RefPlus® offers a full range of transcritical CO2 condensing units for low, medium and high temperature applications. They are part of the tested and proven ONS series and are specially designed to supply the perfect balance between capacity, cost-effectiveness and reliability to commercial and industrial walk-in coolers and freezers.
RefPlus® is a Canadian manufacturer of quality refrigeration equipment, proud to offer first quality products to the food and pharmaceutical industries. Visit refplus.com to see our complete lines of standard, fully customizable and CO2 equipment, as well as our family of Guardian+ controllers.
RefPlus® will be at the MCEE show on April 24 & 25, 2025. Stop by booth #2216 to meet the team!
FEATURES
18
SHOW REVIEW AN INDUSTRY IN TRANSITION
AHR Expo in Orlando revealed more heat pump options and refrigerant conversations.
By Doug Picklyk
22 COVER STORY
HVAC
HVAC CONTRACTORS AND LEGAL DISPUTES
Sharing lessons learned regarding liability, spending time in courts and dealing with insurance companies. By
Ian McTeer
30
HYDRONICS FOLLOW THE ARROWS
Sometimes the flow in a hydronics circuit doesn’t behave like you think it will, take steps to avoid reverse flow.
By John Siegenthaler
40
HYDRONICS
A RENEWABLE HEATING REVOLUTION IN THE NORTHWEST TERRITORIES
Biomass boilers are part of the mix to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while leveraging locally sourced materials.
By David Dubois
General Pipe Cleaners
Flexi-Rooter® 100
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, variablespeed motor easily lets you adjust shaft speed from zero to 2200 rpm.
www.drainbrain.com/flexi-rooter
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 or non-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
WE KNOW DRAINS INSIDE AND OUT
ANGELA GRIEB
DRAIN BRAIN FOR: 20 Years LOCATION: On the Road SPECIALTY: Relationship Building GO-TO TOOLS: Honesty & Integrity
THE SOLUTION IS CLEAR. As the industry’s Drain Brains, General Pipe Cleaners knows the ins and outs of drain cleaning better than anybody. For the last 95 years, we’ve focused solely on providing expert solutions to the biggest drain problems.
44
SHOW PREVIEW
PLENTY TO SEE AT MCEE
Over 350 exhibitors are gathering in Montreal for this year’s plumbing and HVAC/R Expo.
By Luc Boily
68 PLUMBING
WATER QUALITY MATTERS
Dealing with hard water and why water treatment systems can be a good business for plumbing professionals.
By Doug Picklyk
BUSINESS
DEBT FUELS GROWTH
Managing business borrowing requires a plan and purpose.
By Matthew Birch
REFRIGERATION
THE PROBLEM WITH MR. FROST (GAS DEFROST)
Using a refrigeration system’s internal energy to defrost the evaporator. Part two in a series on defrosting methods in refrigeration systems.
By Dave Demma
A. O. Smith Enterprises Ltd.
A. O. Smith Enterprises Ltd. continues to innovate with industry-leading products. This year at MCEE, A. O. Smith will showcase its new Adapt™ Condensing Gas Tankless Series, along with the Voltex® AL Connected Heat Pump and John Wood ProLine® Master Connected Electric (both featuring iCOMM™ connectivity). Cyclone™ Flex, the newest addition to the Cyclone™ family, will be introduced with AiQ adaptive gas technology, a 7-inch colour touch display, increased vent lengths up to 200 ft. and more! These products deliver industry-leading technologies and model selection to suit a wide range of customers and applications.
As an industry leader, A. O. Smith recognizes the importance of energy efficiency for today’s customers and offers a range of high-efficiency residential and commercial gas water heaters, as well as electric solutions, including our 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.
SHOW AND TELL
CANADIANS HAVE BEEN STANDING A LITTLE TALLER LATELY, WALKING AROUND WITH A LITTLE MORE STRUT, and everyone’s being just a touch more confident – in a polite way. Maybe this mood across the country has something to do with Marner’s saucer pass and Connor McDavid’s high wrister, top shelf, glove side, from the slot at 8:18 of overtime in the 4 Nations Face-Off final.
Or perhaps it’s the result of our nation’s leaders, from federal, provincial, territorial and even municipal governments all standing up to the bullying tactics being lobbed our way from south of the border.
And they’re not just standing up, but they’re all willing to push back. As Gordie would say, “Elbows up.” (Small aside: being born and raised in Saskatoon, even though Gordie Howe is originally from Floral, Saskatchewan, a stone’s throw away from Saskatoon, we claim him and anything related to Gordie as ours – humble brag).
Whatever it is that’s in the air, it’s time for this surge of pride to rise to the surface, not just in some flag-waving patriotic sense, but we should all be proud of the role we play in our communities and the indispensable knowledge and talents that the plumbing, HVAC and refrigeration industries deliver to our fellow Canadians every day. We’re learning that it’s okay to step up and be acknowledged.
For well over decade, every March edition of HPAC magazine includes the Show & Tell opportunity for our advertisers. We allow companies to double their space for a fraction of the price, and we offer up that extra space to allow the brands to tell their story. Show off a little.
The message they share is up to them, but we recommend they tell our readers about who they are and why they matter. For homegrown manufacturers and distributors based in Canada, now is a great time to let everyone know where you’re from. Made in Canada has never been more popular and more desired than it is today.
This year also marks the fifth anniversary of our HPAC magazine Sweet Heat contest; this is where we ask plumbing and heating contractors across the country to send in photos and descriptions of an amazing hydronics installation they’ve done in the past year or so.
This is your chance to Show & Tell. I’m inviting entries for this year’s Sweet Heat contest starting right now. Head to hpacmag.com/sweet-heat-2025 to learn more. The deadline to enter is July 31st, but it’s never too early to get your photos and throughts together for this year’s entry. I don't know this for sure, but I think this is your year.
Remember: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” That gem belongs to good old 99. (I’m not claiming him these days).
– Doug Picklyk, Editor
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Conforto
NEW COLD CLIMATE HEAT PUMPS CENTRALLY DUCTED WITH SIDE DISCHARGE CONDENSER
Discover the Conforto Ducted Heat Pump, engineered for superior performance in cold climates. With 100% heating capacity at -20°C and operation down to -30°C, it ensures year-round comfort.
Its advanced inverter technology, side-discharge design, and quiet operation make it an efficient and flexible solution. Compatible with most third-party thermostats and eligible for the Canada Greener Homes Grant, Home Renovation Savings & The LogisVert Efficient Homes programs.
The new Conforto Centrally Ducted Heat Pump is ENERGY STAR® Certified and comes with a 10-year warranty on both the compressor and parts.
Conforto supplies and delivers highperformance heat pumps to HVAC distributors across Canada and the United States.
Elevate your customers’ comfort with Conforto’s innovative solutions – your go-to heat pump manufacturer for superior comfort and efficiency.
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With Conforto, you can expect personalized attention and support across Canada.
NEWS FEATURE HEAT PUMP UPSKILLING PROGRAM IN PROGRESS
The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) has announced updates regarding all three phases of its Bridging the Gap heat pump training program, a project announced last summer that received over $500,000 in federal funding to support the association’s efforts to identify the skills gap and work with colleges to develop training and initiate pilot training courses.
Recognizing a demand for greater upskilling of existing HVAC/R technicians across Canada to improve the proficiency of heat pump installations nationwide, the pilot program is being developed in Ontario with expectations for a national roll out in the near future.
In Ontario, to comply with the province’s requirements, heat pump installers must have either a residential air conditioning systems mechanics (313D) or refrigeration and air conditioning systems mechanic (313A) license. A gas technicians (G2) license holder is not authorized to install or work on a heat pump.
The first phase of the Bridging the Gap program included the development of a report on existing heat pump literacy among Canada’s existing HVAC/R workforce, to be followed by the development of a heat pump training curriculum for deployment at a number of Ontario colleges.
A technical committee of heat pump subject matter experts developed a document outlining the process of a residential heat pump installation, from initial conversation with the homeowner, through installation, troubling shooting and regular maintenance.
The group identified 23 skill sets, which led to an on-line technical assessment completed by almost 100 G2s and 313Ds from across the province. These results identified potential skill gaps among existing workers and led to a re -
port document.
The Bridging the Gap Assessment Phase I report highlights skills gaps and recommendations regarding heat pump training across Canada. The final report will be made available on the HRAI’s Bridging the Gap webpage.
“The report highlights issues faced by the industry as we transition from fossil fuel heat sources to emission-free heat pumps, the skills gap and areas where knowledge needs improvement by the technicians that install, service and maintain heat pumps,” HRAI says in a statement., The published report will also feature “a series of recommendations aimed at addressing and moving the industry along so that it and its workforce can thrive in a low carbon economy.”
Phase two of the project, Curriculum Development, has proceeded and coursework is being developed, led by the HRAI trainer Chris Walsh alongside Fanshawe College, Fleming College and St. Lawrence College. The curriculum outlines an eightweek training program combining lab work and online learning. Fundamentals identified in the assessment phase and integrated in the coursework include: specialty
tools, specialty products and refrigerants, sizing and selection, controls and line voltage, codes and commissioning.
Phase three of the research program, the delivery of the curriculum, was launched in late February. Free registration for the training includes both online and inperson coursework over eight weeks. It also involves a commitment to complete a pre- and post-course online assessment which will be used to provide input to the research component of the overall project.
The online courses begin March 10 followed by eight in-class hands-on lab instruction sessions beginning March 15 continuing thru April 26. Lab durations are approximately six hours per week. Students also require up-to-date Ozone Depletion Prevention (ODP) certification to complete the course.
Ultimately the research program is being developed to help improve existing training for students and apprentices in residential air conditioning systems mechanic programs and to set the stage to upgrade existing workers in the field to level up the quality of heat pump installations and servicing nationwide. hrai.ca
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ALLEGUARD
ALLEGUARD INSULATED PEX PANEL
HYDRONIC RADIANT FLOOR HEATING SYSTEMS
DESIGN
Alleguard’s insulated PEX panel combines a number of unique elements making it one of the best panels on the market. The panel consists of expanded polystyrene insulation, moulded to high impact polystyrene film. This combination makes for a stronger, more resilient interlocking PEX panel. Additionally, the panel nubs form a mushroom shape, locking the PEX piping firmly in place. Once inserted, it guarantees that the pipe is properly positioned and seated in the panel.
The innovative panel design with bridging and cavities ensures that the PEX piping will be completely surrounded with concrete and not pushed to the bottom of the panel. This feature will allow for better heat distribution from the radiant piping and a more efficient energy transfer.
CONTRACTOR SAVINGS
The design of the Alleguard PEX insulation panel makes for a very durable and simple install on the job site. Because of its strength and stability, contractors can handle the material with ease eliminating breakage, replacement and additional labour. The film on the panel along with the nubs, allows the PEX piping to be walked in and locked into place, rather than constant bending to wire-tie or staple the piping firmly into place cutting labour time and material costs. The oversized four sided tongue and groove interlock system makes installation quick, easy and secure. The size of the panels also increase productivity and precision when placing the panels on the floor. The 2x4 panels become easier to maneuver, easier to place and easier to identify leveling inconsistencies.
APPLICATIONS
Hydronic heating can solve winter season problems by implementing a snow and ice melt system by circulating warm liquid through PEX piping which is concealed in the concrete. These systems can be easily installed in residential, commercial or industrial applications such as driveways, sidewalks, stairs, entrances, parking lots, ramps, helipads and much more.
Homeowners can choose to have hydronic heating throughout their entire home which can eliminate the need for forced air units and reduce utility bills. Common living areas for floor heating include the bathroom, the family room, the garage/driveway, entrances and even the kitchen.
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INDUSTRY NEWS
TECHNICAL DOC: POLYPROPYLENE PIPE AND FLANGE CONNECTIONS
The Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI) has published a new technical document through its Building & Construction Division focused on transitioning from polypropylene pipe to other piping materials using flange adapters and connections.
PPI TN-71, titled “Flanges and Flange Adapters for Polypropylene (PP-R & PP-RCT) Piping Systems”, provides design and installation recommendations to users making this switch, and builds on ASTM F3722-24, “Standard Practice for Heat Fusion Joining of Polypropylene (PP) Pipe & Fittings.”
Flanged assemblies are often used for connections to fittings and valves from polypropylene pipes to pipes made from other materials such as CPVC or steel, or as end connections on fabricated pipe spools and assemblies.
The new technical document features step-by-step installation procedures alongside select illustrations covering flanged connection processes such as tightening sequences for bolts and bolt torques, retightening recommendations and safe disassembly of flanged connections.
In addition, the Building & Construction Division has posted new training shorts videos on joining polypropylene piping materials using heat fusion via: butt fusion, socket fusion, sidewall outlet fusion, and electrofusion.
PPI TN-71 report is available on the Institute’s website. plasticpipe.org
GEORGIAN COLLEGE’S BARRIE CAMPUS TO RECEIVE NEW HVAC LAB
Georgian College’s Centre for Skilled Trades, located at its Barrie, Ont. campus, is set to receive a new heating, refrigeration and air conditioning lab as part of a new 20,000 square foot addition. When complete, the updated facility will feature major renovations for its carpentry and machining programs, collaborative spaces and energy efficient designs alongside the new lab. The updated facility will also be designed to support training on robotics, artificial intelligence and advanced digital technologies in the trades, the college shared.
Partial funding of $1.5 million for the expansion project has been provided in part by the County of Simcoe, bringing the county’s total investment in Georgian College to more than $10 million over the past decade.
Upon completion of this expansion, the Centre for Skilled Trades will support approximately 1,000 students per academic
ASHRAE RECOGNIZES OUTSTANDING CANADIANS AT WINTER CONFERENCE
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and AirConditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) held its 2025 Winter Conference in Orlando, FL from February 8 to 12, with a number of Canadians featured among conference’s recognition and awards programs.
Of the 28 members recognized by the Fellow ASHRAE program, four were from across Canada. Fellow ASHRAE is a membership grade awarded to members that have made substantial contributions to the HVAC/R sector through initiatives such as education, research, engineering design and consultation, publications, presentations and mentoring.
Canadians awarded the Fellow ASHRAE membership grade include:
• Russell Lavitt, P.Eng. – principal mechanical engineer, Stantec (Winnipeg)
• Kurt Monteiro, HBDP, HFDP – senior principal, Smith + Andersen (Toronto)
• Liangzhu Leon Wang – professor and associate director, Centre for Zero Energy Building Studies at Concordia University’s Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering (Montreal)
ASHRAE’s Technology awards recognize the successful application of innovative building designs across nine distinct categories. In the new residential category, Félix Robert of Montreal’s Bureaux Rayside Labossière won for his work on a building owned by Rayside Labossière Architectes.
The Young Engineer in ASHRAE (YEA) Inspirational leader award was presented to Abhishek Khurana, P. Eng, CEO of Toronto’s Voyager Buildings. The award recognizes a YEA member who has made considerable contributions to their community and the industry at large.
A full list of awards and winner can be found on ASHRAE’s website. ashrae.org
year, allowing Georgian College to more efficiently deliver its 40 skilled trades programs across its Barrie, Midland, Muskoka and Owen Sound campuses.
“The skilled trades are one of our areas of strength and to continue being responsive to industry needs and to offer our students an unrivaled skilled trades learning environment, we need to modernize our centre to meet the challenges of Industry 4.0,” said Georgian College’s president and CEO, Kevin Weaver. georgiancollege.ca
CANADIAN APPRENTICESHIP FORUM TURNS 25
As the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum (CAFFCA) celebrates its 25th year, the association has shared a retrospective looking back at its milestones throughout the decades.
The retrospective infographic, available on the CAF-FCA’s website, highlights initiatives such as 2002’s debut of the first National Apprenticeship Conference in Halifax, the association’s 2011 partnership with Canada’s First Nations to host apprenticeship workshops across the country, and the association’s introduction of the Supporting Women in Trades (SWiT) Conference in Halifax in 2018.
The range of milestones lead to this year’s inaugural Supporting Equity in Trades Conference, taking place in Toronto from May 24 to 26. The conference is an expansion of SWiT focused on bringing more marginalized and underrepresented voices to the forefront in apprenticeship conversations.
“As CAF-FCA marks our 25th anniversary, we look forward to continuing our mission to empower skilled trades professionals, foster inclusivity, and build a stronger, more diverse workforce for the future of Canada,” the association said. caf-fca.org
BEST OF KBIS AWARDS
KBIS, the annual kitchen and bath industry show, held in Las Vegas (Feb 25-27), revealed its 2025 Best of KBIS Award winners. A showcase for the latest trends and products in kitchen and bath design, the Awards program presents Gold and Silver prizes across six categories and one Best of Show award. This year’s winners place an equal focus on design and function while following recent kitchen and bathroom trends.
This year’s Best in Show award went to the Aladdin home sauna by Effe Perfect Wellness. A nod to the growing trend of residential bathrooms becoming more like home spas.
The Gold winner in the bathroom Style Statement category went to James Martin luxury vanities for a collaboration with Cosentino and FreePower which incorporates wireless charging in the vanity surface top, while the Gold winner in the GameChanging Innovation category went to the VIBE series of grab bars by LifeValet. These products bring design to products that promote aging in place and safety in the bathroom.
The top award in the Wellness Trailblazer category went to the Kohler and Remedy Place collaboration Ice Bath by Kohler, a sleek designed cold plunge with an integrated water management system, UV sanitation and optimized circulation.
The winner in the Sustainable Standout category was the Landshapes Tile by Kohler that contain 80% recycled content. The kitchen Style Statement gold award went to Vera Deluxe workstation kitchen sink by TopZero. And the Most Functional Find award went to SPACE STEP by Blum, a kitchen cabinet design that incor-
porates a pull-out step into the traditional kickplate area.
“These winners exemplify the best of our industry. We’re seeing wellness innovations that empower homeowners to take their health into their own hands and brand collaborations that push the limits of what’s possible with astounding joint products,” said Jason McGraw,group vice president, KBIS.” kbis.com
GO LIME GOES RETAIL IN WALMART STORES
Toronto-based Go Lime, an HVAC company offering water heater and HVAC installation and maintenance services sold primarily via its online e-commerce site, has opened two retail locations in Walmart stores.
Go Lime’s flagship store is now open in the Heartland Walmart Supercentre in Mississauga, with an additional retail space also open in the Milton Supercentre Walmart. Both locations allow customers to interact with associates and learn about Go Lime’s options.
“Launching in Walmart Canada aligns perfectly with our commitment to being customer-centric and bringing innovative, affordable solutions to millions of homeowners across Ontario,” said Go Lime president and CEO Jeff Schwartz. “We understand that investing in home comfort is a significant decision for our customers, and we’re here to make that process as simple, transparent, and affordable as possible.” golime.com
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With a pre-wired, pre-charged dual sliding chassis, installation and maintenance are effortless. Plus, our industry-leading quality control ensures long-lasting, worry-free performance. Efficiency, durability, and aesthetics—all in one unit!
INDUSTRY IN TRANSITION
AHR Expo 2025 reveals an industry still in the process of adapting to evolving technologies. BY
DOUG PICKLYK
For those Canadians who escaped the snow and cold for the sunny weather in Orlando, this year’s AHR Expo (February 10-12) revealed yet another step forward for heat pump technologies, with even more manufacturers entering the market and new cold climate models on display.
The page has already turned in the U.S. for the transition to the next phase of lower global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants for new products in the residential HVAC market, so there were plenty of new products on display using R32 and R454.
The Expo aisles were crowded on opening day, as the show floor was teaming with attendees as close to 40,000 visitors came through the doors over the three days of the event.
According to the show company, more than 1,878 exhibiting companies covered the 516,000 sq. ft. of floor space.
The show and conference included over 100 free educational sessions.
Once again, the annual State of the Industry panel discussion was standing-room only with contractors and suppliers filling a large room to hear the latest from association leaders.
Steve Yurek, president of the AirConditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) made clear that despite the recent change in administration in the U.S., the issues of decarbonization and electrification are still moving forward and are having an effect on the products being displayed on the show floor. “As soon you start talking about decarbonization it becomes political,
and you have winners and losers versus focussing on what we need to do to deliver what our customers want.”
A number of regions in the U.S. have proposed bans on natural gas burning appliances in new buildings, particularly in New York has made it a state-wide measure. While in Washington state, the population voted to defeat a proposed gas ban.
“It’s a misnomer that you can’t be pro-heat-pump and anti gas-ban at the same time,” said Talbot Gee, CEO at
Rheem was celebrating its 100th anniversary.
Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI). “You can do both. You don’t have to be one or the other. And the sooner everyone has no shame in saying that out loud, the faster we’re going to get to more reasonable solutions in both climate and decarbonization policies.”
He also acknowledges there is a lot of education still required in the market regarding the transition towards A2L refrigerants. He estimates that 10% of the contractor market fully understands and is ready for the adoption, while the other 90% are still unfamiliar with the changes coming. Gee encouraged contractors in the audience to be among the 10% who are prepared for the market shift.
Dominick Guarino, president of the National Comfort Institute, agrees that there is still a lot of confusion among contractors in the market regarding the refrigerant transition, and he applauds the educational work the distributors are doing in the field.
“Overall, I see a lot of focus on it, and we’re helping to train them on that,” said Guarino. “Heat pumps are not bad, especially the cold climate heat pumps.”
There will be more innovation in heat pumps coming in the future, says Dennis Knight, president ASHRAE. “Sometimes we need to look outside the U.S. to see what other people are doing. Sweden has gone to A3s [flammable refrigerants like R290-propane], and 41% of the country is heated and cooled by heat pumps.”
Yurek did point out that most of those are different systems, many are
air-to-water solutions in Europe as opposed to air-to-air ducted solutions which are more common in North America. “It took us 15 years just to get to A2L refrigerants … At this point in time, it doesn’t make sense, and I think we need to focus on where we are. A2Ls are really important, and people need to learn how use them.”
He suggests we won’t see the next transition for another decade or more. Getting back to current market conditions, Gee notes that A2L system installations happing now are going smoothly. There is still R410a inventory at distributors that can be sold, but that inventory will run out. “We’re going to go through a period where there’s a big push for that 410a, and then all of a sudden there’s going to be a switch. Just be prepared for that. Plan ahead, get experience with the new stuff, and then it won’t feel that severe to you going forward when it’s all A2L systems,” says Gee. While the timeframe for R410a phasedown in Canada is different than the U.S., the message is clear that contactors in Canada must be made aware of this eventual transition as well.
Beyond talk of HVAC and the refrigeration transition, hydronics also had its moments on the show floor. Caleffi hosted the presentation of the
Carlson-Holohan Industry Award of Excellence, an honour presented every two years to a nominee with technical mastery and a passion for hydronics. This year Dan Holohan presented the award to Dan Foley, owner of Foley Mechanical based in the Greater Washington, D.C. area. Past winners of the award were also present including John Goshulak of Weil-McLain Canada and HPAC writer John Siegenthaler.
Also, there was plenty of Canadian content working on a boiler panel build taking place on the show floor, next to the lead sponsor Nibco. The “Community over Competition” project included Terence Chan (@the.impetus.media), Tyler Dynes (@dyneshvac), Adam Gordon (@gordonbotplumbing), Jess Bannister (@hvacjess), and many more.
The topic of tariffs was on the minds of some Canadian exhibitors, but wasn't making an impact for most. And although AI was in the title of some educational sessions, it wasn’t obvious on the show floor. Maybe next year.
The next AHR Expo will take place February 2-4, 2026 in Las Vegas. Make your plans now to get some winter sun next year at North America’s largest trade show for the HVAC industry. ahrexpo.com <>
The annual State of the Industry Panel is always a well-attended discussion.
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CONTRACTORS AND LEGAL DISPUTES
Sharing personal lessons learned regarding liability, small claims court and dealing with insurance.
BY IAN McTEER
It seems almost inevitable that HVAC contractors at some time will face the wrath of dissatisfied customers, whether justifiable or not, who demand satisfaction for HVAC system poor performance, breach of contract, unprofessional conduct, permit and/or warranty problems.
As I am not a lawyer, I do not intend to offer legal advice in this article, other than to recommend consulting a lawyer whenever you or your business may be facing legal action.
Having been subpoenaed to court several times by irate consumers, and having read numerous articles on past incidents, I hope to provide some valuable lessons to help readers avoid unnecessary legal altercations with customers.
Focusing on the needs of customers is what makes any business more likely to succeed. Slogans such as “Customers are not dependent on us; we are dependent on them,” or one of the most oft repeated, “Under promise and over deliver” have been around forever.
The business relationship between HVAC contractors and their customers should be one of trading value for value— the customer’s’ dollars traded for your exceptional goods and services. But we have seen malevolent players in our industry over the years literally shaking down homeowners with a variety of schemes designed to separate them from their cash without providing any substantial benefits. Such
behaviour makes people more likely to become litigious, especially if your contract does not clearly define the scope of work in a way that minimizes the potential for misunderstandings.
In my job as a manufacturer’s field service representative, part of my responsibilities required me to assist not only contractor customers but also equipment owners when poor performance or premature failures unfortunately occurred.
In a non-judgmental way, I resolved that each occurrence had several sides: a) the end user’s side; b) the contractor’s side; and c) the equipment side. To be sure, it was a delicate process because some issues were caused by factory defects, others by improper specification, installation, or commissioning problems and, too often, end user lack of maintenance or improper operation that created hardship for the three sides.
Inevitably, extra resources that had otherwise never been included had to be employed in resolving these situations. Eventually we made the equipment side happy, sometimes the other two sides, not so much.
SMALL CLAIMS COURT
When consumers decide further action should be taken to satisfy what they believe is breach of contract, or some other issue related to their interests being harmed, the issue can be put before a judge in the Small Claims Court.
The court handles civil disputes
involving relatively small amounts of money that vary from province to province. Ontario’s Small Claims Court has a monetary limit of $35,000. Once the plaintiff files the appropriate forms with the court, the claim is then served to the defendant. The plaintiff can also call upon witness testimony (that is where I became involved). The defendant has 20 days to respond by filing a defense. Be sure to consult your province’s court guidelines for more information. For example, Ontario’s Ministry of the Attorney General publishes a comprehensive guide to procedures in Small Claims Court.
I learned that no case is straightforward, they all seem to have extenuating, sometimes even bizarre, circumstances.
In one case, I received a call from an elderly widow living in a small bungalow. She had contracted to have a new midefficiency gas furnace installed to replace its defective predecessor.
Hours after the installation, near midnight, her CO alarm started blaring. After calling the contractor and receiving no answer, she called the fire department.
The firefighters turned off her gas meter and ventilated the house. Fortunately, she was not harmed, but she had to leave the house to stay with a nearby relative. As it was still early fall, the outdoor temperature had yet to go below freezing, but a neighbour put an electric heater in the basement.
I received her angry call the next day. I
offered to meet her at her home with the contractor, but she would not have any further dealings with the original contractor. I had another company send along an experienced technician, and together we examined the installation.
For some reason, the outlet box that allows the vent connector to be attached to the furnace flue had been damaged and the vent connector has been improperly installed allowing flue gas to empty directly into the building.
That unit should never have been started. The tech replaced the part, inspected the rest of the installation, and found no additional problems, thus the furnace returned to service.
However, as if thankfully avoiding a potentially fatal bout of CO poisoning was not enough, the homeowner decided to sue the contractor in Small Claims Court for several other reasons unrelated to the near fatal event.
The homeowner’s small dog treated the area around the furnace as its
personal rest room that, according to the contractor, had not been cleaned up as required in the contract, on installation day.
The installation crew cleaned up the mess but then, unknown to her and without permission, sprayed a chemical deodorant onto the surrounding area.
An apparent sensitivity to the chemical deodorant drove her to leave the house as she was unable to return home, even after the CO incident had been resolved, for more than a week.
She thought to sue for the emotional upset caused by the unauthorized use of the deodorant, including loss of income from her part time babysitting job and expenses incurred while out of the house.
Since I had been to the jobsite, she called me as a witness. The judge asked me what had happened and, taking the equipment’s side, I explained how the issue was resolved. As no additional fees were incurred and the homeowner expressed her satisfaction with the
furnace repairs, the judge then asked the contactor for an explanation.
The contractor, who appeared without a lawyer, apologized for the CO incident and for the unauthorized use of the deodorant spray while admitting no liability. Other than time away from his business, along with a good tongue lashing administered by the judge, the contractor faced no costs as the judge decided to dismiss the case.
Why? Because the Small Claims Court is not the place to sue for emotional distress. Also, the homeowner could not demonstrate any loss of wages, and since she stayed with a relative, she had no receipts for additional expenses.
POOR PERFORMANCE GOES TO COURT
It is not unusual to have hot humid days throughout the summer, especially during July, in Toronto. In a second case involving a different contractor, I was Continued on p26
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< HVAC & THE LAW
asked to visit a jobsite near downtown Toronto to help determine why a newly installed cooling unit could not provide adequate cooling to the second floor of an old row house that was once heated by a gravity system.
Together with the contractor’s technician we found several commissioning issues, not to mention the wonky duct system that had been modified by another contractor in days gone by. No argument, the main bedroom facing south was poorly served. The contractor promised to amend all the issues; plus, he tried to improve the airflow up to the second floor.
A few weeks later, the same homeowner came to my office and served me with a subpoena to appear as a witness in the Small Claims Court. The homeowner claimed the poor cooling performance issue had not been resolved to his satisfaction and made a list of compensatory demands the contractor had rejected during a settlement conference scheduled by the court to resolve the dispute without going to trial.
I went to court twice, neither time did the judge call upon me to present my equipment side’s evidence.
At the second court appearance, after an additional settlement conference, the contractor informed the judge he had reached an agreement with the plaintiff and the claim was thus resolved.
The contractor did not have a lawyer present; however, I do know that he agreed to remove the equipment and refund the purchase price. A stressful and time-consuming event resulting from poor planning and sad secondrate implementation.
THE CASE OF TOO MANY CANDLES
I accompanied a contractor’s service technician to a house in a newly constructed subdivision north of Toronto. The house had been occupied for just
over a year. The homeowner claimed the furnace had malfunctioned and caused black soot to spread all over the house.
Indeed, there was soot accumulation everywhere, the white carpet had small soot marks shaped like lightning bolts regularly spaced along the carpeted hallways. Soot had accumulated on the curtains, walls, picture frames and on top of kitchen cabinets and appliances. What a mess.
The tech and I examined the dual piped high efficiency gas furnace and found a considerable amount of soot on the air filter (Figure 1) and a lesser amount on the blower assembly.
The technician inspected the heat exchanger and the venting system, and then he checked the gas pressure (static, working, and manifold) and clocked the gas meter. Test results proved the furnace was operating normally and fit for purpose.
The technician provided the homeowner with a copy of the data and advised a thorough furnace and duct cleaning be completed as soon as possible.
Where could the soot be coming from?
Candles, three-inch diameter candles, nine of them were burning as we noted upon our arrival. Candles produce prodigious amounts of soot (see Figure 2, next page) and should only be used in emergency situations.
However, the homeowner roundly disputed our contention stating that candles had been used in their previous household with no such trouble. Yet, the last house turned out to be a leaky old relic, no comparison to the newly built better sealed house truly incapable of dealing with sooty candles.
Unsurprisingly, the homeowner filed an insurance claim. Several months later, our office received a registered letter addressed to me.
The bulky envelope contained an invoice from the homeowner’s insurance company seeking compensation for the significant costs incurred to clean up the sooty mess that included all new carpeting and repainting the entire upper living areas.
Figure 1. Soot on an air filter of a high-efficiency furnace.
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< HVAC & THE LAW
Continued from p26
Known as subrogation, it is a process where an insurance company seeks reimbursement from a third party allegedly responsible for causing a loss for which they have paid compensation.
Included with the invoice was a photocopy of a page out of an old textbook describing numerous industrial devices capable of creating soot. This document was provided by the fire and restoration company hired by the insurer.
Among the list of potential culprits, the word “furnace” was highlighted in yellow. Using that document and without acknowledging my evidence submitted to the homeowner, the invoice demanded payment of just over $25K.
In a phone conversation I had with the insurance company’s agent, I noted that the invoice did not include a charge for replacing the furnace or cleaning the ductwork. “Surely you are not leaving
behind a faulty product that caused all this damage only to have it soot up the house all over again?” I asked. He simply replied: “You have to pay!” and hung up.
In the end, I passed along the invoice and my data to my employer’s corporate lawyer and that was the end of it for me. I do not know how the issue was resolved.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Providing top-drawer HVAC installations that foster long-lasting customer relationships are paramount. However, contractors must also be vigilant about seemingly minor jobsite oversights.
Unusual odours, loud music, not obtaining permission to use the driveway, parking on the lawn, unauthorized trimming of shrubbery, and failing to protect carpets or flooring can all escalate into serious issues, potentially leading to a court summons.
By addressing these details proactively, HVAC contractors can mitigate risks and maintain their reputations for excellence. <>
Ian McTeer is an HVAC consultant with over 35 years of experience. He was most recently a field rep for Trane Canada DSO. McTeer is a refrigeration mechanic and Class 1 Gas technician. He can be reached at imcteer@outlook.com.
Figure 2. An example of the soot produced by a candle.
PHOTO: IAN MCTEER
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FOLLOW THE ARROWS
Sometimes the flow in a hydronics circuit doesn’t behave like you think it will. BY
Ionce heard a trainer tell some contractors that if they wanted the water in a hydronic heating system to follow the directional arrows on a schematic they had to draw arrows inside the pipe using a permanent marker. That way the water “sees” the arrows and knows what to do.
Most of the audience understood this as a very humorous but absurd suggestion.
It’s the ones that didn’t perceive it that way that need help.
I’ve told groups of contractors that it’s really important when installing two circulators in a close-coupled series configuration that the arrows on both circulators point in the same direction
You probably think such a statement is unnecessary, or even insulting, but I’ve seen three projects where this wasn’t done correctly.
Flow direction is certainly important in any hydronic system. In most proven hydronic system designs flow direction is a certainty. However, there are some situations where the physics at work can turn things around.
Let’s consider a few of these and learn how to prevent them.
REVERSE THERMOSIPHONING
Whenever heated water is stored in tank, and there’s an external piping path connecting the upper portion of that tank to the lower portion, heated water will “try” to move from the upper to the lower portion of the tank, as shown on the left side of Figure 1. This effect is called reverse thermosiphoning — nature’s way of converting higher grade energy (hot water in storage tank) into lower grade energy (heat dissipated to cooler air around tank and piping).
reverse thermosiphoning forward thermosiphoning
temperature stratifrication within thermal storage
The shape of the piping path connecting the upper to lower portions of the tank doesn’t matter. If there’s ANY unblocked piping path, reverse thermosiphoning will occur. Over a period of hours it can drain much of the heat from the tank. The greater the surface area of the components forming the unblocked pathway, the higher the rate of heat dissipation.
A similar type of thermosiphoning is shown on the right (load) side of the tank in Fgure 1. In this case the undesired flow is in the same direction as the intended flow. This is called forward thermosiphoning.
Reverse thermosiphoning can be prevented by installing a
Figure 1. Reverse thermosiphoning happens (left side) as heat dissipates from piping leading to storage tank. Continued on p32
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swing check, or spring-loaded check to prevent reverse thermosiphoning
spring-loaded check to prevent forward thermosiphoning
check valve (swing check or spring-loaded check) in the piping, close to the upper connection point. Forward thermosiphoning can usually be stopped by installing a spring-loaded check valve (not a swing check) where the tank connects to the hot water side of the distribution system. Both corrective details are shown in Figure 2.
It’s also possible to prevent reverse or forward thermosiphoning by installing a motorized valve in the piping pathway and configuring controls so that valve is closed whenever the piping pathway is inactive. However, that approach because of the motorized valve and controls required is almost always more expensive.
DUMB WATER
One method of zoning a hydronic system is to use a dedicated circulator for each zone. This approach has been used for decades, and it continues to be employed in both residential and commercial systems. A typical setup using this approach is shown in Figure 3.
This system shows three space heating zones combined with a zone that supplies an indirect domestic water heater. Similar systems could have more or less zones, but the underlying piping topology remains the same: all these systems have independently controlled circulators that are piped in parallel, and there are times when some circulators are on while others are off.
Consider what happens if we simplify this system down to two zones, leave out check valves, and view it when only one circulator is running - see Figure 4.
The problem begins at the tee where the active zone piping
Figure 3. Zones with independently-controlled circulators, with check valves, that are piped in parallel.
Figure 2. Installing check valves can prevent thermosiphoning.
Figure 4. With no check valves in the zone circuits, there could be reverse flow in the inactive circuit.
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< HYDRONICS
Continued from p32
joins the return header.
Although we’d like to think that all the water at this point in the system is “smart enough” to flow back to the boiler to reload BTUs, it isn’t.
Instead, the water stream divides, some flows through the boiler as intended while the rest flows back through the inactive zone circuit. Without a check valve in that circuit there’s nothing to prevent the reverse flow.
The undesirable consequences of that reverse flow are twofold: 1) heat will be released from the inactive zone circuit, possibly overheating it’s associated interior space; 2) the cooler water flowing backward through the inactive zone eventually mixes with the reheated water coming from the boiler reducing the supply water temperature in the active zone, reducing its heat output.
The solution is simple. Install a check valve in each circuit, or, for small circulators, use the spring check cartridge insert that’s commonly shipped with these circulators.
CHECK FOR CHECK VALVES
The bottom line: every circulator piped from a common header, buffer tank, hydraulic separator, or any other “shared” piping component must have a check valve to prevent flow reversal.
Spring-loaded check valves are a good option to prevent reverse flow. Those sold for hydronic applications also have just enough forward opening resistance (about 0.5 psi) to prevent forward thermosiphoning through zone circuits when their associated circulators are off. The spring-loaded cartridges shipped with small circulators typically have a similar forward opening pressure requirement.
The other option is to use a separate spring-loaded check valve installed at least 10 pipe diameters downstream of the circulator. This approach also has a couple of potential benefits:
Figure 5. Grouping the supply side tees together and placing them upstream of all the associated return tees requires significant primary pumping.
1) It allows entrapped air bubbles to rise above of the circulator’s impeller when the circulator is mounted in a vertical pipe with upward flow. This negates the potential problem of air getting trapped within the circulator’s volute, under a check valve cartridge that’s only an inch or two above the impeller. This scenario can occur when the system is first filled, especially if the system has not had a good forced-water purging. The trapped air hinders the circulator’s ability to purge itself. In essence, the circulator’s impeller cannot “grab onto” the mixture of water and entrapped air and hurl it upward out of the volute. By placing the check valve well above the circulator the chances of this occurring are reduced.
2) An external check valve with union connections can also be opened to clean or replace the spring-check cartridge if necessary.
“UNCLOSELY” SPACED TEES
Primary/secondary systems in which pairs of closely-spaced tees (one for supply and the other for return) are installed along a piping loop provide hydraulic separation of all the circulators. However, they also create sequential temperature drops as flow in the primary loop gives up heat to each active secondary circuit.
To avoid this temperature-drop effect, some installers have tried to group all the supply side tees together and place them upstream of all the associated return tees, as shown in Figure 5.
In theory, this piping arrangement could work IF AND ONLY IF the primary loop flow rate was always greater than or equal to the sum of the three load circuit flow rates.
Although this is possible, making sure it happens would needlessly waste electrical power input to the required
primary circulator. It’s a bad idea. If the primary loop flow is less than the sum of the three secondary circuit flows there will be flow reversal in some portions of this system, even with check valves in all the secondary circuits. This is illustrated in Figure 5. The primary loop flow rate is 12 gpm, and the three load circuit flows are 6, 10, and 5 gpm.
To determine what happens in different segments of the piping just remember that whatever flows into a tee has to flow out of that tee.
In this case, the 10 gpm flow rate into
the middle circuit is achieved by combining 6 gpm from the left with 4 gpm from the right. The latter is cool water from the return side of load circuits.
The mixing of 6 gpm of “hot” boiler water with 4 gpm of cooler return water will definitely reduce the supply water temperature to the middle load circuit. If that weren’t bad enough, look what happens in the right-side secondary circuit. The only way to satisfy the balance between incoming and outgoing flows is for 5 gpm of cool water to flow up through that circuit.
Sure, there will probably be some heat output from that circuit, but the situation will only get worse as heat continues to be dissipated.
The way to avoid this is to NOT create the piping shown in Figure 5. The solution is to either create a “true” primary/ secondary system where pairs of closely spaced tees are used to connect each secondary circuit to the primary loop, or alternatively use the improved piping layout shown in Figure 6.
This approach provides the same supply water temperature to each load circuit, hydraulically separates all the circulators, and provides air and dirt separation. The check valves in the circulators prevent reverse flow regardless of which circulators are operating.
Also, be sure to size the load side headers for no more than 2 feet per second flow velocity when all the load circulators are operating. This “assists” the hydraulic separator in preventing undesired interaction between any operating circulators.
STICK WITH WHAT WORKS
When you follow established piping layouts you won’t have to worry about unexpected flow reversal. You also won’t need to draw those arrows inside of the piping. <>
John Siegenthaler, P.E., has over 40 years of experience designing modern hydronic heating systems and is the author of Modern Hydronic Heating (4th edition) and Heating with Renewable Energy (visit hydronicpros.com).
Modern Hydronics Summit 2025 travels to Calgary, September 16th. Join John Siegenthaler and other hydronics experts for technical sessions and networking opportunities. One session is dedicated to Ask the Expert, so be sure to include a question when registering for this year’s event. modernhydronicssummit.com S U M M IT 2 0 2 5
Figure 6. A “true” primary/secondary system with hydraulic separation.
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ZINC-NICKEL COATING FOR CORROSION RESISTANCE AGAINST THE ENVIRONMENT
FITTINGS OFFER INSTALLERS DUAL CONFIRMATION WHEN IDENTIFYING UN-PRESSED CONNECTIONS:
• Smart Leak-Proof Technology: Un-pressed fittings will visibly leak during low pressure testing
• Visual Inspection: Fall away shrink-wrapped fitting hubs confirm fittings are pressed before service
EASE OF INSTALLATION USING INDUSTRY APPROVED CARBON STEEL PRESS TOOLS
ALL BACKED BY A 15-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
MECHPRESS Mechanical & Fire Protection
MECHPRESS-G Gas & Fuel Oil
A RENEWABLE HEATING REVOLUTION in the Northwest Territories
Biomass boilers are part of the mix to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while leveraging locally sourced materials. BY
DAVID DUBOIS
The Northwest Territories (NWT) is making strides in transitioning from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources, and wood pellets are playing a role in the transformation. With extreme winters and a dispersed population, heating represents one of the most significant energy demands in the Territoy, consuming a considerable share of the budget in households and public infrastructure. As highlighted in the 20222023 Northwest Territories Energy Initiatives Report, the use of wood pellets has emerged as a practical, sustainable, and cost-effective solution.
WHY WOOD PELLETS?
Wood pellets are a low carbon fuel source. When used in efficient pellet boilers, they release carbon dioxide that was previously absorbed by the trees,
maintaining a balanced carbon cycle. This makes them a viable alternative to diesel and heating oil, which dominate the energy landscape in the North.
In the NWT, heating oil accounts for the majority of energy use in buildings. However, the government has recognized the environmental and economic benefits of biomass heating systems. By transitioning to wood pellets, communities can reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while leveraging locally sourced, renewables where feasible.
IMPLEMENTATION IN THE NWT
The adoption of wood pellets aligns with the NWT’s 2030 Energy Strategy, which aims to reduce GHG emissions by 30% from 2005 levels by 2030. Programs like the Arctic Energy Alliance (AEA) have been encouraging this shift. The
AEA provides rebates and grants for energy-efficient systems, including biomass, helping both residential and commercial entities make the switch.
Key regions like South Slave and North Slave are leading this transition, with pellet boilers increasingly used in municipal buildings, schools, and private homes. Public facilities such as the Legislative Assembly building and correctional centers have installed large-scale wood pellet systems, demonstrating the costeffectiveness of this technology. These projects not only cut operational costs but also displace thousands of liters of diesel annually.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS
Switching to wood pellets offers multiple benefits for the region:
Environmental Impact: Pellet systems drastically cut GHG emissions compared to fossil fuels. By substituting heating oil with wood pellets, facilities can will reduce their carbon footprint, contributing to Canada’s climate goals.
Cost Savings: While initial installation costs for pellet boilers may be high, operational costs are lower. Pellets are generally cheaper than heating oil, and their price stability helps communities avoid the volatility of global oil markets.
Energy Independence: Pellet heating reduces reliance on imported diesel and heating oil, enhancing local energy resilience. This is critical for remote communities where transporting fuel can be costly and logistically challenging.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES
Despite its potential, the widespread adoption of wood pellets in the NWT faces challenges. One barrier is the high upfront cost of biomass heating systems, which can deter individual homeowners and small businesses. Additionally, ensuring a consistent supply of wood pellets in remote areas remains a logistical hurdle. The government is addressing these issues through grants, subsidies, and infrastructure development.
Also, not all communities in the NWT have easy access to wood biomass. For areas above the tree line alternatives such as wind and solar complement the biomass initiatives.
NWT’s 2030 Energy Strategy targets a 30% GHG reduction from 2005 levels by 2030.
LOOKING AHEAD
The NWT government is committed to expanding the use of wood pellets as part of its energy diversification strategy. Future plans include scaling up public infrastructure conversions to biomass and fostering private-sector adoption. Education campaigns are underway to inform residents and businesses about the benefits of switching to wood pellets and the resources available for support.
By incorporating wood pellets into its energy mix, the NWT is addressing immediate heating needs and contributing to a sustainable energy future. This shift demonstrates how innovative approaches tailored to regional conditions can achieve climate targets while benefiting local economies.
As the Northwest Territories continue to embrace wood pellets and other renewable energy solutions, they serve as a model for other remote and northern regions facing similar challenges. <>
David Dubois is the business development manager with Fink Machine Inc., supplier of commercial biomass boilers and based in B.C.
25_000553_HPAC_March_CN Mod: January 27, 2025 10:30 AM Print: 02/06/25 page 1 v2.5
Rheem Canada
Rheem Canada Celebrates 100 Years of Innovation with Advanced Heating and Cooling Solutions
As a proud member of the Rheem family, Rheem Canada is thrilled to celebrate our 100th anniversary! A century of innovation, quality, and dedication to our customers. This milestone is a testament to our commitment to providing top-notch heating, cooling, and water heating solutions.
Ruud Endeavor RD17AZ Universal Heat Pump
Compatible with nearly any existing HVAC system—or as a universal replacement—the EcoNet® enabled Ruud Endeavor Line Achiever Plus Series RD17AZ Universal Heat Pump excels in all install situations. And as part of our Sound & Space Constraint Solution, it features a compact footprint, making it the perfect solution when space is at a premium.
The new Rheem® IKONIC™ S- and SR-Series Condensing Tankless Water Heaters make it easy to decide to go tankless. In addition to providing continuous hot water, energy savings and the industry’s most comprehensive warranty, they offer a recirculation model for the ultimate convenience—and water savings—of no-wait hot water. Plus, exclusive built-in features and rebate eligibility help keep upfront costs down.
Experience 100 Years of Excellence at MCEE between April 24-25th 2025, at Booth# 1715
www.rheem.ca
FINALLY BACK!
In this era of video conferences and online transactions, don’t miss out on a rare opportunity to meet actual people involved in the Canadian plumbing and HVAC/R industry. BY LUC BOILY
MCEE 2025
Montreal Convention Centre www.mcee.ca
Opening Dates and Time
Thursday, April 24
9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, April 25: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Free Registration before April 23 at mcee.ca (for industry members)
In less than one month, you will have the chance to attend the eighth edition of the Mécanex/Climatex/ Expolectriq/Éclairage (MCEE) Show in its combined format: an event producted by the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIPH), the Corporation of Master Pipe Mecanics of Quebec (CMMTQ), the Corporation
of Master Electricians of Québec (CMEQ), and the Corporation des entreprises de traitement de l’air et du froid (CETAF). These four players represent the key associations involved in the mechanical and electrical industries in Eastern Canada.
This must attend event will be held again at the Montreal Convention Centre* on April 24 and 25. More than 6,000 targeted visitors are expected, and more than 300 exhibitors – from Quebec and across Canada as well as the U.S. – will present their latest innovations in plumbing, heating, hydronics, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, water treatment, electricity, lighting, fire prevention and more.
Presented only once every two years, the MCEE is a strategic
meeting place dedicated to industry professionals keen to stay at the leading edge. Entry to the Show is FREE for attendees who register before April 23 ($25 on site).
This year there will be 15 seminars – also free of charge – addressing many critical topics and sensitive professional concerns (all sessions will be in French). To give you an overview, following is a summary of the conferences presented by CMMTQ and CETAF.
Plus, we asked exhibitors to send us pictures and descriptions of products they will be highlighting at this year’s event, find those items featured in our Product Spotlight, starting on page 52.
*The Montreal Convention Centre (Palais des congrès de Montréal) is located in the heart of downtown (1001, place Jean-PaulRiopelle – Place-d’Armes subway station).
Please stop at HPAC/PCC booth 605 to say hello!
EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS
THURSDAY, APRIL 24
10:00 a.m. – CMMTQ (room 516 AB)
Meeting the needs of challenging hospital projects
With a focus on the description of electromechanical systems and the design framework for largescale hospital building projects in the province of Quebec, this seminar covers the challenges faced by professional teams from day one to the hand over of keys.
10:00 a.m. – CETAF (room 516 DE)
Demystifying the use of A2L refrigerants
Speaker: Daniel Trudeau, HVAC tech. manager, Deluxair
This session demystifies the use, handling, transportation and storage of A2L refrigerants, and provides a better understanding of what distinguishes existing A2L refrigerants from each other. It also takes stock of their current use and their future in our industry.
11:30 a.m. – CETAF (room 516 DE)
How air movement influences refrigeration
Speaker: Patrice Lévesque, Eng., Novamech
This seminar helps to explain why air movement in ducts or rooms has a significant impact on cooling. When ducts restrict air movement too much, the HVAC unit fails. In addition, the quantity of evaporators and their type greatly influences air movement in a walk-in cooler.
• Seminars 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
1:30 p.m. – CMMTQ (room 516 AB)
Installing a water heater: not so trivial!
Speaker: André Massé, former Product manager, Usines Giant
The water heater is an integral part of a building’s drinking water distribution system. The installer must have a complete picture of the appliances connected to the system –dishwasher, refrigerator with cold water supply and ice cubes, humidifier, shower head, ceramic cartridge and others – in order to adequately meet the customer’s needs.
This session presents Hydro-Québec’s Efficient Solutions program through which renovation, expansion or construction projects for commercial, industrial or institutional buildings can benefit from financial support, including the installation of efficient equipment, such as heat pumps.
3:00 p.m. – CMMTQ (room 516 AB)
We need to talk… about firewalls
Speaker: Hélène Simard, Mechanical Engineer, Technorm In accordance with Chapter I, Building, Quebec Construction Code, this seminar provides an overview of the firewall installation fundamentals: Which products to install? Where to install them? How to install them correctly? Why are they so important? Too often, firewalls are poorly installed or even forgotten, compromising the safety of occupants.
Viega
The Innovator in Press
For over 125 years, commercial, industrial and marine contractors around the world have trusted Viega for their press fitting and valve needs. Through constant innovation and relentless testing, we’ve engineered the most complete press systems in the industry. Today, Viega has more applications, configurations and approvals than any other press fitting manufacturer.
Viega fittings and valves are available in different alloys with three unique sealing element options and sizes up to 4˝. The best part? You can press them all with one tool.
Trust the original
Viega ProPress® systems have the most approvals of any copper press fitting system, with over 400 unique configurations available. Each ProPress fitting and valve is equipped with Smart Connect® technology, allowing for easy identification of unpressed connections. Plus, there’s no need for hot work, making Viega ProPress suitable for a wide range of projects.
What’s new?
Viega has expanded its ProPress offering to include key pieces like the ProPress Balancing Valve, new ball valves (including 3-piece configurations for easier maintenance and repair), along with a variety of strainers and stop valves. Visit us at MCEE 2025 in booth #1718 to see some of these new innovations.
Superior is our standard
Ideal for facility utility needs, the Viega MegaPress® system is easy to use, flameless, and reliable. Most often used for fire sprinklers, natural gas, hydronics, and compressed air, MegaPress leaves no joining material buildup, exposed threads, or tarnish, creating a clean, professional appearance.
The MegaPress system has our Smart Connect® technology to help easily identify unpressed connections.
The latest innovation
In 2024 Viega released the first zero-lead (ZL) bronze transition coupling with press technology to join dissimilar materials that can reduce the risk of galvanic corrosion. Viega MegaPress ZL bronze transition couplings can be used to transition between IPS to CTS (carbon steel or galvanized steel to copper or stainless tube) or IPS to IPS (carbon steel or galvanized steel to stainless steel).
Join us in booth #1718 at MCEE 2025 to learn more about the MegaPress system.
Viega. Connected in quality.
VIEGA FITTINGS AND VALVES ARE SINGLE-TOOL SYSTEMS.
Maximize your tooling investment with Viega. We designed our ProPress®, MegaPress® and marine systems to use the same tooling solution. Keep things simple and press on.
See the Viega difference at viega.ca
EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS
FRIDAY, APRIL 25
10:00 a.m. – CMMTQ (room 516 AB)
Heat pumps that promote the energy transition
Speaker: Pierre Delorme, Eng., Soteck-Clauger
This session highlights innovations in heat pump areas and emphasizes their role in the decarbonization of buildings. It addresses the key steps of their development, while respecting the harshness of the Quebec climate, as well as their integration into customers’ mechanical systems. Tangible examples of installations are also presented.
10:00 a.m. – CETAF (room 516 DE)
Geothermal and aerothermal heat pumps
Speaker: Kevin Guay, Eng., Master Group
This seminar presents a few technologies put forward to achieve the ambitious decarbonization objectives of the Quebec Government. Geothermal and aerothermal heat pumps are certainly part of the solution. The presenter will discuss the different applications of these technologies, as well as their pros, cons and limitations.
• Seminars 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
11:30 a.m. – CMMTQ (room 516 AB)
Protect your mechanical systems against cyberattacks
This session explores the delicate balance between the performance and protection of computer systems connected to building mechanical equipment monitored and controlled remotely, while maintaining business efficiency and speed. For example, adopting new technologies and productivity tools can sometimes reveal undetected vulnerabilities.
11:30 a.m. – CETAF (room 516 DE)
LogisVert program financial assistance
Speaker: Jacques Bélanger, Consultant, GMI
This seminar provides an overview of HydroQuébec’s LogisVert program and the energy efficiency measures eligible for financial assistance (single-family home, condominium, multiplex, multi-unit building): residential renovation, expansion or construction projects (including the installation of high-performance equipment, such as heat pumps).
NOTE: For details regarding the Master Electricians of Quebec (CMEQ) seminars, please visit www.mcee.ca.
Over 300 exhibiting companies from across North America.
Look for the new products gallery centrally located near the entrance to the trade show floor.
Thermo 2000
Create your Buffmax
New! Now available in 20 US gallons size and with connection options.
Create your ideal BuffMax in just a few clicks and generate a unique code representing your personalized configuration. This code can then be submitted to our sales team via an online form, allowing us to assess your needs and provide you with a tailored solution.
Simplify your purchasing process and ensure you get the BuffMax perfectly suited to your system.
The tank that makes all the difference
The BuffMax from Thermo 2000 is a 3-in-1 solution that acts as a buffer tank, storage tank and hydraulic separator. It is recommended to optimize the performance of several different types of heating systems: low-mass boilers, biomass systems, geothermal and heat pump applications, multi-zone systems, and solar energy systems.
THE NEXT GENERATION OF
MOOVAIR HEAT PUMPS
High performance meets cold-climate innovation.
Designed for Canada’s extreme climate, Moovair’s latest heat pumps deliver exceptional efficiency, reliability, and comfort all year long. With advanced inverter technology and best-in-class energy ratings, these systems provide precise climate control while maximizing energy savings.
BUILT FOR EXTREME CLIMATES
Moovair heat pumps can provide up to 90% of their heating capacity at -25°C and perform reliably down to -30°C. The variable-speed inverter compressor adjusts output for consistent comfort and reduced energy use.
• Up to 29.4 SEER2 and 12.9 HSPF2 Region 5 for maximum efficiency
• Cold-climate operation down to -30°C
• Inverter-driven technology for precise temperature control
EFFICIENCY WITHOUT COMPROMISE
Moovair’s intelligent energy modulation optimizes heating and cooling while reducing system strain, ensuring maximum performance and cost savings.
• Mistral – Up to 25.8 SEER2, 9.2 HSPF2 Region 5, heating to -25°C. A value-driven solution with a compact design and easy installation.
• Meridian – Up to 27.4 SEER2, 9.8 HSPF2 Region 5, heating to -30°C. The perfect balance of power and efficiency for stable heating in extreme cold.
• Momentum – Up to 29.4 SEER2, 12.9 HSPF2 Region 5, heating to -30°C. The ultimate cold-climate heat pump, designed for maximum efficiency.
• Myriad – Multi-zone heating and cooling. Supports up to six independently controlled indoor units for total flexibility.
INTRODUCING THE 15,000 BTU MODEL
Right-sized for efficiency. Designed for flexibility.
• Bridging the gap between 12K and 18K models, the new 15K BTU unit delivers optimal comfort and energy savings for mid-sized spaces.
QUIET, RELIABLE & EASY TO INSTALL
Whisper-quiet operation, a compact, lightweight design, and extended refrigerant line lengths ensure seamless installation and lasting performance.
Experience the Next Level of Performance
TRUE NORTH COMFORT, FROM SEA TO SEA
From the harshest winter nights to the hottest summer days, Moovair’s NEW GENERATION of heat pumps is designed for superior efficiency, reliability, and year-round comfort— no matter the climate.
NEW Mistral & Meridian
15,000 BTU – Heat+ in Meridian only
More Options, More Efficiency
• Up to 23.5 SEER2, 8.5 HSPF2 (V)
• Advanced Inverter for energy efficiency
• Compact design for easy installation
• 10-year parts & compressor warranty
MCEE Booth #515
LEARN MORE AT
Rheem will be featuring its Endeavor Classic Plus Series RD17AZ side discharge heat pump. Compatible with existing HVAC systems, or as a universal replacement, the units provide 70% capacity at -15C and offer efficiency up to 19 SEER2 and up to 9.5 HSPF2.
Viega’s MegaPress ½-in. to 2-in. Zero
Lead Bronze Transition Coupling is designed to join dissimilar piping systems with a galvanic-compatible material that reduces the risk of corrosion. The transition coupling uses Viega’s press end technology, eliminating the need for threading or welding.
Viessmann’s Vitocal 100-AW is a hydronic heat pump solution for heating, cooling, and domestic hot water. The kit includes outdoor and indoor units and a 20-gallon buffer tank. Available in three sizes: 1.5-, 3-, and 4.3-tons for cooling / 20.5-, 34-, and 58-MBH for heating.
The N2DX FLEX-X manifold gauge from NAVAC is the industry’s first gauge with an HD colour graphic interface. Compatible with A2L refrigerants, it supports 72 refrigerants and delivers Class 0.4 accuracy with digital reading, real-time visuals, and advanced animations. Its rechargeable battery lasts up to 100 hours.
Resideo Technologies will show the Honeywell Home FocusPRO Series thermostats which are compatible with a wide range of HVAC systems, including dual-fuel. The FocusPRO S200 Smart allows users to control settings and schedules via the First Alert app. The company’s UWP wall-mounting plate allows simple installation and upgrades.
A. O. Smith’s Voltex
AL smart hybrid electric heat pump water heater features smart leak protection, optional automatic shutoff, and iCOMM connectivity. It’s available in 50-, 66-, and 80-gallon sizes, and is easy to install with top and front water connections.
Ouellet Canada will feature the OSA Series ERV units that purify the air by removing pollutants, dust, and allergens, while ensuring continuous air renewal. Made in Canada, the systems offer quiet operation and versatile configurations suitable for high-rise apartments and small to mediumsized homes.
Alt-line will feature its alternative to copper HVAC refrigeration linesets. The company’s easy-to-install coated low carbon steel tubing is available in coil and rigid straight lengths. Custom lengths are available in ¼-in., 3/8-in., ½-in., 5/8-in or ¾-in., with or without insulation.
The Kane 79 CO wireless monitor and logger safely performs room Carbon monoxide (CO) migration tests. The units detect 0 to 999 ppm CO. The monitors can be left behind to log CO levels every minute for up to two weeks.
Anesi
Home Heating: Discover the Efficiency and Sustainability of Anesi® Gas Absorption Heat Pumps
Gas absorption heat pumps (GAHPs) are a powerful solution for decarbonizing home heating because they offer a highly efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional heating systems. Unlike conventional gas boilers, GAHPs utilize a thermodynamic cycle to absorb heat from the environment and combine it with the heat from combustion. They consume up to 50% less fuel and can achieve efficiencies of up to 140%. This makes them a crucial technology
for decarbonizing residential heating, especially in cold climate regions. GAHPs operate on natural gas and propane and can also operate on renewable energy sources, making them a versatile and sustainable option for home heating. All combustion, venting, and refrigerant are outdoors. Visit AnesiComfort.com and learn more about the safety, efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of Anesi® Gas Absorption Heat Pumps by Stone Mountain Technologies.
Services Énergétiques R.L. will show the Thermino thermal battery. Using Sunamp’s Plentigrade phase change material, it’s a compact alternative to traditional thermal storage. Designed to work with electric boilers and heat pumps, the battery provides thermal storage for space and water heating.
Dobbin Sales will be featuring Sloan’s DropSpot on-wall bottle filler, uniquely designed with style to promote sustainable drinking practices. Available in both stainless and black finishes, its touchfree sensor operation using Sloan’s sensor technology provides a hygienic bottle filling experience.
Chevrier Instruments will feature the SI-CA 230 by Sauermann, a combustion analyzer designed for HVAC professionals. Featuring a large touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and in-
terchangeable sensors, it ensures emissions analysis for residential and commercial heating systems. With advanced diagnostics and intuitive operation, the SI-CA 230 optimizes combustion efficiency and safety.
Eco-King is launching its tankless water heater, the HEET 199. The 199,000 Btu unit features a single pass heat exchanger and a large water passageway for less scale buildup. It has a 10 to 1 turndown, self-adjusting gas valve and a set of isolation valves for easy installation.
Contrac, part of FGI, will feature its new Crista two-piece elongated toilet with Flush Guard overflow protection. The toilets feature siphon jet flush action and the two-inch fully glazed ball pass trapway minimizes clogs, while the 12-in. rough-in makes installation straightforward with standard plumbing.
The new 4-in-1 brass hydraulic separator from Calefactio separates water, air, dirt and ferrous debris. The internal coalescing media allows micro-bubbles to fuse and be evacuated through the Calvent at top, while dirt particles collide and fall where they can be removed, and a magnet also accumulates any ferrous debris.
Amtrol’s Extrol commercial expansion tanks come standard with a threeyear limited warranty as well as features like deep drawn construction for greater dome strength, patent-pending anti-Legionella liner and its patented Turbulator that agitates incoming water to remove debris.
Hydro Solar will feature large air-towater heat pumps, 20 or 40 tons, equipped with DC inverter compressors and EVI (enhanced vapour injection) technology, which allows them to deliver higher temperature fluid in much colder outdoor temperatures, in outdoor operating temperatures from -30C to 45C.
The RIDGID RP 251 compact press tool has a 360-degree head swivel, a forward-positioned trigger and SlimGrip handle. Compatible with compact jaws, rings, and actuators it can press up to 1-1/4-in. copper and stainless; up to 1-1/2-in. PEX; and 1-in. carbon steel; and up to 1-3/8-in copper in refrigeration.
Pump Smart Enough to Check Its Oil Health NAVAC Inc.
NAVAC introduces the world’s first vacuum pump with oil heath test function, NP8DSV. Designed with professional technicians in mind, it offers a powerful 8 CFM dual-stage performance and 15-micron ultimate vacuum. The one-click oil health test function allows users to quickly assess oil condition, providing a measurable solution so that oil is only changed when needed. The pump seamlessly integrates with the NMV1S Bluetooth vacuum gauge, providing real-time system vacuum readings displayed on the pump and in myNAVAC App. With user-friendly features like automated decay testing, preset vacuum targets, and a built-in solenoid valve for vacuum preservation, this pump is designed for “set it and forget it” convenience.
Reliable, efficient, and easy to use, the NP8DSV sets a new standard in system evacuation, helping users save time, reduce costs, and deliver precise, effective evacuations every time.
Rinnai® Rinnai® Commercial Floor-Standing Boilers
Rinnai’s RCB•SERIES™ commercial condensing hydronic boilers are available in floor-standing and wall-hanging models. They have a groundbreaking feature set and can serve as a primary or secondary building heat source in any size commercial application.
The floor-standing models are available in 1,000,000, 750,000 and 500,000 Btu options. Up to eight units can be cascaded for an impressive 8,000,000 Btu input.
In a cascade configuration, the lead unit is interchangeable, and our Integrated Cascade Logic distributes runtimes equally for optimal application diversity. We use industry-standard thermostat wire, so no special cables are required. This design simplifies the operation and interchangeability of units in the system— one SKU for each Btu size.
Our boiler’s superior 10:1 turndown ratio enhances efficiency, energy savings, and equipment longevity by reducing wear and tear. As a result, the RCB floorstanding models’ achieve up to 98% thermal efficiency, ranking among the markets top energy savers. And with 316L stainless steel WaterTube heat exchangers, they are also built to endure.
The RCB•SERIES™ features an intuitive 7” full-colour LCD touchscreen, pictured above. Simple Setup lets you adjust and customize parameters to maximize performance, and the Demand screen gives you critical information with colour-coded boiler status messages.
Built-in BMS (Building Management System) compatibility enables seamless communication with a central BMS without additional hardware or software. The 0-10v input provides efficient, precise control over boiler operation. Modbus communication protocol is built-in, with BACnet and LonWorks available as options. Standard integrated Wi-Fi connectivity is included.
Castor wheels on the unit allow you to roll right into the mechanical room. The wheels have levelling feet and locks for permanent set-up. At 28.5 in/72.3 cm wide, they fit through a standard commercial doorway.
270° of service access - all three cover panels can be quickly removed when servicing the unit, providing amazing accessibility. A QR code in the Service Menu links you directly to the manual for quick reference when needed.
Designed for commercial applications, these condensing, gas-fired boilers are built to deliver energysaving performance with advanced features to meet all your building’s heating needs.
Olimpia Splendid USA will show its Maestro series air conditioner/heat pumps. The vertical Maestro Tower (R32 refrigerant), is a 208/230V heat pump (with or without 2kW electric heater) and with optional ERV for dedicated outside air requirements. Installs with two 8-in. through-the-wall penetrations and no outside condensing unit.
KeepRite is introducing its KGL Gas Cooler designed for most CO2 applications. It features a 16-gauge G90 galvanized steel casing and a 3/8-in. heavy-wall copper tube. You can choose from 8, 10, and 12 fin-per-inch variations. All fan sections have shafted electronically commutated (EC) motors.
Boshart will introduce its Stainless Steel Push Fittings. The fittings offer a sweep elbow that’s 10% faster around bends, requiring 33% less force to install, and are completely immune to dezincification. Plus, they come with a 5-year warranty on ball valves and a 25-year warranty on fittings.
Trilex will be featuring the KORADO brand steel panel radiator with universal connections. The model RADIK
VKM8 is a panel radiator in the VENTIL KOMPAKT collection which allows bottom middle or bottom right connection to the heating system. It can be mounted with a removable U-bracket for flexibility and ease.
From RLS look for the Klauke 19kN Press Tool Kit. If you’re transitioning to flamefree HVAC/R press connections, the kit comes with a tube cutter, deburring tool, press gauge, wire brush, abrasive pad, a permanent marker, and five jaw sizes including 3/8-in., ½-in., 5/8-in., 7/8-in., 1-1/8-in.
Uponor will show six new manifold wall cabinets designed for greater options in residential and commercial projects. The cabinets are available in both recessed or surface mount in various dimensions and accommodate Uponor’s engineered polymer and
stainless-steel manifolds, and four of the six accommodate the commercial stainless manifolds as well.
Simpro will feature its Simpro Digital Forms, designed for collecting field service data with customized, fillable forms that are easy to manage and complete, particularly on mobile devices. Generative AI features suggest work notes in real-time, reducing time and effort for technicians.
Oatey Self-Closing Pipe Clamps are designed for fast and secure instal lation of copper, steel, PEX, and CPVC pipes in heating, plumbing, and electrical systems. These one-piece clamps feature a self-closing mechanism, making it easy to secure pipes by simply pushing them into the clamp.
Can-Aqua will feature the Zurn top mount sensor flush valve with Hydropower. The low maintenance flush valve offers reliable, sustainable, performance, and features contactless activation, a mechanical override button and standard 24-hour line flushing. It comes in polished chrome, brushed nickel and matte black.
Enhancing everyday living
With a fresh take on tradition, we are excited to promote our new look at MCEE to emphasize our commitment to innovation and quality. We are proud to manufacture in Canada and to serve Canadians with a line of Giant residential and commercial water heaters.
We have extended our Expert Plus residential water heater product offering, a series that combines efficiency, durability, and performance ensuring long-term reliability and reduced maintenance costs.
DESIGNED FOR CERTIFIED CONTRACTORS AND QUALIFIED EXPERTS!
RESIDENTIAL ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS
Expert Plus models
– Top or bottom cold-water entry
Available in 30, 40 and 60 Imp. Gallon capacities (136, 182 or 273 Litres)
• Inner tank coated with cobalt blue glass enriched with zirconium
• Medium density screw-in immersion elements
• Brass drain valve
For more information visit our website giantinc.com or contact your local representative.
Delta’s Architectural Design Series includes faucets and soap dispensers designed with innovation and commercial quality. The hands-free technology is designed for high-use areas such as transportation hubs, retail, offices, and hospitality. The series comes in three collections and four finishes: chrome, brilliance stainless, champagne bronze and matte black.
Dettson will reveal Kalido, a new electric boiler with touch screen controls, intuitive interface, and a range of customizable settings. Its design makes maintenance easy with a removable hinged door for more space for connecting power and control wires, detailed diagnostics, and an integrated cycle counter.
Canplas will feature the Endura XL mon itoring system, a dual function so lution that monitors the status of a grease interceptor and alarms when it is time to schedule maintenance. It also safeguards food service facilities by monitoring for high liquid level events, which may signal a blockage and impending back-up.
Fieldpiece will show its GS422F Analog Gauge Set for system diagnostics, refrigerant recovery, evacuation, pressure testing, and charging. The rugged gauge set includes 3-port and 4-port configurations, pressure-tight SMAN manifold block, integrated sight glass to see refrigerant flow, high-grip valve knobs, piston valves for precision, Fahrenheit and Celsius versions.
Kohler will feature the Traverse pulldown kitchen sink faucet, part of its Sterling brand for trade professionals. The Traverse singlehandle kitchen sink faucet has a twofunction sprayhead and a contemporary high-arch spout. Single-hole or three-hole installation (escutcheon plate included) and flexible supply lines and quick-connect fittings simplify installation.
SFA Saniflio’s Sanipit 24 GR CB preassembled grinding pump kit is a complete solution for new sewage pit installations. The 24 x 24 basin has a 1-HP motor, stainless steel grinder blades, and triple-pressure switches for redundancy and can pump sewage up to 25 ft with a maximum shutoff head of 33ft.
BMI Canada has added Carbon Press and Carbon Press Gas fittings to its press offering. Available from ½-in. to 2-in., the fittings are tested before they are individually bagged. In addition to copper and carbon press fittings, the BMI Press family includes ball valves, brass adapters and more.
OS&B will highlight its new ITD365 One Piece Island Tub Drain. The product features a unique 2-in-1 design for both ABS and PVC installations. Its low-profile design allows for installation in 8-in. joist space or greater. Also, its deeper well design accommodates bath drain fittings.
General Pipe Cleaners has rethought high-speed, flexible shaft machines with the Flexi-Rooter, the next generation flexible shaft machine. The company added an integral, variable speed motor with foot pedal control, stronger, stiffer shaft and our unique ClogChopper cutters combined with carbide tipped and non-carbide chain cutters.
PRESENTED BY
Great Lakes Copper
Seven Decades of Trusted Canadian Craftsmanship and Integrity
Manufacturing copper tube in Canada for almost 7 decades, you not only learn the importance of dependability and quality, but also the meaning of integrity, honesty and partnership. The copper tube market is guided by not only strong stewardship but also by trust. It requires talented hands to form our products to meet all standards we expect and deserve in Canada. It requires a knowledgeable team that’s focused on providing answers where questions exist. It also relies on a committed and stable footprint where it’s been since we broke ground in London, ON. in 1956 to supply locally and across Canada whenever we are called upon. More than ever, Great Lakes Copper answers those calls across Canada and remains proudly committed to suppling our schools, our homes and our hospitals with true Canadian copper.
COPPER TUBES
Combining the reliability of elastomeric insulation and the durability of a polymeric coating to provide the only coated line set available in Canada that meets the current CAN/ULC S102.2 requirement for smoke and flame and backed with an industry-leading 5-year UV warranty.
Approaching our 7th decade in Canada, our products are a part of everyday life and our company is proud to support communities nation-wide. From hospitals that heal us to schools that enlighten us, generations of Canadians continue to rely on their domestic partner for quality, integrity and a service that is distinctly Canadian.
PRESENTED BY
SFA Saniflo Canada
Sanipit® 24 GR + Sanipit® 24 GR CB
Revolutionizing Sewage Management: The Sanipit® 24 GR and Sanipit® 24 GR CB Solution
SFA Saniflo’s Sanipit® 24 GR and Sanipit® 24 GR CB revolutionize the sewage ejector market by addressing longstanding issues like high maintenance costs, float problems, and messy repairs. These innovative solutions offer a cleaner, more efficient, and reliable approach to sewage management for both residential and commercial applications.
Innovative Features
Both models boast a powerful 1-HP grinder motor with a stainless-steel blade, capable of pumping wastewater up to 25 feet vertically and 328 feet horizontally, with a maximum shut-off head of 33 feet. The systems utilize a fail-proof air pressure switch mechanism with triple redundancy, ensuring reliable operation and eliminating common float issues.
Sanipit ® 24 GR:
The Retrofit Solution
The Sanipit ® 24 GR is designed to easily replace existing sewage pumps in 24-inch basins. Its preassembled, heavy-duty construction allows for seamless retrofitting, making it an ideal choice for upgrading problematic systems.
Sanipit ® 24 GR CB: Complete Package for New Installations
For new construction projects, the Sanipit ® 24 GR CB offers a comprehensive solution. It comes preassembled in a heavy-duty, 24-inch diameter basin, complete with a built-in grinder motor, air-pressure mechanism, and external control and alarm system.
Maintenance Made Easy
Both models feature easy access to internal components, including the motor, grinder blade, and pressure switches. The innovative design creates a dry cavity within the pit, enabling “white-glove” servicing – a significant improvement over traditional systems that require technicians to work directly in sewage.
Performance and Reliability
The Sanipit® 24 GR and GR CB can handle wastewater from multiple bathrooms and fixtures in residential and commercial settings. With a discharge rate of 66 GPM at 3 feet, these systems efficiently manage high-volume applications.
Additional Benefits
- External control panel with visual and audible alarm system
- 2-inch discharge pipe with built-in check valve
The Sanipit® 24 GR and Sanipit® 24 GR CB represent a significant leap forward in sewage ejector technology, offering reliability, ease of maintenance, and superior performance for both retrofit and new installation applications.
MECHANICAL SUPPLY NEWS
MANUFACTURERS • DISTRIBUTORS • WHOLESALERS
CIPH ONTARIO CHAPTER ENTERS 60TH YEAR INSPIRED
The Ontario Chapter of the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIPH) hosted its first meeting of 2025 in late January and delivered a message of optimism despite the uncertainty of potential tariffs on exports to the U.S. hanging over the group like a dark cloud.
Unstoppable Tracy Schmitt (left) inspired the CIPH Ontario chapter and signed books for the attendees.
CIPH is a national association made up of manufacturers, wholesalers, manufacturers’ agents and associates in the plumbing, heating, hydronics, and waterworks industry across Canada. Satinder Chera, CEO of the national association, addressed the Ontario Chapter with recognition that “It’s going to be a bumpy ride for the next little while.”
Following the development of a new National Board Strategic and Tactical plan for 2025-28, Chera outlined how the CIPH is committed to being an indispensable voice for the industry, and he shared some recent survey results indicating that over 60% of association respondents indicate that cross-border tariffs would have a negative effect on their business, and cross-border trade was among the top three factors influencing their business outlook—the top two being market demand for products and competition.
As representatives of the industry at large, Chera called on all members to participate in quarterly association surveys to ensure the CIPH can properly gauge industry trends and work towards common goals.
As a national association founded in Montreal 92 years ago, he congratulated the Ontario Region of CIPH on celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, and the occasion was marked with CIPH Ontario president, Dave Walker (Independent Mechanical Supply) cutting a ceremonial cake.
The featured presentation for the luncheon was a motivational talk from Toronto’s own Unstoppable Tracy Schmitt, an accomplished four-way amputee who has scaled Himalayan mountains, captained champion sail boats, scuba dived and much more.
Schmitt’s message was about tackling obstacles head on, “If you try hard enough anything is possible,” she says.
Outlining a few of the challenges she faced, even as a five-year-old going to school for the first time, she thanked her mother for instilling the positive attitude she carries with her today. “I was born this way, but my mom said, ‘If you live a life of no excuses, you get to live a life of no limits.”
Schmitt encouraged the crowd to tap into perseverance and positive attitude to push through challenges. She also stressed the importance of teamwork, and that she gained independence through the help of others. ciph.com
PALOMA RHEEM TO ACQUIRE FUJITSU GENERAL
Paloma Rheem, Japanesebased parent company of North American water heating and air conditioning company Rheem, is set to acquire residential and commercial heat pump producer Fujitsu General, with Fujitsu General to become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Paloma Rheem as part of this transaction.
Fujitsu General has approved the offer, with the transaction expected to commence in July 2025. The deal includes a share repurchase agreement between Fujitsu General and Fujitsu Ltd. (its largest shareholder), and then Paloma Rheem will acquire Fujitsu General.
Rheem has collaborated with Fujitsu General since 2016, working together on mutual product supply and joint development in the North American air conditioning market.
“We are very pleased to announce that Paloma Rheem and Fujitsu General have agreed to collaborate fully together while respecting Fujitsu General’s independence,” said Paloma Rheem’s president and representative director, Hiroaki Kobayashi, in a company release from January 6th. “With Fujitsu General, the Paloma Rheem Group will accelerate innovation towards realizing a decarbonized society in both the air and water businesses and strive even further to meet a broader range of customer needs.” rheem.ca
SWEGON ACQUIRING AMERICAN GEOTHERMAL
Swedish manufacturer of heating, cooling and ventilation products for buildings, Swegon, has acquired U.S.-based American Geothermal, a manufacturer of heat pump and cooling systems for the concrete, healthcare, commercial, industrial and institutional markets.
American Geothermal specializes in the manufacturing of batch water heating and cooling equipment for the concrete industry, and also offers commercial products under its ChillMaster brand.
“There is a strong urgency to decarbonise HVAC systems in both new and existing buildings, and American Geothermal offers all-electric solutions that use advanced technology to both heat and cool water,” said American Geothermal’s CEO Tom Anderson. “Together with Swegon’s well-established sales network across the U.S. and Canada we especially look forward to creating new opportunities to expand ChillMaster’s product reach.” swegon.com
COPELAND COMMITTED TO HEAT PUMP EVOLUTION
Copeland has announced that AAON has selected Copeland to help advance its heat pump solutions as part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) latest cold climate heat pump challenge.
“Our partnership with Copeland will help us meet the rigorous standards of the DOE’s Commercial Building Heat Pump Technology Challenge,” said Brent Stockton, director of engineering at AAON, in a media release.
“Our engineering expertise and advanced heat pump technologies are designed to help our OEM partners achieve rigorous performance standards and facilitate greater adoption of these new technologies,” said Mark Bills, vice president and general manager of commercial HVAC at Copeland.
Two DOE grants awarded to Copeland in 2024 are helping to advance the research and manufacturing of cold-climate heat pump technologies. One grant funds R&D for modular heat pump technology with integrated thermal energy storage, while the other grant expands Copeland’s production capacity for heat pump compressors across manufacturing facilities Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Copeland.com
DISTRIBUTION
>> Panasonic Canada and EMCO entered strategic national partnership to expand the distribution of Panasonic’s heat pump products across Canada. EMCO HVAC will distribute Panasonic’s ductless and ducted heat pump products offering availability and technical support to residential markets across the country. emco.ca/hvac-r na.panasonic.ca
>> MetalWorks, HVAC wholesaler in the Greater Toronto Area with locations in Vaughan, Richmond Hill and Cambridge, is expanding to Bradford this Spring. The company has also launched HydronicWorks, an extension dedicated to all things hydronics stocking IBC Boilers, Lochinvar and more, now open in Vaughan and coming soon to its other locations. metalworks.com
TACO CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF THE 007
Taco made a splash at the recent AHR Expo in Orlando celebrating 50 years of its 007 circulator. Introduced in the 1970s, the 007 was unique with its compact design and performance, and today the circulator continues to evolve.
The most current model, the 007e ECM circulator, uses up to 85% less energy than traditional AC motors.
The company also unveiled a ‘reinvigorated’ brand identity on their booth, and in a press conference prior to the show’s opening the company honoured Rick Mayo, recently retired western product and applications instructor, with its Dan Holohan Award. Mayo also received a Lifetime Service Award at the Canadian Hydronics Conference last fall in Edmonton. tacocomfort.com
Wolseley Canada has appointed Jacqueline Janes as director, Atlantic Canada. Joining Wolseley in 2020 as a sales manager, in her new role Janes will be responsible for driving growth in the region through the sales and branch teams.
Industry veteran Mark Evans has joined Conex Bänninger as vice president, business development. Most recently, Evans was director of sales, plumbing and HVAC with Wolseley in Western Canada, and prior to that served in a corporate development role with Viega.
Navien has promoted Adam Wills to director, Canada. Wills was previously in the role of national sales manager since joining the company in the fall of 2020. Prior to that he spent over seven years with Rheem Canada.
Sian Smith has joined Westlund as regional manager, Canada East. Smith was previously general manager with Riptide Fulfillment, helping develop and grow that organization since 2017. She has also held senior roles with Emco and Noble in Ontario.
Janes Evans Wills Smith
Bradford White
Bradford White
ElectriFLEX® Commercial Electric Water Heaters
When it comes to quickly finding a commercial water heater in the exact voltage, phase, and kW input you need, Bradford White’s extensive ElectriFLEX Series™ makes life easy. In addition to offering a broad range of fieldconvertible models, the series includes technological advances that exemplify Bradford White’s Built to be the Best® trademark.
Quick replacements are what make the ElectriFLEX Series™ an essential resource. Contractors can easily choose the right model for the customer’s needs and budget with a choice of light-duty (including Lowboy models), mediumduty, and heavy-duty models with capacities ranging from 6 to 119 gallons.
Bradford White’s most recent innovation for the ElectriFLEX Series™ and all other tank-type water heaters involves an exclusive dual level of Vitraglas® plus Microban® tank protection. While Vitraglas® protects the tank from corrosive elements, Microban® helps prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew on the surface of the tank lining. It adds up to valuable peace of mind that customers simply won’t find elsewhere.
Another exclusive technology, the Hydrojet® Total Performance System, is designed to maximize the life and performance of the water heater. The system incorporates a cold-water delivery tube that reduces sediment buildup using a unique series of jet ports. The result is added efficiency, increased first-hour rating, and a longer life thanks to reduced sediment.
ElectriFLEX MD™ (Medium-Duty) and ElectriFLEX HD™ (Heavy-Duty) also provide a boost in heating performance. Both benefit from a screw-in style low watt density INCOLOY® sheathed elements standard. In addition to optimal direct heating, these elements resist burnout caused by dry fire or lime buildup.
To learn more about the ElectriFLEX Series™ and Bradford White’s other solutions, visit forthepro.bradfordwhite.com. You’ll also find a wide range of resources there to help you do your job as efficiently as possible.
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.
LAARS® FT Series Commercial Boilers are engineered to simplify a wide range of installations:
• Superior Durability & Efficiency: 316L stainless steel firetube heat exchanger delivering 95%+ thermal efficiency with up to a 10:1 turndown
• Flexible System Integration: Cascade up to four boilers, high and low temperature zone control & DHW Smart Priority™
• Versatile Installation: Converts from wall to floor with optional stand, top or bottom gas connections and PVC, CPVC, SS, or PP venting up to 150'
Booth #2105
WATER QUALITY MATTERS
Dealing with hard water and why water treatment systems are a good business for plumbing professionals.
BY DOUG PICKLYK
From a young age we all learn the chemical formula for water, H2O, but finding pure water containing only hydrogen and oxygen is nearly impossible. The water we source from lakes, springs and aquifers, where it filters through rocks and soil, picks up minerals and many other dissolved solids along the way. Even rainwater picks up impurities as it falls, often making it slightly acidic with dissolved gases, and it’s game over once it hits the ground. Plumbers can play a role in ensuring homes and buildings have access to clean and safe water, not only safe to drink, but safe for the plumbing fixtures and water heating appliances in the home or business.
One of the responsibilities includes testing and measuring water quality to detect contaminants, particularly hardness levels. For homes and buildings in areas with water treatment plants, the municipalities monitor drinking water quality for personal safety. When it comes to testing well water for safety, provincial or territorial local public health units or drinking water authorities are the route to go.
When it comes to what a plumber can do: “The first step is always a comprehensive water test including, hardness, iron, nitrates, pH, etc.,” suggest Paul Ethier, national sales manager with HALO Water Systems.
If plumbers are unsure about testing,
Ethier recommends reaching out to the Canadian Water Quality Association (CWQA) for information and training. And when it comes to dealing with water hardness and the damage it can do to plumbing systems, this is where the plumber can step up.
HARD WATER
Water hardness is primarily caused by the presence calcium (Ca+) and magnesium (Mg+) ions in water. These ions get into the water by leaching from solid minerals, especially areas with a lot of limestone, where the minerals dissolve in water.
Picture adding some salt to a glass of
Continued on p72
PHOTO: ADOBE STOCK/ALSU
PRESENTED BY
NEW BONOMI PRESS™ Bonomi North America
Fittings for copper pipe deliver superior quality and best liability protection
BONOMI PRESS™, a new high-purity copper and lead-free brass press fitting solution for drinking water and other applications, is now available from Bonomi North America in sizes from 1/2” to 4”.
Advantages
• Italian-made quality and highest liability protection.
• Built-in leak detection system helps ensure each fitting is properly pressed.
Materials
BONOMI PRESS fittings are made of high-purity copper Cu-DHP and lead-free CR brass (C27 453) with high performance EPDM seals, suitable for drinking water and many other applications.
Pipe selections
BONOMI PRESS fittings are made to be pressed onto copper tube in accordance with ASTM B88, types K, L and M. Soft copper is limited to nominal sizes from 1/2” to 1 1/4”, while hard copper may be used with nominal sizes from 1/2” to 4”.
Listing and certifications
The fittings have the following listings and certifications:
• IAPMO/ANSI/CAN Z1117: press connections.
• NSF/ANSI/CAN 61: drinking water system components-health effects.
• NSF/ANSI/CAN 372: drinking water system components-lead content.
• ICC-ES LC1002: press-connection fittings for potable water tube and radiant heating systems.
Built-in Leak detection
BONOMI PRESS fittings are equipped with a unique leak detection system which allows any unpressed fittings to be easily detected. The device works both with both water (in the range between 15 and 85 psi) and air (between 0.5 and 45 psi). A special gasket allows media to leak out if any junction has not been pressed completely and properly.
Thanks to this innovation, any unintentional unpressurized joints can be quickly and reliably identified, eliminating time-consuming and costly future repairs.
Applications
BONOMI PRESS fittings meet the requirements of NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 and lead-free specific through testing under NSF/ANSI/CAN 372 (0.25% or less maximum weighted average lead content).
BONOMI PRESS is also suitable for use in many other applications, like heating and cooling, even in case of glycols used as antifreeze in standard percentages, oil-free compressed air (residual oil < 5 mg/m°, according to ISO 8573-1), plus non-potable and treated water.
Contact Bonomi North America today for more information. Call 704-412-9031 or email sales@bonominorthamerica.com.
Continued from p68
water. Salt (or sodium chloride, NaCl) dissolves in the water and the sodium ions (Na+) and chloride ions (Cl-) separate and become surrounded by water molecules. Now, heat up that water and before long only salt will be left behind.
In water with high levels of calcium and magnesium, when there is heat involved the precipitate formed is calcium carbonate (CaCO3), affectionately known as limescale, or simply scale.
Most visible as that build up in electric kettles, the mineral deposits also develop in faucets and shower heads leading to low flow, and that unsightly white crust that’s very visible on fashionable matte black faucets.
The scale buildup also occurs inside piping, restricting flow and increasing pressure. And of course, that same buildup is happening inside dishwashers and washing machines leading to higher energy consumption and premature failure. Hard water also reduces the effectiveness of detergents, leading to soap scum.
And modern condensing tankless water heaters and boilers feature smaller passageways in their heat exchangers than older cast iron boilers. Buildup of scale will reduce heat output capability. It’s in the best interest of plumbing and heating contractors to understand how to mitigate scale buildup.
WATER SOFTENERS
To get the “hardness” out of the water, it calls for a water softening solution, and the typical ion exchange water softener takes advantage of a chemical interaction that removes the unwanted dissolved ions (calcium and magnesium) and exchanges them with other ions of similar charge, usually sodium or potassium.
Untreated water passes through a bed of resin beads, where the hardness ions are exchanged. These resin beads require regular “refresh” cycles, so a brine tank is also part of the system and after
& Air
introduced
Smart Valve Water
a water softener combined with its SmartHQ digitally connected valve and filtration system that monitors flow, salt status/refill and can remotely shut off water.
a set amount of water flows through the softener a saltwater flush regenerates the resin bed. That saltwater flush is diverted and goes directly down the drain. The volume of resin bed required is determined based on flow design requirements. “There are varying qualities and types of resin used in ion exchange,” notes Ethier. “Most traditional water
softeners use an 8% crosslink polystyrene cation resin; however, some softeners use a higher grade such as 10% or 12%.” Higher percentages give the resin beds longer life and additional capacity.
“Matching the right size softener to your customer’s specific situation ensures optimal performance, efficiency, and customer satisfaction,” says Ben
Watts Pure Water Residential Dual Media 45K Softening and Filtration System combines water softening and activated carbon filtration in one tank to reduce chlorine taste/odour.
AquaSolve by Lync, a Watts brand, uses media assisted crystallization to prevent scaling without using salt or backwash.
GE Water
Solutions
its Profile Professional
Softener,
Navien’s new WEC electric water treatment system – uses electrolysis to remove scale forming ions (no resin beads/no salts).
HALO ION 2.0 Plus in-line water conditioner uses multi-reversing magnetic fields to alter the molecular structure of dissolved minerals to keep them suspended in the water.
Tate, national sales manager - water treatment with Navien.
System sizing will depend on water quality, flow rate, and the ultimate treatment goal. Typical residential systems process 5–12 gallons per minute (gpm), while industrial units handle 50–500 gpm. Commercial systems will also offer redundancy to manage peak demands, note Tate.
Water softeners target scale and do not generally filter water, but some dual use systems now incorporate filters or charcoal that will address taste or odour, issues often corrected with additional treatment systems including intense filtration and reverse osmosis (RO), topics for another day.
“By offering these simple maintenance services plumbers can build lasting relationships with customers.”
ALTERNATIVES TO ION EXCHANGE
While the ion exchange water softener is well recognized as the most common method of reducing water hardness, in 2018 the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) released IAPMO/ANSI Z6012018, a standard for scale reduction devices intended for residential and similar water heating applications. The standard certifies that a device can reduce the amount of scale by at least 70% when compared to an untreated sample.
There are scale-reducing filter options on the market that have achieved the Z601-2018 standard. And then there are also alternative processes which use diffent types of resin media technology. Plus there are systems using electricity or magnets that work to re-orient or remove the scale-forming ions in the water.
At the recent AHR Expo 2025 in Orlando, Navien introduced its WEC tankless electric water treatment system. The unit uses an electro-membrane technology where positive and negative electrodes attract the ions as the water flows by. Once the membranes are saturated the system reverses the current and flushes away the unwanted ions. The WEC600 is IAPMO Z601 certified and will be coming to Canada soon.
HALO has its ION 2.0 scale inhibitor which forces water to flow past magnets which reorient the ions and, in the process, prevent the formation of calcium carbonate.
Yet another technology, used in AquaSolve by Lync, a Watts company, and other companies is referred to as media assisted crystallization or template assisted crystallization (TAC). This process uses a different type of media surface which attracts minerals and converts them into crystallized particles
that won’t adhere to surfaces, so it reduces scaling in pipes without removing ions and requires no backwashing. Far from comprehensive, this short list of alternatives shows there are many options on the market to treat scale buildup.
MAINTENANCE
Looking after a water treatment service is looking after your customer. Once a hard water treatment system is selected and installed schedule regular maintenance. Plumbers should offer ongoing services that include:
• Routine Water Testing – periodic water quality checks help detect any changes in mineral content, pH balance, or contamination levels that may require adjustments.
• Water Softener Maintenance – homeowners need to replenish salt levels in ion-exchange water softeners regularly, and plumbers should inspect and clean brine tanks and resin beds to ensure efficiency and inspect and adjust control valves on the system.
• Descaling Water Heaters – annual descaling of tank and tankless water heaters prevents efficiency loss and extends their operational lifespan. Incorporating water treatment should reduce the degree of descaling required.
• Pipe Inspections and Flushing – flushing pipes and plumbing systems periodically helps remove accumulated sediment and mineral buildup.
• Filter Replacements – homeowners using reverse osmosis or other filtration systems need to replace filters on schedule to ensure continued effectiveness.
• Fixture Cleaning – hard water can still cause small deposits on faucets and showerheads, requiring occasional cleaning with vinegar or specialized descaling solutions. No, a trained plumber isn’t a cleaning service, but by offering these simple maintenance services, plumbers can build lasting relationships with customers, ensuring long-term satisfaction and system reliability.
Testing and measuring water quality is a skill that every plumber could possess. Understanding and addressing water hardness issues not only protects plumbing systems but also enhances a homeowner’s quality of life by providing cleaner, more efficient water usage.
By implementing solutions such as water softeners, filtration systems, and descaling treatments, plumbers can prevent repairs and extend the life of plumbing and heating components. Regular maintenance services further ensure that customers remain satisfied, reinforcing the plumber’s role as a trusted expert in home water quality management. <>
ProVore® Grinder Liberty Pumps
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.
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.
ProVore®380
Liberty PRG
DEBT FUELS GROWTH
Taking loans to grow your business requires a plan and purpose.
BY MATTHEW BIRCH
Mark Reynolds had built his HVAC business from the ground up, starting as a oneman operation with a truck and a vision. Over the years, he steadily grew his client base, but he knew that to take his company to the next level he needed to invest in better tools, more technicians, and a larger workspace. The challenge was how to fund that growth while maintaining financial stability.
After careful consideration, Mark decided to take on a business loan—not as a last resort, but as a strategic move to expand his operations.
He consulted with financial professionals and developed a clear plan. He calculated the additional revenue required to cover loan payments, factored in operational efficiencies that new equipment would bring, and ensured he had a buffer for any unforeseen challenges.
With the loan secured, Mark moved into a new shop and hired two skilled technicians who helped improve service speed and customer satisfaction. Within a few months, revenue had increased, and his disciplined approach to managing debt ensured he stayed ahead of his financial obligations.
Then, an unexpected challenge arose—one of his largest commercial clients experienced financial troubles and delayed their payments. Thanks to the financial discipline he had built into his plan, Mark had retained earnings and strong cash flow management strategies in place. He was able to
continue operations without resorting to high-interest debt or making panicdriven decisions.
Instead, he negotiated adjusted payment terms with his client and focused on diversifying his revenue streams to avoid over-reliance on any single customer.
Within a year, Mark’s business had not only stabilized but grown beyond his initial projections. His careful planning and structured use of debt had paid off, proving that borrowing can be a powerful tool when used strategically.
Mark’s experience highlights an essential lesson: debt is not inherently bad. When used wisely, it can be a catalyst for growth, allowing business owners to scale efficiently and seize new opportunities. The key is discipline—understanding financial commitments, planning for contingencies, and making data-driven decisions.
Here’s how business owners can keep their debt-to-income ratio in check while staying competitive.
PLAN FOR DEBT IN ADVANCE
One of the biggest mistakes business owners make is borrowing without a clear plan. Before taking on debt, it’s critical to determine:
• How much funding is needed and for what specific purposes – Avoid vague borrowing; define exact investments, whether for expansion, equipment, or working capital.
• Profit margin analysis – Not just best-case scenarios, but an average
margin that accounts for projects that don’t go as planned.
• Sales thresholds – Calculate the level of sales required to service the debt comfortably.
• Cash management strategies –Consider invoice terms, collection processes, and upfront cash sales to mitigate potential cash flow issues.
BORROW STRATEGICALLY— NOT REACTIVELY
Businesses often take on debt to cover short-term cash flow gaps, but reactionary borrowing can lead to long-term financial strain. Instead, approach borrowing as part of a strategic plan.
• Invest in revenue-generating assets
– Prioritize debt for initiatives that will yield a positive return, such as equipment that increases productivity or marketing that generates predictable sales growth.
• Expansion should be well-planned
– Moving to a larger facility or transitioning from a home-run business to a commercial space can be beneficial, but business owners should analyze current capacity constraints, the additional capacity gained, and the incremental monthly cost. Short-term revenue growth may make such an
investment appealing, but owners must ensure that growth is sustainable and not reliant on a single large project or client.
• Evaluate risks of adding new business lines – For example, a residential service business expanding into commercial installation must assess costs for new equipment, vehicles, and staffing. Is there substantial longterm demand, or is the opportunity based on a short-term market condition? Calculate the necessary revenue to justify the expansion and service the associated debt.
• Avoid high-interest debt for operational expenses – Using credit lines or short-term loans for payroll or rent can create a cycle of dependency. Instead, focus on improving cash flow efficiency.
• Seek the best financing terms –Compare loan offers, consider alternative funding sources, and negotiate with lenders.
MAINTAIN HEALTHY CASH FLOW
A business with strong cash flow can support reasonable debt levels while still funding growth. To improve cash flow:
• Use sound invoicing and collection practices to avoid payment delays.
• Negotiate favorable supplier terms to extend payables without penalties.
• Use forecasting tools to anticipate cash needs and prevent last-minute borrowing.
• Plan for seasonal revenue fluctuations – Some businesses experience cycles where cash flow tightens due to seasonal slowdowns. Others take on large projects that require significant upfront investment but have delayed payment terms of 30 to 60 days or more. Planning ahead can prevent unnecessary borrowing.
• Assess cash control factors –
Understand how much control you have over job completion. Are you waiting on other trades or general contractors? If so, this could delay revenue collection and impact cash flow management.
REINVEST WISELY TO SUPPORT GROWTH
Debt should be a stepping stone to expansion, not a weight that hinders future success. Reinvestment should focus on:
• Scalable growth initiatives that increase revenue without proportionally increasing costs.
• Technology and automation to reduce expenses and improve efficiency.
• Staffing strategically, ensuring payroll costs align with revenue growth.
• Maintaining financial discipline –Business owners who pay themselves a structured salary, avoid excessive personal withdrawals, and retain earnings in the business will be in a much stronger position to take on strategic debt for growth.
BUILD A CONTINGENCY PLAN
Even well-managed businesses face economic downturns or unexpected challenges. A contingency plan ensures that debt remains manageable.
• Maintain a debt buffer, such as an emergency reserve, to cover obligations during slow periods.
• Explore refinancing options to lower interest rates or extend repayment terms when advantageous.
• Regularly review financial performance metrics to catch warning signs early and adjust spending accordingly.
• Work with financial professionals –A fractional CFO can provide strategic financial guidance and ensure you make informed decisions based on financial data..
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR MANAGING DEBT
First, before taking on new debt, write out an exact plan for its use, projected ROI, and how you’ll service it. This exercise prevents impulse borrowing and ensures funds are directed toward productive investments.
Then, work to improve your cash flow control, for example, minimize risks by requiring deposits for materials-heavy jobs, ensure invoice terms are favourable, and keep a close eye on accounts receivable. The more control you have over cash flow, the easier it is to manage debt.
Managing debt is not about avoiding it altogether but using it strategically to fuel long-term business growth.
By maintaining a disciplined approach to borrowing, improving cash flow efficiency, and reinvesting wisely, businesses can remain competitive without becoming overwhelmed by debt obligations. Smart financial planning ensures that debt remains a tool for success rather than a liability that limits future opportunities. <>
Matthew Birch is the founder of Legacy Profit Solutions, a company dedicated to helping business owners find the right financial professionals for their needs. Legacy ensures you’re connected with a firm that understands your business and aligns with your long-term goals. Matthew@LegacyProfit.ca
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Airtècnics North America is the master distributor of Airtècnics air curtains in the USA and Canada. As part of the Rosenberg Group, we provide European-engineered solutions designed for performance, durability, and energy efficiency. Manufactured in Spain to the highest industry standards, our air curtains deliver proven reliability and innovation. With a diverse selection tailored to commercial and industrial applications, Airtècnics offers the perfect balance of functionality and elegance for modern spaces.
THE PROBLEM WITH MR. FROST (PART 2 – GAS DEFROST)
Using a refrigeration system’s internal energy to defrost the evaporator. BY DAVE DEMMA
In the December 2024 issue of HPAC I identified three common methods for defrosting evaporators of refrigeration systems: off cycle (air defrost), electric defrost, and gas defrost. In that first article I outlined off cycle and electric defrost methods, so this time I will review gas defrost systems.
Gas defrost uses a system’s internal energy to defrost, using the naturally occurring high temperature discharge vapour. Through the years, refrigeration systems have employed several different methods for introducing the hot gas to the evaporator, these include: (1) reverse cycle, (2) three pipe, and (3) reverse flow.
Each method has been perfected further as different manufacturers have refined the operation.
REVERSE CYCLE
When thinking of a reverse cycle style of defrost a heat pump often comes to mind. During the normal refrigeration cycle, the system acts like any other DX system where the condenser provides the liquid refrigerant which will feed the system TEVs. The TEVs meter refrigerant into the evaporator based on the load. On systems where the evaporator saturated suction temperature is below 32F (0C) the formation of frost will occur on the evaporator fins and tubes. This method requires a 4-way reversing valve, which allows the system refrigerant flow to be reversed at the initialization of the defrost cycle.
The compressor discharge vapour is now directed backwards through the
evaporator, condensing the high-pressure vapour into a liquid and melting the frost buildup in the process. The newly created liquid refrigerant must now be passed through an expansion device and allowed to vaporize at it passes backwards through the condenser before returning as a low-pressure vapour to the compressor suction.
This method results in a faster defrost, but several design and operation precautions must addressed. First, the system will require two expansion valves and a series of check valves to successfully expand the liquid refrigerant in both modes.
On systems using a refrigerant distributor, the nozzle orifice will not be of sufficient size to allow the defrost gas to flow through it without experiencing excessive pressure drop. A side outlet distributor (or standard distributor with an auxiliary side connector) must be used to allow the defrost gas to flow around the distributor nozzle. On close coupled systems with a single evaporator and no liquid receiver, a single expansion device (designed to operate for reverse flow operation) may be used to feed both the indoor and outdoor coils. In this case a balanced port or electric expansion valve is used, and it should be located in the common liquid line between the evaporator and condenser.
THREE PIPE
This method of defrost is requires the addition of a distinct third pipe running between the compressor rack and the evaporator(s); a defrost gas supply pipe.
The three-pipe method takes hot gas from the compressor discharge and introduces it to the inlet of the evaporator, downstream of the TEV. As it flows forward through the evaporator its heat energy is transferred to the frost accumulation on the evaporator fins and tubes. This liquid has nowhere else to go other than back towards the compressor, so an adequately sized accumulator is usually required.
One of the drawbacks with single evaporator systems using hot gas defrost is the elimination of any meaningful load on the compressor during the defrost cycle. With the evaporator receiving hot gas at its inlet and acting like a condenser in the process of melting the accumulated frost, the refrigeration cycle cannot continue for long with no cooling load. So, the defrost duration needs to be extremely short.
REVERSE FLOW DEFROST – HOT GAS
Since piping runs are relatively long in supermarkets, gas defrost generally takes the form of reverse flow defrost, using the existing circuit’s suction line to introduce the flow of the discharge vapour in a reverse flow direction through the evaporator system.
Discharge vapour from the common discharge line is piped to a defrost header, which then supplies the defrost vapour to each individual evaporator circuit through a defrost solenoid valve.
To accomplish reverse flow, a suction line regulator (or three-way reversing
valve) must be installed upstream of the common suction header, and electrically closed (or powered to the reverse flow position) during the defrost cycle; otherwise the discharge vapour would take the path of least resistance and flow to the compressor inlet. The suction regulator may be any of the following: suction solenoid valve, Evaporator Pressure Regulator (EPR), or Electric Evaporator Pressure Regulator.
The high-pressure gas flows backwards through the lower pressure evaporator, around the TEV through a check valve, around the liquid solenoid valve (through a check valve), and eventually exits to the liquid header via check valves around the TEV and liquid line solenoid valve.
Reverse flow of refrigerant from the discharge line backwards through the evaporator to the liquid header cannot be guaranteed without some flow
manipulation. Refrigerant always flows from high pressure to low pressure, so the discharge vapour supplied to the evaporator for defrosting must always be at a higher pressure than the liquid header, even though they are both on the “high side” of the system.
For a traditional hot gas defrost, a defrost differential valve is placed in either the discharge line (downstream from the oil separator) or in the liquid line (upstream of the liquid header). As the name implies, defrost differential valves are set to maintain a differential between the supply of discharge vapour for defrost, and the liquid header.
In the case of the discharge differential valve, the inlet (discharge) is set to approximately 20 psi higher than where the pilot line is piped (the receiver). Since the valve ensures the discharge vapour is 20 psi higher than the receiver pressure, the gas now has
enough pressure differential available to move backwards through the evaporator in sufficient flow for defrost.
System design engineers are always concerned with the “what if” scenario when a system component fails. In regard to the Liquid Defrost Differential Valve, there are two schools of thought as to which mode this valve operates in should there be a solenoid valve failure.
Some applications will use a differential valve that is in the differential mode when the coil is energized. Should a coil failure occur the system will operate as designed during the refrigeration mode, but will not provide any differential when a system attempts to defrost. In no time a service call will be placed.
Other applications will use a differential valve that is in the differential mode when the coil is de-energized.
Continued on p84
Discharge differential valve schematic.
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< REFRIGERATION
Continued from p84
Should a coil failure occur on this valve there would be issues with abnormal pressure drop in the liquid line. Without an adequate amount of Subcooling to prevent refrigerant flashing, the entire system will be unable to maintain design temperature conditions….again prompting a service call.
POTENTIAL ISSUES
The two greatest field struggles with reverse flow gas defrost come with setting the differential valve and determining what percentage of the total system capacity should be in defrost at any time.
First, the differential valve should be set with no systems in defrost, but in differential mode. It may require tricking the system into the differential mode. Since about 20 psi of pressure difference is needed to guarantee reverse flow, if the compressors and liquid header are in a room above the evaporator systems the defrost gas enters the evaporator system as a vapour so no noticeable pressure increase occurs.
THE SOURCE
But, the discharge gas condenses in the evaporator system, and returns back to the elevated liquid header as a liquid. For every one foot of vertical lift which the liquid must travel, it will lose approximately ½ psi, reducing the net pressure drop necessary for proper defrost. Therefore, the technician must add an additional ½ psi of differential for every foot of vertical lift.
Finally, only one evaporator circuit should defrost at a time and it should be no more than 25% of total capacity.
Here is the potential problem: the liquid differential valve is sized to handle the full capacity of refrigerant liquid mass flow at the design condition. During periods when a given system is in the defrost mode, the mass flow through the main liquid line will be reduced in three ways: (1) any system still in the refrigeration mode at conditions less than design load will reduce the demand for liquid mass flow; (2) the system in defrost will have no liquid refrigerant mass flow requirement, and
Adrian Steel adriansteel.com p.28
Alleguard alleguard.com p.12
Anesi AnesiComfort.com p.53
AO Smith hotwatercanada.ca p.7
Bonomi North America bonominorthamerica.com p.70
CB Supplies cbsupplies.ca p.38
Conforto confortohvac.com p.9
Flocor flocor.ca p.11
Fujitsu fujitsugeneral.com p.27
General Pipe Cleaners drainbrain.com p.4
Giant giantinc.com p.59
Great Lakes Copper glcopper.com p.61
Gree gree.ca p.20
HALO Water HALOwater.com p.69 LAARS laars.com/CommercialWallBoiler p.66 Liberty Pumps libertypumps.com p.74
Master Group ..................... moovair.com ....................................... p.50
(3) the condensed discharge vapour from the system in defrost flows to the liquid header, and supplies other circuits with liquid refrigerant, further reducing the mass flow requirement though the differential valve. This reduction in mass flow through the liquid line (upstream of the liquid header) renders the differential valve to being temporarily oversized. If severe enough, the differential valve may have difficulty operating in a stable manner.
The beauty of the modern refrigeration is that with any given portion of the system there are multiple methods of accomplishing operations. Defrost is no exception, as the above illustrates. <>
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. ddemma@uri.com.
recochem.com p.33
CALENDAR
ISH
March 17-21
Hosted in Frankfurt, Germany, ISH is the flagship international event for the plumbing and HVAC sector. With a theme of “Solutions for a Sustainable Future” visitors will gain insights on where the industry is headed as manufacturers from around the world display the latest in modern plumbing, heating and air conditioning innovations. ish.messefrankfurt.com
HEAT PUMP SYMPOSIUM –TORONTO
May 6
Produced by the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) in partnership with the Ontario Geothermal Association (OGA), this is Canada’s only conference, dedicated to this topic. It’s being held at the International Centre. heatpumpsymposium.ca
ACCA Conference
March 24-27
The Air Conditioning Contractors of America is the national trade association furthering the interests of HVAC/R contracting businesses and the broader HVAC/R industry. The ACCA Conference is taking place at the Kalahari Resort near Austin, Texas. accaconference.com
Ontario Geothermal Association Conference
May 21-22
Being held at York University, this year’s theme is “Embracing the Shift,” and will focus on the transformative role of geothermal energy in the evolving renewable energy landscape. This event attracts contractors, developers, government officials and more with networking and a tabletop trade show. ogaconference.com
MCEE
April 24-25
Biennial HVAC and plumbing event held in Montreal, and produced by associations including the Canadian Institute of Plumbing & Heating and the Corporation of Master PipeMechanics of Québec, returns to the Montreal Congress Centre. mcee.ca
Retrofit Canada Conference
June 9-10
The 5th Annual Retrofit Canada Conference takes place in Toronto at the Beanfield Center. The event attracts specialists in HVAC, passive buildings, building envelope, and smart/green buildings as well as government officials, multiunit residential and commercial real estate developers and more. retrofitcanadaconference. energyconferencenetwork.com
CIPH
Annual Conference
June 29-July 1
The Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating annual business conference is taking place at the Fairmont Tremblant, in Mont Tremblant, Quebec. Senior executives from major manufacturers, distributors and agents will gather for networking and educational sessions. ciph.com
ASHRAE
Annual Conference
June 21-25
The global Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers will be holding its five-day annual conference in Phoenix, Arizona. The technical program will cover how heat pumps, refrigerants, onsite energy storage, workforce development and other factors are affecting the industry. Both in-person and virtual registration options are available. ashrae.org
Modern Hydronics Summit
September 16
HPAC magazine’s annual Modern Hydronics Summit heads West to Calgary with a day filled with learning opportunities and displays of the latest in products and technologies that are pushing the hydronics industry forward at the Glenmore Inn and Convention Centre. modernhydronicssummit.com
Supporting Equity in Trades Conference
May 24-26
The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum (CAF), is producing the Supporting Equity in Trades Conference, being held at the Westin Harbour Castle in Toronto. The event will attract industry leaders, advocates, and allies to promote equity and inclusion in Canada’s skilled trades. caf-fca.org
World Refrigeration Day
June 26
World refrigeration day is an international awareness campaign established by the World Refrigeration Day Secretariat to raise the profile of the refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump sector and focus on the significant role the industry and technology play in modern life. worldrefrigerationday.org
HRAI
Annual Conference/Heat Pump Symposium
September 21-23
The Heating Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada 2025 Annual Conference heads to Halifax. The yearly gathering will include social and networking events, informative sessions and awards. This year’s event will be held in conjunction with the HRAI Heat Pump Symposium. hrai.ca
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