SELLING SERVICE
ENCOURAGING RESIDENTIAL MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS
OUTDOOR RESET REVIEW
HEAT PUMPS ARE NO JOKE
MCEE RETURNS TO MONTREAL 6 QUICK BUSINESS TIPS HYDRONICS: ELEGANCE IN SIMPLICITY MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM Follow Us On @hpacmag
Safe For All Systems
(Including Aluminum and Solar)
Premier Inhibitors
Higher Temperature Rated Phosphate and Nitrate Free Low Viscosity
For more benefits ask your local wholesaler or visit chemfax.com
All Glycols
Created Equal
Not
Are
CHEM-FROST
HEAT TRANSFER FLUID - INHIBITED PROPYLENE GLYCOL COMPARISON CHART
Chem Frost 100% Brand RBrand OBrand HBrand UBrand D Pail Size 20L18.9L18.9L20L20L18.9L PG Concentrate Amount 95/592/8N/A94/695/595/5 Aluminum Safe YES LIMITED TO 65C NONONONO Solar Safe YES NO SOME LIMITED NONONO Geothermal Safe YES LIMITED N/AN/AN/AN/A Temperature Rating 325F275F250F250F250F220F Viscosity @ 50% 100F 5.5cP8.5cP10cP10cP10cP10cP Boiling Point @ 100% 417F370F370F370F370F370F CFIA Approved YESYES NONO YES NO Raw PG Grade FOOD INDUSTRIAL GRADE INDUSTRIAL GRADE INDUSTRIAL GRADE INDUSTRIAL GRADE INDUSTRIAL GRADE Purity of Propylene Glycol 99.94%+ N/A98%N/AN/AN/A Phosphate / Nitrate NONE YESYESYESYESYES Inhibitor Type PDT NON-TOXIC DIPOTASSIUM PHOSPHATE DIPOTASSIUM PHOSPHATE DIPOTASSIUM PHOSPHATE DIPOTASSIUM PHOSPHATE DIPOTASSIUM PHOSPHATE LEED YES NONONONONO Based on information provided on respective manufacturers’ websites* **Subject to change**
CONTENTS
40
FEATURES
22
SHOW REVIEW
SOUTHERN CHARM
This year’s AHR Expo in Atlanta attracted an engaged and growing HVAC/R industry crowd.
By HPAC Staff
26 COVER STORY
HVAC
SELLING SERVICE: IT’S WHAT WE DO!
We know the importance of regular maintenance, and it’s time we make homeowners aware of it too.
By Ian McTeer
34
DUCT-FREE ZONE
IS THE HEAT PUMP A JOKE?
Customer education is still required for the uninformed.
By Gerry Wagner
40
SHOW PREVIEW
A MOST ANTICIPATED RETURN
After being postponed in 2021, MCEE makes a comeback and will be hosted at the Montreal Convention Centre downtown at the north end of Old Montreal.
By Luc Boily
4 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM
CATLANE/GETTY IMAGES 26
PHOTO
CONTINUED ON P8
22
MARCH 2023 / VOL. 97 NO. 2
Contractors should stress the need for annual service when selling new or fixing older equipment.
For nearly 150 years, A. O. Smith has focused on innovation and efficiency and continues to set the industry standard for performance and quality of water heaters and storage tanks. Our vast offering of commercial and residential water heaters include storage and tankless options, as well as electric, gas, and oil-fired models; our residential products include the respected John Wood brand of water heaters.
As an industry leader, A. O. Smith recognizes the role of electrification in meeting net-zero targets and offers a broad range of commercial and residential electric water heating solutions, including our highly efficient, energy-saving heat pump products. To our partners, we provide best-in-class product training and support including online education, product selection and service tools, and warranty assistance.
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 5 Are you prepared for Net Zero? Explore our residential electric water heating product selection. The Future is Electric johnwoodwaterheaters.com ProLine® and ProLine® Master Models and configurations available to suit any residential application. Visit us at MCEE – Booth 709! HPAC_AOSmith_March23.indd 1 2023-03-03 9:42 AM
BY
2023
PRESENTED
Spring
hotwatercanada.ca A. O. SMITH AO_Smith_ShowAndTell_Mar23.indd 1 2023-03-15 11:17 AM
GENERAL PIPE
Flexi-Rooter® 100 From General Pipe Cleaners
The Next Generation Flexible-Shaft Drain Cleaner!
General Pipe Cleaners has rethought high-speed, flexible shaft drain cleaners with the Flexi-Rooter® 100 – the next generation flexible shaft machine!
Rugged and reliable, Flexi-Rooter 100 offers:
• A stronger flexible shaft with the strength to cut through roots in 4” lines yet flexible enough to negotiate 2” lines.
• Integral variable speed motor with foot pedal to allow you to use both hands to safely guide the flexible shaft into the line.
• Two-part cleaning array combines unique ClogChopper® cutters with carbide chain cutters for a formidable combination.
Flexible shaft technology is faster and more thorough than conventional cable drain cleaners. The shaft spins more than 10 times faster than drum machines. At speeds up to 2200 rpm, cutters quickly grind up stoppages and scour pipe walls clean. The shaft is safely protected inside a sheath, so it’s easy to handle – no spinning drums.
Flexi-Rooter 100’s stronger, stiffer shaft is flexible enough to navigate 2” pipes – yet strong enough to cut roots in 4” drain lines up to 75 feet long. And the integral, variable-speed motor easily lets you adjust shaft speed from zero to 2200 rpm.
General’s foot pedal control further frees both hands to guide the shaft into the line. Operators can also simultaneously use Flexi-Rooter with a sewer camera system to pinpoint pipe trouble areas – and instantly inspect results.
Flexi-Rooter 100’s two-part cleaning array features General’s unique ClogChopper® cutters combined with carbide chain cutters for a formidable combination.
Revolutionary ClogChopper cutters rip through tough clogs with six self-sharpening blades that dig into encrusted debris and root masses, easily grinding up stoppages, scale, and crystallized urine. The spherical design maneuvers around tight bends and traps.
Flexi-Rooter 100’s durable metal frame includes 10” wheels and folding handle to facilitate transport to and from jobs. A safety slip clutch helps protect the flexible shaft. And if you ever do get into trouble, the shaft is field-repairable!
For additional information, contact the Drain Brains® at General Pipe Cleaners at 800-245-6200, or visit www.drainbrain.com/flexi-rooter
BY Spring 2023 See us at MCEE | Booth #1201
PRESENTED
THE NEXT GENERATION FLEXIBLE SHAFT MACHINE
General has rethought high-speed, exible shaft machines. The stronger, stiffer shaft lets you clean a wider range of drain lines, up to 75 feet long. It’s exible enough to negotiate 2" lines yet tough enough to clear roots in 4" lines.
General’s unique ClogChopper ® cutter in combination with the carbide tipped chain cutter makes a formidable combination, capable of clearing the toughest stoppage.
The built-in variable speed motor with foot pedal control makes the machine easier to operate. And the shaft is eld repairable. It’s everything a exible shaft machine should be.
To learn more, visit www.drainbrain.com/Flexi-Rooter, or call the Drain Brains ® at 800-245-6200
Visit us at MCEE Booth #1201
© 2023 General Wire Spring MADE IN U.S.A.
Flexi-Rooter ®
with Clog Chopper
CONTENTS
48 HYDRONICS
KEEPING IT SIMPLE
Hydronic systems don’t have to be complex to be sophisticated.
By John Siegenthaler
56 CONTROLS THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Breaking down the concepts behind outdoor reset.
By Curtis Bennett
64 PLUMBING DESIGN TRENDS
Kitchen and bathroom designs reflecting more personal style, plus winning products from this year’s KBIS Show.
HPAC Staff
76 REFRIGERATION
TURN DOWN THE VOLUME
Combatting excessive noise levels in HVAC and refrigeration systems –likely sources and fixes.
By Dave Demma
84
HVAC/R IMPROVING WORKFLOW AND INCREASING PROFITABILITY
Press fittings are gaining ground in HVAC/R projects as more contractors get on board and embrace the benefits.
By Paul Schubert
90 MANAGEMENT
6 QUICK BUSINESS WINS
Simple tips to keep your contracting business on track.
By Mathew Pottins
64 76
8 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM DEPARTMENTS 12 UPFRONT 14 NEWS FEATURE
Hughes was honoured with the Carlson-Holohan Industry Award of Excellence. 15 INDUSTRY NEWS 38 HVAC PRODUCTS 60 MECHANICAL SUPPLY NEWS 61 PEOPLE 73 PLUMBING PRODUCTS 93 THE SOURCE 94 CALENDAR
Dave
48
MARCH 2023 / VOL. 97 NO. 2
PRESENTED BY
PERFECT FOR COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS!
COMMERCIAL ELECTRIC WATER HEATER
Flexible Models 105 |108 | 112
Offered in 41, 61 or 99 imp. Gallon capacities (184, 279 or 451 Litres)
Field convertible
Convertible voltage (208V, 240V, 480V and 600V), phase (3 to 1) and wattage input ranging from 3kw to 54kw on all models and up to 63kW on 112 models. Allows multiple electric configurations for your hot water needs.
Two (2) high quality magnesium anodes
Oversized on 112 models, they provide excellent protection against the corrosive effects of water and extend the tank life.
Easy service access to components
Designed with a single panel junction box for a fast electrical supply. Equipped with a hinged door and a removable element panel. Allow access to all the electrical components.
For more information visit our website www.giantinc.com or contact your local representative!
www.giantinc.com
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 9 HPAC_Giant_March23.indd 1 2023-03-06 10:45 AM Spring 2023
GIANT
Giant_ShowAndTell_Mar23.indd 1 2023-03-13 1:56 PM
The 0015e3® ECM circulator: Three settings. One reputation.
The Taco 0015e3® ECM High-Efficiency Circulator is a variable speed, high-efficiency wet rotor circulator with an ECM permanent magnet motor. It’s ideal for hydronic systems zoned with circulators or zone valves or used on potable water systems for domestic water recirculation. With 3 easy settings, the 0015e3® ECM High-Efficiency Circulator delivers performance, reliability and ease of installation that made the 00® famous. Install it, forget it!®
• 18’ Shut-off head, 16 gpm max flow
• Replaces all 3-speed hydronic circulators in its class
• High-efficiency ECM motor uses up to 85% less electricity
• SureStart® automatic unblocking and air purging mode
• BIO Barrier® protects pump from system contaminants (Cast Iron only)
• Green Mode active system monitoring and automatic power optimization
• Nut-grabber feature on flanges for easier fit-up
• Dual electrical knockouts, 6” stranded wire leads included for easy wiring
• Integral Flow Check (IFC®) included
• Double insulated — No ground wire required
• Whisper quiet operation
• Cast Iron models available with standard or universal flange
• Stainless Steel models available with universal flange or 1” union connection
Zone Control Family. The Market Leader.
Work with 2-, 3- or 4-Wire Zone Valves. We’ve enhanced our complete line of Zone Valve Controls with the features and styling you’ve been asking for. Whether you’re looking for switching relays, zone valve controls, priority zoning circulators, or fan controls, Taco has everything you need. Together with Taco Zone Valve Controls, thermostats, the “00” family of circulators, and a host of add-on controls, we offer the highest quality and broadest selection of zoning products.
Simplify the wiring nightmare! Taco Zone Valve Controls easy-to follow PC board layout eliminates the problems caused by incorrect wiring, while the external indicator lights provide instant diagnostic feedback. Combined with Taco Zone Valves and Thermostats, the system’s performance and dependability is maximized.
www.tacocomfortsolutions.com
PRESENTED BY Spring 2023 TACO COMFORT SOLUTIONS
Air-to-Water Heat Pump System
Taco’s System M is a complete packaged air-to-water heat pump system for residential heating, cooling, and domestic hot water. Available this summer, the pre-assembled indoor and outdoor units simplifies installation. This radically innovative system, designed for a low carbon society, is solar PV and smart grid ready, has a sleek user interface with smart phone app control, and provides up to 44,000 BTUh and 3 1/2 tons of cooling.
For more information visit: www.TacoComfortSolutions.com
TACO CANADA LTD. 8450 Lawson Road, Milton, ON L9T 0J8 Tel. 905-564-9422 Fax. 905-564-9436 www.tacocomfortsolutions.com System
M
Introducing
Taco’s
DRIVING CHANGE
IT WAS ONLY THREE YEARS AGO WHEN EVERYTHING CHANGED AND THERE WAS A LOT OF UNCERTAINTY IN THE AIR. When the World Health Organization first declared COVID-19 as a pandemic in March 2020, decisions were made swiftly around the world, and soon every country, every business, every household and every person began acting differently.
Mask wearing became mandatory for most activities, and for those in the plumbing and HVAC/R industry business practices were altered. Loads of hand sanitizer were ordered, trips to wholesalers moved to click and collect, and new protocols were put in place on job sites.
Now, three years later, in some ways it seems like it never happened. Most of us have returned to our old familiar ways. Time marches on and people move on as well. It's interesting that the threat of climate change has never led to such wide-spread change in people's behaviour (those affected by forest fires and floods may disagree), but rising temperatures globally does pose a potential threat to every nation, every business, every household and every person.
Yes, Canada’s Energy Efficiency Act has forced changes to heating and cooling technology, and yes building codes are enforcing more energy standards. But people still have options, and for most people cost outweighs the desire to stop burning fossil fuels to heat their homes and buildings. The same could be said for cars and trucks, but it does feel as though the tide is beginning to change in both areas.
On February 21, the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) hosted its first HVAC/R Perspectives on Climate Change event in Toronto (a second was held in Vancouver on March 7). I can confirm that the topic drew the largest crowd I’ve ever seen for a Tuesday night HRAI event in the GTA. There were two panel discussions, one with governments and regulatory bodies, and another with contractors and manufacturers.
Local governments have set their net zero carbon goals, but they all acknowledge they need to get more citizens on board. And a representative from the Ontario electricity system operator made it clear that achieving emissionsfree electricity generation goals will be extremely costly. And although the federal Greener Homes Incentive programs initiated by NRCan are attracting homeowners, it’s only making a dent.
From one contractor on the panel, his question is, “How do we encourage property owners looking to replace an air conditioner to consider a heat pump?” He admits that he has more questions than answers when it comes to getting to net zero carbon emissions in the older, leaky homes. But, he does believe that, “A little bit of heat pump technology is better than none.”
Like the car industry, it appears we’re at an early stage in HVAC conversion away from gas, where hybrid solutions will be adopted first, and going all electric is still for the early adopters. But I do know that I’m seeing a lot more allelectric cars on the road every day, and that leads me to believe the move the all-electric heating could follow.
– Doug Picklyk, Editor
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Heating Plumbing Air Conditioning (established 1925) is published 7 times per year by Annex Publishing & Printing Inc. HPAC Magazine is the leading Canadian business publication for the owner/manager of mechanical contracting businesses and their supply partners.
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NOTICE: HPAC Magazine, Annex Publishing & Printing Inc., 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.
Proud member of: www.hpacmag.com
12 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM < UPFRONT
A consistent top performer for the Little Giant brand, the iconic 6-Series sump pumps are designed for continuous duty usage in various residential and light industrial environments including basements, crawl spaces, transformer vaults, loading docks, or elevator pits. The 6-Series takes on the challenge of dewatering and water transfer with force. This pump is ideal for shallow, small basin applications and produces 46 GPM at 5-feet of head while reaching a maximum shut-off of 18-feet.
Features & Benefits
• 1/3 horsepower motor
• 3/4" GHT garden hose adapter included with select models
• Fits and operates in a 5-gallon bucket
www.littlegiant.com
Among Contractors. Rated Easiest to install
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 13
6-CIA 6-EC
Spring means rain, snow melt and excess water.
Little Giant Sump Pumps
are ready to tackle it all — providing reliable and efficient performance that you and your customers can count on, drop after drop.
5.5-ASPA
2022 Little Giant Brand Research Study littlegiant.com HPAC_Franklin_March23.indd 1 2023-03-02 1:35 PM
PRESENTED BY Spring 2023
LITTLE GIANT LittleGiant_ShowAndTell_Mar23.indd 1 2023-03-08 10:25 AM
DAVE HUGHES RECEIVES CARLSON-HOLOHAN INDUSTRY AWARD
Congratulations to Dave Hughes, technical adviser with the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIPH) and past chair of the Canadian Hydronics Council (CHC), who was honoured with the Carlson-Holohan Industry Award of Excellence on Feb. 6 during the AHR Expo in Atlanta.
A top honour in the field of hydronics in North America, the Carlson-Holohan award is presented once every two years (last year was an exception) to an individual in Canada or the U.S. who has demonstrated a passion for hydronic technologies manifested through education, marketing and philanthropy.
The award was founded in 2006 by Dan Holohan and Robert Bean, and the winner is selected by the inductees and is presented with a replica of a Bell & Gossett System Syzer wheel which was invented by Gil Carlson.
The unique circular slide rule calculates the relationship between flow rate, temperature change and heat transfer rate.
Hughes is the ninth recipient of the award.
To learn more about the award visit healthyheating.com
FEDS INTRODUCE OFFSET CREDITS FOR COMMERCIAL/ INDUSTRIAL REFRIGERATION AND A/C SYSTEM UPGRADES
The Federal Government has introduced a new protocol, Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Refrigeration Systems, to encourage businesses to upgrade their refrigeration and air-conditioning systems to ones that use refrigerants with lower global warming potentials (GWPs) by rewarding them
with offset credits they can sell to generate revenue.
Commercial and industrial facilities suitable to participate include: ice rinks, office buildings, retail grocery stores, shopping centres, food processing plants, industrial parks and cold storage warehouses.
When one of these businesses upgrades or replaces their refrigeration or air-conditioning system, they may be eligible to earn a credit.
Each credit represents one tonne of emissions and is tradeable to facilities regulated under the federal pollution pricing system for industrial emitters to help these facilities with compliance costs and maintain business competitiveness.
Credits can also be sold to others who will use them to meet voluntary emission reduction targets or net-zero commitments.
“You need ice to play Canada’s national sport, giving hockey a direct connection to tackling climate change. Indoor hockey rinks can help the environment by using more climate-friendly refrigerants to keep their ice frozen. The new Greenhouse Gas Offset System for refrigerants encourages all sorts of companies to upgrade their refrigeration and air-conditioning systems to ones that are better for the environment, while rewarding them with a tradeable credit in the process,” said Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, in a media release.
Canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change
THE SCHULICH FOUNDATION LAUNCHES SKILLED TRADE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM IN CANADA
The Schulich Foundation has introduced Schulich Builders, a scholarship program dedicated to students pursuing a career in the skilled trades. In its first year of operation, more than $3 million is committed to combat labour shortages and highlight the importance of skilled trades in Canada.
We are proud to promote the skilled trades and support students pursuing this rewarding career path,” says Judy Schulich, director, The Schulich Foundation. “Canadians rely heavily on the trades to build and maintain infrastructure critical for prosperous communities. Our challenge today is not having enough of these talented people to meet the demand.”
Schulich Builders will cover tuition, tools and living expenses for students enrolling in a skilled trade program at one of 10 participating colleges in Ontario. Priority will be given to students nominated by their high school.
• Each college will award 10 scholarships per year:
• Five $20,000 scholarships for one-year certificate programs, and
• Five $40,000 scholarships for two-year diploma programs.
14 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM INDUSTRY NEWS SEE THE LATEST NEWS @ HPACMAG.COM
David Hughes accepts Award among founders and past winners (year in brackets): (l-r) Robert Bean (founder), John Goshulak (2016), John Barba (2012), Ingrid Mattsson (2018), Bob Rohr (2020), Dave Hughes (2023), Dave Yates (2006), John Siegenthaler (2014) and Dan Holohan (founder).
In addition to financial support, Schulich Builders also provides leadership training and mentorship to set up graduates for success. schulichbuilders.com.
IAPMO PUBLISHES CHILDREN’S COLORING BOOK
The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) has launched a new children’s coloring book, “My Mom Is a Plumbing Superhero”, the first children’s book focused exclusively on women plumbers, lifting up their contributions to public health while aiming to shift perceptions of plumbing careers.
IAPMO partnered with real-life plumber Judaline Cassidy, a member of Plumbers Local Union No. 1 NYC, founder of Tools & Tiaras, and one of CNN’s “Champions for Change.” Inspired and guided by
Cassidy’s 25-year career, the book brings to life what it’s really like to be a plumber building a modern hygiene infrastructure.
The book illustrates how plumbers work on advanced water technologies to mitigate the effects of drought and natural disasters. The helpful nature of plumbers comes to life with illustrations depicting the work of service plumbers. The book also portrays women installing and maintaining medical gas systems.
“People need to know that plumbing is not just clogged toilets,” Cassidy said. “Clean water, steam heat, beautiful fixtures, gas lines–the pipes and systems that rely on my craft are in homes and buildings everywhere. My work is not only essential to daily life. My work saves lives.”
Only 2.1% of plumbers are women in the U.S., according to 2021 data from
the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Cassidy founded the nonprofit Tools & Tiaras as part of her mission to show girls and women that Jobs Don’t Have Genders. A native of Trinidad and Tobago, Cassidy has broken barriers over the last 25 years advocating for equity for women in the trades.
“Awareness is key,” Cassidy said. “If young women and girls don’t know what plumbers actually do or how lucrative and rewarding a career in plumbing is, how can we expect them to consider, much less pursue, this path? It’s exciting for me to collaborate with IAPMO on such a fun project that will not only change what people think about plumbing but will show them that plumbers come in all genders and statures.”
The 32-page book is available as a free PDF download. uniformcodes.org/ construction-books-for-kids
Continued on p18
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 15
HPAC_CISC_March23.indd 1 2023-02-15 2:24 PM
NAVIEN Navien NCB-H Condensing Combi-boilers
Navien’s NCB-H condensing combi-boiler series is filled with innovation and technological advancements that take combi performance to the highest levels. Available in 5 models (NCB190/060H, NCB-190/080H, NCB-240/110H, NCB-240/130H and NCB-250/150H) the NCB-H series offers industry leading features like:
• Highest DHW maximum BTUs in residential combi-boilers... up to 210,000 per hour
• Highest DHW flow rate @ 70°F rise...up to 5.4 GPM
• Highest number of BTU sizes for the North American residential combi-boiler market
• Highest residential combi DHW TDR...15:1
• Highest residential combi space heating TDR...up to 11:1
• Highest number of built-in zone controls for valves or pumps... up to three each
• Highest full lineup 2” venting lengths...up to 65 feet and 3” up to 150 feet
• Highest number of cascade capable units with NPE tankless water heaters...up to 15
• Lowest minimum fire BTU for residential combi-boilers...as low as 10,700
The NCB-H uses durable dual stainless steel heat exchangers for heating and a separate flat plate stainless steel heat exchanger for DHW that are backed with a strong residential warranty of 10 years. Other features on the NCB-H include advanced controls with intuitive display, built-in advanced DHW recirculation controls, 3” venting up to 150’, common venting capability with up to 7 NPE tankless water heaters, field gas convertibility to NG high altitude (5,400 ft. to 10,100 ft.) or LP (up to 10,000 ft.) and a DHW module with mixing valve and flow adjustment valve.
NCB-H advanced controls allow the combi-boilers to work with
popular Navien accessories like HotButton™ DHW activation and NaviCirc™ recirculation valve for easy recirculation without a dedicated recirc line. The combiboiler primary manifold kit accessory adds to the ease-ofinstallation for the NCB-H and includes the stainless-steel manifold, isolation valves with gaskets, PRV/air vent/LWCO adapter tree, air vent, threaded connection adapter with clip and LWCO plug. Other optional Navien accessories to enhance the installation and user experience include NaviLink™ Wi-Fi remote control system, Ready-Link™ Rack, NaviClean™ magnetic filtration system and PeakFlow™ anti-scale system.
PRESENTED BY Spring 2023
To learn more about NCB-H, visit Navieninc.com. See us at MCEE | Booth #1715
Tear out that wasteful tank and boiler mess...
Navien NCB-H combi-boilers
Unmatched heating and DHW performance, all in one compact unit
• Heating up to 150,000 BTU/h and DHW up to 210,000 BTU/h
• Up to 80% smaller than floor standing boiler and tank water heater
• Optimized DHW priority with mixing valve and water adjustment valve to provide consistent DHW temperatures and industry leading flow rates
• Dual stainless steel heat exchangers for heating and separate SS heat exchanger for DHW
• Built-in controls for 3 zone pumps or 3 zone valves
• Heating TDR up to 11:1 and DHW TDR is 15:1
To learn more about the best-selling combi-boilers in North America, visit navieninc.com.
THE LEADER IN CONDENSING TECHNOLOGY
...and hang up the breakthrough in high capacity combis
NEW DEEP RETROFIT ACCELERATOR INITIATIVE ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
Natural Resources Canada has launched a new initiative to accelerate deep retrofits in buildings. The $185.5-million Deep Retrofit Accelerator Initiative (DRAI) will offer non-repayable contributions to projects that build capacity for and facilitate the development of deep retrofits in commercial, institutional, or mid- or high-rise multi-unit residential buildings in Canada.
Selected projects will establish and/or aggregate deep retrofit projects, guide individual building owners in the process of developing and implementing specific retrofit projects, identify available funding and financing for specific deep retrofit projects, and conduct capacity building activities, such as developing or implementing novel, standardized, or replicable approaches to deep retrofits.
Eligible applicants include Canadian organizations (for- and non-profit), all levels of government, and Indigenous organizations and groups. The total available funding will reimburse recipients up to:
• 100% of total eligible expenditures for provincial, territorial, regional and municipal governments and their departments and agencies where applicable; Indigenous governments or organizations (e.g. band councils, land claim organizations); and not-for-profit organizations, including and public health, educational and cultural organizations.
• 75% of total eligible expenditures for for-profit organizations (organizations are not to make profit from federal funding).
The first deadline to submit an application is April 28, 2023. nrcan.gc.ca. ashrae.org.
ONLINE TRAINING COURSES AVAILABLE FOR NEW NATIONAL ENERGY CODE FOR BUILDINGS
Free self-directed online courses on the 2020 National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB 2020) are now available through the CSA Group’s website.
Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) worked with the CSA Group to develop these online materials.
If you work in the commercial or institutional buildings sector these courses will help you learn about the new NECB 2020 tiered structure, and more.
Those interested can register through the CSA Group’s website for free access:
• NECB 2020 – Navigating and Applying the Code, is a 30-minute course outlining how the NECB is structured and provides an overview of the flow of the building code document.
• NECB 2020 – Contractors, as a four-hour course tailored for
NEW DATA SHOWS CANADA ADDED 1.8 GW OF WIND AND SOLAR IN 2022
The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) has announced the industry’s year-end data, reporting that Canada’s wind and solar energy sectors grew significantly in 2022.
“I am happy to see that, across Canada, the sector grew by an impressive 10.5% this year,” says Phil McKay, CanREA’s senior director, technical and utility affairs. “Canada now has an installed capacity of more than 19 GW of utility-scale wind and solar energy, having added more than 1.8 GW of new generation capacity in 2022.”
Of note: Solar is growing particularly quickly—more than one quarter of all the installed capacity in Canada was added this year alone.
Western Canada accounted for 98% of Canada’s total growth in 2022, with Alberta adding 1,391 MW and Saskatchewan adding 387 MW of installed capacity this year. Quebec contributed 24 MW to the total growth for 2022, Ontario 10 MW, and Nova Scotia 2 MW.
While this year’s growth of 1.8 GW was significantly larger than last year (less than 1 GW in 2021), it does not meet the growth rate called for in CanREA’s 2050 Vision, Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero, which states that Canada needs to deploy more than 5 GW of new wind and solar energy every year to meet its commitment to net-zero GHG emissions by 2050.
CanREA’s data team is tracking more than 2 GW of projects that are currently under construction across Canada, plus another 6 GW of projects in advanced stages of development, for a total forecast of more than 5 GW of wind, 2 GW of major solar and 1 GW of energy storage expected in the next few years.
renewablesassociation.ca
contractors and installers. This course helps to simplify selected requirements of the NECB 2020 in Division B, Parts 3-10. It details systems, components and equipment for energy performance efficiency. It also clarifies the prescriptive path, trade-off path, performance path and tiered building performance compliance.
18 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM <
INDUSTRY NEWS
CREDIT:
STOCK
Continued from p15
HRUI/ADOBE
• NECB 2020 – Designers, also a fourhour course, this one targets designers, modellers, engineers, and architects. Focused on specific requirements of the NECB 2020 in Division B, Parts 3-10, it details systems, components and equipment for energy performance efficiency. The course also provides recommendations and tips from design experts in the buildings and energy efficiency sectors. The training materials complement the NECB 2020, which is available in print and free electronic formats through the NRC Virtual Store. nrc.canada.ca
CANADIANS AMONG 2023 ASHRAE WINTER AWARD WINNERS
During the recent 2023 ASHRAE Winter Conference members were recognized for their outstanding achievements and contributions to the organization and the HVAC/R industry, including the following Canadians.
An Award of Engineering Excellence was presented to Lianne Cockerton, ing., and Martin Roy, ing., of Martin Roy et Associés for taking first place based on their work in the new institutional buildings category for a building owned by Association Unie Local 144 in Pointaux-Trembles, Quebec.
And ASHRAE’s Technology Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements by ASHRAE members who have successfully applied innovative building designs, were awarded to Adrianne Mitani, P.Eng., of Smith + Anderson, in the residential facilities category, for the 70 Gloucester project, owned by Claridge Homes, in Ottawa; and to Simon Kattoura, P.Eng., of Kolostat, in the existing industrial facilities or processes category for the Hood Packaging Corp. building in Montreal. ashrae.org
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 19 HPAC_AdrianSteel_March23.indd 1 2023-03-08 10:30 AM +1 800 WORLDLAB (967 5352) icenter@intertek.com Intertek.com/HVACR FOR MORE INFORMATION HPAC_Intertek_March23.indd 1 2023-03-14 3:28 PM
Think Bard
You have seen Bard units everywhere, but you may not know that you have. Bard units cool and heat critical “must run” applications across Canada. In fact, most cell towers you have driven by across Canada have a Bard unit cooling the critical electronics housed in the E-house below. Typical Bard applications span far beyond the Telecom market into conditioning School Portables, containerized indoor Growing, Energy Storage, Modular sites, construction trailers, in fact any application that benefits from an exterior mounted vertical packaged HVAC system would be a potential candidate for Bard.
With capacities ranging from 1 ton to 15 tons and factory installed ventilation options such as Economizers, Energy Recovery Ventilators, Fresh air Dampers Bard units can meet the needs of many applications that traditionally would have been served by a Packaged Roof Top unit. Not only is Bard an option that should be looked at for many traditional RTU applications, it has some real advantages; Bard units take up no internal space, can be ducted or allowed to free blow, mounted vertically on a wall they require no engineering of the roof structure for mounting, replacing a larger tonnage RTU(s) with multiple Bard units creates inherent zoning and redundancy.
Bard units are available in single or two stage Air Conditioning or Heat Pump models with a soon to be available Variable speed inverter Heat Pump model this spring. They can be controlled with a standard 24volt thermostat, Multi-unit lead lag and PLC based controllers to meet the needs of local control and remote monitoring. Bard also offers factory installed electric heat up to 20 KW or gas heat options up to 125,000 BTUH, dehumidification options, filtration options up to MERV 13, cabinet color choices, corrosion resistant coil and cabinet coatings, low ambient control option.
Next time you are laying out your specification or design build project Think Bard.
GLP Canada distributes Bard across Canada, with Eastern and Western Canadian location we are here to assist with selection, replacement parts, technical and warranty support for both new projects and replacement of existing units.
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Reach out to learn more! Applications • Telecom & E-Houses • School Portables • Indoor Growing • Energy Storage • Construction Trailers • Modular Sites • Commercial & Industrial Buildings Features • 1 ton to 15 ton Capacities • Factory Installed Electric Heat up to 20 KW • Gas Heat Options up to 125,000 BTUH • Ventilation Options • Dehumidification Options • Filtration Options up to MERV 13. OAKVILLE 2425 Wyecroft Road, Unit #3 Oakville, Ontario L6L 6R5 T: 905-845-7558 CALGARY 15-7503 35th St. S.E. Calgary, Alberta T2C 1V3 T: 403-243-2792 GLPCANADA.COM Think Bard
SOUTHERN CHARM
This year’s AHR Expo in Atlanta attracted an engaged and growing HVAC/R industry crowd.
BY HPAC STAFF
The 2023 AHR Expo, held this year at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, hosted 42,794 attendees in total including 1,779 total exhibitors on the show floor, which covered over 486,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space.
While still not reaching pre-Covid attendance levels, the show attracted more than last year’s event in Las Vegas that registered just over 30,670 attendees, and the show company has indicated that the strong showing from new audiences is a sign of growth and a hopeful indicator for future workforce development.
On the show floor the most common new products were in the heat pump category, with the technology finding its way into more residential air-to-water products for central heating, cooling and domestic hot water (DHW), along with more air-to-air units being introduced and a greater selection of heat pump water heaters for both residential
Siegenthaler Receives Award
Hydronics expert and regular contributor to HPAC magazine, John Siegenthaler, was presented a Legacy of Excellence Award from Caleffi during AHR Expo. The award recognized Siegenthaler’s writing contributions to the company’s idronics educational program, the company’s semi-annual and complimentary design journal. Siegenthaler authored the first edition of idronics in 2007, and the 32nd edition was launched at the show. To date they have distributed nearly a half million copies of the series (idronics.caleffi.com).
“I am very touched by the generosity and kindness extended by all of you over the years,” said Siegenthaler during the ceremony. Caleffi presented the award at their booth.
and commercial applications.
The flurry of heat pump activity played into the theme of decarbonization which was a topic of discussion at a number of the educational sessions being offered during the show.
This year the organizers developed a series of panel discussions covering hot topics across the industry. The second day of the show featured a discussion among industry advocates of decarbonization, Decarbonization and the Future of HVAC, with panel members repre -
senting a large construction firm, a major property developer, a consulting engineering firm and a member of the U.S. federal government’s HighPerformance Green Buildings office. This talk addressed topics of electrical grid capacity, the growth of renewable energy sources and the need for more energy storage solutions.
The importance of ASHRAE’s decarbonization task force was also mentioned, along with the idea that solving these issues will position the industry to
22 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM
< SHOW REVIEW Attendance was up from last year.
become leaders in the world when it comes to finding and implementing solutions for building decarbonization that can and will be implemented around the world.
As always, the AHR Expo runs in parallel to the annual ASHRAE Winter Conference. This year the heating and refrigeration society placed a strong focus on building decarbonization strategies over its five-day conference.
ASHRAE executive vice president Jeff Littleton reported on the society’s current initiatives, including the recent release of new building decarbonization resources.
“There is a growing demand for ASHRAE’s technical guidance,” said Littleton. “The ASHRAE Task Force for Building Decarbonization has been working tirelessly on a wide spectrum of decarb resources. We launched ASHRAE’s new decarbonization online resource hub (ashrae.org/decarb) that will feature a wide spectrum of decarb tools and guidance. You can now download the new, free publication Building Performance Standards: A Technical Resource Guide produced in partnership with the Department of Energy and Pacific Northwest National Labs. We are building upon our 129-year legacy in today’s perfect storm of demand, to make buildings better.”
Opening the ASHRAE conference, 2022-23 ASHRAE president Farooq Mehboob’s address provided updates related to the society’s current theme, Securing Our Future. “The challenge doesn’t stop here,” Mehboob said. “As an industry, we must remain focused and maintain our position of leadership and preparedness. Our success continues to be based on problem solving, creativity, innovation, flexibility and a willingness to adapt. Our success stems from seeing an opportunity for improvement based on new knowledge and technology.”
As part of the AHR Expo educational series, Mehboob also participated in the second annual HVAC/R State of the Industry Leadership Panel Discussion: Today’s Market, Challenges, Opportunities and What’s Ahead. The panel also included return visits from industry association leaders including Stephen
Yurek, president/CEO of Air Conditioning Heating Refrigeration Institute (AHRI); Talbot Gee, CEO of Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration Distributors (HARDI); Dominick Guarino, CEO of National Comfort Institute (NCI) as well as Chuck White, VP with the Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors (PHCC) national association.
Moderated by Bryan Orr, host of the HVAC School podcast, the panel discussed gaps in the industry that need to be addressed in order to maintain progress. The group highlighted what is working, areas for improvement around educating the industry on refrigerant phase downs, and what lies ahead around supply chain issues and distribution.
This year, AHR Expo expanded its education programming to the third day, and it also added a panel discussion featuring social media influencers of the industry. The session, HVAC & Social Media: Strengthening the Trade with a Community Mindset, was hosted by some of the industry’s most active content creators and trade mentors including Jessica Bannister (@hvacjess) from British Columbia and Aaron Bond (@bond_aaron) from the Greater Toronto Area.
This group discussed how social media is opening up new lines of communication and how this growing online community is inspiring and pushing the industry to share ideas and work together to better the HVAC/R trade as a whole. Links to view the AHR Expo panel sessions in their entirety will be made available on ahrexpo.com later this year.
The three-day event also hosted 17 industry podcasters in the show’s Podcast Pavilion where social media personalities spoke with HVAC/R industry leaders and discussed trending topics in front of a live audience. This year full session recordings will be made available on the show’s website (ahrexpo. com) once the content is released by the hosting podcasters.
With momentum growing, AHR is already planning for the next show which will take place January 22-24, 2024 in Chicago. Registration will open in the summer. For more information, visit ahrexpo.com. <>
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 23 ALL
AHR EXPO
PHOTOS:
Educational sessions are always a draw at AHR Expo. The Podcast Pavilion hosted 17 industry podcasters, and full session recordings will be made available via the show’s website (ahrexpo.com).
ROSENBERG FANS CANADA
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Air curtains, whether industrial or decorative, can provide a range of benefits to businesses. Here are some of the key advantages of using air curtains in an industrial or commercial setting:
Improved Indoor Air Quality: Air curtains are designed to prevent dust, fumes, and other airborne contaminants from entering a space, which can help maintain good indoor air quality.
Energy Savings: By creating a barrier of air that separates two environments, air curtains can help reduce the amount of energy needed to heat or cool a space. This can lead to significant cost savings for businesses, especially those with large or high-traffic spaces.
Increased Productivity: Air curtains can help create a more comfortable and safe working environment for employees, which can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction.
Aesthetic Appeal: Decorative air curtains can be used to add an element of style and sophistication to a space, while still providing the necessary functionality of an air curtain. They can be customized to match a variety of interior design styles and color schemes, and can even be used as a branding tool by featuring a company’s logo or branding colors.
Overall, air curtains offer a cost-effective and efficient way to maintain indoor air quality, improve energy efficiency, and enhance the overall comfort, safety, and aesthetic appeal of a space. Whether industrial or decorative, air curtains are a smart investment for businesses looking to create a healthier, more energy efficient, and visually appealing indoor environment.
Rosenberg Fans Canada is the master distributor for Airtecnics air curtains in North America. Airtecnics is a part of the Rosenberg Group and specializes in the design and manufacture of air curtains with production facilities located in Spain. Airtecnics designs and produces a complete range of air curtains for all kinds of applications and installations. High-efficiency EC-Motor Technology is available on all models. Tailor-made orders, customized finishes, and exclusive design solutions are available upon request.
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SELLING SERVICE IT’S WHAT WE DO!
We know the importance of regular maintenance, and it’s time we make homeowners aware of it too.
BY IAN McTEER
It was not the threat of global cooling (a popular theory in the 1970’s), nor today’s concern with climate change and global warming, that initially led to so much interest in improving the energy efficiency of mechanical equipment powered by fossil fuels, such as automobiles and residential heating and cooling systems among so many other things. No, it became clear to the U.S. Department of Energy in 1973 that dependence on foreign sources of energy were threatening the American economy and way of life, and that’s what drove the efficiency innovations in the 1970’s and it continues to be a touchstone for today's HVAC industry.
While I am in full accordance with the noble goals set forth by scientists and engineers aiming at reducing the need for supplementing our domestic energy production, I am also concerned about the increasing complexity of modern machinery and its voracious appetite for system designers, installers, technicians, and support staff ranging from production workers to parts personnel, inspectors and so on.
It is a great industry we have, and I am glad it employs so many people in every area, yet I hear almost every day
about staff shortages and lack of skilled trades to care for complex systems.
This dilemma not only makes life difficult for contractors and equipment owners, but it also means that poor HVAC units are being left unloved for far too long. Many units are serviced only after a breakdown that might have been prevented thanks to a well-timed annual service.
SOPHISTICATION RULES
I owned a 1964 Chevrolet Impala SS; I bought it used from a dentist in 1976. I could do all the maintenance, but when the body finally rotted out, I sold the engine and transmission to a Chevy enthusiast—he might still be running those parts today.
When I look under the hood of my latest vehicle, my blood runs cold. I can identify the oil dipstick and windshield washer bottle, not much else. (Figure 1)
Mother Nature does not part with her secrets easily, squeezing every possible Btu/h out of a modern premium gas furnace requires continual monitoring by computer-controlled sensors and an ultramodern smart thermostat.
A modern heating or cooling appliance looks nothing like the crude devices
once inhabiting many basements when fuel was cheap and houses were leaky.
I never would have guessed the beltdriven standing pilot furnace of days gone by would morph into something like that depicted in Figure 2.
So, of course, I bought an extended warranty for my latest automobile, supplemented by the dealer’s maintenance offering providing oil changes along with other necessary services over a 48-month period, a program that I will likely renew when the time comes.
However, when it comes to residential HVAC, many equipment owners apparently prefer to take their chances when it comes to system maintenance. I read an interesting study of HVAC system breakdowns conducted by American Home Shield (AHS), a third-party warranty service provider.
Using data the company acquired from the U.S. Census Bureau, I selected their study of the city of Detroit over the winter of 2021-2022. According to the data:
26 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM PHOTO CATLANE/GETTY IMAGES
< HVAC
• The number of occupied units with heating equipment was approximately 1.7 million.
• Reported share of homes considered to be uncomfortably cold for more than 24 hours: 7.7%.
• Top reason for heating failures: equip -
ment breakdowns at 46.2%.
• Utility interruptions and other factors accounted for the rest.
For whatever reasons, more than 130,000 people in Detroit, at various times that winter, had no heat for more than 24 hours.
I’m reasonably certain that Detroit’s pattern of equipment breakdowns is a workable template for cold climates. Remember, the purpose of maintenance is to prevent breakdowns, so make time for maintenance otherwise it’ll make the time for you!
SELLING MAINTENANCE
HVAC sales professionals often use a soft selling technique in which the potential client takes part in an interview answering questions related to what they expect from their comfort system. Ideally, the salesperson will show how top-ofthe-line premium equipment can fulfill all the homeowner’s expectations.
This technique is important because it exposes the client to every possible option and how such refinements might be extraordinarily beneficial.
As it turns out, the princely price of such a wonderful system may be a strong objection for some, thus the salesperson can remove options and accessories until the price is no longer a barrier and hopefully secure the sale.
One item that should remain in any sales proposal, in my opinion, is a maintenance package. Leveraging longer manufacturer’s limited warranties, even those offering labour compensation or guaranteed equipment replacement in the event of catastrophic failure, contractors should stress the need for annual service visits that might include no charge consumable replacements such as air filters, humidifier panels and condensate neutralizers.
Admittedly, even an exceptional maintenance package proposal may be left behind in the whirlwind of the dealmaking simply because the prospective client thinks brand new equipment must be immune from failures.
When it comes to new residential construction, homebuilders in Quebec, British Columbia, Ontario and Alberta must provide buyers with a third-party warranty protecting them against major Continued on p30
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 27
Figure 1. A look under the hood of modern vehicles is an example of today’s sophisticated technology requiring specialists to service.
PHOTO: IAN MCTEER
Airstage VU-V outdoor units can serve either as heat pump or heat recovery systems with simple setting changes and the addition of refrigerant branch units (RBUs). The new VRF platform offers broader size ranges, with single modules from six to 16 tons, and up to 36 tons per combined system. As many as 64 indoor units can be connected to a single system.
Operation in a wider range of outdoor ambient temperatures is provided, with heating capability at outdoor temperatures as low as -26°C. Cooling is provided with outdoor temperatures as high as 52˚C. The Airstage VU-V represents best-in-class performance for maximum connected refrigerant pipe: 1,000 meters.
A new service window provides instant access to the PCB switches and error indicator. Compressor lifecycle is increased due to the Airstage VU-V
controls’ ability to rotate the starting unit across the modules in a system. Also, compressor control logic manipulates inverter speed to balance the mass airflow rate of refrigerant in each outdoor unit. Greater indoor comfort is achieved through intelligent refrigerant control corresponding with the heat load of the room.
The scroll compressors used offer a wider range of turn down and use Fujitsu’s unique sensor-less sine wave control method to control compressor input power, improving efficiency and lowering decibel levels.
These improvements make the Airstage VU-V applicable to an even broader range of applications. The advantages apply to all parties involved with an HVAC project, from architects and engineers to facility management and end-users.
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structural defects along with strictly defined deficiencies in materials and labour.
Mechanical systems installed in Ontario homes are not covered by Tarion (the group empowered to administer and enforce the Ontario New Home Warranties Plan Act and Regulations). This leaves the homeowner to deal with a busy heating contractor often providing less-than-ideal coverage based solely on an equipment manufacturer’s guarantees that may or may not include labour and travelling time.
Thus, in my opinion, new home builders and renovators should partner with HVAC contractors and offer service and maintenance contracts at the point of sale. Build in the cost of a two-year, no charge maintenance including necessary consumables.
According to Statistics Canada, Canadians continue to cherish ownership of a single-family detached house. In 2016, said houses represented 53.6%, or 7.5 million, of the occupied private dwellings in Canada. Apartments, duplexes and “other” types of buildings made up the rest of Canada’s housing stock; all of these “other” occupied residential buildings also have heating systems needing maintenance it should be noted.
Ontario accounts for roughly 4.8 million detached houses, but I have no data on how many receive regular maintenance.
I often see advertisements from the larger service providers offering maintenance plans typically on television or online, and I’m aware that some residential HVAC contactors do offer maintenance, even front loading a year or two of no cost maintenance into their sales programs, which is a good thing.
WHAT ABOUT THE ORPHANS?
I do not want to even guess how many stranded HVAC systems there might be across the country surviving solely on a lick and a promise or chugging along with total breakdown only a thread away.
This is when the service technician should take the lead and present a maintenance strategy to the homeowner.
I know some technicians are loath to do any selling, be it equipment or maintenance. Yet, many homeowners will trust the words of a qualified technician and will follow good advice.
However reluctant to sell, every tech should know revenue streams created by add-on sales or maintenance contracts help to keep a company growing thus providing better benefits and hiring more employees.
At the minimum, a service tech should leave behind a sell sheet explaining the value of regular maintenance.
Here are 12 tips for creating technician-based leave-behind maintenance plan literature:
1. Emphasize the benefits of regular maintenance, such as
maintaining advertised efficiency and improved equipment longevity.
2. Explain how the plan will provide peace of mind as it includes 24/7 emergency service and priority scheduling.
3. Have examples demonstrating the cost savings of your plan(s) over time as compared to piecemeal multiple repairs.
4. Scheduled appointments and automatic service reminders make servicing more convenient.
5. Customer concerns about frequent repairs, high energy bills or poor heating and cooling performance might require further investigation and a more sophisticated plan, let the customer know you can help improve their existing system.
6. Offer a discounted rate for a new sign-up.
7. Offer a free consultation for equipment replacement or system tune-up that might require extensive renovations.
8. Offer a discount on accessory sales such as equipment surge protection, condensate neutralizers, humidifier panels, upgraded compressor contactors, and air filters.
9. Offer a satisfaction guarantee or go one step further, a money-back guarantee.
10. The company will provide references or testimonials from satisfied customers nearby who purchased a service plan.
11. The company technicians attend regular training and are fully licensed in the HVAC industry.
12. The company strives to embrace the latest technology including updated energy efficiency standards and safety requirements.
30 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM
from p27
Continued
Figure 2. Modern heating appliances look nothing like the crude devices still found in basements of older homes in Canada. ()
< HVAC
PHOTO COURTESY L. COTTON
NOW COMES THE HARD PART
As mentioned, I cannot say how many of the millions of heating systems across Canada receive annual maintenance. Having said my peace extolling the virtues of annual maintenance, the real problem is the lack of personnel to do all this servicing.
We all know the trades are looking for new apprentices. Governments, federal and provincial, are encouraging youth to consider taking up a trade, but it seems there are not enough potential tradespeople coming online fast enough, especially in HVAC.
Sometimes, governments fumble the process of addressing the concerns of emerging apprentices to the point of discouragement, even despair.
Recently, I read some remarks on social media about the 313D residential air conditioning systems mechanic/ technician program in Ontario that shocked me.
A young woman, Shawna Peddle, was training to become a qualified professional 313D technician. However, Shawna had to leave the program because her community college was unable
to offer the necessary classroom learning component of her program.
She wrote: “The 313D apprenticeship is supposed to be 2.5 years long, composed of 4,500 hours and two mandatory school blocks at an accredited college. Two years into my apprenticeship it came to light that Ontario rarely if EVER offers the second school block. The Ministry stated this is due to ‘lack of bodies’”.
She goes on to say, “You cannot complete an apprenticeship without completing the school blocks... defeating the entire purpose of the apprenticeship, leaving apprentices in limbo with no end in sight.”
What’s even worse, Shawna left the 313D program!
Residential HVAC will suffer with the loss of even one apprentice. It took decades of discussions between the Ministry of Labour, the labour unions, HVAC industry organizations like HRAI and employers to finally establish the 313D ticket. This is heartbreaking.
Good for her, she landed on her feet in the 313A refrigeration and air conditioning systems mechanic license program
as a third-year apprentice and writes: “I love my career in HVAC/R, the skilled trades are an incredible industry brimming with opportunities. We are currently facing a massive gap in our workforce and the apprentices we so badly require NEED A SYSTEM THAT WORKS!”
Victor Hyman, executive director at ClimateCare Canada noticed her post and chimed in with, “ClimateCare Canada has been working with St. Lawrence College to get the first dedicated 313D program set-up. The program application has letters of support from numerous Ontario colleges who offer 313A/D programs and realize that what is needed is a dedicated 313D program that will consistently run level 2 courses – and not during AC season!”
However, there is a fumble, says Victor, “Unfortunately, the application with the Ministry is held up in red tape for no discernible reason. We need to professionalize the resident HVAC trade if we are going to meet our decarbonization and residential new construction goals.”
Echoing Victor’s words, only proper specification, installation, commissioning and annual maintenance will insure all our sophisticated modern equipment will continue to operate as advertised.
Apprentices, HVAC industry business owners and interested persons alike across Canada should send an email to their local MPPs or MLAs encouraging them to implement, or to improve, existing apprenticeship programs before the wheels completely fall off industry efforts to conserve our precious resources. <>
Ian McTeer is an HVAC consultant with over 35 years of experience in the industry. He was most recently a field rep for Trane Canada DSO. McTeer is a refrigeration mechanic and Class 1 Gas technician. For questions or comments, Ian can be reached at imcteer@outlook.com.
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 31
“At the minimum, a service tech should leave behind a sell sheet explaining the value of regular maintenance.”
PHOTO: FSTOP123/GETTY IMAGES
Recruiting and supporting the next generation of HVAC technicians requires an industry-wide effort to ensure the programs exist and contractors are playing their role.
Not All Heating Systems Are Created Equal
Fujitsu General America’s AIRSTAGE multi-position air handler units combine Fujitsu’s inverter heat pump technology and revolutionary side discharge outdoor units with a modular design indoor unit. The result? High efficiency, quiet, space saving singlezone systems that make no compromises.
Available in four sizes from 24,000 to 48,000 BTU/H, these systems feature all-aluminum indoor unit coils, high static pressure capability, indoor sound levels as low as 24 dBA and adaptive fan motor control for optimum comfort.
Newer to the lineup are three models – 30, 36 and 48,000 BTU/H – featuring Fujitsu’s Extra Low Temperature Heating (XLTH) technology. The XLTH Series features outdoor condensing units engineered to operate in temperatures down to -26°C. This is achieved through a metal fan guard, built-in base pan heater and base drainage holes designed to discharge melted water through many holes.
Fujitsu XLTH units deliver high performance heating using large heat exchangers and high-capacity compressors. Increased capacity gives XLTH heat pumps the ability to extract heat at very low outdoor temperatures. The systems do not have a low temperature lockout, meaning that they will continue to heat even below -26°C as conditions allow.
Minimal clearance is needed on three sides of the indoor unit, with only 21 inches clearance needed in the front for service. Down-flow and horizontal right kits come standard with each system. Field-installed electric heat kits up to 15.5kW are factory provided. External input/ output interface for third-party systems is optional.
Wi-Fi compatibility is also optional so that systems can be controlled remotely through Fujitsu’s FGLair mobile app, and smart home services such as Amazon Echo or Google Home.
Optional accessories include wired remote controller, simple remote controller, wireless LAN interface, third-party thermostat converter, external input and output PCB, external connect kit, electric heater kit, combustible floor base, and an external filter box.
Fujitsu products have the best availability and deliverability in the country, as they’re sold and distributed by The Master Group, Canada’s top independent distributor. For more on XLTH, find Master at this year’s MCEE conference, happening April 19th in Montreal.
Spring 2023
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You face enough challenges out in the field. Worrying about the performance of your equipment shouldn’t be one of them. At the end of the day, you need dependable technology that can deliver for your customers in any environment. Step up to Fujitsu General and get today’s most powerful lineup of mini-split and VRF solutions… along with ultimate peace of mind.
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IS THE HEAT PUMP A JOKE?
As many of you likely don’t know, I got my start in the HVAC trade/industry at the HydroTherm Boiler Company. The man I commonly refer to as my father, Elwood Weaver, the executive vice president and ultimately a part-owner in HydroTherm, had a joke back in the 1970s. The joke was: “You would never install a heat pump north of Richmond, Virginia.”
Now this was a joke, but one that had some real basis in truth.
You see, although the heat pump dates much further back, it wasn’t until the 1970s where they were starting to gain some traction in North America.
Before 1980, many heat pumps had a seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER) of 6 or less and a heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF) below 5. These numbers simply didn’t work for most climates north of Richmond, because the 1970s-vintage heat pump crapped the bed at approximately 47F/8C outdoor air temperature. They weren’t de-rated at this outdoor temperature, but rather they were OFF!
How the 1970s heat pump attempted to make up for this rather extreme limitation was with an electric heat backup, better known as the electric strip heater. When the outdoor temperature dropped below the lowest operating temperature of the heat pump, the electric strip heater kicked in, and so did your electric utility meter.
Again, the joke in the boiler business was that the “meter would spin right off the wall!”
Ok, let me jump to 2023 and some recent occurrences in my own life that made me realize there still is a misperception among some (mostly civilians) that heat pumps still can’t perform in cold weather climates.
I was at an airport (story of my life) going through the TSA checkpoint. The TSA officer noticed I was wearing a shirt from an HVAC distributor, and he said to me:
“You are into those heat pumps, yeah?”
I replied, “Yes sir!”
To which he replied, “Yeah, they aren’t any good here in Pennsylvania.”
In that moment, my instinct was to go into my full HVAC heat pump advocate mode and begin to tell him why he was so wrong, but then I thought again.
I simply smiled, thanked him, and moved on to place my backpack on the X-ray machine conveyor belt.
And another recent reminder revealed that even civilians who claim to be educated in such matters are often just plain wrong. In the state of Maine, someone running for a seat in the State House of Representatives, and whose resume claims he currently is a member of the National Conference of State Legislatures Committee on Agriculture and Energy, made the following statement:
“Fossil fuel use reducing devices such as heat pumps are insufficient for households.”
Wow! Pennsylvania and Maine, not heat pump territory?
Portland, Maine, being 1,349 miles/2,171 km south from St
34 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM PHOTO KLUBOVY/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES
< THE DUCT-FREE ZONE
Customer education is still required for the uninformed. BY GERRY WAGNER
John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador in Canada where heat pump installations are on the rise with the support of Federal incentives and initiatives.
When I’m not travelling across Canada, I reside in central Pennsylvania where I installed an inverter-based heat pump unitary system in our home three winters ago, and our home is warm, comfortable and efficient!
I train HVAC installers and technicians on heat pump products that are as high as 38 SEER with HSPF as high as 15 with heating capability down to -22F/-30C (80% of rated heat capacity at these numbers, but heating capability well below these numbers).
We as a trade/industry still have much work to do to combat this misconception about heat pumps.
Another of my mentors early in my career was Harry Eklof, an icon in the HVAC manufacturer’s rep business.
to the uniformed.”
I am an HVAC heat pump advocate. My career and income for the last decade has been solely based on the promotion of inverter heat pump technology, but I’m also a realist.
trial leaders seem to think otherwise— or maybe more accurately, haven’t considered the old adage, “Be careful what you wish for.”
Let me be clear, electrification and de-carbonization is the correct path; not only environmentally and economically but also to reduce dependency on unreliable (and often unfriendly) fuel sources globally.
Elwood Weaver never saw the heat pump as a real threat to his boiler business. He thought it was a joke.
I do have great concerns that we may be a bit short-sighted in our goals to eliminate fossil fuels in both Canada and the U.S.
The electrical grids are not prepared for every home to be “electrified” and “de-carbonized” and every car to be electric, yet some political and indus -
But I know if I could have a conversation with him today, that even Elwood would see that the heat pump in Canada and the U.S. is no joke … it is our future! <>
Gerry Wagner is the vice president of business development for Bathica in Quebec. He has 41 years in the HVAC/R industry working in manufacturing, contracting and training. You can contact Gerry at GerryWagner@Bathica.com
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“We as a trade/ industry still have much work to do to combat this misconception.”
OLIMPIA SPLENDID
Home of Comfort
Olimpia Splendid, founded in 1956, decided to enter the North American market in 2019 with its one-of-a-kind Maestro Series product line, which will be launched in Canada at the MCEE EXPO in Montreal. Olimpia Splendid designs and manufactures heating and air conditioning products with the end user’s ultimate comfort in mind. Diego Stefani, — Executive Director of Sales and Marketing, North America; based in the Olimpia Splendid North American headquarters in Dallas, Texas — stated, “Olimpia Splendid’s company tagline ‘Home of Comfort’ describes our commitment to design-efficient, environmentally friendly products, while still maintaining our unique ‘Made in Italy’ design. Our objective is to be able to offer our customers comfort solutions any time of year.”
The Maestro Pro Series through-the-wall heat pump is unique in that it is the only heating and cooling unit that has “no outdoor unit,” making it ideal for residential single and multifamily dwellings, hotels, assisted living facilities, churches, and schools. The Maestro Product offering is available in 115 and 230 volts for both heating and cooling applications. The newest Maestro model is designed as a heat pump unit with 2-kilowatt backup electric heat, for those colder markets where heat pumps are not as efficient.
The key selling features of the Maestro Series are its whisper-quiet operation, its ease of installation and application (low wall or high wall), and its hassle-free maintenance. It has a very compact slim line cabinet — only 9 inches deep — with a modern, sleek “Made in Italy” look and feel. The Maestro Pro Series high-efficiency heat pump is designed with inverter drive compressor technology and variable speed motor (ECM) for maximum comfort and operating cost savings.
Another great installation advantage is that the Maestro unit is “plug and play” in that the unit comes standard with a 115- or 230-volt plug for easy electrical connection. It just plugs into the outlet just like any other household appliance. Lastly, it can be installed from inside the space without ever having to go outside. All the installation requires is mounting the unit on an exterior wall, with two 8-inch penetrations through the wall, hanging the unit, and plugging it in.
There is no other product like it in the North American market today, and the Maestro Pro with Electric Heat is offered with an industry-leading 7-year compressor and 2-year parts warranty on the Maestro Series product, with a limited “unit replacement” warranty — should the unit experience a major component failure in the first 12 months. In summary, Stefani stated, “We are very excited about the future of the Maestro Product offering in the North American market, providing comfort where you live, work, and play.”
For more information, visit www.olimpiasplendidusa.com or you can also reach out by email at sales@olimpiasplendidusa.com
PRESENTED BY Spring 2023
www.olimpiasplendidusa.com
Maestro Wi-Fi App available
NAVAC has introduced the NTB7L power tubing bender. Suitable for seven distinct tubing sizes with outside diameters (OD) ranging from ¼-in. to 7/8-in., the unit allows soft ACR copper to be bent to any desired angle up to 90 degrees via a single press/release control switch, and it offers simple OD size changes. The unit weighs just 6.2 lbs (including battery) and it can power more than 100 bends per charge and can be fully recharged in 30 minutes. navacglobal.com.
A new, portable toolkit from Harris Products Group makes it easier for HVAC service technicians to repair leaks in aluminum and copper coils in the field. The six-piece brazing repair kit features Harris StaySilv 15, a brazing alloy for copper HVAC brazing and repairs. The kit also includes ALUXCOR, an alloy designed specifically for aluminum brazing and repairs. Included in the kit are two wire brushes, one for aluminum repair preparation and the other for copper. harrisproductsgroup.com
Fujitsu General America has introduced Airstage VU-V systems offering flexibility and capacity for commercial and light commercial applications. The outdoor units can serve either as heat pump or heat recovery systems. The new VRF platform offers broader size ranges, with single modules from six to 16 tons, and up to 36 tons per combined system. As many as 64 indoor units can be connected to a single system. Units provide heating capability at outdoor temperatures as low as -15F and cooling as high as 126F. fujitsugeneral.com
RectorSeal has announced the availability of Coil-Cure Liquid, a disinfectant that kills up to 99.9% of bacteria and viruses. Coil-Cure protects HVAC coils, drain pans, and non-porous surfaces when properly applied. As a mild foaming disinfectant, Coil-Cure Liquid is ready for use right from the bottle and is available in quart spray size and gallon-size refill jugs. The liquid functions as a cleaner, fungicide, mildew inhibitor, virucide, and deodorizer. www.rectorseal.com
The Reznor UEZ condensing gas-fired unit heater is now available in three new sizes (55, 85, and 110 MBH) and features updated electronics, control, sustainability and energy efficiency. Designed for industrial and commercial spaces (and also for residential areas such as workshops and garages), the unit heater supplies fuel-efficient heating (93%) and uses outdoor air for combustion. The new sizes enable large and small spaces to be heated efficiently with lower operating costs. nortekhvac.com
Jaga Climate Systems has expanded its product line with the addition of the Mini Canal Electric, a compact in-floor heating trench designed for electric resistance heat. With a minimum recess depth of just 5-1/8, the Mini Canal Electric is ideal for heating in an all-electric setup or in a hydronic system where the hydronic heat piping loop is out of reach. The Mini Canal Electric is hard-wired into the electric system, with 120V, 208V, 240V and 277V options available. jaga-canada.com
38 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM
HVAC PRODUCTS
The HVAC market is saturated with brands that offer heating and cooling solutions. Some you’ve heard of and the majority not so much. GE Appliances, has made a renewed investment into the North American HVAC Industry and is developing products which stay true to the reputation of quality, reliability and dependability we are known for!
Proudly distributed by National Energy Equipment. www.nee.ca
■ Endure Single Zone Series Features:
• Up to 30 SEER
• Up to 15.2 HSPF
• 100% rated heating capacity at -15ºC and comfortably warm air down to -35ºC.
■ SmartHQ Service and Home Compatibility*
■ Wide range of single and multi-zone options available
For more information visit GEAppliances.com/ductless *Built
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 39 Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump Systems
in SmartHQ Compatibility available only on select models Get in touch with us today : 1.866.574.5100 PROUDLY DISTRIBUTED BY Please contact us about becoming a GE Dealer. HPAC_NationalEnergy_March23.indd 1 2023-03-14 10:41 AM PRESENTED BY Spring 2023
National Energy Equipment_ShowAndTell_Mar23.indd 1 2023-03-15 11:18 AM
NATIONAL ENERGY EQUIPMENT.
A MOST ANTICIPATED RETURN
After being postponed in 2021, MCEE makes a comeback and will be hosted at the Montreal Convention Centre downtown at the north end of Old Montreal.
Presented by four key associations related to the mechanical and electrical industries in Eastern Canada [ the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIPH), the Corporation of Master Pipe Mechanics of Quebec (CMMTQ), the Corporation of Master Electricians of Quebec (CMEQ) and the Corporation des entreprises en traitement de l’air et du froid (CETAF)], the Mécanex/Climatex/Expolectriq/ Éclairage (MCEE) Show is being held for the first time at the Montreal Convention Centre* on April 19 and 20.
This is the seventh edition of this combined event, and the show organizers are anticipating more than 400 exhibitors will be on hand (from within
MCEE 2023
Montreal Convention Centre www.mcee.ca
Opening Dates and Time
Wednesday, April 19: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, April 20: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Quebec, as well as across Canada and the U.S.) to present their latest innovations in plumbing, heating, hydronics, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigera -
tion, water treatment, electricity, lighting, fire prevention and more. More than 6,000 qualified visitors are expected to attend this year.
As it takes place only once every two years, MCEE is a strategic event dedicated for industry professionals who want to stay on the cutting edge. This year, entry to the Show is free for attendees who register before April 18, and in total there will be 21 seminars, also free of charge, addressing timely topics and answering professional concerns (all presented in French). To give you a preview of the content, please find below a summary of the 13 seminars presented by CMMTQ and CETAF over the two days of the show.
40 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM
< SHOW PREVIEW
Free Registration before April 18 (for industry members) at mcee.ca
*The Montreal Convention Centre (Palais des congrès de Montréal) is located in the heart of downtown (1001, place Jean-Paul-Riopelle – Place-d’Armes subway station).
PLEASE STOP AT BOOTH 304 TO SAY HELLO!
EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS WEDNESDAY,
• Sessions are free of charge to Expo attendees.
• All 60-minute seminars are presented in French.
• Participation certificates can be provided upon request to attendees subject to continuing education requirements.
• Seminars presented by CMMTQ and CETAF
APRIL 19
Plumbing 101
10:00 a.m.
Speakers: Éric Fournier, Eng., Manager, GBI
Daniel Marchand, PA LEED, Project Manager, Bouthillette Parizeau
Continuation of a seminar of the same name presented at the last MCEE (2019), this session will cover various topics of general interest: water heater sizing, mixed water loop, emergency overflow, drainage pressure tests, additional figures to RBQ, backflow devices and more.
Refrigerant Update
Speaker: Alain Mongrain, Business development manager, Emerson
The federal regulations on halocarbons came into force in 2022. For its part, the Quebec government has been proposing, since 2021, different regulations to reduce greenhouse gases (GHG). What are the impacts on service technicians and engineers? What does it mean to your customers in terms of equipment or system architecture? What refrigerants (classes and quantities) comply to the different codes overseeing HVAC/R installations?
11:30 a.m.
Optimizing Building Automation Systems
Speaker: Weaam Kakush, Business development manager, Pro Kontrol
This session will explore ways to leverage the thousands of data points collected by a building automation system (BAS) to generate value for the owner and building manager, as well as the contractors who work there – such as reducing operating costs and increasing the lifespan of mechanical equipment through maintenance programs and preventive services.
2:00 p.m.
Digital Shift in Construction (part 1)
Speaker: Guy Paquin, Eng., M.Sc., Strategic manager, SQI
The Action Plan for the construction sector launched in March 2021 by the Government of Quebec puts forward concrete measures to make the digital shift easier for the building industry, and to improve the industry’s performance. This session focuses on the Government Roadmap for building information modelling (BIM), and the Quebec Initiative for Construction 4.0 (IQC4.0).
Why Should I Invest in Cybersecurity?
Speaker: Roger Ouellet, Safety practices manager, NOVIPRO
This seminar explains why cybersecurity is a concern for companies of all types and sizes. The speaker will highlight the risks for businesses and business owners, and he will list the steps to follow to ensure the sustainability of businesses.
3:00 p.m.
Digital Shift in Construction (part
Speakers: Round table panel
2)
Around the table: public work providers, organizations involved in the Quebec Initiative for Construction 4.0 (IQC4.0) and contractors. Among the topics discussed, the panellists will emphasize the challenges of building information modelling (BIM). This session is an opportunity for contractors to share their experiences and express their concerns. Here are the players involved in the Government Roadmap: Société québécoise des infrastructures, ministère des Transports, Société d’habitation du Québec, Hydro-Québec, Ville de Montréal and Ville de Québec.
3:30 p.m.
Advantages of Air Source Heat Pumps
Speaker: Jocelyn Léger, Eng., CEM, PA LEED, Support manager, Enertrak
This session explores ways to take advantage of an air-to-water aerothermal system by using it as the main heating source (and keeping the existing systems as a backup), while taking into account its operating limits. Aerothermal technology is one of the favourite technologies when installing/upgrading a building with new HVAC equipment. The reversible air-to-water heat pump is also an increasingly popular choice.
5:00 p.m.
Financial Incentives and Energy Efficiency
Speakers: Fériel Acher, Eng., CMVP, CEM, Datech / Geneviève Paquin, MBA, Hydro-Québec
This seminar lists the main sources available to support energy efficient HVAC projects and give hints to optimize them. It provides an overview of the main programs offered by various distributors and organizations in the industry. The session will also highlight the main strategies and energy efficiency measures driven by these programs to make your project/business efficient and profitable.
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 41 Continued on p44
Who doesn’t like heated floors in the bathroom? Your toilet wax gasket, that’s who.
Heated floors dry out a traditional wax gasket causing the toilet to eventually leak over time. Lyncar Waterline is introducing two new products to prevent this from happening.
Introducing two new additions to the toilet gasket lineup. Along with the traditional wax gasket and the sponge rubber gaskets are the mixed rubber & wax, and the new all-blue rubber gaskets.
For heated floors, the new blue rubber, with or without a horn, will not dry out, harden, or crack over the lifespan of the toilet. This technology is currently used in countries around the world and is now available in Canada. This material can be shaped and molded for uneven flooring.
Also available is the new mixed wax and rubber hybrid gasket. This new toilet gasket can be re-set when adjusting toilets without having to use multiple wax gaskets. This new gasket does not leave a sticky wax residue on your hands after touching it. It is perfect for our Canadian climate because it does not freeze in winter or melt in the summer heat as the traditional wax gaskets do.
Ask your local plumbing wholesaler about the convenience of these items.
PRESENTED BY Spring 2023
LYNCAR
www.lyncar.com
Without Horns
EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS
10:00 a.m.
• Sessions are free of charge to Expo attendees.
• All 60-minute seminars are presented in French.
• Participation certificates can be provided upon request to attendees subject to continuing education requirements.
• Seminars presented by CMMTQ and CETAF
THURSDAY, APRIL 20
Specific Rinsing of Standing Water in Buildings During Recommissioning
Speaker: Marianne Grimard-Conea, doctoral student, Polytechnique
This conference deals with issues surrounding water stagnation in large building systems, as well as measures to restore the quality of drinking water during a recommissioning process. It also discusses pros and cons associated with rinsing and shock disinfection by highlighting the findings of the Industrial Drinking Water Chair at Polytechnique Montréal.
How to plan our business transfer
Speakers: Yves Cameron and Christian Bourcy, advisors at CETEQ
This conference highlights the role played by the Centre de transfert d'entreprise du Québec (CTEQ) in the sale/purchase process of a company – either to internal or external parties – and includes testimonials from owners who have benefited from the Centre's support. It is expected that around 40,000 companies will change hands in the next five years across the province, so this is information worth having.
11:30 a.m.
Financial Support Update
Speaker: Alexandre Desjardins, M.Eng., RCx, Energy manager, TST
This seminar highlights the subsidy programs available as part of the approach to reduce carbon footprint and energy consumption of buildings in Quebec. It covers the nature of the programs, how to apply and the level of financial support, as well as hints to monitor program updates.
Decarbonization Challenge
Speaker: Ronald Gagnon, Project manager, Pageau Morel, ASHRAE board member
This session discusses ASHRAE's strategic decarbonization plan – as a world leader on that matter. Buildings are currently responsible for nearly 40% of carbon emissions (GHG). Our industry must take the reins of the shift to sustainability. In this spirit, ASHRAE allocated several million dollars last June to launch major research and mitigation work on decarbonization. Several researchers, manufacturers and contractors are already working on it.
1:30 p.m.
Pressure Installations: Regulation and Inspection
Speakers: Geneviève Breton, Aziz Khssassi, Eng., Myriam SaintGeorges, Eng. and Blagovest Levitcharsky of the RBQ
This session takes stock of the regulation requirements in regard to pressure system installations. It concerns each organization involved throughout the life cycle of pressure equipment: permits, new installation declaration, new or used equipment, approval, repair work authorization, return to service authorization, and installation compliance.
NOTE: For details regarding the Corporation des maîtres électriciens du Québec (CMEQ) seminars, please visit www. mcee.ca
44 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM Continued from p41 < SHOW PREVIEW
“Over 100 products –among 9 categories –are taking part in the 2023 New Products Competition at MCEE.”
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HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 45 HPAC_Kane_March23.indd 1 2023-03-07 2:13 PM
2023
us at MCEE | Booth #2117
Now with KANECARE Kane_ShowAndTell_Mar23.indd 1 2023-03-06 2:28 PM
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VIESSMANN
VITOCROSSAL 200 CI2 | Rated Input: 399 - 2000 MBH Most advanced floor standing boiler with small footprint and high mass water volume
The Vitocrossal 200 CI2 is a versatile boiler system offering a highly efficient solution for custom residential and light commercial applications. With six sizes, this gas condensing unit can be cascaded for capacities up to 32,000 MBH.
Fast installation and reduced maintenance come standard with the integrated Lambda PrO² selfcalibrating active O² trim control management system. High operational reliability and long service life with corrosion-resistant Inox-Crossal stainless steel heat exchanger.
Compact dimensions boast an unprecedented power density ratio, and facilitate the replacement of old systems even in tight spaces, requiring a footprint of less than 9.9 ft².
Key Features:
• 98% thermal efficiency; highest in-class utilization with cleaner combustion and lower costs
• MatriX cylinder burner offers extremely clean combustion with up to a 30:1 turn-down ratio, and meets Low NOx requirements
• Highest water volume in class (99 USG) means no primary boiler pump is required
• Side by side installation up to 16 cascaded boilers
• Integrated valve proving system (VPS) for all sizes
VITOCROSSAL 300 CA3B | Rated input: 2500
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With its unique synthesis of proven Viessmann technology and innovative features, the Vitocrossal 300 CA3B takes a bold step forward combining unparalleled flexibility with maximum efficiency, making it your ideal choice for a new installation or economical retrofit in multi-family, commercial or light industrial applications.
• Low emissions and quiet operation from fully-modulating Viessmann pre-mix cylinder burners (up to 3)
• Outstanding thermal efficiencies over 96%
• SA240 316Ti stainless steel Inox-Lamellar heat exchanger surface provides maximum heat extraction while maintaining a compact size
• Total burner modulation turndown ratio of up to 15:1
• Low inlet gas pressure capability as low as 4” w.c. (NG) for compatibility with a range of supply pressures
• 160 psi pressure rating
• Dual fuel (NG and LP) models available
• High-altitude operation up to 10,000 ft (3,000 m)
• External wall mounted Gateway or DIN rail mounted Gateway for up to 8 boilers per gateway viessmann.ca
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KEEPING IT SIMPLE
Hydronic
BY JOHN SIEGENTHALER
If your office routine is anything like mine, you’re probably typing cryptic passwords into your desktop computer, laptop, smartphone or tablet throughout the day to access websites or cloud-based software that’s essential to your business. Some of the sites you work with, especially those related to finances, likely require monthly updating on those passwords.
Do you keep essential documents on the cloud rather than a hard drive? Doing so should protect them from destruction if your office was compromised or destroyed by fire or flood, but under normal circumstances the pathway to those documents requires internet access and passage through gates latched with passwords.
If your router or internet service provider is down, or the wireless signal is weak because you’re out of your office
on a job site, you can’t access any of those documents.
IS CONNECTIVITY ESSENTIAL?
I admit that I could not do my job (at least for long) without access to the internet, and I suspect that’s true for most of you as well. Still, I remain unconvinced that all “good and modern” HVAC systems must be connected.
Today we are constantly being told that the Internet of Things (IoT) is becoming the hub for coordinated operation of the latest crop of HVAC devices such as thermostats, boilers, heat pumps, furnaces and even circulators. Apparently all these devices need to “talk” with each other.
I often find myself “circling back” to the fundamental question: If all this microcircuitry, firmware, internet access, and layers of cybersecurity are essential—
how did we ever create heating and cooling systems that kept millions of people comfortable for many decades, without all this digital overhead?
Perhaps our predecessors understood that there are some simple, reliable and accurate analog or mechanical approaches to controlling HVAC systems. Contrast that with modern product development mindset that increasingly defaults to the “cloud” for all control, updates and service-related information.
SIMPLE, RELIABLE, AND EVEN “SMART”
One device that’s been around for many decades and continues to provide unique opportunities for creative designers is the thermostatic radiator valve (TRV for short).
If you’re unfamiliar with these devices,
48 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM
PHOTO: MAGRAPHICS/ADOBE STOCK
< HYDRONICS
systems don’t have to be complex to be sophisticated.
here’s a quick description based on the diagram in Figure 1.
The term thermostatic radiator valve represents a broad range of products. Most of them can be thought of as two subassemblies that work together: 1) a valve body, and 2) a thermostatic operator.
The valve body has a globe valve design with a spring-loaded shaft. The shaft moves up and down rather than rotating like the shaft in a typical globe valve.
When the shaft is fully pressed down the disc closes over the valve’s seat, preventing any flow. When the valve’s shaft is allowed to “spring” outward, the disc is a few millimeters above the seat, and the valve is at its maximum flow configuration.
The valve shown in Figure 1 would be mounted external to a radiator. However, some panel radiators come with an integral valve typically mounted in the radiator’s upper right corner.
The thermostatic operator has a bellows that contains a “working fluid” or wax compound that expands when warmed, and contracts when cooled. This expansion and contraction cause the bellows to move.
In doing so it either presses inward on the valve’s spring-loaded shaft, or it allows that shaft to move outward. The shaft moves the disc toward or away from the valve’s orifice and thus determines the flow rate through the valve. More flow means more heat output from the radiator, and vice versa.
The thermostatic operator shown in Figure 1 simply screws onto the valve body. It has numbers from 1 to 5 on the knob. These are “comfort settings”: 1 is “cool” (about 55F/12.7C), 3 is typical heating season room temperature (about 68F/20C), and 5 is hot (about 79F/26C). Many TRV also have a “snowflake” setting that’s meant to provide freeze protection by maintaining a space at about 45F/7C.
The occupant just turns the knob to align one of these numbers to the pointer,
Continued on p53
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 49
PHOTO: JOHN SIEGENTHALER
Figure 1. The classic thermostatic radiator valve, the original “wireless” method of zoning a hydronic heating system.
A simple multi-zone heating distribution system with all the radiators connected into a home run distribution system.
THE ONLY TOTAL THERMAL SOLUTION TO SAFE DOMESTIC HOT WATER IN COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS IS HERE
Caleffi North America is the only company that offers digital temperature mixing, thermal balancing, and scald-protection valves that are designed to work together for a total system solution in providing safe DHW in commercial buildings.
The Caleffi 6000 Series LEGIOMIX® valve has the market’s highest rated flow capacity and is available in ¾” through 3” sizes to meet the domestic hot water requirements for any project big or small. In addition to highly accurate mixed water temperature control, the LEGIOMIX has integral calendar-based automatic thermal disinfection programs which can be enabled to control Legionella bacteria. The LEGIOMIX can stand alone or connect to a building automation system with Modbus or BACnet network communication with data logging capabilities.
The 116 Series ThermoSetter™ balancing valves provide state-of-the-art temperature-based balancing for the secondary piping circuits that serve fixture groups throughout the building. The valve’s temperature setting is adjustable to provide “set it and forget it” fool-proof balancing control. Models are available with a special “bypass” cartridge that opens the valve to increase flow during a thermal disinfection cycle, for those projects that are implementing Legionella control. The 116 Series valves have been used in conjunction with the LEGIOMIX valve family around the globe for over 15 years; together they have a solid history of performance and reliability.
The 5212 SinkMIxer™ scald protection valve provides final temperature control at each point-ofuse to protect people from elevated water temperatures. The convenient 4-port design minimizes connection points and the potential for leakage and the high quality mounting bracket provides a clean installation and easy serviceability.
These innovative, high performance valves are precision engineered and manufactured in Italy using low lead dezincification resistant (DZR) brass and modern composite materials for maximum scale resistance and durability. They meet all applicable standards for the USA and Canada including ASSE 1017, ASSE 1070 and plumbing codes IPC, IRC, UPC and NPC.
The complete system thermal control package is part of Caleffi’s continuing commitment to excellence in technical innovation.
PRESENTED BY Spring 2023 CALEFFI
Call today to learn more! 414-238-2360 www.caleffi.com See us at MCEE | Booth #601
AWARD-WINNING
FINALIS
Caleffi’s innovative thermal solution for the control of safe and sanitary domestic hot water combines three main components: LEGIOMIX® digital mixing valve that delivers accurately mixed water temperature and integrates calendar-based thermal disinfection; ThermoSetter™ field adjustable thermal balancing valves that feature a bypass option for disinfection; and SinkMixer™ 4-port anti-scald valves for reliable point-ofuse safety. Approvals include compliance with U.S. and Canadian plumbing codes. CALEFFI GUARANTEED.
www.caleffi.com
LEGIOMIX CONTROL SYSTEM T
2022
SUMMIT 2023
SEPTEMBER 21ST AT HARD ROCK CASINO IN COQUITLAM, BC!
By popular demand we are moving our Modern Hydronics Summit across the country to share the knowledge and excitement. First up: British Columbia. Be there for the triumphant return of Hydronics Super Heroes - Siggy and The Bean.
AT THIS YEAR’S SUMMIT,YOU WILL:
• Learn from our top-notch hydronics experts; featuring John Siegenthaler (with a few surprise guest speakers!!)
• Enjoy refreshments, lunch, dinner and trip to the bar
• Have a chance to win tools and Vancouver Canucks tickets!
SEE
THESE BRANDS:
• Artic Heat Pumps
• Belimo
• Bradford-White
• Calefactio
• Caleffi
• Centrotherm
• Chemfax
• Dettson
• Eco-King
• Fernox
• Fresh-r
• Giacomini
• Gree
• Grundfos
• HBX Controls
• Hargassner
• Hitachi
• IBC
• Laars
• Lochinvar
LOCAL DISTRIBUTION:
• AquaTech
• Canadian Aqualine
• Equipco
• EMCO
Presented by
KEYNOTE SPONSOR
• MacDuffco
• Navien
• NTI
• Nudura
• Resideo
• Roth
• Spacepak
• Taco
• Tamas
• TECA
• ICON
• J.M Hasick & Associates
• tekmar
• Thermo 2000
• Triangle Tube
• Viega
• Viessmann
• Weil McLain
• Wilo
• Xylem
• Zehnder
• JSA Sales
• Small Planet
REGISTRATION IS OPEN NOW! MODERNHYDRONICSSUMMIT.COM
• Z-Flex AND MORE TO COME!
EARLY BIRD PRICING OF $99 ENDS AUGUST 21ST
PLATINUM SPONSOR
and the thermostatic operator takes it from there. If the room begins to cool slightly the valve automatically allows more flow through the radiator and vice versa. It’s analog cruise control for room comfort, and it doesn’t get much simpler. No wires, no batteries, no internet needed. TRVs were the original “wireless” method of zoning a hydronic heating system, and they remain so today.
Over the years we’ve specified hundreds of thermostatic valves in a wide range of hydronic systems. They’ve provided room-by-room comfort control in systems using fin-tube baseboard, towel warmers and a variety of panel radiators.
SIMPLE BUT ELEGANT
As the global hydronics market continues to transition toward low temperature distribution systems, TRVs remain ready, willing and able to handle the comfort nuances present in modern low-energy buildings.
One of my favorite approaches to heating these buildings is a multi-zone distribution system using panel radiators with integral TRVs. All the radiators are connected into a home run distribution system as shown in Figure 2.
Heated water is supplied from a buffer tank, which could be heated by a boiler, heat pump, solar collectors or a combination of these heat sources.
Flow from the buffer tank to the manifold station is provided by a variablespeed pressure-regulated circulator, which automatically adjusts speed as the different TRVs open, close or modulate flow through their respective heat emitters.
Figure 2 shows more details that further expand the concept. One of them is the towel warmer tied in series with a small area of underfloor heating.
This is a great approach for a typical bathroom with tile flooring. Warm/dry towels and a barefoot-friendly floor. Try doing that with a mini-split.
Flow through the towel warmer and floor circuit is controlled by a TRV, but in this case the valve body is mounted a few feet away from the setting dial. A capillary tube connects the valve body and actuator to the setting dial. The working fluid passes back and forth through that tiny capillary tube.
A word of caution is in order: be sure to explain to the other trades on the job that the capillary tube is not a wire. You can’t cut it, splice it back together using a wire nut, and expect it to work! That’s a true story that occurred on a job I designed many years ago.
Another detail is to provide at least one extra set of connections on the manifold. This allows for simple future expansion of the system. Just mount the new radiator, screw the thermal operator onto the radiator’s integral valve, run a set of ½-in. PEX tubes to it, connect
those tubes to the manifold, and you’ve got another independent heating zone. No wires, batteries or digital “handshakes” required.
Hydronic systems don’t have to be complex to be sophisticated.
They don’t have to be WiFi compatible to be elegant.
Simple devices like TRVs, combined with panel radiators and connected by a home run distribution system can deliver the ultimate goal of any heating systemsuperior comfort. And they pull it off without requiring a single password. <>
| WOOD CHIP BOILER SYSTEMS
John Siegenthaler, P.E., has more than 40 years of experience designing modern hydronic heating systems and is the author of Modern Hydronic Heating (4th edition), visit hydronicpros.com hargassner-northamerica.com
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 53 HYDRONICS > Continued from p49
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april 2023, Palais des congrès de Montréal
HPAC_Hargassner_Mar23.indd 1 2023-02-21 2:16 PM
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PELLET
The future of sustainable heating - experience the world of heating systems with Hargassner
Lochinvar Brings Commercial Innovation to
Residential Combi Boilers
Lochinvar pairs
As the innovation leader in commercial boilers, Lochinvar is now bringing the same engineering excellence to residential combi boilers. The EPIC® combi boiler delivers hot water in residential settings faster and more efficiently than ever, making it a gamechanger in the industry. It brings hot water to the places it’s most needed in the home, such as the kitchen, bathroom sink and shower, representing a true all-in-one solution.
The EPIC combi boiler delivers more hot water, sized to meet domestic hot water (DHW) standards quickly, with technology that helps avoid a burst of cold water as hot water is established, a common issue with many combi boilers. It’s available in three wall mount models and three floor mount models to fit a variety of needs. The EPIC combi boiler boasts quiet operation, advanced SMART CONTROL™ Enhanced Operating System for easy access to system settings, and a 10:1 turndown ratio that helps prevent short cycling.
For contractors, installers and builders, Lochinvar’s EPIC combi boiler is easier to install and program, complete with a Set-Up Wizard that enables the installer to complete setup in around two minutes. With the SmartControl user-friendly interface, vital system parameters can be established with ease. 24/7 technical support from Lochinvar is also readily available, and the boiler is easy to service with a removable front panel that gives access to the combustion system.
The EPIC combi boiler also represents a space-saving choice for contractors, lowering installation costs while still providing efficient, reliable hot water and space heating. As a cost-effective solution for single-family homes with up to two bathrooms, it features direct venting up to 100 feet for greater installation flexibility.
PRESENTED BY Spring 2023 LOCHINVAR
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easier installation with user-friendly technology for a gamechanging residential hot water solution.
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Lochinvar has long been an innovation leader in commercial boilers—and now it’s bringing that engineering excellence to residential combi boilers.
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™
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
BY CURTIS BENNETT
Ihope you know where this article’s title comes from, and if not, stop reading and go watch this classic late 80s John Candy, Dan Aykroyd movie now ...
Ok, now that you are back, let’s continue. Our whole world is built on algorithms, a term that has become very popular lately. Google, Facebook, TikTok, whatever poison you choose, people think these companies “invented” algorithms. Well, I’m here to tell you they did not. Algorithms have been around as long as computers, and basically, the term algorithm means “a process or set of rules that are calculated to solve or perform a specific task.”
I enjoy designing device controls. To me, solving problems, and even watching things fizzle when you do it wrong, is actually fun. It’s all learning. The very first two algorithms I learned related to hydronics and heating buildings were P.I.D. and outdoor reset. Today, let’s tackle the one with the least amount of math.
To fully understand outdoor reset we must start by breaking apart the terms. Let’s begin with the second term first. Reset is a commonly used term in control theory, which by definition is an “algorithm that takes an input, or inputs, to set the output back to zero.”
Why would we return the output to zero? Stay with me.
Let’s not look at the definition literally. What the reset algorithm is trying to achieve is a “zero” outcome. For instance, if we had a value of 1,000 going into the “input” of the algorithm, the algorithm itself would compute that it needs to output -1,000 to “zero” out the outcome.
Essentially, for a 1000 input we need to output negative 1000 to “reset” the control.
Now, the first term, “outdoor” seems simple right. Well, it is. Outdoor reset controls will calculate an output value based on the outdoor temperature as the input.
Now remember, a reset control tries to bring the output to “zero”. In this case we have two criteria. We have the heat loss of the building we’re trying to heat, and we have the outdoor air temperature.
Without getting into the calculations, we do know the outdoor air temperature does have a direct effect on the heat loss of a building.
Since we know the outdoor temperature has a direct correlation on the heat loss of a building, that means as the outdoor temperature goes down, we need more heat in the building to keep the tenants comfortable.
At this point I am really hoping a few light bulbs just went off!
56 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM
PHOTO: WEYO/ADOBE STOCK
down the concepts behind outdoor reset.
Breaking
< CONTROLS
In control theory, if one value has a direct correlation on another value (meaning the output of the control is directly “hinged” to the input value) we can easily calculate the output.
Now, this creates a slope, or a sliding scale, for the output. So, the colder it gets outside the more we need to turn up the heat source (i.e., the boiler).
The way we turn up a boiler is to give it a new target to meet. You guessed it! That is what the outdoor reset control does. To compensate for a building’s heat loss, we set the boiler target accordingly. This will add more heat to the building to get a net zero, or reset, effect.
We try to add as much heat to the building as it is currently losing, and this can be calculated fairly accurately.
There are a couple parameters you need to input into the algorithm to come up with the slope, or compensation value, for the boiler target.
First is the minimum target for the boiler. Next is the maximum target for the boiler. The last two parameters are the lowest outdoor air temperature and the warm weather shut down. I will explain these last two.
The lowest outdoor air temperature is the value at which you will hit the maximum temperature of your boiler. These values can be found in many places, but for where I live it’s 10F (-12C), the technical term is outdoor design temperature.
So, at 10F (-12C) the boiler target temperature will be at its highest, because at that temperature the heat loss of the building is at its highest.
The other value, warm weather shut down (WWSD), is the temperature at which we don’t need heat in the building anymore. This number “could” be hardcoded in, but I like to give the control more flexibility for the user.
This slope, or compensation value, is normally called the Heating Curve (see graph). I’m sure there would be some debate on whether this line could be “curved” or if straight works best. I’m not going to enter that debate here.
Let’s start by putting some numbers into the algorithm to see the outcome. For our calculation, the hottest temperature we would need from the boiler is 180F (82C), technically called Design Boiler Temp. And remember, we will hit this at our Design Outdoor Temp, which we will set at 10F (-12C).
Our lowest boiler temperature is 90F (32C), or Minimum Boiler Temp, and we will hit this temperature as we approach our WWSD number, which we will set at 70F (21C).
Ok, if you look at the graph you can see that our calculated target for the boiler when the outdoor temperature is 50F (10C) would be 120F (49C).
Remember, the way outdoor reset works is the colder it gets outside the
higher the target gets for the boiler. If I had more time, we could get into the actual calculation of how we come up with these numbers, but we don’t. So you will just have to trust me. Plus, you can see it on the graph, and graphs don’t lie!
Keep in mind that an outdoor reset calculation can be used on the mixed water side as well.
It’s just a calculation, and there are a couple other reasons we do this calculation. Don’t get me wrong, matching the heat loss is priority one, but if we talk about condensing boilers, the boiler is much more efficient when it’s condensing. So, the lower we can keep the target for the boiler on a given day the more efficient the system will be.
If we can run the building at 104F (40C) and match the heat loss, then the boiler is condensing, making it at its highest efficiency.
Condensing boilers also are more efficient because they modulate, but that’s not today’s discussion.
Secondarily, when we match the heat loss of the building to the amount of Btu/h the boiler is putting out we get much longer run times on our equipment, and this helps the longevity of the equipment in the boiler room.
I realize these last couple of points were short, but to be fair, they are fairly self-explanatory. I thought it was best to spend the time on the calculation.
Plus, for me, the calculation is the funnest part. Yes, I just used the non-word funnest!
Until next time, keep calculating. <>
Curtis Bennett C.E.T is product development manager with HBX Control Systems Inc. in Calgary.
He formed HBX Control Systems with Tom Hermann in 2002. Its control systems are designed, engineered and manufactured in Canada to accommodate a range of hydronic heating and cooling needs.
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 57
Heating Curve graph to demonstrate outdoor reset.
THERMO 2000
Thermo 2000 is a Canadian manufacturer of electric heating equipment and hydronic heating systems. Established in 1978, Thermo 2000 has been providing high-quality heating solutions to residential and commercial customers for over four decades. The company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction has earned it a reputation as one of the leading manufacturers in the industry.
Thermo 2000 offers a wide range of heating products, including electric boilers and indirect water heaters. The company’s products are designed to be energy-efficient, reliable, easy to install. Thermo 2000’s focus on innovation and product development is evident in its portfolio, which features some of the most advanced and cutting-edge heating solutions available today.
One of Thermo 2000’s flagship products is the Turbomax indirect water heater. This system is ideal for homes and buildings that require a consistent domestic hot water production. Turbomax indirect water heater is designed to work with any type of energy so that you can benefit from the most economical energy source. These systems are the optimal way to meet high domestic hot water demand with the smallest footprint.
Other products from Thermo 2000 is the BTH Ultra and the Voltmax electric boilers. These high-performance boilers are perfect for homes and businesses that need a reliable and efficient heating solution. Equipped with a state-of-the-art control system, BTH Ultra and Voltmax boilers are able to adjust their power according to the heating demand of the building. This feature ensures that the boiler operates at peak efficiency, reducing energy consumption and saving users money on their utility bills. The boilers are also compatible with dual energy.
In addition to its high-quality products, Thermo 2000 is committed to providing exceptional customer service. The company’s team of experts is always available to answer questions and provide assistance to customers. Thermo 2000 also offers installation and maintenance support for all its products, ensuring that they continue to perform at their best for years to come.
Overall, Thermo 2000 is a leading manufacturer of electric heating boilers and hydronic heating systems. With an emphasis on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Thermo 2000 has earned its place as a leader in the industry. Whether you’re looking for a new heating solution for your home or business, Thermo 2000 has the products and expertise you need to stay warm and comfortable all year round.
PRESENTED BY Spring 2023 thermo2000.com
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Get the full potential of hot water heating. Thermo2000.com
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Since it produces hot water instantly, the TurboMax requires no storage. As a result, the TurboMax takes up less space to produce the same amount of hot water as a traditional water heater.
AVAILABLE THIS SPRING
systems
Peak-performance heating
MECHANICAL SUPPLY NEWS
MANUFACTURERS
DISTRIBUTORS • WHOLESALERS
MASTER GROUP EXPANDS REACH IN THE U.S.
The Master Group has acquired Refrigeration Sales Corp. (RSC) based in Ohio, an independent distributor serving Ohio and Western Pennsylvania.
This move marks Master’s second acquisition south of the border following the purchase of Virginia-based Value Added Distributors (VAD) in late 2021.
“Our vision is to become the leading HVAC/R distributor in North America, and when we considered strategic partners in the United States, RSC’s reputation for excellence, quality management, and alignment with our core values made them a natural choice,” says Master Group CEO, Louis St-Laurent.
The Master Group is committed to further North American expansion, having secured capital from private equity firm Navacap. master.ca
DANFOSS BUILDING COMPRESSOR FACTORY IN MEXICO
Danfoss has announced the construction of a new compressor and sensor manufacturing facility adding to its existing manufacturing plant in Apodaca, Mexico.
The new expansion will produce medium and large scroll compressors, pressure sensors for HVAC/R, and A2L leak detection sensors for residential and commercial air conditioning and refrigeration.
The manufacturing plant is expected to be ready by the end of 2024, starting with a capacity for 100,000 compressor units, 1.6 million pressure sensors, and 1 million A2L leak detection sensors. danfoss.com
DISTRIBUTION
>> As of March 1, Bartle & Gibson started a new regional partnership across Western Canada with T&S Brass, manufacturer of commercial plumbing faucets and fixtures for the foodservice, industrial, commercial plumbing, and laboratory markets. bartlegibson.com
>> Saniflo Canada has appointed Canma Sales Agency as its new plumbing wholesale-channel representative for the greater Ottawa and Gatineau region. Based in Ottawa, the recently established Canma Sales Agency serves the residential, commercial, and luxury product markets. saniflo.ca
>> OS&B has appointed Front Line Sales as its official agency representative for the Greater Toronto Area. Front Line will assume responsibility for manufactured product lines as well as affiliated distribution lines including Oasis, ThermaSol and Aquor. Led by Vince Cramarossa, Front Line Sales is a new manufacturer’s representative based out of Newmarket, Ont. and is representing plumbing brands to a variety of segments across the province. osb.ca
DEWALT SUPPORTS SKILLED TRADE EDUCATION AT HUMBER COLLEGE
Humber College in Toronto has received a donation from DeWALT to support students training to enter a career in the skilled trades, and the gift will be used to establish the DeWALT Pathways to the Trades scholarships. Two scholarships will be awarded annually as well as funding for emergency bursaries in the school’s Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology.
The donation will also supplement the Centre’s tool collection and provide funding for the Pre-Apprentice and Pathways to the Skilled Trades programs, which both include plumbing-related content. dewalt.ca
>> Noble, the wholesaler with over 50 locations across Ontario, is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2023. noble.ca
60 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM
•
Danfoss is expanding its current facility in Apodaca, Mexico.
Louis St-Laurent
Dr. Gina Antonacci, senior vice-president, academic, Humber College (left), and Allan Hawes, general manager, Stanley Black & Decker Canada, in the DEWALT Skills Training Room at Humber.
PEOPLE
NAVAC has hired Brian Cox as director of sales for its industrial vacuum business unit. Cox has more than three decades of sales and business development experience in the industrial vacuum sector, with previous managementlevel roles with Leybold USA and Busch Vacuum Solutions, among others.
Aquatherm North America has named Derek Robinson as director of commercial business development. Previously Robinson served as eastern regional sales manager. Working nationally, he will lead the sales growth by managing and developing strategic commercial accounts. In addition, the company has appointed Jim Leary as the new eastern regional sales manager. Leary brings almost 40 years of mechanical and plumbing industry experience into his new role, recently serving as vice president of sales for Widos in North America. Also joining Aquatherm is Elizabeth Williams, who takes on the inside sales manager role.
Franklin Electric has welcomed new team members to its industrial and engineered systems (IES) business unit. Andrew Ross takes on the role of senior business unit manager – aftermarket, while Marty Lehmann serves as business unit sales manager for the industrial distribution and OEM business unit. Ross will work closely with the fleet and industrial distribution teams to provide parts in a timely and streamlined manner. Lehmann will focus on bringing Little Giant’s growing product line to OEM customers.
DAIKIN APPLIED ACQUIRES ALLIANCE AIR PRODUCTS
Daikin Applied has acquired Alliance Air Products, a San Diegobased custom air-handling equipment design and manufacturing company. Alliance Air’s expertise adds to the Daikin portfolio of equipment for data centre cooling, and other mission-critical and custom applications.
Data centre construction is expected to grow at a high rate through 2028 and beyond, accelerating the demand for cooling solutions with an emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability. The combined capabilities of Daikin and Alliance Air address these industry requirements, including chiller-to-computer room air-handler (CRAH) systems. daikinapplied.com
JOBBER PROMOTING GRANTS PROGRAM
Jobber, the Canadian-based business software company for home service businesses, is accepting applications for its Jobber Grants program that recognizes home service excellence across Canada and the U.S. In total, 25 businesses will be awarded grants totaling US$150,000.
The grants are organized into the following categories: home service heroes; career builders; smooth operators; and community caretakers.
Any residential service business owner 18 years old or older, residing in Canada or the U.S. (excluding Québec) is eligible. Applications will be accepted until June 8th. Finalists will be announced in August 2023 ( jobber.com/grants).
In addition, in early February Jobber raised US$100 million in capital led by equity investor General Atlantic along with existing investors Summit Partners, Version One Ventures, and Tech Pioneers Fund. The additional round of financing is to support the software company’s growth through investments in R&D, sales and marketing, and new customer acquisition.
The company reports to service over 200,000 service pros in various industries including plumbing and HVAC across 60 countries. jobber.com
ENGINEER
Quin-Sea Fisheries is a leading fish processing company based in Newfoundland and Labrador that has provided quality North Atlantic Seafood to markets around the globe for over 35 years. This well-earned reputation for quality has global presence through the company’s owner, Royal Greenland, one of the leading sea food groups in the world.
Currently, we have an opening for an Engineer at our processing facility located in Old Perlican, NL.
Reporting to the Chief engineer, the successful candidate will be part of an engineering team, working rotating shifts on a predetermined schedule. The successful candidate will:
• Safely operate and maintain the company refrigeration, steam, and ice systems in accordance with the Boiler & Pressure Vessel Act and Regulations.
• Troubleshoot and repair in a safe, orderly, and timely manner
• Operate and maintain Freon, Ammonia, Steam system
• Complete readings, recordings and daily log and necessary forms as required to operate a boiler-room.
• Assist in plant electrical and maintenance
• Be familiar with regulations of department of labour, boiler inspection branch
The Engineering position requires the individual to be comfortable working with Freon, Ammonia and Boiler systems, competent working with technical equipment and able to complete tasks independently.
All eligible candidates will be required to possess a minimum 4th Class Certificate or Refrigeration B with work-related technical experience.
If you wish to be a part of an organization and corporate culture that encourages success, please submit your detailed resume to HRquinsea@royalgreenland.com, referencing Engineer
We thank you all for your interest but only those candidates who are selected for an interview will be contacted.
Quin-Sea Fisheries Limited is an equal opportunity employer
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 61
MSN >
Cox Williams
Lehmann
Leary Ross
Robinson
HPAC_Quin-SeaFisheries_Mar23_CWM.indd 1 2023-02-28 2:48 PM
Triangle Tube’s Dependable Arsenal of Products just got Bigger
The Instinct Floor Standing Boiler is the latest addition to Triangle Tube’s innovative product portfolio. Contractors are raving at the simplicity of the installation and labor savings due in part to left or right-side boiler & gas connections, our CTRLMAX 60-second setup, and the Caleffi 548 Series Separator (shown mounted). Other perks include a stainless-steel fire tube heat exchanger, AFUE efficiency rating of 95%, peace of mind warranty (up to 10-year heat exchanger, 6-year parts, and 3-year labor), our No-Fault Forward manufacturing process, and Combi units with a remarkable 5+ GPM DHW output!
Floor Standing units also come factory equipped with Tsync Wi-Fi Connectivity. This application works with Tsync Module 1.0 offering an efficient way to access and monitor boiler information with remote diagnostics and troubleshooting right from your smartphone or computer. It is quick and easy to install with our step-by-step start up guide. Now available for download on IOS or Android.
Instinct also offers a reliable Wall Hung boiler. Including similar features such as: a stainless-steel fire tube heat exchanger, AFUE efficiency rating of 95%, peace of mind warranty, No-Fault Forward manufacturing process, CTRLMAX 60-second setup, Tsync compatible, and industry leading 5+ GPM DHW output in Combi units.
All Instincts are available in Solo 110, 155, and 199 and Combi 155, and 199.
Our Smart 316 is an excellent choice for an indirect fired water heater. It offers exclusive “Tank-in-Tank” technology, a 316L stainless-steel inner tank, acid pickling for increased corrosion resistance, a self-cleaning / self-descaling heat exchanger, 2” polyurethane foam insulation, and improved dry wall testing aiding in an average 20-year tank life span. 7 sizes are available to address both Residential and Commercial market needs, all with our peace of mind warranty. The Residential warranty offers up to a limited lifetime tank, 6-year components and parts, and 3-year labor allowance. The Commercial warranty offers up to 6-year tank, 6-year components and parts, and 3-year labor allowance.
For more information on all of our heating and hot water products, please visit our website at triangletube.com or check us out on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!
PRESENTED BY Spring 2023
www.triangletube.com TRIANGLE TUBE
Innovations and
Caleffi 548 Series Separator (Shown Mounted)
With the Latest
Long-Lasting Reliability, it’s the TRUS TED PRODUCT LINE .
BATHROOM DESIGN TRENDS
BY HPAC STAFF
Whether in new build custom homes or renovations to existing houses, bathrooms are where more homeowners a placing a strong design focus. Much more than simply a space to carry out daily routines, the bathroom is a statement space, and recent design trends reveal how contractors will be fitting out washrooms in the years ahead.
According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s (NKBA) 2023 Design Trends report released last October, the bathroom is transforming from a place of basic functionality to a barrier-free space that offers sanctuary, a spa-like retreat.
The NKBA report notes that this is particularly relevant for a growing segment of the population who are looking to age in place.
LARGER AND INFLUENCED BY NATURE
In many cases, the report indicates that walls are coming down to increase the bathroom’s footprint by connecting it to adjacent rooms. And a majority of the designers surveyed for the report indicate that bathtubs are being removed to allow for larger customized showers.
The shower spaces can accommodate two people, often with zero-clearance, no-step, entrances and multiple showerheads. For higher-end bathrooms that can accommodate the space, signature designer bathtubs are still being featured as a focal point.
POST-PANDEMIC WELLNESS
In a presentation last fall, Danielle Deboe Harper, senior creative style
manager with Moen, together with Jessica Birchfield, principal industrial designer with Moen, outlined Movements in Design Influencing 2023 & Beyond. The duo highlighted the trend towards home holistic wellness, a shift that was happening before the pandemic and has only gained steam since.
They identified how the emphasis on personal wellness was also influenced by environmental wellness, a focus on a planet-friendly lifestyle trend.
One of the megatrends they point to is biophilic design, incorporating natural colours and organic forms in spaces to address the innate human desire to commune with nature.
This trend is also echoed by Maris Park Borris, an industrial designer with
Continued on p68
64 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM
PHOTO COURTESY MOEN
< PLUMBING
Modern bathroom design incorporate soft natural colours and materials, open spaces and barrierfree entry points for easier access for a growing population that is aging in place.
Residential bathroom designs are trending towards larger barrier-free spaces with spa-like appeal.
Spring 2023
PRESENTED BY
SANIFLO CANADA
Saniflo Canada’s condensate removal solutions consist of the Sanicondens and Sanicondens Best Flat. The series offers an easy solution to pump condensate away from condensing boilers and air conditioners by combining a condensate pump with pHneutralizing pellet tray into a single, spacesaving, environmentally friendly solution for today’s ultra-high-efficiency condensing equipment. While neutralizers and condensate pumps have historically been installed separately, the Sanicondens Series combines them into one system, creating a more sophisticated, 2-in-1 approach.
www.saniflo.ca
While the two condensate pumps have similar functions, the Sanicondens Best Flat condensate pump is a low-profile pump and has nearly double the tank volume, up to a total of 500,000 Btu per hour. Both pumps can accommodate residential and commercial, including boilers, water heaters, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems and other appliances.
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ProVore® Grinder
The pump comes with a 2” vertical style discharge (common on solids-handling pumps) and a standard leg pattern matching Liberty’s LE-Series. This allows for an easy retro-fit into already existing systems. Engineered with flow rates to 46 GPM – the ProVore® provides adequate scouring in 2” discharge lines with lower pumping heads commonly found in residential basement installations.
Compact factory assembled systems are available in both simplex and duplex versions. The ProVore®380 uses Liberty’s very popular PRO380 basin.
The ProVore®680 is a compact duplex version of the 380. Standing only 24” tall, this small profile duplex system utilizes two ProVore® pumps for uninterrupted service.
Whether it’s a traditional solids-handling pump or a newer style grinder, Liberty’s broad offering of products can satisfy a variety of pump applications, and with its aggressive product development strategy, you can be assured Liberty will continue to meet the needs of today’s rapidly evolving market.
The ProVore® grinder from Liberty Pumps is designed for use in applications where addition of a bathroom or other fixtures below sewer lines requires pumping. Traditionally, solids-handling sewage pumps in the 4/10 hp. to 1/2 hp range, have been used for these applications. The solids-handling sewage pump design passes waste and solids through the pump in full-form without shredding or grinding. With lower pumping heads typically only being 8 to 10 feet (the height of a residential basement), this technology, for years, has provided a reliable cost-effective means to add a bathroom or other fixtures below gravity sewer lines; however, while providing an effective solution, the solids-handling pumps are susceptible to jamming on unwanted debris – such as feminine products, rags or other difficult solids that may get flushed into the system. This is where the ProVore® comes in. It features Liberty’s patented V-Slice® cutter technology utilized in its popular Omnivore® series of 2 hp. grinder pumps. This proven cutter design easily shreds solids - such as feminine products, rags and other unwanted debris. The ProVore® brings this advanced technology down to a more cost-effective residential level. Powered by a 1 hp motor, this smaller grinder is designed to operate on a standard 115- or 230-volt circuit – requiring only a 20-amp breaker. No special wiring, as is necessary with larger hp grinder pumps, is needed. ProVore®380
PRESENTED BY Spring 2023
LIBERTY PUMPS See us at MCEE | Booth #1208
Liberty PRG
libertypumps.com
Model 257 Model 237 ∞ Quick-connect power cords ∞ Magnetically activated float switches ∞ Quiet operation ∞ Energy e cient designs All models feature 800-543-2550 - LibertyPumps.com Copyright © Liberty Pumps, Inc. 2023 All rights reserved. COOL RUNNING CLASSIC CAST IRON? OR The choice is yours. Whether you prefer sleek finned motor housings with superior cooling e ciency, or the traditional solid weight of heavy cast iron, Liberty Pumps proudly builds the most reliable sump pumps for the plumbing professional. 225% Better cooling e ciency than cast iron! Proudly made in the USA with US and global components.
Delta Faucet who has outlined a series of home design trends for 2023. “Natural materials are acting as showcase materials — from concrete to stones, woods, porcelain, tile and crystal,” says Park Borris. “We are finding a lot of these natural materials are timeless in influencing mood and design.”
From a faucet and fixture manufacturer’s perspective, this is leading to more soft metal finishes that complement the natural materials in the bathroom, and curved flowing designs are being introduced to mimic organic materials found in nature.
TECHNICAL IMPACT
In contrast to the emotional softness of natural design, another trend in the bathroom is what the Moen designers refer to as the Impact Revolution—brands having an impact on society, sustainability, and eco-friendly design, which also incorporates new technology.
A media release highlighting the NKBA report indicates that from the floor, to lighting, to water temperature, designers are seeing an increase in requests for technology that enhances the ease, comfort and customization of the bathroom.
Heated floors and smart control thermostats are becoming a norm according to the report, while other technologies such as motion sensors for lighting, speakers in the shower and even the integration of lighting and physical therapy options for showers are gaining traction.
INTERNATIONAL THEMES
In the lead up to the global plumbing and heating show ISH 2023, taking place in Frankfurt, Germany (March 1317), the show organizers released a bathroom trend report with four areas of focus. The key trend is sustainability of design. Bathrooms should not only look good, but they should also be sus -
tainable, and that involves taking a holistic view and includes an optimal combination of smart, water-saving and energy-saving products, eco-friendly materials and enduring design. The enduring design includes planning for the long term, making the space barrierfree and suitable for the elderly.
The second trend is the tiny or compact bathroom, specifically designed for small urban spaces. These bathrooms incorporate a simple aesthetic with smart solutions.
The third and fourth trends relate to those already discussed, the bathroom for wellbeing (a luxurious spa-like retreat), and the emotional bathroom (which serves as a feel-good space). The spa-like experience is a space where all the senses come alive – with
water as the key element. They can include individually programmable showers, a clean design and smart products for therapeutic lighting and experienceenhancing multimedia features for health-promoting activities.
An emotional bathroom design is based on natural colour, light and sensory appeal, achieved by means of smart fixtures, but where the actual technology vanishes behind the wall.
FINAL WORD
As homeowners embrace new designer trends featured in showrooms and magazines, it’s important for contractors to be aware of the new products and direction the market is taking. But ultimately, it is the homeowner who will lead the design with some professional direction.
“There are so many beautiful products on the market; homeowners should seek products that not only are beautiful, but also impactful,” says Park Borris. “Design should evoke emotion. Homeowners want to create new experiences in their spaces and are encouraged to do so now more than ever.” <>
68 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM
PHOTO: MESSE FRANKFURT GMBH/PIETRO SUTERA
Continued from p64 < PLUMBING
“Heated floors and smart control thermostats are becoming a norm.”
The global ISH 2023 show, taking place in Frankfurt, Germany (March 13-17), includes a Pop up my Bathroom showcase which will feature the latest European technology and design trends, including this washbasin mirror combination.
Join us on April 19 and 20, 2023
New location: Palais des congrès de Montréal
The most important trade show for the building, electrical and lighting services industry in Canada is back.
Discover: Free seminars to meet continuing education requirements. Close to 400 exhibitors from Québec, Canada and the United States showcasing thousand of products.
About 100 new products highlighting the ingenuity of the industry.
New ideas and solutions on sustainable development, energy efficiency and rational use of water.
Free registration until April 18, 2023.
Hosted by:
Produced by:
mcee.ca
cetaf.qc.ca cmeq.org cmmtq.org ciph.com
IPEX
RadonXTM Soil Gas Venting
RadonXTM is the first engineered PVC piping solution that is specifically designed, tested, and labeled to address the need for collecting and venting soil gas from the sub-slab area to help reduce indoor radon levels. Focusing on low-rise construction, RadonX is designed to maximize system integrity including compatible gas collection (perforated) and vent (non-perforated) pipes, fittings, solvent cement, and accessories. The physical dimensions and tolerances of RadonX pipe and fittings comply with CSA B181.2 and Section 9.13 Soil Gas Ingress of the 2015 National Building Code of Canada.
System XFR® PVC DWV
System XFR® is the world’s first engineered PVC DWV system rated for high buildings and air plenums, where the National Building Code mandates more stringent flame spread and smoke development requirements.
Suitable for use in combustible and noncombustible environments, System XFR®’s advanced material has a flame spread rating of 25 and smoke developed classification of 50 which permit it to be installed in high buildings and air return plenums in accordance with local codes.
System 15® PVC DWV
AquaRise® Hot & Cold Potable Water Systems
AquaRise® Hot and Cold Potable Water Systems provide a complete system of pipes, valves and fittings that are code compliant, offer ease of installation and simplified transitions. Piping has been developed to SDR 11 and SDR 21 wall thickness.
SDR 11 is for Hot & Cold and SDR 21 is exclusively for Cold water distribution.
The System of Choice for low-rise and light commercial buildings, System 15® pipe and fittings are engineered to withstand years of uninterrupted service. Made of tough, impact-resistant PVC, System 15 will not corrode, even under continuous exposure to moisture, salts, aggressive soils, and most acids, ensuring years of reliable, maintenance-free flow. www.ipexna.com
PRESENTED BY Spring 2023
PROTECT the HOMES You BUILD with RadonX™
Radon gas is a colourless, odourless gas that occurs naturally from decaying uranium in the soil. Over time, it can seep into a home through cracks and openings in the foundation and, if not adequately vented, potentially pose a serious health hazard.
The RadonX™ Soil Gas Venting System from IPEX is a complete piping solution designed to improve air flow and consists of a solid vent pipe, perforated gas collector pipe, standard fittings, termination accessories, and solvent cement. It’s easy to install and to identify, and it features a permanent joining system along with an exclusive rain cap.
As a contractor or home builder, building safe homes for families is your first priority. Reduce the risk of radon gas exposure with RadonX™ Soil Gas Venting.
Open your IOS or Android device and scan here for more information
RadonX TM and Peace of Mind from the Ground UpTM are trademarks used under license. Peace of Mind from the Ground-Up™
RadonXTM Soil and Gas Venting ipexna.com | 1-866-473-9462 FOLLOW US IPEX Group of Companies Visit us at the MCEE Expo Booth 315
Did you know… Exposure to radon gas is a growing concern and is a preventable risk. Check with your building authority to confirm what your local requirements are when it comes to radon gas mitigation.
KBIS 2023 AWARD WINNERS
BY HPAC STAFF
Ahighlight of the annual Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) is the reveal of the Best of KBIS Award winners. This year, just prior to KBIS 2023 (January 31 - February 2 in Las Vegas), the show announced 50 Best of Show finalists, narrowed down from over 100 entries.
The Best of Show, Judges Choice and other top Awards were revealed at KBIS. Unfortunately, some of this year’s winners are not yet readily available in Canada, but the awards provide the industry with a valuable preview of what’s to come in the market. Following are some of the top Awards and finalists from this year’s KBIS Show. <>
The Italian manufactured inFINE Column Shower by S.G. SRL won the Best of KBIS Gold in the Bath category and also claimed the Judges Choice – Impact Award. This outdoor shower features a small diameter and a unique quick-connect system at its base. The minimalist design includes a comfortable shower jet heat that can rotate 360-degrees.
The overall Best in Show and Best of KBIS Gold in the kitchen category went to the Baveno hide-away kitchen sink system from BOCCHI. This unique set of sinks with telescoping faucets and accessories allow the inset sink to be completely covered to provide more counter space.
The Best of KBIS Connected Home Technology Gold award went to the Moen Smart Sprinkler Controller and Smart Wireless Soil Sensors. Not really a kitchen or bath product, this connected system is part of the company’s Smart Water Network, and it controls a home’s irrigation system from an app.
Kohler received a Best of KBIS finalist for its Purist Suspend kitchen faucet, a minimalist, sleek unit with its hose mounted on the ceiling adjustable for 8-ft. to 10-ft. ceilings. A swing arm offers 180 degrees of rotation, and the faucet offers various spray options and is available in polished chrome, stainless, matte black, and brass.
A Best of KBIS finalist, the Allaria bath collection from Brizo features a widespread lavatory faucet and represents a soft modernism, combining curved geometric shapes with split finishes. It comes in a variety of finishes and details.
The Moen Verso Rainshower, a Best of KBIS finalist, allows users to easily disconnect the showerhead from the shower arm thanks to Moen’s Magnetix technology. For easy cleaning, simply remove the showerhead wipe clean, then snap back into place – no tools required.
The Amahle bath collection from ROHL, another Best of KBIS finalist, reflects the trend of soft modernism and combines flow and form, straight contours and curves, creating a sense of dynamism and movement. Available in faucets, tub fillers, accessories and shower solutions.
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< PLUMBING
DeWALT has released its new 20V Max compact press tool (DCE210) and several new jaw and ring press attachments for plumbers, pipefitters, and HVAC/R technicians. The new press tool provides broad press versatility in a compact design that allows for pressing in small spaces. Featuring a lightweight inline design, the press tool is suited for work in overhead and one-handed press applications. Onboard design features include a 180-degree rotating head allowing for optimal pressing. dewalt.ca
Nibco expanded its Wrot Racer push fittings line to include new configurations such as reducing and repair tees and couplings, additional sizes of male and female thread adapters, thread elbows and caps with drains. Designed to join copper, CPVC-CTS, PEX and PE-RT (with stiffeners) for transitions between piping systems, the push fittings are manufactured in the U.S. of 99.9% pure wrot copper. Available in ½-in. to 1-in. sizes, the fittings can be installed wet or dry and can handle applications up to 200 psi and 200F. nibco.com
Watts has introduced the LFUSG-HWP, a new under sink guardian point-of-use mixing valve with hot water purge. The four-port valve features a hot water purge lever that allows facilities to perform a sanitization at the faucet with “the flip of a switch.” Benefits include increased safety with quick sanitization at the point of use, while also allowing the rest of the facility to function without a full system shutdown, meaning uninterrupted water distribution. watts.com
Milwaukee’s new cordless MX Fuel pipe threading machine uses the company’s RedLithium batteries allowing for easy transportation, fast set up and clean up, even in remote sections of a jobsite. The new machine comes with the Milwaukee NPT pipe threading die head with micro-adjust which enables controlled die adjustments and its auto release mechanism controls the thread length. The machine can be used with the company’s universal pipe threading dies and compatible with other universal style dies. milwaukeetool.ca
OS&B has launched its new Total 1 line of bath wastes. Available in ABS and PVC models, with multiple kit types and closure mechanisms, the new Total 1 system includes both offset and direct drain bath waste configurations in one bag, with no wasted parts. The new line will allow contractors to keep both offset and direct drain bath waste kits in their trucks, as the Total 1 kit can accommodate either situation. osb.ca
Bell & Gossett’s series e-90E smart pump combines with the Xylem smart motor (IE5 permanent magnet) offering a fully integrated system. Twelve standard e-90E smart pump models are available. Three phase models are 208230/460V, up to 3HP (2.2kW). Motors contain integrated VFD capable of operating at multiple speeds ranging from 800 to 3600 RPM. The smart pumps are designed for small commercial HVAC systems with a wide range of applications including hydronic heating and cooling, pressure boosting, refrigeration and heat exchanger circulation. bellgossett.com
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 73 PLUMBING PRODUCTS
The Tankless You’ve Been
The Infiniti® GS and Infiniti® GR
For.
At Bradford White, innovation is important. The Infiniti® GS and GR tankless water heaters offer the energy-efficiency, high-performance and cutting-edge features you and your customers expect.
• RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL.
• OUTSTANDING RELIABLITY. Robust stainless steel heat exchanger for longer life.
• POWERFUL PERFORMANCE.
11:1 turndown, high GPM output of 5.1 GPM at a 77°F rise. High temperature setting – up to 180° F (Infiniti® GS).
• REMARKABLE FLEXIBILITY:
• Available in natural gas or propane
• Indoor or outdoor (with outdoor kit)
• Available as standard model (Infiniti® GS): Cascadable up to 16 units, common vent up to 8 units
• Or with built-in recirculation pump (Infiniti® GR)
Waiting
Scan this QR code or visit bradfordwhite.com/infinitiseries ©2023, Bradford White Corporation. All rights reserved. BWHPAC0323
FIGHTING
CORROSION & BACTERIA LIKE NO OTHER
Only Bradford White features exclusive Vitraglas® tank lining with Microban®:
• Vitraglas® provides unsurpassed protection from the corrosive effects of water.
• Microban® antimicrobial product protection helps prevent the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew on the surface of the tank lining.
Vitraglas® and Microban® offer product protection and peace of mind around-the-clock.
Microban® antimicrobial product protection helps prevent the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew that may affect the product. The built-in antimicrobial properties do not protect users or others from disease-causing organisms. Microban® is a registered trademark of Microban Products Company. ©2023, Bradford White Corporation. All rights reserved. BWHPAC0323
TURN DOWN THE VOLUME
Combatting excessive noise levels in HVAC and refrigeration systems – likely sources and fixes.
BY DAVE DEMMA
We live in a noisy world. Airplanes, automobiles, construction sites, loudspeakers in public areas, television, radio or streaming music, and also that obnoxious individual in the airport who believes you’re interested in listening to their conversation, or their favorite Instagram real of the moment.
The incessant snorer in the room sharing a common wall to your hotel room, and even the annoying dullness of white noise. For example, the restroom exhaust fan that has been on for several hours. However, there are some studies that suggest some amount of light background noise will increase worker productivity. Personally, I find this type of noise very distracting.
And as odd as it may seem, being out in the serenity of nature away from the drumbeat of the city, the absence of noise almost becomes deafening.
Then there’s the constant droning of that package HVAC unit or chiller providing the ultimate comfort in your building, or the refrigeration equipment tasked
with keeping your Häagen-Dazs vanilla swiss almond at the perfect temperature.
The unit of measure for sound is the decibel. A whisper is about 30 dB, normal conversation is about 60 dB, and a motorcycle engine running is about 95 dB.
Noise above 70 dB over a prolonged period may start to damage your hearing. Loud noise above 120 dB can cause immediate harm to your ears.
The chart below (Figure 1) provides some perspective as to the human ear’s ability to perceive sound.
Noise levels in the workplace can be annoying, result in a loss of worker productivity, and even hazardous.
A workplace has hazardous noise if one needs to raise their voice to be heard. Hazardous noise can be best described as (1) too high pitched, (2) too loud, or (3) too long, or a combination therein. And repeated exposure to hazardous noise can lead to permanent hearing loss.
Let’s look at some specific steps that can be taken in order to reduce the noise generated by HVAC and refrigeration equipment.
COMPRESSORS
Compressors are noisy. The reciprocating action of the internal parts will cause vibrations that can be transmitted through a building’s structure. Vibration isolation mounts can reduce these vibrations (note the vibration mounts in the opening photo).
In addition, larger systems with long refrigerant piping runs and remote condensers are unpredictable. Variations in the piping configuration, the pattern of the refrigerant gas flow, line sizing and operating pressures have a great impact on noise generation.
A particular combination of gas flow and piping can result in a resonant frequency which may amplify the sound and vibration to an undesirable level.
Refrigerant gas pulsation from the compressor can also be similarly amplified. A discharge muffler, which employs a series of baffles and/or pressure drop to obtain an even gas flow will dampen
76 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM
PHOTO: ALACATR/GETTY IMAGES
< REFRIGERATION
Difference in Sound Level Perceptible difference in sound level 1-2 dB No perceptible difference in sound level 3 dB Threshold of human perception of a difference in sound level 6 dB Clearly noticeable difference in sound level 10 dB Human perception is twice the sound level Figure 1. Different sound levels and perception by human ears.
the discharge gas pulsations to a frequency that is not so objectionable.
There might be occasions when a combination of operating conditions, mounting and piping arrangement may result in a resonant condition. This will tend to magnify compressor pulsation and cause a sharp vibration, but not necessarily be a noise problem.
If approved by the particular compressor manufacturer, muffler plates have been found to dampen excessive pulsation. The muffler plate fits between the discharge valve and the compressor body and has a number of
muffling holes to provide the proper characteristics for the particular compressor displacement. The muffling holes break up the pattern of gas flow and create sufficient restriction to reduce the gas pulsation to a minimum.
As a final measure, a compressor noise blanket can be applied (as pictured), an approximate 5 dBA reduction can be achieved.
FAN MOTORS
Condenser fan motors are available in varying RPM ratings. The higher the RPM, the greater the air flow through the condenser, so this is great for maximizing capacity. However, the higher the RPM the noisier the condenser will be too.
The chart above (Figure 2) shows comparative capacity and dBA rating for a four-fan condenser (1X4). There is a definite tradeoff between noise and capacity.
For a given Btu capacity, the slower the motor speed, the larger the con -
denser will need to be, which will add cost. However, certain municipalities might have specific noise requirements which would require the use of a more expensive slower RPM motor.
Also, the chart illustrates that the EC motors provide the same capacity as the higher 1140 RPM motor, but they have a lower dBA rating.
Reducing the motor speed certainly will reduce the noise emitted by the motor/fan combination. This can be achieved with variable speed EC motors or applying a VFD to standard VFD rated motors.
PROTECTION = PREVENTION
As I’m getting into my senior years, I often reflect on how the human body loses some of its marvelous capacity over time, and then I dovetail that with some of the stupid things I did in my early years when I believed I was invincible.
Continued on p80
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 77
Note the vibration mounts on this rooftop unit.
# Fans Motor RPM Capacity MBH (Per 1°F TD) Dba 4 550 22.37 57.3 4 850 30.91 66.3 4 1140 36.20 74.3 4 EC 36.20 71.0
Figure 2. Comparative capacity and dBA rating for a four-fan condenser.
RLS FITTINGS
Usage of RLS press fittings continues to grow among HVAC/R contractors in Canada
Although plumbing contractors have enjoyed the benefits of press-to-connect fittings since the 1990s, it wasn’t until 2015 that RLS (Rapid Locking System) introduced the first press fittings designed for the high pressures of HVAC and refrigeration systems.
Today, after more than 8 years, RLS press fittings are now in widespread use around the world, with more than 15 million fittings installed. Canada in particular has been a tremendous growth market for RLS over the past few years, as more and more contractors adopt the technology. Some of the factors driving this growth are discussed below.
Faster, easier, safer installation.
RLS fittings make reliable copper tube connections in just 10 seconds, saving significant time and labor costs compared to manually brazing joints. Eliminating the use of an open flame also increases safety, and means contractors no longer need to haul heavy tanks and other brazing equipment to and from the jobsite. Plus, no brazing means no need to nitrogen purge, another time saver.
Proven to be reliable and repeatable.
RLS fittings were specifically designed and engineered for the high pressures of HVAC/R, and have gone through rigorous testing to prove their reliability. They are CRN registered (#0A22551 and #0A18303) and are UL listed for pressures up to 700 psi. RLS connections are easily repeatable – and only require minimal training – compared to the potential inconsistency of manual brazing.
Unique technology, with 360˚ metal-to-metal connections.
Unlike hexagonal press systems used in plumbing, the patented RLS press technology uses a double circular press – featuring two 360˚ metal-to-metal connections. Plus, the fittings start as soft copper and are work hardened during the press, creating a permanent bond to the tube and resulting in a permanent mechanical joint every time.
A range of tool and jaw options.
With RLS-compatible jaws available for most press tools on the market – RIDGID, Milwaukee, Klauke, Rothenberger, Viega, Dewalt and others – contractors who already own a press tool only need to purchase the jaws (only in the sizes they use) to enjoy the time savings and other benefits of RLS fittings.
To learn more, visit rapidlockingsystem.com
PRESENTED BY Spring 2023
The most proven, most trusted HVAC/R press fittings.
✔ In widespread use since 2015
✔ CRN registered and UL listed
✔ More than 15 million fittings installed
Trust the original HVAC/R press fittings for proven reliability and an unmatched track record of success. Our unique, patented, double circular press results in two 360˚ metal-to-metal connections with each press, creating a permanent mechanical joint every time. Plus, RLS-compatible jaws are available for all major press tool brands.
• Connections in 10 seconds
• CRN 0A22551 and 0A18303
• UL Listed to 700 psi
• 360˚ metal-to-metal joints
• No gas or brazing materials
• No flame, no fire hazards
• No burn permits
• No fire spotters
• No nitrogen purging
• 15-year limited warranty
rapidlockingsystem.com
Download the RLS Toolbox App: Become an RLS Certified Installer: Visit us at Booth 906! April 19 & 20
For example: In college, I attended a Hot Tuna concert. This was a blues band, with the primary members being Jack Cassidy (bass guitar) and Jorma Kaukonen (guitar) from the Jefferson Airplane. I imagine that the sound level was well over the 100 dB level, as my ears were still sore the next day.
Then there were the numerous times working in extremely loud machine rooms without any ear protection.
All jurisdictions in Canada have the requirement for workers to use personal protective equipment (PPE). And employers are responsible for making sure that PPE requirements are being followed. In the U.S., OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) requires the following:
Employers shall make hearing protectors available to all employees exposed to an 8-hour time-weighted average of
85 decibels or greater at no cost to the employees. Hearing protectors shall be replaced as necessary.
Whether one’s employer provides it or not, I would strongly recommend that every technician acquire some ear protection for those long days replacing a compressor or otherwise occupied in a noisy machine room.
It’s always easier to prevent damage to the body, then attempt to repair it after the fact. <>
Dave Demma holds a degree in refrigeration engineering and worked as a journeyman refrigeration technician before moving into the manufacturing sector where he regularly trains contractor and engineering groups. He can be reached at ddemma@uri.com.
80 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM
PHOTOS: SURANTO/ADOBE STOCK; BRINMAR LTD.
<
REFRIGERATION
Continued from p77
Noise-reducing sound blankets for compressors.
Hearing protection is essential prevention to long-term hearing loss for technicians.
When in comes to condenser fan motors, the higher the RPM the greater the air flow but also the noisier the condenser will be.
A bright idea for our future. Discover the benefits of R-32.
Forane® 32 refrigerant is your replacement solution–bridging the present with the future–under the global HFC phasedown.
With global acceptance, R-32 has been used in over 100 million units, providing the HVAC industry a lower cost and lower GWP alternative.
• Higher capacity and efficiency vs. R-410A
• Potential to reduce system size, with a lower charge amount
• Single component refrigerant, with zero glide and easier maintenance
For more information call 416-464-4568 or visit us on the web at forane.arkema.com
ARKEMA PRESENTED BY Spring 2023
Learn more about our R-32 refrigerant product by visiting our website forane.arkema.com For more information call (416) 464-4568 or visit us on the web at forane.arkema.com Forane® is a registered trademark of Arkema. © 2023 Arkema Inc. All rights reserved. Products for Today and Tomorrow HPAC_Arkema_March23.indd 1 2023-03-14 10:22 AM
Why HoldRite’s Engineered #117 Series No-Hub Fitting Restraints are a Better Solution
HoldRite has developed a convenient, lab-tested and third-party engineer - certified solution that has made makeshift field-devised pipe restraints completely unnecessary.
Compared to field-devised restraints, HoldRite’s series of no-hub fitting restraint solutions are:
Faster to install
The restraints are delivered in boxes ready to install, reducing installation time to just a few minutes.
Reliable
If installed per manufacturer’s instructions, the restraint systems are rated for up to 50 feet of head pressure – far more than the minimal 10 feet of head pressure required by the Code.
No-hub cast iron pipe joints can and do come apart under pressure, often with catastrophic results. Although the International Plumbing Code specifies the use of restraints for cast iron soil pipes greater than four inches, the untested field-devised solutions can still find their way into projects.
Less expensive
An engineered solution generally costs less in time and materials, saving the contractor from 30 to 50 percent in “total installed costs.”
Numerous Configurations
Installs in minutes without on-site cutting, bending, measuring, or modifications needed. With over 160 configurations and sizes up to 15”, HoldRite #117 Series No-Hub Fitting Restraints provide the ideal professional solution for no-hub DWV joints in potential thrust force situations.
holdrite.com/ca/en/dwv-plumbing/ dwv-no-hub-fitting-restraints
PRESENTED BY Spring 2023 See us at MCEE | Booth #517
RWC
We support you in more ways than one. HoldRite #117 Series No-Hub Fitting Restraints HoldRite QuickStand Equipment Platforms HoldRite TestRite Inline DWV Testing System HoldRite HydroFlame Pro Series Cast-in-Place Firestop Sleeves HoldRite’s innovative product solutions are transforming the trade. See how at holdrite.com. MCEE Booth #517
IMPROVING WORKFLOW AND INCREASING PROFITABILITY
BY PAUL SCHUBERT
Since they were introduced to the industry in the late 1990s, press fittings have become the preferred method of installation for plumbing contractors around the world. Creating safe, reliable and cost-effective pipe connections, it was immediately clear to plumbers that the benefits of press fittings outweighed those of the traditional brazing, welding and soldering processes.
Nearly 20 years later, HVAC/R contractors finally have a similar method of their own. Like their plumbing counterparts, HVAC press fittings offer an alternative to the conventional process of brazing, providing contactors and MROs
with an added approach to joining HVAC/R lines that is not only consistent and reliable, but also enhances on-site efficiencies and overall profitability.
The only differences between HVAC/R and plumbing press fittings are the shapes of the fittings, the sealing agent inside and level of PSI approvals.
While hexagonal press fittings are standard in plumbing, circular press fittings were engineered to endure the high-pressure applications of HVAC/R.
The fittings are installed through a press-to-connect process that can be applied in a matter of just seconds, offering contactors a complete and permanent mechanical connection that is 60% faster
than the traditional brazing method.
Although the adoption of press fittings by the HVAC industry has been slow, their popularity is steadily increasing. Since Rapid Locking System (RLS) first introduced press fittings in 2015, more than 15 million of these fittings have been installed worldwide and the demand is only expected to grow exponentially in the coming years – and for good reason.
PRESS FITS IMPROVE WORKFLOW & PROFITABILITY
It only takes about 10 seconds to install each press fitting properly and consistently, while brazing can take up to four
84 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM
Press fittings are gaining ground in HVAC/R projects as more contractors get on board and embrace the benefits.
< HVAC/R PHOTOS COURTESY RLS
minutes per connection, even for the experienced contractor.
While the investment in a press tool might seem steep initially, the long-term cost benefits of cutting down on brazing materials such as gas and mitigation supplies, coupled with efficient labour, outweigh the one-time upfront cost of these tools.
Contractors with better on-site efficiency can complete projects in less time, which is often the component in pricing that can drive up costs the most and make or break a customer’s decision to accept a bid on their project.
HVAC/R repairs and installations can be completed successfully by fewer people and in significantly less time with press fittings. This quicker installation timeline reduces both the cost of labour and materials, which can help contractors boost productivity and their overall profitability, as well as potentially secure more projects.
The ability to conduct a flameless installation is also a compelling selling point for bids on projects where an open flame poses risk to structures and their occupants or in situations that would force clients to halt their own work due to hot work permit regulations.
Because of their flameless advantage, press fittings are often used for projects at historical buildings, industrial sites or health care facilities.
Another way in which press fittings can improve workflow is by the consistency in replication that the tool offers. While the success of brazing depends on the skill of the contractor, press fittings are installed with a tool and jaw that handles most of the work and require very little training to use. This automatic process means connections are consistent between technicians and easily repeatable.
“Press enables me to do repairs where I couldn’t do them before. Take hospitals, for example, where oxygen is present and brazing isn’t an option,” says Mike Cameron, a contractor with
J.J.A. Mechanical in Vancouver. “It also makes my clients happy that I can get jobs done quicker because I don’t have to wait around for a hot work permit.”
HEALTH & SAFETY BENEFITS
No matter how skilled or experienced a contractor is, brazing always poses a fire risk. Press fittings never require the use of an open flame, which eliminates a source of fire hazards. In fact, installing press fittings completely removes the need for added fire precautions including hot work permits, fire spotters and fire safety equipment.
Using an alternative method to brazing also comes with fewer health concerns for users. While the most obvious threats to health and safety from brazing are the fire hazards that come with it, there are many other ways in which
contractors are at risk.
Brazing poses a serious risk of accidentally ingesting unsafe gases, insulation and dust for contractors working near the materials.
And no matter the weather, contractors are expected to show up and get the job done – even if it means braving the harsh Canadian winters or the unseasonably warm summers.
With press, you don’t have to worry as much about these health and safety implications. Connections are made in just seconds and there’s no torch needed, significantly decreasing the amount of time spent out in the cold or next to a flame in a hot attic.
INEXPENSIVE TRAINING
One of the more convincing aspects of using press versus brazing is the incredibly short learning curve. Unlike brazing, learning how to install press fittings doesn’t require years of supervised training and dedicated practice.
Both skilled contractors and inexperienced apprentices can learn how to properly prep tubing, operate a press tool and install the perfect fitting in just a single training session.
Continued on p86
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 85
Pressing process is straight-forward and requires minimal training.
“Any leaks that I’ve witnessed in my two years of using press have always been due to bad install practice.”
Continued from p85
Although it may be easy to pick up, that’s not to say that training isn’t necessary. Contractors need to understand how to properly use press fittings to ensure a quality connection.
“Any leaks that I’ve witnessed in my two years of using press has always been due to bad install practice,” explains Gary McCreadie, owner of McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services and founder of HVAC Know It All.
Despite the versatility and broader applications that press fittings can offer, most trade schools aren’t training apprentices on how to install them yet.
It’s up to employers to introduce press to young technicians or find someone else who can. The good news, though, is that it won’t be nearly as much of a burden to train on press than it is to supervise their attempts at brazing.
And it’s only a matter of time before apprenticeship programs catch up.
While the benefits of press are undeniable, brazing will always remain a key skill in the trade as both provide solid connection solutions. While press tools do all the work of creating the connections, tube ends are prepared similarly to the way they would be for the brazing process and there are some instances where brazing is more ideal.
For many contractors, press fittings can be another tool to add to their installation arsenal to ensure an efficient workflow and improve the company’s bottom line. <>
Paul Schubert is president of Rapid Locking System, the original flame-free press fittings specifically designed and engineered to join copper tube in high-pressure HVAC and refrigeration systems.
TWO NEW PRODUCT LINES SHOWCASED AT THE 2023 MCEE EXPO
CO2 CONDENSING UNITS
FLUID COOLERS WITH BUILT-IN PUMP PACKAGE
• CO2 integrated solution without the need for a mechanical room
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• Multiple pump brands: Armstrong, Grundfos or Wilo
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86 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM < HVAC/R
R
Pub_HPAC_2023.indd 1 2023-03-01 1:01 PM HPAC_RefPlus_March23_CSA.indd 1 2023-03-01 2:00 PM
Press connections result in repeatable and reliable mechanical joints.
PHOTO COURTESY RLS
QUALIFICATION FORM NAME _______________________________________________________________________________ COMPANY NAME ______________________________________________________________________ JOB TITLE ____________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS________________________________ UNIT/SUITE:______________ PO BOX: ____________ CITY_________________________________ PROV._______________ POSTAL CODE_______________ PHONE ____________________________________ FAX ______________________________________ ARE YOU A CURRENT SUBSCRIBER? YES_______________ NO_______________ HPAC Magazine 111 Gordon Baker Road, Suite 400, Toronto, ON M2H 3R1 TEL. 416-510-5113 FAX 416-510-6875 E-MAIL apotal@annexbusinessmedia.com WEB www.hpacmag.com TO SUBSCRIBE ONLINE – www.hpacmag.com THANK YOU FOR SUBSCRIBING Signature Date TO QUALIFY FOR A FREE SUBSCRIPTION, WE REQUIRE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION Yes! I wish to receive HPAC Magazine FREE! Choose your edition Digital Print Both What best describes your primary business (select one) Mechanical Contractor Refrigeration Service Engineer/Contractor Fuel Oil Dealer/ Contractor Wholesaler/Distributor/Agent Consulting Engineers/Specifying Writer Plumbing Inspector Government Hospitals and Related Institutions Utilities General Building Construction Others Allied to the Field (please specify) Do you specify, purchase and/or approve the purchase of mechanical products or services? Yes No FREE! Subscription Company Job Sectors (check ALL that apply) Number of Employees at this location 1-4 5-9 10-19 20-49 50-99 100-199 200-499 500-999 1000-2499 2500+ Unknown E-Mail _______________________________________________________________________________________________ I also would like to receive the HPAC E-newsletters SCAN HERE TO SUBSCRIBE Company Job Activities (check ALL that apply) Commercial Residential Industrial Institutional Plumbing (i.e. DHW, Piping etc.) Refrigeration Electric Heating Ventilation Forced Air Heating Air Conditioning Hydronic Heating Fire Protection Other (please specify)
Continuous Growth Through Precision Attention Patterson-Kelley’s two newest boiler families, the P-K SOLIS and P-K STORM are designed to ensure a boiler for any commerical building application. Whether it is the firetube technology of the SOLIS or the watertube technology of the STORM, you can rest easy knowing that you have made the right choice for the comfort of others. Making the decision easier, both come equipped standard with our state-of-the-art NURO Touchscreen Controller. Allowing users to take advantage of the best controller for boilers today. Advanced Technology with Advanced Control The Choice has Never Been More Clear Visit www.pattersonkelley.com/reps to find a representative near you Patterson-Kelley, LLC www.pattersonkelley.com • 877.728.5351
P-K SOLIS® AHRI Certified Up to 97% efficiency AHRI Certified Up to 97% efficiency Patterson-Kelley continues to deliver highly-efficient products that adapt to the needs of any commercial building. 9 650-6000 MBTU 9 Up to 97% thermal efficiency 9 316L Stainless steel coil ensures maximum corrosive resistance and durability 9 Full modulation burner with up to 10:1 mechanical turndown 9 Cabinet and heat exchanger design reduce repair and maintenance costs 9 Outdoor Capabilities 9 Variable speed combustion air blower 9 Certified at 3.5 inch Water Column minimum gas pressure 9 Pressure drops as low as 4.7’ at 40° ∆T 9 1500-3000 MBTU 9 Up to 96% Thermal Efficiency 9 Full Modulation Burner with 10:1 Mechanical Turndown 9 Ultra-Low NOx Emissions 9 316 SS Tube and Tube Sheet with a 304 SS Heat Exchanger Shell 9 Removable and Hinged Door Panels allow Quick Access to the Firetubes and Burner for Easy Boiler Maintenance 9 Zero-Clearance Capable for Side-by-Side Installation or Close Boiler Room Application 9 Compact Design Fits Through a Standard 36” Doorway
6 QUICK BUSINESS WINS
MATHEW POTTINS
When I’m not reading hydronics textbooks or watching YouTube videos about boiler technology, something else I have been obsessing about lately is the business side of the HVAC contracting industry.
I’ve asked questions. I’ve read books. I’ve studied financial statements. I've watched even more YouTube videos. And here’s what I’ve determined.
As an industry, the HVAC trade in Canada has some of the most skilled technicians and artists (artists is the right word, trust me). Daily on social media we see how HVAC contractors are very creative. We’re seeing installation photos that measure up to the likes of Picasso—the major difference being I can understand what I’m looking at when I see a boiler install.
While creativity and execution for
HVAC contractors is at its peak across the country, running an efficient business (and staying in business) can be challenging. Some contractors are doing a great job designing and building their businesses as thoughtfully as they build out their installations, but in my experience those owners are the exception - not the rule.
So, what needs to be done?
Here are six quick business wins that can be executed right away to keep your
company on track and viable.
1. Reactivation: This is the lowest hanging fruit. It only costs a little bit of time to send an email or make a phone call. Reactivation is the process of contacting a past customer and seeing if you can work with them again or follow up on a quote that you never heard back on. Make it a priority every three to six months to contact your lapsed customers with another offer and see if you can encourage them to engage your services again.
2. Community Presence (via social media): Increase your social activity! You don’t have to post a photo of your face (not yet anyway) but entering community groups on Facebook is a great way to start putting yourself out there. There are multiple Facebook groups for every neighbourhood in the world. Yours
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< MANAGEMENT
Simple tips to keep your contracting business on track. BY
“Ask for those referrals and throw your hat into the ring every chance you get and grow your network.”
PHOTO 4X6/GETTY IMAGES
is no exception, so throw your company name in the mix, provide some commentary and shake hands with some local homeowners. Hey, you might make a few new friends while increasing your revenue. If you’re feeling generous, maybe even provide a group only discount for the next three months.
3. Website: As nice as it is to have your leads come from word of mouth and referrals, it’s still important to look like a professional company. You can create a very simple website for very little cost, and the result is that you look more polished than the next guy or girl. Some online website platforms have freelance designers that work quick and cheap and will make your site exactly how you want it.
4. Google SEO: Yes, I know, Google blah blah blah, but if you are intentional with your Google presence and don’t
huge payoff. The key here is to measure your ROI. Work with a firm that can give you the right analytics and show you what your cost of customer acquisition is. I might know a guy.
5. Back to Social: I said not yet, but now is the time you must start taking some photos if not of yourself, at least of your work. No one is asking you to gain a huge following, become an influencer and earn sponsorship deals, but being on Instagram is a good way to document and show off your projects. People are very visual (refer to my opening monologue) and love to see your skilled handiwork. It can help you sell jobs when you're in the final stages of locking down a new customer, and Instagram is also a great way to collaborate with and learn from fellow technicians.
6. Referral: It’s always awkward for me to ask friends and family to pass
truth is, you're running a business and people want to help — I’ve learned this firsthand. Ask for those referrals and throw your hat in the ring every chance you get and grow your network. You never know - one job could lead to a massive snowball effect.
These are just some examples of inexpensive ways to better market your company. Of these six suggestions, only two are going to cost you money, and if approached correctly, the return on the investment will come sooner than you think.<>
Mathew Pottins has worked with HVAC manufacturers and suppliers for over a decade, and his passion is in growing the industry. Pottins recently launched a manufacturer’s representative company (Laylan Hydronics and HVAC Sales). He’s also a partner in an HVAC business
23_000707_HPAC_MAR_CN Mod: February 27, 2023 1:56 PM Print: 02/27/23 3:32:34 PM page 1 v7 STAY COOL WITH INSULATED PACKAGING π ORDER BY 6 PM FOR SAME DAY SHIPPING COMPLETE CATALOG 1-800-295-5510 uline.ca HPAC_Uline_March23.indd 1 2023-02-28 3:12 PM
CANADA’S HYDRONIC INSTALLATION CONTEST
WIN ONE OF TWO $3000 BUYING SPREES FROM EMCO!
Get your cameras ready. Be a part of Canada’s hydronic installation contest. Proud of your work? Better than the rest? It’s time to bring it on!
THERE WILL BE A WINNER IN EACH CATEGORY: COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL. ENTRY IS SIMPLE- send us pics of your installation. Include a brief description of the particular challenges that you faced with this installation and how you overcame the obstacles. This can be a new installation or a retrofit. Submissions are limited to one per contractor. Deadline to enter is July 31, 2023. All submissions will be shown at the Modern Hydronics Summit 2023. The two winners will also be announced by John Siegenthaler at the Summit. In addition to having your winning entry shared across our social media channels you’ll also be interviewed by HPAC’s editor and featured on the cover of the October edition of HPAC –
SEND ENTRIES OR QUESTIONS TO DPICKLYK@HPACMAG.COM WITH THE SUBJECT LINE “SWEET HEAT CONTEST”
SPONSORED BY...
THE SOURCE
ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE
HPACMAG.COM MARCH 2023 | HPAC 93
Adrian Steel adriansteel.com p.19 AO Smith johnwoodwaterheaters.com p.5 Arkema forane.arkema.com p.81 Bradford White ........................................................................ bradfordwhite.com .......................................................................... p.74 Caleffi ....................................................................................... caleffi.com ........................................................................................ p.50 Chemfax ................................................................................... chemfax.com .................................................................................. p.2, 3 CISC steeltrades.ca p.15 Franklin Electric littlegiant.com p.13 Fujitsu fujitsugeneral.com p.28 General Pipe Cleaners ........................................................... drainbrain.com/Flexi-Rooter ............................................................. p.6 Giant ......................................................................................... giantinc.com ....................................................................................... p.9 GLP Canada glpcanada.com p.20 Hargassner Ges mbH hargassner-northamerica.com p.53 Intellihot intellihot.com p.95 Intertek Intertek.com/HVACR p.19 IPEX .......................................................................................... ipexna.com ....................................................................................... p.70 Kane.......................................................................................... KaneTest.ca ...................................................................................... p.45 Keeprite keeprite.com p.35 Liberty Pumps LibertyPumps.com p.66 Lochinvar Lochinvar.com p.54 Lyncar ....................................................................................... lyncar.com......................................................................................... p.42 Master Group .......................................................................... master.ca .......................................................................................... p.32 MCEE MCEE.ca p.69 National Energy Equipment nee.ca p.39 Navien navieninc.com p.16 Olimpia Splendid olimpiasplendidusa.com p.36 Patterson Kelley ..................................................................... pattersonkelley.com ......................................................................... p.88 Quin-Sea Fisheries ................................................................. royalgreenland.com ......................................................................... p.61 RefPlus refplus.com p.86 RLS Fittings rapidlockingsystem.com p.78 Rosenberg Fans rosenbergcanada.com p.24 RWC .......................................................................................... holdrite.com ...................................................................................... p.82 Saniflo ...................................................................................... saniflo.com ....................................................................................... p.65 Taco .......................................................................................... tacocomfortsolutions.com ............................................................... p.10 Thermo 2000 Thermo2000.com p.58 Triangle Tube triangletube.com p.62 Uline uline.ca p.91 Viessmann ............................................................................... viessmann.ca ................................................................................... p.46
CALENDAR
FOR THE LATEST EVENT NEWS, SEE HPAC'S NEWSLETTER @ HPACMAG.COM Visit event websites for the most current updates.
2023
ACCA Conference & Expo
April 2 – 5
The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) annual conference includes a diverse group of speakers and exhibitors and allows contractors from across North America to share ideas, tactics, and best practices. This year’s event is in New Orleans. accaconference.com
Heat Pump Conference
May 15 – 18
This is the 14th edition of the International Energy Agency (IEA) Heat Pump Conference, and it’s being held in Chicago. This event is a global gathering of industry and researchers who discuss the latest advancements in the field of heat pumps. This year’s theme is “Heat Pumps – Resilient and Efficient”. hpc2023.org
AIM/R Annual Conference
September 12-15
AIM/R, the Association of Independent Manufacturers Representatives, will hold its 51st Annual Conference at the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort in Miramar Beach, Florida. This year’s theme is “Future’s So Bright!” aimr.net
IAPMO Business Conference
September 24-28
The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) will hold its 94th annual Education and Business Conference in San Antonio, Texas. This international group works in concert with government and industry for the delivery of safe, sanitary plumbing and mechanical systems. iapmo.org
Heat Pump Symposium
April 4
The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) in partnership with the Ontario Geothermal Association (OGA) is hosting a one-day gathering of industry experts and policy makers for the inaugural Heat Pump Symposium being held at the International Centre (near Toronto Pearson International Airport). heatpumpsymposium.ca
CIPH
Annual Business Conference
June 18 - 20
CIPH will be celebrating its 90th year in 2023 and will be holding its annual business conference in St John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. ciph.com
HRAI Annual Conference
September 17 – 19
The 2023 version of HRAI’s Annual Conference will take place in Montreal. Along with a series of topical panel discussion sessions, the event will also include a variety of social and networking events. hrai.ca
CIPHEX West
October 18 – 19
CIPHEX West 2023 brings a full plumbing and heating tradeshow and conference to the BMO Centre at Stampede Park in Calgary. ciph.com
MCEE
April 19 – 20
Every two years, MCEE brings together over 400 exhibitors to promote thousands of products for the plumbing and HVAC/R industries. The 2023 event will take place at the Montreal Convention Centre. mcee.ca
ASHRAE Annual Conference
June 24 – 28
The ASHRAE Annual Conference will be heading to the JW Marriott in Tampa Bay for its yearly event. Virtual options are also available for anyone who can’t make the trip. ashrae.org
Modern Hydronics Summit
September 21
Following sold out events in Ontario since 2013, the 2023 version of the Modern Hydronics Summit will be visiting a new part of Canada, the Hard Rock Casino in Coquitlam, B.C. modernhydronicssummit.com
MCAC Annual Conference
October 18 – 21
The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) is heading to wine country next fall as it will be holding its Annual National Conference at the Silverado Resort in Napa Valley, California. mcac.ca
94 HPAC | MARCH 2023 HPACMAG.COM
Planning an event? Send the details to editor@hpacmag.com
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