENDA… Isotherm Engineering’s Bill McCartney's presentation will discuss ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010 and look at the significant changes from previous editions, including building envelope requirements, modeling requirements, equipment efficiencies and more. John Harris of DSG Building Diagnostics’ will discuss the affects of 2012 Building Code changes on the HVAC industry, with the mandating of EnerGuide 80 into many provinces’ building codes. His presentation will review prescriptive options available under SB12 of the Ontario Building Code. Other seminar topics include: LEED strategies incorporating sustainable design practices, BIMS, plumbing prevention for Legionella, new opportunities in thermal/energy storage for heating applications and solar thermal applications. With more than 500 exhibitors and thousands in attendance, the show is a great place for mechanical industry professionals to meet and expand their networks. <> BY ANDREW SNOOK
For more information or to register online visit: www.cmxciphexshow.com.
A Driving Force Attendees of this year’s show will get a chance to drive home in a new 2012 Nissan NV. Everyone who registers for the show will receive a contest ballot when they pick up their badge and holder at the registration desk.
Tremendous Tool Take-away!
Make sure to drop by HPAC’s booth (N19/N20 at the top of the escalator) and enter a ballot for our Tremendous Tool Takeaway for a chance to win thousands of dollars worth of products. The draw will take place on March 24. 18
HPAC | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
HPACMAG.COM
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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012 | HPAC
19
< IAQ
Together Forever
The influence of building materials, furnishings, finishings and a creative solution involving HVAC and interior design. BY roBerT Bean
O
ver the decades I have sat in on countless industry meetings and participated in debates over education curriculums for industry members. Typically I sit on the side, most often alone in my beliefs that a large segment of the industry does not actually know what it needs to know. My experience is that when prodded for learning topics, many will ask for more of the same, just presented differently. Henry Ford probably said it best when he stated: “If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses.” I am with Henry – educational progress of any consequence is not achieved by “polishing the cannon ball.” In this case, the repetitive buffing of knowledge one already possesses. If you really want to learn you have to follow the advice of business guru Peter Drucker and put yourself in a place where you do not shine and where your lack of knowledge and skills makes you scared, awkward and frustrated. As I say in my classes, learn to embrace the intellectual and emotional pain – it is a sign that you are learning something new. That is often far more useful than taking classes that only confirm what you already know. So where am I going with this? Well, I have been saying for decades that hydronics and air-based HVAC designers cannot operate in isolation from the world of interior design. There is a non-trivial, consequential relationship between room geometry and finishes contributing to the ergonomics of the very space that the HVAC system is supposed to condition. This relationship directly affects the energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality. I am going to first illustrate this with the National Research Council of Canada’s (NRCC) IA-QUESTi; a free, downloadable indoor air quality and emission simulation tool. I will demonstrate this again in a subsequent article in the March 2012 issue using the ASHRAE Nomograph for designing radiant panels. But, before I do this let me be very clear there is a significant difference between the educational and experience requirements of a professional interior designer and interior decorator; something I learned years ago from the folks at ASIDii. According to our own Interior Designers of Canada associationiii, "Interior design is about more than just aesthetics. It is about finding creative design solutions for interior environments while supporting the health, safety and well 20
HPAC | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
being of occupants and enhancing their quality of life." Does that not just sound like a nice fit with HVAC?
Tool assesses voc impacT The IA-QUEST tool was developed, “to help building designers, engineers and managers assess the impact of the volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from building materials/furnishings on the indoor air quality in buildings.” Why is this important? As I have pointed out in previous articles, source control over contaminates is part and parcel of CSA F326 Residential Mechanical Ventilation Systems and ANSI/ASHRAE 62.1(.2) Ventilation For Acceptable Indoor Air Quality. In fact, it is expected that the HVAC designer should be evaluating potential emission rates to ensure that the designed ventilation system is adequate in consideration of the interior finishes. The IA-QUEST tool, “calculate(s) the concentrations of contaminants that would occur in a ventilated indoor space due to emissions from materials contained within that space.” Sounds like every designer should have a copy of IAQUEST? But here is what I know to be true, given a choice between learning more about air filters, or floor coverings, the HVAC designer will likely choose to buff up his/her knowledge of filtration instead of learning about VOC emission rates from interior finishes. C’est la vie. To illustrate the output of the program for floor coverings I have set up the simulation parameters based on Table 1, and then for comparison, selected carpeting with underlayment continued on page 61
Table 1 Simulation Parameters Room width - 4.5 m Room length - 7.5 m Floor area - 33.75 m2 Room height - 2.44 m Volume - 82 m3 ACH, min - unoccupied - 0.05 ach Ventilation flow rate* - 4.25 m3/hr ACH, normal - occupied - 0.3 ach Ventilation flow rate* - 25.5 m3/hr Simulation period - 120 hours Data output intervals - 15 min *as calculated by the program hpAcmAg.com
CELEBRATING
MODERN HYDRONICS
YEARS 1997-2012
2012
GETTING THE MOST
From Modulating Condensing Boilers RADIANT FLOOR HEATING & COOLING PRODUCT SHOWCASE WATER TEMPERATURE CONTROL STRATEGY WOOD GASIFICATION BOILER SYSTEMS CIRCULATOR SELECTION
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MODERN HYDRONICS a supplement of Heating Plumbing Air Conditioning Magazine
HPAC MAGAZINE 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, ON M3B 2S9 TEL: 416.442.5600 FAX: 416.510.5140 www.hpacmag.com EDITOR Kerry Turner (416) 510-5218 KTurner@hpacmag.com ASSISTANT EDITOR Andrew Snook (416) 442-5600, ext. 3524 ASnook@hpacmag.com SALES & MARKETING Kim Rossiter (416) 510-6794 COORDINATOR KRossiter@bizinfogroup.ca ACCOUNT John Chiasson (416) 510-6791 MANAGERS JChiasson@hpacmag.com ASSOCIATE David Skene (416) 510-6884 PUBLISHER DSkene@hpacmag.com ART DIRECTOR Franca Romano (On Leave) Sandy MacIsaac (416) 442-5600, ext. 3242 SMacisaac@hpacmag.com MARKET PRODUCTION Karen Samuels (416) 510-5190 MANAGER 800-268-7742, ext. 5190 KSamuels@bizinfogroup.ca CIRCULATION MANAGER Selina Rahaman (416) 442-5600, ext. 3528 SRahaman@bizinfogroup.ca PUBLISHER Peter Leonard (416) 510-6847 PLeonard@hpacmag.com
CELEBRATING
YEARS
1997-2012
26 BOILERS
Why Mass Matters The learning curve with modulating condensing boilers is steep. BY STEVE GOLDIE
31 GEOTHERMAL
Meeting Place
Geothermal heat pump systems with manifolded earth loops offer advantages. BY JOHN SIEGENTHALER
36 RADIANT
The Next Generation Thermally activated slab (TAS) technology offers a comprehensive heating and cooling solution. BY RYAN WESTLUND
40 HYDRONIC PRODUCT SHOWCASE 44 CONTROLS Beyond The Basics
BIG MAGAZINES LP Corinne Lynds, EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Tim Dimopoulos, EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER Alex Papanou, VICE-PRESIDENT OF CANADIAN PUBLISHING Bruce Creighton, PRESIDENT OF BUSINESS INFORMATION GROUP
The how and why of weather and load responsive water temperature control. BY MIKE MILLER
48 MARKETING HPAC Magazine receives unsolicited materials (including letters to the editor, press releases, promotional items and images) from time to time. HPAC Magazine, its affiliates and assignees may use, reproduce, publish,
Initiative Gets The Word Out A leg up for hydronic contractors.
of any sort.
BY THERESA KANE
NOTICE: HPAC Magazine, BIG Magazines LP, a division of Glacier BIG
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re-publish, distribute, store and archive such unsolicited submissions in whole or in part in any form or medium whatsoever, without compensation
Holdings Company Ltd., their staff, officers, directors and shareholders (hence known as the “Publisher”) assume no liability, obligations, or responsibility for claims arising from advertised products. The Publisher also reserves the right to limit liability for editorial errors, omissions and oversights to a printed correction in a subsequent issue. HPAC Magazine’s editorial is written for management level mechanical industry personnel who have documented training in the mechanical fields in which they work. Manufacturers’ printed instructions, datasheets and notices always take precedence to published editorial statements.
We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.
50 PUMPS
How to select the right circulator for the job. BY JOHN BARBA
55 ALTERNATE FUELS Big Buffers
Wood gasification boiler systems usually require large thermal storage tanks. BY JOHN SIEGENTHALER
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MODERN HYDRONICS
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
| 25
>> Boilers
Why Mass Matters The learning curve with modulating condensing boilers is steep.
I
n the last decade the industry has changed rapidly, so much so that it is sometimes difficult to fathom how different things are today. The flow of information is becoming faster and faster, with quotes and spec sheets and such zipping to and fro electronically, often directly to a tradesman’s smartphone on a jobsite. Service technicians can carry an entire library of equipment manuals on a small tablet computer, and instantly update them via a WiFi connection. Technology touches every facet of what we do every day. New materials, products, codes and methods emerge with accelerating regularity. New does not always translate to better, but usually the market has a way of sorting these things out. The best innovative technology tends to create and sustain opportunities; however, simply purchasing and using the latest and greatest does not always lead to instant results however. There is usually a learning curve. It takes time to understand where and how to best apply new products and technology. In my opinion, one of the best examples of this is the modulating condensing boiler. When I started with Noble in 2001, there were no more than two or three modulating condensing boilers in the marketplace, and we did not regularly stock any. Mod/con boiler sales represented less than two per cent of the total market. Today I cannot think of a single boiler manufacturer that does not have at least one modulating condensing boiler line and there seem to be new ones every time I turn around. Mod/con boilers dominate the boiler market. At Noble we now inventory models from at least seven different manufacturers, accounting for more than 85 per cent of our total boiler sales.
VaRYING RESuLTS This sounds like a pretty clear example of a new technology taking over a market segment, and since Mod/con boilers are designed to operate more efficiently than conventional boilers, we must be seeing some pretty significant operational fuel savings – correct? Over the past several years, I have had a pretty good ride on the Mod/con boiler learning curve, having been personally involved in one way or another with countless 26 | JaNuaRY/fEbRuaRY 2012
installations. Large and small, residential and commercial, new and retrofit, I have had the opportunity to observe quite an assortment of results with respect to fuel efficiency. Together with many of our customers, as well as my co-workers in the heating department, we have seen the good and the very good, the bad and the very bad, the ugly and the downright hideous. Over the course of this experience, we have had the opportunity to see what works, and what does not work, what has a significant effect on efficiency, and what does not. Thankfully, we have also been able to take what we have learned and turn some of those ugly duckling jobs into energy saving beauties. To be honest, the ugly problem jobs are the ones that contribute most significantly to the learning process. Learning from those mistakes, whether they are your own or someone else's, can often be the key to future success. So what exactly have we learned about how to maximize efficiency from modulating, condensing boilers? Well, to sum it all up in two words I would have to say, “mass matters.” That is it, just two words: mass matters! System mass quite simply is the mass that absorbs the Btus (heat) produced by the boiler when it is firing. Typically it is the water in the system, including the volume of the boiler itself, together with all the piping and components and heat emitters connected to it. Almost all of the modulating condensing boilers today are what we call low mass boilers, meaning they contain relatively small amounts of water volume themselves. Systems can vary, but for the most part, the larger the relative water volume, the larger the mass. One common exception is a snowmelt system, which typically contains relatively small water/glycol volumes, but the snowmelt slab itself represents a very large mass. This can typically absorb as many Btus as the boiler can produce. When it comes to efficiency, mass matters and bigger is better.
THE bELLS aND WHISTLES So what about boiler efficiency ratings, burner modulation, low return water temperature and outdoor reset?
MODERN HYDRONICS
www.hpacmag.com
Do the bells and whistles that boiler manufacturers have been promoting this past decade in the name of efficiency not matter? Each one of these things does matter and each one can contribute to increased efficiency, but it is large system mass that allows all of these features to do their thing. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s take a closer look at each of these factors and examine why large system mass is so crucial. In my opinion, boiler efficiency ratings are probably the least important factor when it comes to achieving significant savings. Now I say that with the assumption we are strictly talking about modulation condensing boilers. If we were comparing conventional boilers to condensing boilers then the efficiency ratings would make a significant difference. Here we are comparing modulating condensing boilers one to another, in which case they will all perform relatively equally in similar conditions regardless of whatever ratings number they are claiming. The published efficiency ratings are determined in lab conditions that do not truly resemble real life field conditions. They are not unlike gas mileage ratings for automobiles, but at least with the car we get both a city mileage and highway mileage rating. All Mod/con boilers, regardless of make or model, approach the highest efficiencies when they are in their lowest firing rates and when the return water temperatures are at their lowest. They only reach these higher efficiency
Graphic: appropriate desiGns
figure 1 multi-zone system with buffer
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ranges after they been allowed to warm up and run for a while. Anyone who has ever done a combustion analysis when starting up a boiler (and you all should be but that is a topic for another day) knows that all burners achieve low combustion efficiencies and higher emissions during the start up mode. This applies throughout the firing range: the efficiency will be highest during longer run cycles, and lowest during frequent starts and stops. To go back to the car comparison, this is the difference between highway mileage, or longer run times as opposed to city mileage with the frequent stops and starts. This is also the best illustration for the role that system mass plays. Larger system mass is what allows a boiler to operate as much as possible in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;highway drivingâ&#x20AC;? efficiency mode. The larger the mass, the longer the on cycle is, and the less on/off short cycling occurs. This results in much higher overall efficiency. Burner modulation is the bell and whistle that is supposed to solve short cycling, so why should we need mass? Well, modulation is a big improvement and it does allow us to try to match a boiler firing rate more closely to the actual heat loss, especially during milder periods, but modulation is still limited. Most boilers can modulate down to about 20 per cent of the total firing rate. At first glance you would think that would be more than enough to compensate for the over sizing of boilers that is still too prevalent in our industry, but throw in considerations of multiple zoning and additional boiler capacity added to accommodate DHW needs, and you can see how we may still run into trouble without a high mass system. A typical scenario may be a house with 100 000 Btu Mod/con boiler, a heat load of 70 000 Btus and DHW via an indirect tank. With a multi-zoned heating system, a call for heat to the boiler from a single zone on a mild day could easily demand only 4000 Btus, far below the minimum firing rate of 20 000 Btus. This would result in multiple short on/off cycling, and poor efficiency. The same system installed with a buffer, or mass tank between the boiler and the system (as shown in Figure 1) would greatly reduce the short cycling condition, and significantly improve overall system efficiency. Another major feature found in Mod/con boilers with the intention of increasing efficiency is outdoor reset, which automatically reduces supply water temperature as the outdoor temperature rises. This is a great feature, since we all know that lower the return water temperatures to the boiler the higher the efficiency.
MODERN HYDRONICS
JaNuaRY/fEbRuaRY 2012
| 27
>> Boilers Unfortunately, many systems have a requirement for multiple supply water temperatures, and typically the boiler needs to be fired to supply the highest of these, with the lower temperatures achieved via mixing valves external to the boiler. This means that even when a lower temperature is required, the boiler fires to a much higher temperature and the mixing valve sends a small amount of that heated water to the zone, and the rest straight back to the boiler. Once again, the result is higher return temperatures, short cycling and diminished efficiency. A mass tank installed once again is the fix, or better yet, a Mod/con boiler with a built in mass tank. Either way, the mass tank would allow a low temperature zone to draw high temp water through the mixing valve, often without even firing the burner. The bonus is that because of the temperature stratification in the tank, the lower portion can be allowed to cool down considerably as the low temperature zones return, so when the burner does finally fire, it can benefit from these lower temperatures and the resulting higher efficiency.
28 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
IMPRESSIVE RESULTS It has been an interesting ride over the past decade or so, and no matter how much we learn there is always another surprise or two waiting around the corner. It was a shock when I first saw it, but the addition of mass to a hydronic system can result in a reduction of thousands of boiler cycles annually; saving gas, wear and tear on components, and money. Judging from our sales of mass tanks, there are a lot of contractors out there who have also discovered that mass matters. The next few years will see even more improvements. I know of at least one boiler manufacturer that is incorporating mass into its boiler designs and I do not expect them to be the last. I hope to see you all at the CMX-CIPHEX 2012 show in March. - STEVE GOLDIE
MODERN HYDRONICS
Steve Goldie worked as a plumbing and heating contractor for almost 20 years before joining Noble as manager of its heating department. In his current position, Goldie focuses on product specification and system design solutions. He can be reached at sgoldie@noble.ca.
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“They helped us with the design, worked hand-in-hand with the architects. Viega was there from day one.” Eric Van Cleaf, Quality Control Manager, C Pyramid Enterprises
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System Efficiency Just got smarter
HIGH EFFICIENCY
And more reliable - and quieter too. The remarkable Zone Sentry® zone valve by Taco employs patented micro-circuit logic controls. It draws up to 93% less energy and uses fewer components while handling up to 12 valves per standard 40 VA transformer.
In short, when combined with a Taco 00-VDT circulator, it creates the most efficient hydronic system available. Now, that’s smart! Check out all the great features at www.taco-hvac.com/flopro.
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eLearning
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Circulators
Electronic Controls
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Software
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>> Geothermal
Meeting Place Geothermal heat pump systems with manifolded earth loops offer advantages.
M
ost residential geothermal heat pump systems use a closed earth heat exchanger constructed of HDPE (high density polyethylene) tubing. The overall earth heat exchanger usually consists of several parallel piping circuits that are joined into a set of headers. In systems using horizontal earth heat exchangers, the header system is typically fabricated in the trench, and the entire piping assembly is buried several feet below the surface. Figure 1 shows an example where six “slinky” style earth loop circuits have been joined to reverse return headers (seen near the bottom centre of the photograph). In systems using vertical earth heat exchangers, individual earth loop circuits are inserted and grouted into boreholes. These circuits are then joined into a common set of headers, as illustrated in Figure 2. The headers are usually configured for reverse return flow, and have incrementally stepped pipe sizes between the individual circuit connection tees. These details help equalize flow rates among the individual circuits – assuming the individual earth loop circuits are the same length. The two most widely accepted methods of joining HDPE pipe for geothermal earth loops are butt fusion and socket fusion. A butt fusion joint is made by heating the ends of polyethylene tubing to approximately 500F for a prescribed time (usually 30 seconds to one minute depending on pipe size), and then pressing the semi-molten ends together using a special jig. Figure 3 shows the resulting “double rollback bead”
joint formed during butt fusion. This joint, when properly done, is stronger than the pipe itself. Socket fusion involves joining pipe with fittings. The inside of the fitting socket and the outside diameter of the
Figure 1 Slinky Style Circuits
Figure 3 Butt Fusion Joint
Figure 2 Vertical Earth Loop
horizontal! trench reverse return! header piping! (stepped pipe sizes)
prefabricated U-bend U-tube insert
FIG. 1 COURTESY LARRY WURTAK
bore hole (grouted after tubing is in place)
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MODERN HYDRONICS
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>> Geothermal
“The reliability of properly done fusion joints has helped bolster
the market for geothermal heat pump systems. Still, fusion joining requires proper tooling and technique. tubing are simultaneously heated using a special tool. Once these surfaces are semi-molten, the pipe and fitting are pulled off the heating tool and pushed together without twisting. Again, the result is an extremely strong and permanent joint. The reliability of properly done fusion joints has helped bolster the market for geothermal heat pump systems. Still, fusion joining requires proper tooling and technique. A set of tooling to create butt fusion joints, socket fusion joints, and saddle tees in pipes up to two-inches in size can cost several thousand dollars. Although “trench-based” earth heat exchanger fabrication using fusion joining has been successfully used on thousands of installations, at times it has to be performed under less than ideal conditions. Working with fusion equipment under cold, wet and muddy conditions requires special care to ensure the joints are clean, dry, and properly heated.
THIS LOOKS FAMILIAR So, what are the alternatives to fusion joints, and site-fabricated/buried headers? One relatively new option that has made its way from Europe to North America is the geothermal manifold. In some respects, this approach is similar to routing multiple radiant panel heating circuits to a common manifold station. However, geothermal manifolds are typically larger in diameter to accommodate higher flow rates. Most are built of polymer materials that can easily withstand the relatively low operating temperature and pressure range of earth loops. Figures 4 shows an example of a modular geothermal manifold assembly. It is assembled by sliding the desired number of tubing connectors onto a common set of tie rods that fasten to matching end assemblies. The basic geothermal manifold assembly shown in Figure 4 can be
”
“trimmed out” in several ways. The simplest is to just add adapters that allow the individual earth loop circuits to be connected to the manifolds. The next step would be to add ball valves on each connection. This allows each earth loop circuit to be isolated when necessary. This is particularly helpful when filling and purging the overall earth heat exchanger. Another possibility is to add flow meters to each manifold connection. These can be used to verify proper flow. They can also be used in combination with temperature measurement to estimate the rate of heat transfer from each circuit. The geothermal manifold assem-
Figure 5 Geothermal Manifold
FIG 4 & 5 COURTESY CALEFFI NORTH AMERICA
Figure 4 Modular geothermal manifold assembly
32 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
MODERN HYDRONICS
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â&#x20AC;&#x153;The use of manifold-based earth loops provides several advantages relative to earth loops created
â&#x20AC;?
using buried fusion joints.
ADVANTAGES TO ALTERNATIVES The use of manifold-based earth loops provides several advantages relative to earth loops created using buried fusion joints. These include: the possibility for installing several different earth loop configurations without need of fusion joints, and thus no need of fusion equipment. This is an advantage for contractors who do an occasional geothermal heat pump installation, but cannot justify buying all the tooling required for fusion joints. Additionally, eliminating the need of reverse return piping and stepped pipe sizes in site build (buried) headers to help balance flows through each earth loop circuit simplifies and speeds installation. When the manifold station includes isolation and flow indicating/ balancing valves additional advantages include: each circuit of the earth loop can be independently flushed during filling and purging. This significantly reduces the size of the flush pump required to fill and purge the system, the flow rate through each earth loop circuit can be verified and WWW.HPACMAG.COM
Figure 6 Geothermal Manifold
COURTESY LEGEND HYDRONICS
bly shown in Figure 5 has been trimmed with isolation valves on the upper (outgoing) manifold, and combination flow meters / isolation valves on the lower (return) manifold. It also includes thermometers, purging valves, and air vents. Figure 6 shows another example of a geothermal manifold. In this case, the manifold body is built of heat fused polypropylene pipe, and fitted with brass isolation valves for each circuit.
The Glycol Make-Up Package that offers both performance and reliability For more information about Glycol Make-Up Packages, communicate with HG Spec Inc. at
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>> Geothermal adjusted if necessary, if a buried circuit ever fails due to future excavation, drilling, etc., it can be completely isolated at the manifold.
basement wall and connect to a geothermal manifold. Ninety-degree compression elbows are used to change the direction of the piping penetrating the wall from horizontal to vertical under the manifold. Several options exist for geothermal manifold stations located outside the building. One is to construct a manifold pit using precast concrete pipe or a rectangular concrete vault. Such a pit should be designed as either watertight or bottomdrained. A watertight manifold pipe requires compression seals at all piping penetrations, as well as a watertight lid. The goal is to prevent the entry of ground or surface water. A bottomdrained manifold pit usually has crush stone and drainage piping at its bottom to prevent water accumulation.
INSIDE OR OUTSIDE Geothermal manifold stations can be located either inside or outside the building served by the heat pump. Figure 7 illustrates how individual earth loop circuits can pass through a
Figure 7 To inside connection foundation! wall core-drilled holes mechanical seals risers to manifold station tamped fill
tamped fill
90º! elbows floor ! drain
footing drain tamped crushed stone
geothermal! manifold! station
earth loop circuits mechanically tightened! sealing collar
upper holes! (flow going to earth loops)
SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCE
90º (compression) elbows
One of the biggest advantages of using valved manifold-based earth heat exchangers is in the size of the pump required for filling and purging. That pump will be significantly smaller
lower holes! (flow returning from earth loops) core-drilled holes in wall
floor drain below! tubing penetration! locations
Figure 8 Non-valved earth loop circuit 20ft
5.7 gpm
20ft
5.7 gpm
28.5 gpm
20ft
5.7 gpm
28.5 gpm
20ft
5.7 gpm
50ft x 1.5" HDPE
5.7 gpm
A
34 | january/february 2012
1000 ft x 1" HDPE
1000 ft x 1" HDPE
1000 ft x 1" HDPE
1000 ft x 1" HDPE
60ft x 1.5" HDPE
1000 ft x 1" HDPE
B
MODERN HYDRONICS
for a valved manifolded system because each earth parallel circuit can be flushed individually. Without valves, all the circuits must be flushed simultaneously. Purging requires a minimum flow velocity of two feet per second in every tube that is being purged at a given time. That flow velocity corresponds to a flow rate of 3.6 gpm in a ¾"-DR-11 HDPE tube, and 5.6 gpm in a 1"-DR-11 HDPE tube. The following is a comparison of the flow rates and corresponding head losses required for purging a conventional earth loop versus one using a valved manifold. Based on working through a few calculations, the non-valved earth loop circuit shown in Figure 8 requires a purging pump capable of producing a minimum flow rate of 28.5 gpm at a corresponding head of 72.6 feet. That is a substantial pump, likely in the range of 1.5 to two horsepower. Such a pump may require a 240 VAC power supply. By comparison, if the same set of five 1000-foot parallel piping circuits were connected to a valved manifold, and purged one at a time, the purging pump would only have to deliver a flow rate of 5.7 gpm with corresponding head loss of 20.7 feet. This is within the performance range of a portable submersible pump that operates on 120 VAC. If you are involved with geothermal heat pumps I urge you to consider use of manifolded earth loops. They offer several unique benefits, not the least of which is less time in the trenches. - John Siegenthaler John Siegenthaler, P.E. is the author of Modern Hydronic Heating. The third edition of this book is now available. Visit www.hydronicpros.com for reference information and software to assist in hydronic system design. www.hpacmag.com
>> Radiant
The Next Generation Thermally activated Slab (TaS) technology offers a comprehensive heating and cooling solution.
f
or decades, architects, engineers and contractors have acknowledged the benefits of hydronic radiant technology as an efficient, energy-saving and highly comfortable means of heating. These same advocates are now discovering that a radiant heating system, once considered "single-season" in nature, can circulate cooled fluid to provide superior energy savings and comfort during periods of warm weather as well. Thanks to a conceptual shift regarding its limited application in the most arid of climates (for instance, southern California), radiant cooling has gained notable traction over the last decade. When installed via the most common method – embedded within the concrete floor atop rigid foam EPS insulation – one quickly sees that while under ideal conditions, radiant floor heating capacities flirt with outputs exceeding 30 Btuh•ft2, radiant floor cooling capacities are significantly lower, often barely hitting double digits, and are maxing out in ideal installations at 16 Btuh•ft2. The same network of crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) pipes embedded in a layer of concrete floor is much more effective in the heating mode than in the cooling mode, as, in the former, there is a slight boost from convective warm air rising off the slab. This increase in convection that increases the output of the slab (with units of Btuh•ft2 or W/m2) is represented by:
in which the heat transfer coefficient, or HTC, for a floor system increases from about 1.2 Btuh•ft2•°F in cooling mode to just over 1.9 Btuh•ft2•°F in heating mode. Augmenting this gap between heating and cooling heat transfer coefficients is the temperature differential that drives the slab capacity equation. Largely due to limitations on comfort (see ASHRAE Standard 55), the difference between a heated floor slab and the space setpoint temperature (maxing out at ~16F) tends to be greater than the temperature of a cooled floor slab and the setpoint temperature in cooling mode (rarely exceeding 12F). The end result is the aforementioned stark difference in a radiant floor system's capacity when operated between heating and cooling modes. 36 | JaNuaRY/fEbRuaRY 2012
THE YEaR-ROuND SOLuTION For many applications, especially in the northern climates of North America, the use of a year-round hydronic radiant system has been sufficient to justify adopting a combined radiant floor heating and cooling system. But, adoption of radiant cooling into all climates is often hampered by a lack of meaningful capacity. Since virtually all radiant cooling systems are operated in combination with downsized forced-air systems, the more the load can be shifted from the air-based side to the hydronic side, the closer one can come to not only minimizing the payback period, but also effectively eliminating added costs via the downsizing of air components such as fans and ductwork. Understanding this challenge, North American architects and engineers have looked to European radiant experts who, unlike their North American counterparts, remained consistent in their use of hydronics over the last several decades while other air conditioning methods became dominant in North America, particularly in the U.S. Over the years, European, and specifically German- and Swiss-based radiant companies, have adopted a method of installation that provides customers with the best of both worlds; the high heating capacity of a radiant floor system with the high cooling capacity of a radiant ceiling system. Rather than focusing on the surface as a unidirectional heat emitter, specifiers have started to grasp the full potential of converting the slab into a bidirectional radiant system, especially given the thermal storage potential of internal slabs in multi-storey structures. By removing the insulation typically placed below the PEX piping, heat is allowed to conduct to and from both the top and bottom surfaces of the slab. This alternate type of bidirectional radiant system is often referred to as a thermally-activated slab (TAS) system. Thermally activated slabs are known by several different names and acronyms around the world. In Germany they are referred to as BKT systems, while the French-speaking portions of Switzerland have dubbed them BATISO systems. Other English-speaking countries are also referring to the concept as TABS (Thermally Activated Building Systems) at an increasing rate. Regardless of the terminology, these configurations point to a common strategy – that of controlling the temperature of a building's interior slabs to temper conditioned spaces.
MODERN HYDRONICS
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“Over the years, European, and specifically German- and Swiss-based radiant companies, have adopted a method of installation that provides customers with the best of both worlds.
”
In its heating mode, a TAS system supplies much of its heat from the top of the slab as an apparent radiant floor application, and this heat is further supplemented by the warmed radiant ceiling from the level above. Likewise, in the cooling mode, the bulk of the system's capacity is sourced from the ceiling side of the slab, with a small additional amount coming from the floor side. Figure 1 shows an FEA image of a traditional radiant floor cooling system installed with insulation below. In this scenario, the floor is capable of producing an approximate average capacity of just under nine Btuh•ft2 [or 28 W/m2]. Switching to a TAS configuration, as shown in Figure 2, the clear advantage of a bidirectional TAS system versus a unidirectional radiant floor cooling system begins to emerge as the system's capacity is approximately doubled to 20 Btuh•ft2 [or 63 W/m2]. In addition, nearly 60 per cent of the system's total cooling capacity is now coming from the cooled ceiling surface. Where more capacity is desired when in cooling mode, PEX loops in a TAS can be placed in the lower third of the slab, allowing more heat to be absorbed through the more efficient ceiling side of the slab. When the loops are installed in this manner, upward and downward capacity is optimized via heat absorption in the cooling mode (up to about 25 Btuh•ft2 ), and heat delivery (emission) in the heating mode (a significant 50 Btuh•ft2 ). figure 1 cooling capacity is limited in unidirectional radiant floor cooling system installed with insulation below.
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aPPLYING TaS IN TODaY'S INfRaSTRuCTuRE The building technology field has come a long way from the days of thinking that a single black-box solution would solve all the world's HVAC needs. Likewise, with a TAS system, it is important to understand that the radiant cooling component is an optimized method of countering sensible loads within a space. The downsized forced-air system is thus allowed to be optimized for latent cooling, fresh air requirements and abrupt shifts in conditioning requirements. Simulated buildings have shown 40-per cent energy savings for this hybrid TAS/downsized forced-air system when compared with a traditional all forced-air baseline case. This supports the overall theme that two optimized smaller systems can condition a space more efficiently than the conventional "single-box solution." Although not the focus of this article, this concept leads to other system advantages, such as increased thermal comfort, reduced maintenance costs and even reduced upfront costs in certain applications. While it can be easy to get caught up in the clear advantages of TAS systems, project experience and market skeptics have identified many challenges in their implementation. First, controlling a system that effectively conditions two adjacent spaces has its complexities. Projects such as the Pond Road Residence at York Unfigure 2 cooling capacity is significantly increased in bidirectional thermally-activated slab configuration, due to both the top and bottom surfaces of the slab being cooled.
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>> Radiant integrating a TAS system, as early in the design phases as possible, among the project architect, structural engineer, MEP and even contractor to determine its effect on thermal comfort, room height, space build-out and acoustics.
THE EVOLuTION Of RaDIaNT COOLING SYSTEM DESIGN
Interior space at the Earth Rangers Centre in Woodbridge, ON, illustrating the exposed concrete ceiling, ductwork and drop lighting required for radiant cooling.
versity in Toronto, ON, however, exemplify a simplified solution. Rather than approaching the system design at a peak scenario, engineers sized the radiant system to be the core tempering system for the building and allowed the downsized air system to handle the trim and peak loads. Another immediate response from architects who have analyzed the TAS concept is "what about the exposed concrete ceiling?" In scenarios where exposed ductwork and
suspended pendant/drop lighting are used, clearly an architect could look favourably on TAS. Unfortunately, it is very hard to advocate for TAS when a drop ceiling has been specified. This highlights the need for the integrated design process (IDP) advocated by both AIA and ASHRAE, through which TAS provides clear benefits as a mechanical system that transcends the traditional design approach. Of utmost importance is a discussion on
Although North American architects and engineers are only beginning to design with integrated TAS systems, several projects exist to highlight the traction of alternative radiant installations and the evolution of radiant cooling system design. Installations including the aforementioned York University residence project and the recently completed YWCA Toronto, ON, Elm Centre illustrate that this is very much a "now" versus "future" concept, which is expected to become increasingly prevalent throughout North America. - RYAN WESTLUND Ryan Westlund, EIT, is a systems engineering specialist with REHAU North America. Before joining REHAU in 2009, he was employed as an intern at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) after which he took a position as a representative with a small mechanical manufacturer.
AVAILABLE NOW
Modern Hydronic Heating 3
rd
T
he full colour, 744-page edition by John Siegenthaler includes the latest information on solar thermal systems, geothermal heat pumps, variable speed pumping, hydraulic separation, thermal accumulators, web-enabled controls, Btu metering and system balancing. From simple applications to multi-load and multi-temperature systems, learn how to use the newest and
38 | jaNuaRY/fEbRuaRY 2012
MODERN HYDRONICS
edition
most appropriate hydronic heating methods and hardware to create systems that deliver the ultimate in heating comfort, reliability and energy efďŹ ciency. Engineeringlevel design information is transformed into practical tools that can be used by technical students and heating professional alike. www.hydronicpros.com/whatsnew/ www.hpacmag.com
Give your customers a smarter way to control their comfort.
Mitsubishi Electric Mr. Slim – now with RedLINK Technology ™
At Mitsubishi Electric, we believe smarter is better. That’s why our advanced Mr. Slim ducted/ductless systems are the only split systems in Canada powered by RedLINKTM Wireless Technology. Now your customers can control their heating and cooling system from anywhere in the house – wirelessly. They can also maximize their comfort and reduce energy costs thanks to advanced features like dual-set points, simple programmable scheduling and optimal start.
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>> Products
Jaga Climate Systems’ in-floor Micro Canal radia-
Viessmann’s CombiPLUS Kit allows the Vitodens 100 condensing space heater to deliver
tor is 6" high and 13" wide and offers a height
on-demand domestic hot water (DHW). It generates 3.6 GPM of DHW and features a stain-
adjustment system for easy installation. It is
less steel plate-type heat exchanger, built-in pressure bypass, three-speed DHW/space
designed for perfect alignment with the floor. Its
heating pump and a three-way diverting valve. The kit’s dimensions are 9.8" x 17" x 8.7".
stainless steel grille is available in a variety of
It can be mounted underneath or beside the boiler with minimal piping and electrical
colours. www.jaga-canada.com
connections, as part of a new boiler installation, or an addition. www.viessmann.ca
The Residential Boiler Fill Fitting (RBFF) from Watts Canada is designed to eliminate up to 11 fieldassembled joints by incorporating a threeway ball valve, drain port, pressure gauge, and standard ½" NPT connections. This onepiece brass service and isolation valve has a maximum inlet temperature rating of 250F and a maximum working presThe Radiant Rollout Mat from Uponor is composed of a custom-designed,
sure of 125 psi. The fitting allows for expansion tank re-
prefabricated, pre-pressurized network of Uponor cross-linked polyethyl-
placement, air charge maintenance, water pressure regu-
ene (PEX-a) tubing. It offers quick onsite customization, and is designed
lator replacement or maintenance, and adjustment to the
to reduce installation times for large commercial radiant heating and
water pressure regulator valve without having to drain the
cooling applications. www.uponor.com
system. www.wattscanada.ca
40 | jaNuaRY/fEbRuaRY 2012
MODERN HYDRONICS
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The easy-load and portable PEX stapler from Malco Tools operates from a standing position with a magazine feed. It features a durable, lightweight magazine slide, a leaf-spring controlled stop to prevent risk of deformation of the connection or jamming. It is equipped with an in-line D-grip for correctly positioning the user’s hand and exclusive Malco plastic staple designs secure layouts of 3⁄8", ½ “ or 5⁄8" PEX. PEXto-wood staples feature sure-gripping, ring-
The Rock Unroller from Tools That Rock features
shank steel nail inserts. Staples with dual
a heavy-duty steel uncoiler that is self-contained
barbs are designed for securing PEX to a
and portable. It uncoils up to 1 000-ft. rolls of PEX
base of 1" or 2" foamboard.
tubing and fits into a handled storage case equipped
www.malcotools.com
with wheels. www.toolsthatrock.com
TacoHVAC has created an iPhone app for pump selection designed to help find the right centrifugal pump for residential and commercial applications. The app allows users to check the performance characteristics of each pump based on specified flow and head conditions. The free app is available at the Apple iTunes store, and can be found by searching for Tacohvac. www.taco-hvac.com
The House Control 406 heat pump control from tekmar runs up to two stages of air-to-water, or water-to-water, heat pump, in heating or cooling mode in a single storage tank, two-pipe system. It operates a boiler for domestic hot water, setpoint load, boiler zones and backup for the heat pump. www.tekmarcontrols.com The wall-mounted, low NOx, condensing Slant/Fin VSL-160 modulating gas boiler is compact and lightweight and is available as a 160 MBH max input boiler for natural or L.P. gas use, or combination boiler and water heater. It has an input modulation from 30 MBH and features a corrosion-resistant stainless steel heat exchanger, concentric or separate vent and air piping and microprocessor control with safety function and autodiagnostics and outdoor reset. www.slantfin.ca www.hpacmag.com
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>> Products
The Envision NSW Series hydronic units from Waterfurnace are available in 1.5-to six-ton capacities. The units feature heavy steel gauge cabinets, swing-out control RBI Water Heaters’ Futera XLF near-
boxes, sound attenuating compressor blan-
condensing, gas-fired, copperfin boilers
kets and double-isolation mounting plates.
are available from 2500 to 4000 mbh.
A microprocessor controls the load pump,
Features include: solid bronze headers, a
source pump and compressor pump. Its
gasketless heat exchanger, and finned cop-
controller allows the user to view all modes
Fulton’s Tribute compact steam boiler features full
per or cupronickel tubing. The 4 000 mbh
of
and
4-to-1 modulation, a stainless steel jacket and the
unit is 29-in. wide and 69-in. high and fits
monitors fault conditions. The unit comes
Fulton SC-750 advanced boiler control system.
through standard size doors. The HeatNet
equipped with an LCD screen that displays
This model uses a fibre mesh burner, variable-
integrated boiler management system pro-
current temperature and settings. All units
speed fan and integrated gas train, and provides
vides repeatability and feedback through
use R-410A refrigerant and feature Therma
low emissions combustion with only four-inch
digital communication.
Shield foam insulation.
incoming gas pressure.
www.rbiwaterheaters.com
www.waterfurnace.com
www.fulton.com
operation, adjust
temperature
Fulton’s B-100 Bio Diesel Vantage boilers are available up to 4 000 000 Btuh and can be configured for use in liquid fuel, natural gas or dual operations. They can run short-term in noncondensing with conventional #2 heating oil, for boiler installations that do not have bio-diesel or ultra-low sulfur heating available. www.fulton.com
Hydrotherm’s KN Series condensing cast iron boilers range from 200 to 3000 mbh. Up to 16 boilers may be networked and tied to a building management system. They are designed for use in commercial or large residential applications, with radiant heating systems, water source heat pumps and snow melt. www.hydrothermkn.com 42 | jaNuaRY/fEbRuaRY 2012
MODERN HYDRONICS
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Triangle Tube’s compact, lightweight,
The Accelera 300 heat pump water
modulating, condensing Challenger Solo
heater from Stiebel Eltron has an
boiler provides space heating and DHW
80-gallon capacity and is ENERGY
and is designed for small to mid-sized
STAR-certified. It is designed to ex-
residences. It is available in four sizes
tract up to 80 per cent of its energy
from 84 000 to 145 000 Btuh and can
requirements from the energy in the
be vented with twin vent and air piping
air around it, and its compressor and
or with concentric venting. The boiler
fan consume one kWh of electricity
will accept natural gas or propane, and
to generate the heat equivalent of
features a heat exchanger with a copper
three to five kWh. The tank has a
tube waterside and aluminum airside, and integrated controls with
1700w electric backup.
standard outdoor reset and DHW priority. www.triangletube.com
www.stiebel-eltron-USA.com
The Smart System Multi Temperature Loop Control (MTLC) from Lochinvar is designed to simplify the integration of Knight heating boilers into multiple temperature hydronic heating systems. It controls up to three separate space heating loop temperatures and works in conjunction with the on-board Smart System control on all second-generation floor-standing and wall-mount Knight heating boilers for residential applications, as well as Knight XL commercial heating boilers. www.lochinvar.com
State-of-the-Art Geothermal Training & Testing Facility Enervex’s EcoFlex 90+ modulating fan-powered economizer system can be installed in a variety of boiler systems, including retrofit, single or multiple appliances, modulating or on-off boilers, condensing or
We offer a wide range of hands-on geothermal courses designed for homeowners, well drillers and HVAC contractors.
non-condensing boilers. www.enervex.com The Series AS-MB micro-bubble air separator from Watts features a forged brass body construction, and comes in 3⁄4", 1" and 1 1⁄4" FPT sizes. It requires no minimum inlet/outlet piping length for proper operation. Its DuoVent air vent assembly has a high capacity and high temperature rating. The corrosion-resistant separator is designed for use with glycol systems or for use as an air-vacuum device. www.watts.com www.hpacmag.com
For more information or to become a Geothermal Specialist:
866.310.6690 GEOSMART ENERGY.COM MODERN HYDRONICS
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>> Controls
Beyond The Basics Most modern hydronic heating systems are installed with some sort of intelligent control system, which provides water temperature management. This, in turn, allows for increased comfort, efficiency and energy savings. The control system may be provided for by the heat source, or by a standalone controller that is added
to a system, or, as is often seen, a combination of the two. Judging by the number of telephone calls I receive on this subject, there are those who are not familiar with how weather and load responsive water temperature control works, what is behind the strategy and how it is put together.
Building heat loss is directly related to outdoor temperature and the heat output of a heat emitter is directly related to water temperature.
T
he most basic and oldest method of water temperature control strategy is known to most as Outdoor Reset. The concept of Outdoor Reset is for the controller to provide just the right water temperature to the heating system at any given point to maintain a steady and comfortable indoor air temperature. The system has been designed to maintain an indoor air temperature, often around 70F, on the coldest day of the year. The system designer would have come up with what water temperature is required on that day to get the job done. Even in Canada, the coldest day(s) usually make up only between three to five days during a calendar year. More often, the temperatures outside are milder, reducing the heat loss of the building, which would allow the system to heat the space with a lower water temperature. Weather responsive water temperature controls adjust the water temperature provided to a heat emitter automatically, from the warmest water temperature on the coldest day, to the mildest water temperature on a warmer day. Most, but not all, modern control systems calculate their own water temperature reset ratio based on at least three main temperature input values. These values are: Design Outdoor Temperature (DOT): coldest day of the year Design Water Temperature (DWT): required water temperature at DOT Design Room Temperature (DRT): desired indoor temperature at DOT In this case, it is assumed that the water temperature would be equal to the DRT when the outdoor temperature is same. In other words, if the DRT is 70F, then the water temperature would be 70F when the outdoor temperature is 70F as a result of zero heat loss. Some additional input values that may be available to
44 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
further fine tune a water temperature control strategy are: Warm Weather Outdoor Temperature (WWODT): Warm Outdoor Temperature reference point Warm Weather Water Temperature (WWWT): Water temperature at WWODT Min (Min): low operating water temperature limits (Not safety control limits) Max (Max): max operating water temperature limits (Not safety control limits) First, for those control systems that either have no digital display, or for those systems that want you to input a reset curve ratio, it will have to be calculated. The formula to calculate a reset curve ratio is shown in Formula 1. The reset ratio is showing an example for high mass radiant heating in an area where its coldest day or DOT is 10F. Formula 1
A reset ratio of 1.0 means that the water temperature will change by 1 degree F for every 1 degree F of outdoor temperature change. Try crunching some different numbers for different types of heat emitters and calculate a new reset ratio based on that. If you need to calculate what the water target temperature may be based on a given outdoor temperature and reset ratio, then Formula 2 would apply.
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>> Controls formula 2
Target = (DRT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; current outdoor Temperature) x Reset Ratio + DRT Example: (70f â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 30f) x 1.0 + 70f = 110f The heating curve for the example in Formula 2 would be as shown in Figure 1. figure 1
Next, let's refine this heating curve or water temperature control strategy with the additional input values of WWODT, WWWT, Min and Max. The DOT, DWT and DRT remain the same. figure 2
In the example in Figure 2, the WWODT is set to 50F, the WWWT is set to 100F. This means that at 50F outside, the water temperature target will start at 100F. The Min is set to 90F and the Max at 135F. Regardless of outdoor temperature, the Min and Max will never be exceeded, but the water temperature is now based on a refined heating curve. Most controls with this capability, would default the WWWT and WWODT to be equal to DRT. This illustrates the fine tuning capability of a heating curve that may come in handy when a system's performance is great during the cooler outdoor condition, but falls a little behind (potential underheating) if the outdoor temperature is milder. Another reason for this fine tuning capability could be floor warming requirements in milder outdoor conditions, where a typical reset ratio may not allow warm enough water to be delivered to accomplish that. Typically, a different water temperature control strategy is desired for different types of heat emitters. For example, high temperature heat emitters, such as fan coils and baseboard are designed to run at about 180F at design, where many panel radiators only run at about 160F. Low mass radiant is often designed to run around 140F, while high mass radiant is designed near 120F. Of course, these temperatures could vary depending on the design options used, such as tighter tubing spacing for radiant, longer runs of baseboard, panel radiators and so on. Generally, I would recommend a separate water temperature control strategy for each heat emitter or service area that differs from another by more than 20F. So for a system that has all of the above examples, fan coils, radiators, low mass radiant and high mass radiant in one project, I would have four different heating curves and controllable water temperatures. I would run the fan coils right off the boiler reset and there would be a mixing device for the remaining three water temperatures. A mixing device should be fully modulating, regardless of preference. The more popular mixing methods include variable speed injection pumps or mixing valves.
SYSTEM EffICIENCY How does outdoor reset help to increase system efficiency, while decreasing energy consumption and room temperature swings? While running at lower temperatures, most heat sources are more efficient than they are if running at design condition. A heat source is not sized to run most efficiently at the coldest day of the year, but for the majority of the year. Providing a separate water control 46 | jaNuaRY/fEbRuaRY 2012
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“Would any of us ever accept a vehicle that did not have an accelerator that allows us to control the speed based on demand?” figure 4
strategy for different types of heat emitters ensures that the entire system is running as efficiently as is possible. The benefits this brings for system components cannot be overstated. Efficiency should encompass product life cycles. Most pieces of equipment would rather have longer on cycles and fewer off cycles than more on/off cycles. This is accomplished by water temperature control.
DECREaSED ENERGY CONSuMPTION With lower water temperatures, stand-by and distribution losses are minimized by keeping the temperature of the fluid closer to space temperature, as opposed to fixed water temperature control. The same concept for building heat loss is true for stand-by and distribution losses. The greater the temperature difference, the greater the losses. Combining that with the fact that heat sources are already more efficient at converting energy into heat at lower temperatures, it is not uncommon to realize energy consumption savings between 15 and 25 per cent.
DECREaSED ROOM TEMPERaTuRE SWINGS System efficiency also encompasses the ability to control the space to a tight comfort level, rather than having overshooting and/or undershooting in the space. Let’s have a look at what a room temperature may look like if a standard thermostat with a basic 1 degree F on/off differential was controlling the space. Figure 3 shows a room temperature swing if the water temperature is fixed for the coldest day of the year. If the same water temperature is still provided on a milder day, overshooting and undershooting will be noticed in the space. Even though the thermostat has a 1F on/off differential, a temperature swing of 2F or greater may be experienced. One would notice shorter on times and longer off times. figure 3
Figure 4 shows a room temperature swing if the water temperature is based on an outdoor reset ratio automatically to match the load in the building. Now the thermostat with a 1 degree F on/off differential can maintain the space more tightly. One would experience longer on times and shorter off times. No hydronic heating system should run without weather responsive water temperature control. Would any of us ever accept a vehicle that did not have an accelerator that allows us to control the speed based on demand?
INDOOR TEMPERaTuRE fEEDbaCK? The next step is to combine the weather responsive water temperature control with smart digital feedback from one or several communication thermostats on the same water temperature, or, at the very least, a control system that monitors the deltaT (difference between supply and return temperatures) as a gauge of the load in the building. Outdoor reset only considers the outdoor conditions, but not what is actually happening in the space. The building could be receiving some solar heat gains when it is sunny out, or, could have additional losses from a cold weather front blowing cool air with strong winds against the building. Communicating thermostats would provide constant indoor temperature feedback that allows a weather responsive water temperature controller to fine tune its heating curve based on indoor temperature as well. This is the most accurate method of water temperature control strategy that will maximize energy savings often within the 25 to 35 per cent range (as long as all windows and doors to the outside are closed). - MIKE MILLER Mike Miller is a system controls specialist with experience in the manufacturing, distribution and contracting sectors of the industry. He can be reached at mike.miller@uponor.com, LinkedIn or @hydronicsmike on twitter.
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>> Marketing
Initiative Gets The Word Out Contractors who work in the radiant home heating market have a new tool to reach motivated consumers.
T
he Beautiful Heat marketing initiative is dedicated to promoting the energy and health benefits of hydronic systems to the consumer market. Its mission is to raise awareness and knowledge through marketing and education campaigns directed at consumers, installers and suppliers of heating and cooling systems. Contractors who are interested in getting leads to new business simply have to register as a Beautiful Heat professional at www.beautifulheat.com, and complete a simple registration form, along with an online training program. “This no-charge registration and
orientation process ensure contractors understand what the campaign is about and what the expectations are,” said John Goshulak, chair of Beautiful Heat. “It only takes 20 minutes, and with that, contractors can be confident that they understand what the campaign is about and support the key messages that consumers are hearing through our targeted advertising, public relations and web-based campaign.” Once registered as a Beautiful Heat professional, qualified contractors will be listed in the ‘Find a Professional’ section of the consumer website, www.beautifulheat.com.
The Canadian Hydronics Council (CHC) and the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) have provided Beautiful Heat with their list of contractors and contractor member companies that are involved in radiant home heating — bringing the total number of qualified contractors to over 700. Those contractors and installers have not been included through this direct listing, can also join by visiting the website at www.beautifulheat. com and completing a simple registration process. Qualifying contractors must be a member of one of the following associations: CHC, HRAI,
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TECA (Thermal Environmental Comfort Association) or COHA (Canadian Oil Heat Association). They must also complete the same free-ofcharge training program In addition to this website, an advertising and public relations campaign is underway, which includes advertising in four consecutive issues of Canadian House and Home. The public relations efforts to date have generated hundreds of print and web-based stories from coast-to coast. Radio interviews have also aired in major markets across the country. Recently, Beautiful Heat was included in a CTV news segment hosted by Pat Foran, its consumer specialist. The next wave of public relations was released in early February. Beautiful Heat partners include S. A. Armstrong, Grundfos Canada, LAARS Heating Systems, Raypak, Taco, tekmar Control Systems, Uponor, Viessmann, Watts Water Technologies, Weil-McLain Canada and Xylem. - Theresa Kane Theresa Kane is president of Piper and Company in Toronto. www.hpacmag.com
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>> Pumps
Curves and Apps How to select the right circulator for the job.
D
oes anyone remember Antoine Walker? He played for the Boston Celtics a few years back and was known for taking his share – and then some – of three-point shots. He was a one-man artillery squad. Somebody once asked Antoine why he took so many threes… “Cause they don’t have any fours,” came the reply. From the “You Can’t Make This Stuff Up” files, I asked a training group why they used three-speed circulators. The Antoine Walker of hydronics responded from the back row: “Cause you don’t make any four-speeds.” I have heard lots of interesting reasons for using threespeed circulators. One fellow told me he felt that since he could get a circulator with three speeds for the same price as a single-speed circulator, it was a better value. The fact that the circulator could only go one speed at a time did not seem to matter. The reasons contractors most often give for using threespeed circulators are: “It’s the only pump I’ll ever need;” “Perfect for service – keep one on the truck all the time;” and “Takes the place of six or seven other pumps – really cuts down on inventory.” There is stuff we need to understand about three-speed circulators to make sure you not only pick the right speed, but also to make sure you pick the right circulator for the right job; because it is not the only pump you will ever need, they are not always perfect for service and they do not always take the place of six or seven other pumps. You
figure 1 3-Speed circulator performance curves
have to know what you are holding in your hands, and how it can affect the system you are working on.
THEY aRE NOT aLL CREaTED EQuaL Take a look at the pump curves in Figure 1 and tell me what you see. These are both three-speed circulators, but the performance curves are very different. Pump A's curves are relatively steep – lower flow and higher head. Three-speed offerings from manufacturers out there have very similar performance curves. Pump B is much flatter. It is a high flow, lower head circulator: different curves, different applications. A couple of years ago, a wholesaler friend called me with a problem. One of his best contractor-customers had installed a replacement boiler on an 80 000 Btuh zone valve system. He also replaced the expansion tank, PRV and air separator. The five old zone valves were in fine working order, so they stayed. The original system circulator was an old-style three-piece beast. It was replaced with a new three-speed circulator. Before the change-out the system was church-mouse quiet. After the change out there was a serious case of banging zone valves . So what happened? Well, they started out with the replacement circulator on high speed. When I asked why, he said it was because they were taking out such a big pump, they figured they would need full power to get the water through the system.
figure 2 original circulator performance curves FLOW M/H 2
4
6
8
10
12
14
25
6 5
15
4 10
3 2
TOTAL HEAD - METRES
TOTAL HEAD - FEET
7 20
5 1 0 0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
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MODERN HYDRONICS
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Compare the original pump's performance curve shown in Figure 2 with Pump A's curves in Figure 1. See any similarities? I don’t either. The original pump was a high flow, low head, flat-curve circulator. Its head pressure peaks at around 7½', while the flow runs out at over 30 GPM. For skiers, that is the bunny slope. Pump A, on the other hand, is a lower flow, higher head circulator, more like a Blue Square ski slope. They turned the speed on the replacement pump down to medium. Bang-Bang. Low? Bang-Bang. Hmmmm. Figuring the circulator was the problem, they replaced it with another three speed from a different manufacturer. Bang-Bang on all three speeds. “We gotta do something, JB. The system sounds like Ricky Ricardo playing Babaloo.” Had to ask one simple question – when do the zone valves bang? Do they bang when all five are open and one closes, or do they bang when two or three are open and one closes? We had the answer the next day. “Well, when the circulator is at high speed, the zone valves bang all the time, but at low speed, they don’t make any noise when all five are open and one closes. When two or three are open and one closes, it’s ‘Babaloo’ time.” Now why do you suppose that is? Here is why: 80 000 Btuh at a 20 degree Delta-T means the system needs to provide eight gallons per minute under design conditions to heat properly. If you look at the pump curve in Figure 2, you see at a flow rate of eight GPM the circulator is producing roughly seven feet of head pressure, or a little over three PSI of pressure differential. With only one zone calling (roughly 1.6 GPM, with all zones roughly the same size), the original pump is producing roughly 7½' of head, or just under 3¼ PSI of pressure differential. No big change in pressure differential, so the zone valve was closing against pretty much the same thing.
figure 3 pump a applied
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Now look at Pump A's performance curves in Figure 1. At high speed with a flow rate of eight gallons per minute, the head pump head pressure is more than 12½', or nearly 5½ PSI worth of pressure differential. With only one zone calling, the head pressure is nearly 20', or over 8½ PSI worth of pressure differential. Enough pressure differential is created by the circulator to cause “Babaloo time” no matter how many zones were calling. At low speed, it is the same thing only different. With all zones calling at eight GPM, the circulator is creating only eight feet of pump head, or just under 3½' PSI of pressure differential. No banging there. With only one zone calling, however, we get more than 13' of head pressure, or more than 5½ PSI of pressure differential. Bang-Bang. The exact same scenario plays out with any steep curve three-speed circulator. Conclusion? For this job, this type of three-speed circulator is not the right one for the job. So much for the “only-circulator-you’ll-ever-need” claptrap. For this job, you will need a different type of threespeed, one with performance curves that more closely mirror the circulator that was taken out. Again, let’s look at Figure 1: The curves are, by comparison, pretty flat. Big changes in flow result in very small changes in head pressure. If this circulator had been on the job from the get go, it would have been adios “Babaloo” and hello “Sounds of Silence.” At high speed, Pump B would produce 8½' of head pressure, or a little over 3½ PSI of pressure differential. Like Pump A at low speed, there is no banging. With only one zone calling, Pump B produces 10' of head pressure, or a little over four PSI of pressure differential. That is about 1½ PSI less pressure differential than was created by Pump
figure 4 pump B applied
MODERN HYDRONICS
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| 51
50K
>> Pumps A at low speed with only one zone calling. However, under those conditions, Pump A produced banging, Pump B did not. Yes, it is that close. The system worked like a champ with the Pump B at low speed, too. With all zones calling, the circulator produced six feet of head pressure (2.6 PSI differential), and with only one zone calling, it produced only eight feet of head pressure (<3½ PSI). Sweet, sweet silence.
you know it is not the only solution to solving this particular problem. Lastly, where would you use lower flow, higher head pumps? 1. Zone pumping – usually at low speed. It is likely more than you need anyway. 2. Baseboard or panel radiator jobs piped with PEX – smallish flow rates, but higher head due to smaller pipe. 3. Radiant floor heating – suited to lower flow-higher head requirements. Radiant usually lives in the middleupper portions of the medium-high curves. Where does the flat curve three-speed belong? 1. Zone valve jobs with baseboard or radiators – the flat curve is ideal. 2. Replacement for any old style three-piece circulator. 3. Any application where a high flow-low head circulator is required. Also, it is important to understand the flow and head requirements for your specific application. That is the only way you will know at which speed to set your threespeed circulator. That means do the math! - JOHN BARBA
SOME FINAL POINTS Couldn’t they have installed a pressure differential bypass valve? Yes, they could have and that most likely would have taken care of the banging. But in this case the bypass valve is nothing more than a band-aid over what amounts to a self-inflicted wound – choosing the wrong pump in the first place. It is better to know what you have in your hands, apply it properly and skip the band-aid altogether. Another point – why not just use a variable speed circulator? This is a fair question – a variable speed circulator would certainly take care of the noise problem and is a viable solution. It is not, however, the only solution. You can achieve the same desired result – silence – by selecting an appropriate fixed speed circulator for the job. There may be other reasons for using a variable speed circulator, but 1/9/12 11:28 AM Page 2 if25485_MascotII_HALFsm_BHlogo_Layout you understand pump curves1and system dynamics then
John Barba is the contractor training and trade program manager with Taco, Inc. Barba was awarded the 2012-2014 Carlson-Holohan Industry Award of Excellence at the 2012 AHR Show in Chicago, IL.
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NO FANCY SUITS. JUST SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT. With our 70,000 sq ft. warehouse we have more parts on the floor so we can get them into your hands faster. So when you’re on-site and need to service your customer’s Lochinvar boiler or water heater, call us.
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>> Alternate Fuels
Big Buffers Wood gasification boiler systems usually require large thermal storage tanks.
I
nterest in wood as a heating fuel continues to rise along with the price of conventional fuel. Wood-fired hydronic systems can leverage modern storage and distribution concepts to enhance the thermal efficiency and comfort delivered by wood-fired heat sources. There are a number of possible approaches. The best choice depends on the characteristics of the heat source, as well as those of the distribution system. For example, if the heat source is an outdoor wood-fired furnace, most of which contain 200 to 500 gallons of water, there is no need for an interior buffer tank. In this article we will focus on systems that use a wood gasification boiler. Several suppliers currently offer such boilers in North America. When fired with dry firewood (20 per cent or less moisture content) these boilers can approach 90 per cent thermal efficiency. The key to high efficiency is to burn wood hot and fast. Wood gasification boilers are designed to do this. Once a stable fire is burning in their combustion chamber, a blower turns
on to redirect the pyrolitic gases emitted by the heated wood in a downward direction. These hot gases pass through a slot in a ceramic plate, and are mixed with a forced jet of secondary combustion air. The resulting combustion resembles a blow torch, and can reach temperatures over 2000F. Such combustion produces high efficiency and very little ash. The implication of burning wood hot and fast is that heat production is often far greater than required by the load. The only way to tame the beast in this situation is to add thermal storage. Figure 1 shows one way to do so. The piping between the boiler and storage tank contains a bypass pipe and a boiler protection module. The latter contains a thermostatic mixing valve and circulator that operate whenever the boiler is firing. The purpose of this module is to keep the inlet water temperature to the woodfired boiler high enough to prevent sustained flue gas condensation within the boiler and its venting. The exact temperature where such condensation forms depends on the moisture
figure 1 additional thermal storage.
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content of the wood being burned, and how much excess air is supplied to the combustion chamber. A boiler inlet temperature around 140F is generally considered safe for typical combustion conditions. The boiler protection module also contains a special flapper check valve that opens to allow natural convective flow between the boiler and storage tank during a power failure. Several manufacturers, mostly European, now offer such modules through North American suppliers.
OPEN & CLOSED CaSE The thermal storage tank used with a wood gasification boiler can be of “open” or “closed” design. Open storage tanks are designed to remain at atmospheric pressure. Heat is generally added to and removed from such tanks using coiled copper heat exchangers that are suspended within the tank water. Closed thermal storage tanks are usually made of welded steel. They are sealed from the atmosphere and are capable of withstanding some pressure. Regardless of which type of tank is used, it must be sized large enough to absorb the heat produced as the load of firewood is rapidly burned in the wood gasification boiler. Factors that effect tank size include: how the boiler will be tended; how much wood can the boiler’s firebox hold; the potential heat content of the firewood being used; the minimum operating temperature of the heating distribution system; and the temperature and pressure ratings of the buffer tank. In some applications, the homeJaNuaRY/fEbRuaRY 2012
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>> Alternate Fuels owner may want to fully load the boiler with wood at a given time of day and have all the heat it produces sent to the buffer tank, regardless of any concurrent heating load. This approach is based on convenience and the time of day at which the owner is available to add wood. For example, the owner may want to fully load the boiler in the morning before leaving for work and not add wood until the following evening. This is possible, but it relies on a boiler with a large combustion chamber, use of well-seasoned hardwood for maximum Btu/pound fuel value, and adequate thermal storage. The upper temperature limit of the thermal storage tank is also an important consideration. Unpressurized thermal storage tanks typically have temperature limits of 180F to perhaps 200F. Pressurized metal storage tanks can theoretically contain water at temperatures above the atmospheric boiling point (212F), but this is seldom done due to safety considerations. The lower the water temperature at which the heating distribution system can operate, the longer a given tank can supply the load before the system must shift to an auxiliary heat source. Low temperature distribution systems that use heat emitters – such as radiant panels, panel radiators, extended surface fin-tube convectors, or air handlers with large surface area coils – are always preferred in systems with wood-fired heat sources.
Formula 1
Where: v= required buffer tank volume (gallons) w = weight of firewood that can be loaded in the combustion chamber (lb) n = average efficiency of the combustion process (decimal per cent) ∆T = temperature rise of the tank while absorbing all heat from the boiler (ºF) 738 = a constant based on the heating fuel value associated with 20 per cent moisture content hardwood fuel. Here is an example: assume that a fully loaded firebox in a wood-fired boiler holds 80 pounds of seasoned firewood. The boiler’s average combustion efficiency is 75 per cent. Determine the buffer tank volume needed assuming the tank will rise 50F as it absorbs heat from combustion of the full charge of wood. Putting the data into Formula 1 yields:
The wider the acceptable temperature change of the tank, the smaller its required volume. For example, if the tank reached a temperature of 200F at the end of a burn cycle, and could supply adequate heat to the load as it cooled all the way down to 100F, the temperature drop of 100F would cut the volume calculated in the previous example in half! This is why it is important to design the distribution system so that it can operate at the lowest possible water temperature. The useful temperature of the tank can be further lowered by using an outdoor reset controller to make the decision on when the tank can no longer supply the load. Under such a control scheme, the lowest useful tank temperature is determined based on outdoor temperature rather than a fixed setpoint. For example, a distribution system that requires a supply temperature of 110F when it is 0F outside, may only require a supply temperature of about 90F when it is 35F outside. The graph in Figure 2 illustrates the concept of outdoor reset control to determine if the thermal storage tank or auxiliary heat source supplies the load. Using outdoor reset control does
figure 2 Use of outdoor reset control to determine heat source .
bY THE NuMbERS Formula 1 can be used to estimate the size of the buffer tank based on the firewood capacity of the boiler and the allowed temperature rise in the thermal storage tank. This formula is conservative in that it assumes no concurrent heat delivery to the building, and thus all heat produced by the boiler goes to storage. 56 | JaNuaRY/fEbRuaRY 2012
MODERN HYDRONICS
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“One crucial aspect of designing a system around a large
(multi-hundred gallon) pressurized storage tank is planning how to get it into the building, as well as planning how to remove it if it is ever necessary.
”
not decrease the size of the storage tank, but it does allow longer periods between boiler firings under partial load conditions.
SINGLE VERSUS MULTIPLE TANKS Suppose that a system you are designing needs a pressurized thermal storage tank as large as the one calculated in the previous example (886 gallons). You have some options. One is to source a single storage vessel with this volume, or something close to it. The other is to combine multiple smaller tanks to achieve a similar total volume. Both approaches have strengths and limitations. The advantages of multiple, preassembled storage tanks include: they are more widely available than large (multi-hundred gallon) thermal storage tanks and they are lighter and smaller allowing for easier handling on a job site and subsequent removal if it is ever necessary. The downsides of multiple smaller tanks include: they have more surface area than a single large tank, and thus more standby heat loss; it is hard to find smaller tanks in the North American market that are made with more than two-inches of foam insulation; and the reverse return piping required to achieve balanced flow through grouping of tanks, as well as the valving required to potentially isolate each tank from the system, can get expensive. Large (multi-hundred gallon) pressure-rated tanks are available from ASME certified fabricators. When supplied as complete preinsulated/jacketed products, their 58 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
cost can be in the range of $15 to $18 per gallon. ASME certification may or may not be required by local mechanical codes. It is definitely something to check, because nonASME certified tanks are considerably less expensive. I have been able to source “repurposed” horizontal-oriented propane storage tanks in volumes of 500 and 1000 gallons for use in thermal storage applications. A local company acquires these tanks, both new and used, and welds on the desired piping connections. The tanks are then internally and externally cleaned, and finished with an iron oxide primer. The non-ASME certified tanks have a minimum pressure rating of 165 psi, and currently sell for about $2.70 per gallon, plus delivery. The advantages of larger tanks include: they are generally less expensive on a $/gallon basis compared to smaller tanks; the total surface area, and thus standby heat loss tends to be less; the overall piping needed is less complicated and lower in cost; and they can be “superinsulated.” One crucial aspect of designing a system around a large (multihundred gallon) pressurized storage tank is planning how to get it into the building, as well as planning how to remove it if it is ever necessary. Some building situations obviously preclude a large tank based on available space, door widths, or adequate passageways through the building.
DO NOT SKIMP ON INSULATION Finally, thermal storage tanks should act like a “Thermos Bottle” for heat. MODERN HYDRONICS
They must be very well insulated. Anything less makes the tank an uncontrolled heat emitter that will most assuredly overheat the space where it is located. I suggest that all surfaces of thermal storage tanks have insulation with a minimum R-value of 20F•hr•ft2/Btu. This can be achieved using a nominal four-inch thick layer of sprayed polyurethane foam insulation. This material, when cured, can generally withstand temperatures as high as 240F. It can be sprayed directly on the tank’s shell after all piping connections have been made up and pressure tested. Some local codes may require a fire retardant coating over the urethane insulation. Also keep in mind that sprayed polyurethane insulation is not resistant to ultraviolet light. If exposed to daylight the cured surface of the foam should be painted, coated, or covered to protect it. Also, make sure all piping and piping components in the vicinity of the tank are well-insulated. Thermal storage is essential to successful deployment of high efficiency wood-fired heat sources. Plan your approach and all related details ac- JOHN SIEGENTHALER cordingly.
John Siegenthaler, P.E. is the author of Modern Hydronic Heating. The third edition of this book is now available. Visit www.hydronicpros.com for reference information and software to assist in hydronic system design. WWW.HPACMAG.COM
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< IAQ
Robert Bean, continued from page 20
“If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses.” ~ Henry Ford and unfinished hardwood from the program's data base. After setting up the ventilation schedule for unoccupied and occupied periods around 600, 900, 1600, 1800 and 2400 hours (Figure 1), I ran the calculation to produce comparative emissions for each compound as illustrated in Figure 2 (hardwood) and Figure 3 (carpeting). The output units on the y axis are concentrations in mg/m3 with the x axis showing time in hours. The uppermost red lines represents the TVOC, or total volatile organic compounds, with subsequent lines representing the various other components emitted during the simulation time. The data “teeth” or “peaks” represent the minimum and normal operational times of the ventilation schedule. Make note of the inventory list of chemicals below the x axis. Not surprisingly, the quantity is much less for the unfinished hardwood than that of the carpet. Likewise, the concentration of chemicals emitted in the former peaks at 0.42 mg/m3 in comparison to the latter of approximately 2.1 mg/m3. Due to the quantity of compounds emitted at lower concentrations in carpeting, I have adjusted the output in Figure 4 so you can see with somewhat better clarity the chemical soufflé that is emitted during the simulation period. Caveat: It is not accurate to assume that one simulation is representative of all coverings – most flooring manufacturers have been working diligently to reduce their VOC emissions and their respective data should be used in evaluations. As with these types of programs, the output values mean nothing unless one can compare them to some value that has meaning to the users of the program, and also in this case, the occupants in the space. Health Canada and other
Figure 2 Comparative emissions (hardwood)
Figure 3 Comparative emissions (carpeting)
continued on page 62
Figure 1 Ventilation schedule
HPACMAG.COM
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012 | HPAC
61
< IAQ
continued from page 61
organizations do publish some values that can be used to benchmark against the results, but as anyone competent in the world of IAQ knows, the ultimate test of chemical sensitivity will be the occupants themselves.iv What does this mean? It means there is no shortage of assumptions going on in the world of ventilation design, since many designers never get to talk with the occupants and often do not have access to the schedule of interior finishes and so default to using the ventilation rate prescribed by CSA F326 without considering the influence from interior finishes and need for source control. In winding up this first part of the demonstration, I want to reiterate that source control à la CSA F326 and ASHRAE 62.1(.2) means having an understanding of interior finishes -- meaning interior design is not detached from the world of the HVAC designer. As you will see in the March 2012 article on flooring and radiant systems, neither the hydronics nor the air based designer is immune from this topic – remember this when upgrading your knowledge base. <> Robert Bean, R.E.T., P.L.(Eng.), is a registered practitioner in building construction engineering technology (ASET) and a professional licensee in mechanical engineering (APEGGA). He has over 30 years experience in the construction industry specializing in energy and indoor environmental quality and is the author and lecturer for professional development programs addressing building science, thermal comfort quality, indoor air quality and radiant based HVAC systems. Visit www.healthyheating.com.
Figure 4 Comparative emissions (carpeting – output adjusted)
REFERENCES i) http://www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/eng/projects/irc/simulation.html ii) American Society of Interior Designers iii) http://www.idcanada.org/english/ iv) Charles, K.E. Magee, R.J. Won, D.Y. Lusztyk, E., Indoor Air Quality Guidelines and Standards : Final Report 5.1, Table 6. Guideline Values for Organic Chemicals in Indoor Air (industrial and non-industrial settings) Research Report, NRC Institute for Research in Construction, 204 pp. 36. 2005-03-01
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HPAC | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
HPACMAG.COM
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day programmability while the T1000FS features one-day programmability. Both
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units have optional security covers available. www.venstar.com
continued on page 65
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PS11-2A Bosch 12V Angle Drill/Driver The compact and lightweight, ergonomically designed angle driver is ideal for drilling and driving in hard to reach places. www.boschtools.com
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PRODUCTS hvac/r continued from page 63 KeepRite high-efficiency furnaces from International
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The Luba GL rooftop solar air collector from Enerconcept Technologies Inc. features a maximum thermal output of 247-Btuh/ft2 (780-watts/ m2) and airflow of six to 12-cfm per 112 (L) x 36 (H) x 8 (D)-inch collector. The unit weighs 98 lbs. and has a lightweight twin-wall, a 1/4"-thick (10 mm) polycarbonate glazing and a 26.4-sq. ft. black aluminum perforated backpanel. www.enerconcept.com
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ESG: 1-800-430-6754 email: IRCanada@flir.com www.goinfrared.com/canada/cameras/all_cameras.asp JaNUaRY/FEBRUaRY 2012 | HPAC
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PLUMBING PRODUCTS
Logan Square HET toilets from Gerber offer 1.28 gpf/4.8 lpf and are available in ADA elongated and elongated bowl combinations. Features include dual feed jet, reverse trap, Avalanche flushing platform, a 3" flush valve, a fully glazed trapway, Fluidmaster fill valve and side tank lever. Available in 12" and 10" rough-in, the toilets come in white or biscuit. www.gerberonline.com
The Charlotte bath collection from Brizo offers widespread lavatory, vessel and wallmount faucets, three and four hole Roman tubs, TempAssure medium flow showers, tub/shower trims, and three and six function diverters. The collectionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coordinating shower components include two gpm H2Okinetic Technology six-inch showerheads, a 2.5 gpm H2Okinetic Technology eight-inch ceiling mount showerhead and handshower with slidebar, and wallmounted handshowers. Products are available in cocoa bronze finish with polished nickel accents, polished chrome, polished nickel and brushed nickel finishes. www.brizo.com continued on page 70 68
HPAC | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
HPACMAG.COM
PLUMBING PRODUCTS continued from page 68 The Blackcomb Series UV disinfection systems from Luminor are offered for normal flow (up to 80 lpm, or 20 gpm) or high flow (up to 160 lpm, or 40 gpm) applications. The systems are suited to residential and lightcommercial applications. The normal flow series features single-end reactors made of 304 stainless steel. The high flow series features commercial grade, axial flow 316L stainless steel reactors designed for simple
CuVerro’s antimicrobial copper sinks from Elkay offer a tarnish-
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resistant satin finish and are fully undercoated to dampen sound
reactor chamber. www.luminoruv.com
and prevent condensation. They are formed from #18 (1.2 mm) gauge copper and are made with more than 80 per cent recycled content. The sinks themselves are 100 per cent recyclable. Antimicrobial copper drains and overflows are available. www.elkayusa.com
The 290-Series effluent pumps from Liberty Pumps has 48 ft. of pumping head, maximum flow
IPS Corporation’s Studor brand Recess Box for air admittance valves connects directly
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warranty. www.uponor.ca
70
HPAC | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
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TM
MECHaNiCaL SUPPLY NEWS
100 95
MANUFACTURERS • DISTRIBUTORS • WhOLESALERS • ASSOCIATIONS
75
SMACNA Develops Air Leakage Standard
MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS
The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA) has published a HVAC Total System Air Leakage standard that has an increased focus on commissioning and energy conservation. The standard will be developed using SMACNA’s American National Standards Institiute (ANSI) procedures, with a task force made up of SMACNA and ASHRAE members. www.smacna.org
>> Watts Water Technologies, Inc. recently acquired 25
Napoleon Celebrates Safety Clean Slate The Napoleon Appliance Corporation recently celebrated three years without a lost-time injury at its manufacturing plant in Barrie, ON. The occasion was marked with a celebration attended by local politicians. www.napoleonheatingandcooling.com
Lennox Receives Operational Excellence Award Lennox Industries’ facility in Stuttgart, AR, recently won top honours for Operational Excellence facility at the American Manufacturing Strategy Awards (AMSA) in Chicago, IL. The facility produces various commercial products including: packaged rooftop units, split systems and unit heaters for both the domestic and international market. The Lennox Stuttgart 750 000-square-foot facility employs more than 1000 workers during its peak season and is home to the North American distribution centre, which services regional distribution centres throughout the U.S. and Canada. www.lennoxcommercial.com
tekmar Control Systems, a designer and manufacturer 5 of control solutions for heating, ventilating, and air conditioning applications located in Vernon, BC. 0 www.wattswater.com www.tekmarcontrols.com
>> The R.W. Beckett Corporation has acquired Oil Equipment Manufacturing LLC (OEM), a producer of oil tank accessories. OEM’s manufacturing, assembly and distribution has been integrated into Beckett’s facility in North Ridgeville, OH. www.beckettcorp.com
>> The Colfax Corporation, based in Fulton, MD, has acquired Ireland-based Charter International plc, owner of Howden and ESAB Welding & Cutting Products. www.colfaxcorp.com www.charter.ie
DISTRIBUTION NEWS >> Crane Supply recently celebrated the grand opening of its Canadian head office in Vaughan, ON. The facility is located at 141 Royal Group Cr., (tel: 416-244-5351 or 800-268-0624, fax: 416-244-4621). www.cranesupply.com
>> Roth Industries Inc. recently announced Hydronic Systems Canada Inc. as a new manufacturing representative for its radiant/hydronic, double-wall oil storage tanks, solar, geothermal and plumbing products in Ontario. www.roth-usa.com continued on page 74
Canadian Companies Win AHR 2012 Innovation Awards
Geofinity Manufacturing
Geofinity Manufacturing Inc. has won in the Building Automation category at the 2012 AHR Expo Innovation Awards for its ORB heat pump controller. The ORB is a fully integrated equipment intelligence system with operating, monitoring, control and diagnostics capabilities. The Surrey, B.C.-based manufacturer accepted the award on January 24 at the International Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition in Chicago, IL. The Lubi solar air collector from Enerconcept Technologies took the innovation award in the Heating category. The solar air heater offers results as high as 80 per cent efficiency in transforming solar light into hot air. www.geofinitymanufacturing.com www.enerconcept.com
Inc. president Rick Cox (centre) accepts the 2012 AHR Innovation Award in the Building Automation category from AHRI chairman Ajita Rajendra (l), and ASHRAE president Ron Jarmagin. 100
Christian Vachon (centre),
95
president, Enerconcept Technologies accepts the
75
2012 AHR Innovation Award in the Heating category from Ajita Rajendra (l), chairman, AHRI and Ron Jarmagin, president, ASHRAE.
25 5 0
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HPAC | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
hpAcmAg.com
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< MSN
continued from page 72
>> Watts Water Technologies (Canada) Inc. recently hired Great Lakes Marketing Inc. as its agent for the Powers product lines in Southwestern Ontario. Great Lakes Marketing Inc. is located at 1429 Margaret Cr., Penetanguishene, ON, L9M 2B4 (tel: 905-266-0657, fax: 905-332-7068). For more information, e-mail: admin@greatlakesmarketing.ca.
>> Speakman Company recently announced that Barclay Sales would be its manufacturer representative for parts of Canada. Barclay Sales will be representing the 142-yearold company’s entire plumbing and safety lines throughout areas in Canada, including Alberta and BC. www.speakmancompany.com
>> The Master Group L.P. has signed a distribution >> Emerson Climate Technologies Inc. recognized six Canadian wholesalers as top performers in 2011. Refrigerative Supply Limited was awarded the 2011 Centre Stage Award, while 2011 Peak Performance Awards were presented to B&B Trade Distribution Centre, Refac-Wolseley, Le Groupe Master, Thermal Resources Inc. and United Refrigeration of Canada Ltd. www.emersonclimate.com
>> Noveko Filtration of Boucherville, QC was in the winners’ circle at The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) of Canada annual national awards gala. The company received a Pinnacle Award in the Innovation catergory during BOMEX 2011 in St. John's, NL. www.noveko.com
agreement for the majority of its territory with NAD Klima, a manufacturer and supplier of air diffusers and other services, including design. The Master Group’s distribution network currently has 19 branches and two distribution centres spanning from the Greater Toronto Area eastward to the Maritimes. In other Master news, expansion work has been completed at its Québec City branch. At 30 000 sq. ft., it is the largest installation in the Group's network of branches. www.master.ca
CLIPS >> Watts is now offering Pure Water, a line of water filtration and treatment products specifically selected and branded for the wholesale plumbing market. It is comprised of drinking water systems; reverse osmosis systems (RO); whole house systems; water softeners; and environmentally friendly anti-scale systems for residential and light commercial applications. www.wattscanada.ca/purewater
>> Trane recently launched Tracer XT, its first product stemming from an ongoing collaboration between GE and Ingersoll Rand, Trane’s parent company. Tracer XT is a GE software-based data centre management tool that is equipped with a high-speed, time-stamped database for rapid data collection. The product utilizes Trane Tracer building controls and HVAC expertise, combined with GE Intelligent Platforms’ Proficiency software for visualization, analysis and modelling, remote monitoring, and diagnostics. www.trane.com
>> A notice regarding unit heater venting has been posted at the Government of Alberta’s “Codes & Permits” section of its website. The notice affects certification of unit continued on page 76 74
HPAC | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
hpAcmAg.com
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heaters and the results change the installation instructions that are supplied with unit heaters. http://municipalaffairs.gov.ab.ca/am_gas_product_ alerts_and_recalls.cfm
>> The CanSIA Solar Canada 2011 tradeshow took place from December 5-6 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Minister of Natural Resources and MP Joe Oliver (Eglington-Lawrence) was the opening keynote speaker. Doug McClenehan, program manager (solar thermal) for Natural Resources Canada hosted a session titled, “A Roadmap for Solar Thermal in Canada.” The focus of his presentation was Drake 2: The New 1000 Home Solar Thermal Community in Alberta. www.solarcanadaconference.ca
>> The Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC) is conducting a public review on proposed changes to the 2010 National Model Construction Codes until March 2, 2012. It will look at potential changes to incorporate energy efficiency for houses and small buildings into Part 9 of the 2010 National Building Code of Canada (NBC). The CCBFC will publish any approved changes as revisions and errata to the 2010 NBC near the end of 2012. www.nationalcodes.nrc.gc.ca
>> Whirlpool Corporation recently wrapped up its 100th anniversary celebrations. Established in 1911 as a small family business, the company had annual sales of approximately $18 billion in 2010. www.whirlpoolcorp.com/100/default.aspx
PEOPLE Uponor North America recently announced Charlie Harte as its new general manager for Canada. Harte’s responsibilities will include: sales and marketing leadership of the Uponor Canadian business, and making sure sales targets and customer Harte satisfaction levels are met. His most recent position was director of Home Depot field sales, recruiting and newbusiness development with Techtronic Industries Canada Inc. In other Uponor news, Anders Tollsten, head of building solutions for North America and executive committee member, left the company at the end of 2011. Tollsten started with Uponor in 2004 and has been the head of its North American business since 2006. The search for his replacement is ongoing.
Dyer
Barwood
Doug Dyer recently retired from his position as product manager for Wilkins & Zurn PEX Products. He will continue to work on special projects as a product consultant for Zurn. Mark Barwood will now offer product management support for Wilkins & Zurn PEX Products technical inquiries, in addition to his role as business development manager. Zurn also recently appointed Bryon Keats to the position of business development manager for western Canada.
Dummer
Superior Radiant Products Ltd. (SRP) recently promoted Gary Dummer to the position of national sales manager in Canada. Dummer has over 20 years of experience in the infrared heating industry and has worked the past 15 years with SRP, developing its eastern Canada distribution network.
Jay D. Gould has been appointed president and CEO of American Standard by its board of directors. Gould’s previous position was president of the Home & Family Group of Gould Newell Rubbermaid. Gould succeeds Don Dervine, who has left to pursue other interests.
Harrison
David Harrison has joined Roth Industries Inc. as its regional sales manager for Canada. Harrison has worked in various positions with Bardon Supplies Ltd. and the Rideau Group, including plumbing and heating design and sales positions. Yorkland Controls has hired Susan Peter as a product specialist for energy services. Peter will offer customer support in energy analysis software, such as eSight Energy Management and NRGwise.
Peter
Bill Harris was recently appointed director of sales for Wolf Steel Ltd.’s North America, HVAC Division. Keats 76
HPAC | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
hpAcmAg.com
Training
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS CANADA TECA's Quality First Training
CMCEF National Seminar Program
To register for the Thermal Environmental Comfort Association's (TECA) Quality First training courses, call 604-594-5956. www.teca.ca
The Canadian Mechanical Contracting Education Foundation program includes: commissioning, inventory management, estimating and project management. www.cmcef.org
GeoExchange Training
HRAI SkillTech Academy
Developed by the Canadian GeoExchange Coalition (CGC), the three-day training program is intended for those involved with the installation of residential geothermal systems. skilltech@hrai.ca www.hrai.ca
LEED Canada Training
Becoming an HRAI member can save you approximately $150 when registering for a SkillTech Academy training program. Participants in SkillTech Academy residential courses scheduled through March 31, 2012 may now take advantage of a $200 subsidy from Natural Resources Canada (NRCan). The financial assistance is available on a first come, first served basis. www.hrai.ca
Sign up for one of the Canada Green Building Council's (CaGBC) LEED workshops at 613-241-1184. www.cagbc.org
Canadian Hydronics Council Certification
Dollars to $ense Energy Management Workshops Natural Resources Canada's Office of Energy Efficiency is once again offering workshops focusing on improving efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and lowering operation costs. http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca
The Canadian Hydronics Council has issued the 2011/2012 schedule for the Two-Day Introduction to Hydronic Heating Installations Course and an Intermediate Course. http://ultimatecomfort.ca
Advertisers in this issue
THE SOURCE
Adrian Steel.......................... (800) 677-2726.............. www.adriansteel.com................................................. page 74 Airtech Sales........................ (866) 855-5355.............. www.airtechsales.ca.................................................. page 63 Aquatech.............................. (866) 594-0767.............. www.aquatech.ws...................................................... page 53 Brae...................................... (704) 485-8031.............. www.braewater.ca...................................................... page 15 Bryan Steam......................... (765) 473-6651.............. www.bryanboilers.com................................................ page 49 Carrier.................................. (877) 515-0039.............. www.carrier.ca............................................................. page 2 Cash Acme............................ (888) 820-0120.............. www.sharkbite.com.................................................... page 19 CIPH..................................... ..................................... www.ciph.com............................................................ page 66 CMX/CIPHEX........................ ..................................... www.cmxciphexshow.com........................................... page 67 CSA...................................... (877) 571-2260.............. www.knowthecode2012.com...................................... page 11 Delta Faucet......................... (800) 567-3300.............. www.deltafaucet.ca/touchbath...................................... page 5 Flir Systems.......................... (800) 430-6754.............. www.goinfrared.com................................................... page 65 Foremost International........... (888) 256-7551.............. www.contrac.ca.......................................................... page 70 Franklin Electric.................... (260) 824-2900.............. www.franklin-electric.com/lg....................................... page 79 GeoSmart Energy.................. (866) 310-6690.............. www.geosmartenergy.com.................................... page 41, 43 HBX Controls........................ (403) 720-0029.............. www.hbxcontrols.com................................................. page 35 HG Spec................................ (450) 434-3384.............. www.hgspec.com....................................................... page 33 Honeywell Analytics............... (800) 538-0363.............. www.e3point.com...................................................... page 13 Hood Chemical...................... (800) 567-9791.............. www.hoodchemical.com............................................. page 48 HTP...................................... (800) 323-9651.............. www.htproducts.com.................................................. page 59 LAARS Heating Systems........ (800) 900-9276.............. www.laars.com.......................................................... page 52 Lennox PartsPlus.................. (214) 576-3800.............. www.lennoxpartsplus.com............................................ page 6 Liberty Pumps....................... (800) 543-2550.............. www.libertypumps.com............................................... page 69 MEET.................................... (888) 454-7469.............. www.meetshow.ca...................................................... page 75 Mitsubishi Electric................ (905) 475-7728.............. www.mrslim.ca.......................................................... page 39 Navien................................... (800) 519-8794.............. www.navienamerica.com............................................. page 68 Nissan.................................. ..................................... www.ncv.nissan.ca..................................................... page 73 Noble.................................... (800) 529-9805.............. www.noble.ca.............................................................. page 9 NTI....................................... (506) 432-1130.............. www.nythermal.com................................................... page 45 Rogers Small Business.......... (866) 306-2333.............. www.rogers.com/sonim.............................................. page 71 Runtal North America............ (888) 829-4901.............. www.runtalnorthamerica.com...................................... page 48 Selkirk.................................. (800) 263-9308.............. www.selkirkcorp.com................................................... page 3 Taco..................................... (905) 564-9422.............. www.taco-hvac.com.................................................... page 30 Tamas................................... (403) 279-0020.............. www.tamashydronics.com........................................... page 28 tekmar Control Systems........ (250) 545-7749.............. www.tekmarcontrols.com............................................ page 57 Thermo Mfg........................... (888) 678-3709.............. www.ThermoPan.com................................................... page 7 Uponor.................................. (888) 994-7726.............. www.uponorpro.com............................................. page 10, 22 Viega.................................... (800) 976-9819.............. www.viega.com.......................................................... page 29 Viessmann............................ (800) 387-7373.............. www.viessmann.ca/combipluskit................................ page 24 Watts.................................... (888) 208-8927.............. www.wattscanada.ca............................................ page 60, 80 hpacmag.com
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012 | HPAC
77
CALENDAR
FOR THE LATEST EVENT NEWS SEE HPAC'S NEWSLETTER @ HPACMAG.COM National Home Show March 16- 25
CMX-CIPHEX March 22-24
This conference and trade fair on business and the environment will take place at the Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre in Vancouver, BC. http://2012.globeseries.com
The National Home Show, presented by RE/ MAX, is Canada's largest and longest running consumer show. It is held at the Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place in Toronto, ON. www.nationalhomeshow.com
The National Trade Show and Forum will be held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, North Building in Toronto, ON. www.cmxciphexshow.com
MEET May 2-3
CIPH Ontario Region Conference May 25-27
The Mechanical Electrical Electronic Technology Exhibition will be held at the Moncton Coliseum Complex in Moncton, NB. www.masterpromotions.ca/meet-2012
True Blue Sustainability is the theme of the Canadian Institute of Plumbing & Heating Ontario Region Conference at Blue Mountain Resort in Collingwood, ON. www.ciph.com
Cleaner Heat June 12-13
CIPH AGM June 24-27
The Canadian Oil Heat Association will hold its conference at the Fairmont Tremblant Resort in Mont-Tremblant, QC. www.coha.ca
The Canadian Institute of Plumbing & Heating will hold its annual general meeting at the Fairmont Chateau Montebello in Montebello, QC. www.ciph.com
Intersolar North America July 9-12
HRAI Annual Meeting & Conference August 23-25
2012 CHES National Conference September 23-25
More than 22,000 visitors are expected to attend this solar industry exhibition and conference at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, CA. www.intersolar.us
The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) will hold its 44th annual meeting at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront in Halifax, NS. www.hrai.ca
The Canadian Healthcare Engineering Society will hold its education forum at the Palais des Congres in Montreal, QC. www.ches.org
Chillventa October 9-11
SMACNA 69th Annual Convention October 14-17
CIPHEX West November 7-8
The International Trade Fair For Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Heat Pumps includes a congress program on October 8. www.chillventa.de/en/
The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association will hold its convention and product show at Bellagio Hotel, Las Vegas, NV. www.smacna.org
Western Canada's trade show for plumbing, hydronics, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration and water treatment products will be held at the Vancouver Convention Centre (West Building) in Vancouver, BC. www.ciphexwest.ca
2012
GLOBE 2012 March 14-16
NEW DATE Kitchen & Bath Industry Show April 24-26 KBIS 2012 will be held in Chicago, IL, at McCormick Place. www.kbis.com
Canada Green Building Council Summit June 11-13 The Canada Green Building Council’s National Conference & Expo will take place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Its focus is Beyond Buildings: The Green City. www.cagbc.org
HVAC Cold Climate Conference November 12-14
MCA Canada National Conference November 12-15
The 7th International HVAC Cold Climate Conference will be held in Calgary, AB. www.ashrae.org/ColdClimate
The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada is heading to Maui, Hawaii for its 71st annual conference. www.mcac.ca
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HPAC | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
Greenbuild November 14-16
Construct Canada November 28-30
Greenbuild International Conference & Expo will be held in San Francisco, CA. www.greenbuildexpo.org
Construct Canada – Canada’s largest building and design construction show – will take place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. www.constructcanada.com
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