Mechanical Business March/April 2022 by Mechanical Business

CMPX: MPX: Canada’s mechanical h i l show h returns to Toronto

Double Issue! Over 150 Products Showcased!

INTRODUCING THE NEXT GENERATION FLEXIBLE SHAFT MACHINE

Flexi-Rooter

General has rethought high-speed, flexible shaft machines. The stronger, stiffer shaft lets you clean a wider range of drain lines, up to 75 feet long. It’s flexible enough to negotiate 2" lines yet tough enough to clear roots in 4" lines. General’s unique ClogChopper® cutter in combination with the carbide tipped chain cutter makes a formidable combination, capable of clearing the toughest stoppage. The built-in variable speed motor with foot pedal control makes the machine easier to operate. And the shaft is field repairable. It’s everything a flexible shaft machine should be.

Chain Cutter with Clog Chopper

To learn more, visit www.drainbrain.com/Flexi-Rooter, or call the Drain Brains® at 800-245-6200 Visit us at CMPX Booth #2109

T A B L E

CONTENTS O F

The move towards mass timber buildings

REFRIGERANT RECOVERY: THREE TIPS FOR BETTER RESULTS!

66HVAC/R

Implementing refrigerant recovery best practices allows experienced technicians and industry newcomers alike to optimize processes, prevent harm to themselves, avoid premature equipment failure, ﬁnish the job more quickly, and ensure greater accuracy in the process. Tony Gonzalez

The promise of hydronic systems in

building decarbonization 72RENEWABLES

58CONSTRUCTION TRENDS

As communities commit to building decarbonization, demand for energy-efﬁcient radiant designs which use water to heat or cool interior spaces, and heat pump technology for domestic hot water heating is expected to grow. Amruta Khanolkar

Mass timber buildings are relatively new in Canada, dating back about 10 years, but with building code changes this environmental construction approach is gaining momentum. Jonathon Harp

Canadian Mechanical& Plumbing Exposition

WHEN WATER RECIRC TECHNOLOGY LOSES ITS COOL

101SHOW PREVIEW

Mechanical professionals will be heading to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre at the end of March. MB’s show preview includes all the information you need to maximize your visit: show details, exhibitor list, educational session descriptions and a ﬂoorplan.

84PLUMBING

There’s little debate that residential or light commercial domestic hot water recirculation technology has proven its value but the key challenge to these simple systems is the problem of “hot water creep.” John Vastyan

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Superior Performance in a Compact Design Introducing the new Vitocrossal 200, CI2 Available Spring 2022

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viessmann.ca

Visit us at CMPX Booth #507

F E A T U R E S 8WORTH A LOOK

Report says homeowners and builders misunderstand risks of poor IAQ

30QUATTRO’S CORNER

Pipe transitions Andrew Quattrociocchi

36ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Scorecard demonstrates a Canada-wide drop in savings

T A B L E

CONTENTS O F

How to get a worker off the injured reserve and back on your roster

40ROAD WARRIOR: VANESSA LAM Life-long learner Carolyn Cooper

160HUMAN RESOURCES

Learning how to help employees get back to productive work after an injury is a skill managers must rely on at one time or another. Sue Sodek

52PLUMBING

The risks of sizing plumbing systems using Hunter’s Curve Tony Furst and Kazi Nasar

64JOBSITE JARGON

Enter for your chance to win a wireless TRMS clamp meter

78PLUMBING

About grease interceptors Silvano Ferrazzo

82VENTILATION

The lowdown on basements, cellars and crawlspaces Peter Meridew

92TECHNOLOGY

Building a Cloud roadmap: How to get started Gary Lo

94TOOLS

How to choose the best pipe cutter for the job Braedlyn McEwen

96HYDRONICS

Head loss calculation: Understand the ﬁner points Emilie Boyer

Air Quality Sensing in Enclosed Parking Areas 34TEST & MEASUREMENT

While maintaining a healthy indoor environment is commonly thought of as an issue for building occupancy patterns, underground parking garages must also be considered as part of the solution to providing a quality building environment. Rick Ellul and David Alliband

Product Showcase 115ONE-STOP SHOP: TRADE SHOW IN PRINT

This is a page-turner – more than 150 products are featured with all of the details you need to know in the latest edition of the Product Showcase. The technologies and services shown here are all readily available in Canada. M e c h a n i c a l

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Visualize the air with the Daikin One ecosystem Daikin Communicating HVAC Equipment

Humidity Control

HRV/ERVs

UV Coil Puriﬁers Filtration

Media Air Cleaners

Powered Ventilator Air Monitor*

Heating, Air Conditioning, and Indoor Air Quality solutions to help DETECT, VISUALIZE, and ACT to address common indoor air quality issues. Learn more at www.daikincomfort.com/go/daikinoneecosystem/ *

The Daikin One home air monitor only works with ducted units. Components sold separately.

2022

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T A B L E

M O R E

F E A T U R E S

156TRENDS

Energy efﬁciency, sustainability and IAQ are top of mind for new homebuyers Carolyn Cooper

M B

CONTENTS O F

S P E C I A L I S T S 26

158BOILERS

Treating water to reduce mechanical load and energy use Will Wilson

163RENEWABLES

Enbridge Gas launches ﬁrst hydrogenblending project in North America

168CONSERVATION

Creating water-efﬁcient communities Zack Oostrom

170HVAC/R

Considerations for electric radiant snow melting systems Amanveer Pandher

176INDOOR AIR QUALITY Don’t write off radon

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D E P A R T M E N T S 10-19News 20,21Movers & Shakers 22,23People 174,175The Info Page 175Events 178By the Numbers

HYDRONICS A few things about hydronics Bob “Hot Rod” Rohr There is really no excuse for improperly designing and installing systems but botched or compromised jobs are regularly shown on social media. REFRIGERATION Supermarket hot gas defrost systems Phil Boudreau Refrigeration systems in supermarkets and other large commercial-industrial applications often utilize several compressors connected in parallel. PLUMBING Up the ante with cross connection control certification Fred Bretzke CCC-certified technicians will find many opportunities for employment. HIGH-PERFORMANCE HVAC Focus on glazing Gord Cooke Avoid comfort complaints due to heat loss and heat gain. MARKETING This is the time to put your brand under a microscope Doug MacMillan The values brands trumpeted before COVID will need a critical eye – it comes down to purpose.

THE CRITERIA FOR SUCCESS IN DELIVERING BC’S LARGEST SECONDARY SCHOOL

164PROJECT PROFILE

Able construction management, quick response to emerging issues, and item-byitem problem-solving gets project over the ﬁnish line in spite of numerous obstacles. M e c h a n i c a l

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Content Media Group Inc. 19 – 1525 Cornwall Road Oakville, ON L6J 0B2 Canada Tel: 905.465.2919 www.mechanicalbusiness.com March/April 2022 Issue Published 6 times per year. For All Subscription Inquiries Shila Naik Circulation Director 905-272-4175 shila.naik@mechanicalbusiness.com Editor: Kerry Turner, C 416-435-1193 kerry.turner@mechanicalbusiness.com National Sales Manager: Kyle Badder, C 416-735-1375 kyle.badder@mechanicalbusiness.com Operations Manager: Caroline Bexﬁeld, C 647-217-2076 caroline.bexﬁeld@mechanicalbusiness.com Art Direction: Fourteen Orange Graphic Design Inc. davem@fourteenorange.com Controller: Liz Mills liz.mills@mechanicalbusiness.com Publisher: Bruce Meacock, C 416-457-9563 bruce.meacock@mechanicalbusiness.com PM:41536047 ISSN 1916-0674 MB (Print) ISSN 1906-0682 MB (Online) Proudly created and printed in Canada. We acknowledge the support of the Government of Canada.

Submissions: Copyright in material submitted to the magazine and accepted for publication remains with the author, but Mechanical Business and its licensees may freely reproduce it in print, electronic or other forms. Mechanical Business also reserves the right to edit said submitted materials to suit the editorial needs and mandate of the publication. Notice: Mechanical Business is published for owners, managers and decision makers with mechanical contracting ﬁrms and the sector’s supply chain partners in Canada. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information, Mechanical Business, Content Media Group Inc., its staff, directors, ofﬁcers and shareholders (‘The Publisher’) assume no liability, obligation or responsibility for advertised claims, for errors and/or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. Manufacturers’ instructions take precedence over published editorial. The publisher reserves the right to publish a printed correction in a subsequent issue for editorial errors, omissions and oversights. Subscriptions are available for $90 plus taxes in Canada and the U.S. Single copies are $15.00. Outside Canada and the U.S., the rates are $150.00 (annual) and $25.00 (single copy). © Copyright 2022. The contents of this magazine may not be reproduced in any manner without prior written permission of the publisher. Proud members of:

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M e c h a n i c a l

LOOK

Report says homeowners and builders misunderstand risks of poor indoor air quality Panasonic has released the results of How healthy is my home? Homeowner and homebuilder perspectives on Indoor Air Quality − a survey it says shows homeowners and homebuilders lack an awareness of the health risks associated with indoor air pollution and the impact of technological solutions to improve indoor air quality (IAQ). The survey of Canadian and U.S. homeowners (200 in Canada) and builders (50 in Canada) also found significant changes in participants’ perceptions and behaviours when they were presented with scientific findings around IAQ and health. Post-survey, for instance, one in four homeowners showed increased interest in investing in IAQ solutions, while 62 per cent of homebuilders said they would recommend IAQ technologies to homeowners. The technologies most likely to be recommended by builders were HEPA filtration and high-performance HVAC systems. The most compelling IAQ fact for both groups were life-threatening health risks, followed by the risk of off-gassing from volatile organic compounds in many building materials. “Many people are not aware that indoor air can be five times more polluted than outdoor, which could lead to serious and life-threatening health risks,” says Kevin Smith, general manager of life and device solutions division and visual solutions for Panasonic Canada. “Educating homeowners and builders on the importance of IAQ and solutions for filtration, ventilation, purification and management of indoor air is essential for maintaining a healthy living environment. Our research found that conversations around IAQ are vital between homeowners and homebuilders, to drive healthier living and a change in the industry.”

panasonic.com/ca

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04.22

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BC proposes asbestos workplace requirements

Viessmann purchases forest land in Nova Scotia

The government of British Columbia is calling for public feedback on its proposal to amend workplace health and safety requirements related to asbestos. According to the province, “asbestosrelated diseases are the leading cause of workplace deaths in BC, accounting for 33 per cent of all occupational BC is proposing new workplace disease and traumatic requirements under the workplace fatalities from Workers Compensation Act that would require asbestos 2000 to 2020 – a total of abatement contractors to be 1,279 deaths out of 3,879 licensed by WorkSafeBC. workplace fatalities.” The government says workers are exposed to asbestos due to “high levels of noncompliance with existing health and safety rules amongst some employers and contractors who undertake asbestos abatement work, and a lack of adequate safety training for asbestos abatement workers.” It also cites common problems such as not testing for asbestos-containing materials prior to undertaking a renovation; inadequate procedures, controls, training and supervision; a lack of proper personal protective equipment for workers; and asbestos ﬁbres being released into the air during demolition projects. As a result, BC is proposing new workplace requirements under the Workers Compensation Act that would require asbestos abatement contractors to be licensed by WorkSafeBC, and require employers and workers doing asbestos abatement work to be certiﬁed through a mandatory asbestos safety training process authorized by WorkSafeBC. The amendments would also allow WorkSafeBC to deny, cancel or suspend licences of non-compliant contractors.

Viessmann recently announced that it has invested in 2,200 hectares of forest land in Nova Scotia. The move is part of the company’s sustainability strategy, Viessmann, the parent company of Viessmann Canada, has purchased 2,200 hectares (5,400 acres) of forest in which seeks to Nova Scotia. preserve and manage forest areas. The forest areas of the Lake Pleasant portfolio were sold by several private owners. Future management will be carried out in cooperation with Canadian Green Value Management. The forest is managed sustainably, which means that the wood extracted is primarily used for long-lasting products.

worksafebc.com

Reed celebrates 125th anniversary

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24th edition of MEET set for May The MEET Show returns May 4-5 to Moncton, NB. It is presented by four sponsoring associations: Canadian Institute of Plumbing & Heating; Electro-Federation Canada; Illuminating Engineering Society and Atlantic Canada Mechanical Exhibitors. The 2022 edition will once again see visitors to the Moncton Coliseum take advantage of the opportunity to network with manufacturers, developers, architects, engineers, tradespeople, and personnel from municipal and provincial governments. The event will also feature the Industry Dinner, a comprehensive seminar program, as well as recognition of innovative products with the 5th biennial MEET Innovation Awards. meetshow.ca

Erie, PA-based Reed Manufacturing is marking 125 years of business in 2022. The business was founded in 1896 by Carl Reed along with three partners, manufacturing pipe wrenches and plumbing supplies. The company was acquired in 1902 by Reuben Wright whose greatgreat grandsons Scott and Mark are still involved in the company today, as president and chairman of the board, and as a board member respectively. reedmfgco.com 0 4 . 2 2

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04.22

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ASHRAE award winners include Canadians

Rendering of the Dream project.

ASHRAE highlighted member achievements and service to the industry with member awards presented during its 2022 Winter Conference in Las Vegas. Among them were a number of Canadians. Robert Bean, president of Calgary, AB-based Indoor Climate Consultants Inc., and Tim McGinn, Badri Patel, principal, McGinn Technical Services commercial in Calgary, were both recognized market account as Fellow ASHRAE, a membership executive for Johnson Controls grade that recognizes members who received the YEA have attained distinction and made Inspirational Leader substantial contributions in HVAC/R Award. and the built environment. Badri Patel, commercial market account executive for Johnson Controls in Toronto, received the YEA Inspirational Leader Award recognizing a young engineer in ASHRAE who has made considerable contributions to the industry and community. In the Student Design Competition, the team from the University of British Columbia took ﬁrst place in the HVAC Design Calculations category. Team members are Brandon Jung, Arin Lee, Lukengo Miguel, Kyle Vanderhorst and Taewoong (Jeff) Yoon. Congratulations to the winners from MB.

Canada’s largest residential zero-carbon project begins Toronto, ON-based Dream LeBreton has been selected to develop the first phase of Canada’s largest zero-carbon project, Ottawa’s Building LeBreton project. Dream LeBreton is a partnership between Dream Asset Management Corporation and Dream Impact Master LP and non-profit housing provider Multifaith Housing Initiative. The design team for the Dream LeBreton project just west of downtown Ottawa will be led by KPMB Architects and Perkins & Will, supported by Two Row Architect and Purpose Building, and landscape architect PFS Studio, construction manager EllisDon, and Indigenous engagement consultant Innovation Seven. Dream LeBreton acquired the Library Parcel, the first section of the project to be developed, and will build an integrated community with wastewater energy and solar power-generating systems, and 601 new rental housing units (31 per cent will be accessible, and 41 per cent will be affordable housing). The community will also feature retail space, health services, community services and programs for children and adults, as well as 600 indoor parking spots for bikes and 200 underground parking spots for motor vehicles, and a large outdoor public space. dream.ca

ashrae.org

Alberta announces new gas codes in effect for 2022 The government of Alberta has announced updates to the Gas STANDATA listing gas codes in force for 2022. Six new codes were adopted under the Gas Code Regulation, and came into effect on February 1, 2022 under the Safety Codes Act. Among those are: CSA-B149.1-20 – Natural gas and propane installation code, which provides the minimum requirements for the installation of natural gas and propane appliances and equipment downstream of a natural gas meter or from a propane distributor’s tank; and CSA-B149.2-20 – Propane storage and handling code, which provides the minimum requirements for the storage, handling, transportation and transfer of propane. alberta.ca

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Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) is created from food scraps, wood waste, wastewater, and more.

FortisBC proposes to provide 100 per cent renewable gas FortisBC Energy Inc. has applied to the British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC) to provide 100 per cent renewable gas to every newly-constructed home connecting to the gas system for the lifespan of the building. If approved, it would be a North American ﬁrst. The company also proposes that existing residential natural gas customers would automatically receive a small percentage of renewable gas as part of their gas supply by 2024. Renewable natural gas can help cut greenhouse gas emissions. FortisBC has committed to increasing the amount of renewable gas in its system to a target of 15 per cent renewable gas by 2030, and reducing the amount of conventional natural gas used by its customers to just 25 per cent by 2050. fortisbc.com

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Pilot project will provide digital home labels to Alberta homes The Alberta Ecotrust Foundation has teamed up with Vancouver software company Lightspark to launch a pilot project providing digital home energy labels to single-family residences in Calgary and Edmonton, AB. A home energy label shows how much energy and carbon a home uses, and how that compares to other homes. The $400,000 project, which is supported by the Alberta Real Estate Foundation, builds on Edmonton’s home energy map, which rates the energy efﬁciency of thousands of homes, including showing EnerGuide labels. Rather than home audits, the new digital map will use AI and machine learning to generate the ratings. As well as helping home buyers make better decisions, it’s hoped that the map will encourage homeowners to upgrade their homes to make them more energy efﬁcient. The digital home energy map is scheduled to launch publicly in fall 2022. albertaecotrust.com

Equipco celebrates 40 years in business

Montreal, QC-based Groupe Deschênes Inc. Deschênes joined recently announced Deschênes & Fils the death of Jacques Ltée in 1954. Deschênes at the age of 86. Jacques Deschênes joined Deschênes & Fils Ltée in 1954, holding various roles before becoming its third president and general manager in 1973, and president and CEO from 1988 to 2000. Under his leadership, the company grew from one location in Montreal to 50 locations across Quebec and Ontario. Jacques was chairman of the board of directors of Groupe Deschênes Inc. until 2009, and served as honorary chairman until December 2021. groupedeschenes.com

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Coquitlam, BC-based manufacturers representative Equipco Ltd. is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2022. Founded in 1982 in the Greater Vancouver Area, the company now has locations across the country and represents more than 30 manufacturers in the plumbing, HVAC/R, electrical and smart home industries. Equipco is currently owned and operated by managing partners Jason MacKenzie, Lorne Reitenbach, Ryan Bristow, Dan Milroy, and associate partner Jared Bonnett. To celebrate the milestone, the company is planning events, activities and giveaways throughout the year. equipcoltd.com

Deschênes announces passing of Jacques Deschênes

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04.22

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Technical Safety BC announces new gas directive

Feds open up $200 million in funding

British Columbia’s provincial safety manager, energy, has issued a new gas directive on venting, according to Technical Safety BC. The directive provides details on vent termination clearances for special venting systems or BH venting systems when not specified by the CSA B149.1 Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code or the appliance manufacturer’s certified installation instructions. It notes that “Manufacturers of appliances that require a special venting system or BH venting system commonly do not specify all required vent termination clearances in the certified installation instructions, including, but not limited to specifics for soffits or inside and outside corners. Generally, in these occurrences manufacturer’s instructions include a clause stating: clearance to be in accordance with local installation codes and the requirements of the gas supplier or Authority Having Jurisdiction.” When manufacturers do not provide certified instructions detailing the clearance requirements for appliances installed with special venting systems or BH venting systems, the directive requires that the termination clearances associated with listing standards and industry practice must be met. homeperformance.ca

The federal government has announced the launch of a second round of applications for $200 million in funding through the Low Carbon Economy Fund’s Champions stream. While the fund supports local pollution cutting community initiatives across the country, the Champions stream invests in municipalities, businesses, not-for-proﬁt organizations, and Indigenous communities taking on projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create jobs. Expression of Interest applications for the Champions stream are due by March 25, 2022.

The directive provides details on vent termination clearances for special venting systems or BH venting systems.

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Danfoss takes grand prize in Innovation Awards The AHR Expo has announced the 10 winners of the Innovation Awards during the 2022 AHR Expo, which took place January 31 to February 2 in Las Vegas, NV. The annual award competition honours inventive and original HVAC/R products, systems and technologies showcased at AHR in different categories. The Danfoss Turbocor VTCA400 compressor, winner of the cooling category, was also named grand prize winner. The 2022 category winners are: • Building Automation: iSMA CONTROLLI S.p.A., iSMA-B-MAC36NL Hybrid IoT Controller powered by Niagara Framework. • Cooling: Danfoss, Danfoss Turbocor VTCA400 Compressor • Heating: Carrier, Inﬁnity 24 Heat Pump with Greenspeed Intelligence • Indoor Air Quality: Antrum, AntrumX IAQ Facilities Monitoring System • Plumbing: Franklin Electric, Little Giant, Inline SpecPAK, Multi-Pump Pressure Boosting System • Refrigeration: ebm-papst Inc., AxiEco 630-910 Axial Fan • Software: Bluon, Inc., Bluon Support Platform • Sustainable Solutions: Enginuity Power Systems Inc., E|ONE Home Power System • Tools & Instruments: Fluke Corporation, Fluke 378 FC Non-Contact Voltage True-rms AC/DC Clamp Meter with iFlex • Ventilation: Aldes, InspirAIR Fresh ahrexpo.com

Dan Holohan Award goes to Bob Barbour Bob Barbour, vice president of sales operations North America at Taco Comfort Solutions, is the 2022 winner of the Dan Holohan Lifetime Contribution to Comfort Award. The award, presented during the AHR Expo, is given to an HVAC professional or company that has made a substantial contribution to comfort technology, advancement, or training. tacocomfort.com

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04.22

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BC inventor is a two-time winner at KBIS

Manitoba offers green tax incentive

Kelowna, BC-based RainStick has won the Best of the KBIS 2022 Impact Award and ﬁrst place in the KBIS Kickstarter Awards. The awards were presented during the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) which took place February 8 to 10, 2022 in Orlando, FL. “We’re incredibly pleased to have received this acknowledgement from the Best of KBIS awards program, one of the industry’s most prestigious honours that celebrates the greatest in new product innovation of the year,” says Alisha McFetridge, CEO and co-founder of RainStick Shower. Launched this year, RainStick uses fresh water that instead of going down the drain, uses proprietary recirculation technology to capture, circulate, and clean the water. A three-stage process removes hair and debris, disinfects water, and kills bacteria and viruses through UV-LED technology. Users can also track their water usage and energy savings through a RainStick App on their smartphones.

The government of Manitoba is now offering a tax incentive for property owners installing green energy equipment. The Green Energy Equipment Tax Credit offers property owners in Manitoba who install a qualifying geothermal heat pump system a refundable tax credit of up to 15 per cent. The system must be installed by an installer certiﬁed by the Manitoba Geothermal Energy Alliance Inc. (MGEA). manitoba.ca

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Yukon rebates reward going beyond the NBC The ZeroPath 50 and 60 rebates from the energy branch of the Government of Yukon applies to new homes that are: constructed to be energy efﬁcient; and better than the current 2015 National Building Code standards. The ZeroPath 60 rebate ($10,000) rewards applicants whose new home has an annual energy consumption that is 60 per cent less than the same home built to the current 2015 National Building Code standards. The ZeroPath 50 rebate ($5,000) rewards applicants whose new home has an annual energy consumption that is between 50 per cent and 59 per cent less than the same home built to the current 2015 National Building Code standards. The annual energy consumption is based on the new home's heating and hot water energy consumption. An additional $1,500 is available if an air-source heat pump is installed in the home. yukon.ca

PEI partners with home builders’ association to reach net zero Through a partnership with the Canadian Home Builders’ Association of PEI (CHBA-PEI) the province recently provided virtual training to Island builders with the goal of teaching them how to build more efficient homes. The province has set an ambitious target to reach net zero by 2040. One of the mandates of the CHBA-PEI is to increase the number of licensed and certified efficient builders across the province in order to increase the stock of net zero and net zero ready homes in PEI. Training costs were subsidized by efficiencyPEI. “Certifying Island Builders in R2000/Energy Star is the first step towards supporting them to become Net Zero certified,” said CHBA-PEI president Andrew Garth. princeedwardisland.ca

RMC hire to focus on carbon offset portfolios The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI) has hired Kathleen O’Malley to join the environmental services team. Her focus at HRAI will be on carbon offset portfolios for Refrigerant Management Canada (RMC). She will also provide support for the planning and co-ordination Kathleen O’Malley of environmental programs and will assist RMC by ensuring a safe transition to a new refrigerant landscape. O’Malley lives in BC and will also be HRAI’s primary membership lead in the province. She has six years of municipal government experience developing, implementing and managing innovative zero waste diversion strategies and waste reduction programs. hrai.ca

SaskEnergy extends commercial energy efficiency rebate programs SaskEnergy’s commercial customers have until August 31, 2022 to apply for energy efficiency rebates. The space and water ter heating equipment rebatess encourage the use of high-efficiency natural gas furnaces and boilers, condensing and tankless water heaters, and infrared d tube m $325 for a 96 heaters. Rebates range from per cent efficiency furnacee replacement to as much as $40,200 for a new 95 per cent thermall efficiency boiler. These commercial rebates are available to SaskEnergy’s commercial customers through participating SaskEnergy Network Members, who will help determine eligible equipment options for each customer. Applications for both new and retrofit installations are eligible for the rebates. As part of its energy efficiency initiative, SaskEnergy also offers a residential equipment replacement rebate to residential customers looking to replace old equipment with newer, high-efficiency models. The residential program runs to June 30, 2022. saskenergy.com/ways-save

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04.22

Movers & Shakers www.mechanicalbusiness.com

Action Furnace acquires NRG’s Direct Energy Alberta Home Services

Carrier to capitalize p on VRF and heat pump segments

Calgary, AB-based Action Furnace has acquired Direct Energy Alberta Home Services businesses from Houston, TX-based NRG Energy, Inc. Action Furnace offers d d Red R d HVAC solutions, with operations in Calgary, Edmonton and Deer, AB. The acquisition adds more than 40 HVAC professionals to the company’s teams in Calgary and Edmonton, 5,000 membership customers, and a database of over 50,000 customers. According to Action Furnace, integration of the two businesses should be completed by late spring 2022.

Carrier Global Corporation has acquired Toshiba Corporation’s ownership stake in Toshiba Carrier Corporation (TCC), a variable refrigerant ﬂow (VRF) and light commercial HVAC joint venture with Carrier. Toshiba will retain a ﬁve-per cent ownership stake in TCC. Carrier says the move will strengthen its position in the sector and scale its global VRF product platform with a variety of technology. TCC manufactures VRF and light commercial HVAC systems, plus commercial products, compressors and heat pumps. The acquisition includes all of TCC’s R&D centres, global manufacturing operations, and the use of the Toshiba brand.

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Rheem buys Netherlands-based De Jong Rheem Manufacturing Company has purchased Gorredijk, Netherlands-based De Jong from Nordian Capital. De Jong is a manufacturer of stainless steel hot water tanks for multiple applications, and will operate as a stand-alone business unit in Rheem’s Global Water Division. rheem.ca djg.com

Enercare expands operations in southwestern Ontario Enercare Inc. has purchased Tecumseh, ON-based Syles Mechanical Ltd. Syles Mechanical offers heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical services for residential and commercial markets, with more than 55 employees and a ﬂeet of 30 service vehicles. Syles Mechanical has been providing home comfort services to residents and business owners in southwestern Ontario since 1967. enercare.ca

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AECOM energy gy operations p and maintenance business sold to Graham Group Graham Group has purchased the North American assets of AECOM’s energy operations and maintenance business. The acquisition from Dallas, TX-based AECOM, an infrastructure consulting ﬁrm, increases Graham’s ability to provide maintenance, turnaround, fabrication and sustaining capital services for energy, industrial and petrochemical companies in western Canada, Ontario, and the U.S. Calgary, AB-based Graham provides general contracting, design-build, integrated project delivery, construction management, publicprivate partnerships and development services in the building, industrial, infrastructure, water and project ﬁnance sectors. grahambuilds.com r

Resideo enters into agreement with First Alert Resideo Technologies, Inc. has entered into a deﬁnitive agreement to acquire Aurora, IL-based First Alert, Inc., a provider of home safety products, including ﬁre and carbon monoxide detection and suppression products. Based in Austin, TX, Resideo offers home solutions for air, energy, security and water control. The acquisition will boost the company’s offering of home security solutions.

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Honeywell and Navin Fluorine partner on HFC alternative Honeywell has partnered with Navin Fluorine International Limited (NFIL) to manufacture Honeywell’s Solstice range of hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) technology, an ecofriendly HFC alternative. The HFO technology will be produced at NFIL’s manufacturing facility in Gujarat, India by the second quarter of 2022. The partnership will allow Honeywell to expand production capacity of its Solstice range. honeywell.com nfil.in

NEXT Supply now a Victaulic distributor Concord, ON-based NEXT Plumbing and Hydronics Supply Inc. became a Victaulic distributor effective March 1, 2022. NEXT Supply has 11 locations in the Greater Toronto Area. nextsupply.ca

Kerr Controls' new Fredericton, NB branch.

Kerr Controls opens p new Fredericton location Truro, NS-based Kerr Controls Ltd. has announced the opening of its new Fredericton, NB branch at 140 Pepin Road. Kerr Controls is a wholesale distributor of HVAC/R products for residential and commercial markets. The company has nine locations in Atlantic Canada under the Kerr Controls and RL Fulton Equipment brands, and three Ontario branches under the Kerr Smart Energy Ltd. brand. kerrcontrols.ca

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67 21

04.22

People in the news www.mechanicalbusiness.com Yohan Mardini has joined Boucherville, QC-based The Master Group as vice president, supply chain. He is responsible for all aspects of supply chain management, including forecasting, procurement, warranty, warehousing, logistics and transportation, and overall inventory management.

Steve Boulanger has been named executive director of the Corporation des maîtres mécaniciens en tuyauterie du Québec (CMMTQ). Boulanger replaces André Bergeron, who has retired. Boulanger has been with CMMTQ since 1999, most recently as deputy executive director.

Tonya Levine has been promoted to director of sales for the noise control building materials division of Dublin, OH-based Kinetics Noise Control. In her new role Levine will lead the division to promote product lines, develop noise control solutions, and drive additional sales growth in Canada and the U.S.

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Wolseley Canada has appointed Harry Kandilas as director, showrooms. Kandilas will be responsible for leading, evolving and managing the operations of showroom locations nationwide. That will include overseeing the interior design of showrooms, optimizing the sales and service experience, and implementing initiatives to improve market share.

Belleville, ON-based Bardon Supplies has appointed Mike Ypma as retail sales manager, responsible for the Bathworks operation. He will be located at Bardon’s Brampton, ON branch. Ypma replaces Gordon Stille, who retired at the end of 2021.

Cambridge, ON-based Saniﬂo Canada has made several employee announcements. The company has appointed three business development managers: Eric Delarosbil (1) for Eastern Canada; Clifford Bassey (2) for British Columbia and Alberta; and Nizar Sebti (3) for the Central Region. Sebti was formerly Saniﬂo Canada technical support specialist. In addition, Deann Brown (4) joins the company as marketing and communications manager; Felipe Franca E Silva (5) and Mathieu St-Louis (6) have both been appointed after sales and service representatives; and Stephanie DeLorme (7) joined 1 the company as administrative and marketing assistant.

Aquatherm has named Michael Segala (1) as its vice president of sales, and promoted Rhett Coles (2) to director of operations. Coles has been with Aquatherm for six years, and was most recently fabrication drafting/scan-to-fab manager. In his new role he will oversee Aquatherm’s estimation, drafting, fabrication, ﬁtting production, and shipping.

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Jeremy Martel has joined WAGO Canada as regional sales manager, responsible for the company’s Montreal north territory.

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Haneef Hameer joins Vancouver, BC-based Olympic International Sales Ltd. as vice president of sales and business development. Hameer will be responsible for leading the company’s sales team, supporting customer and vendor relationships, business development, and sales strategy.

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Robert Larson is now HVAC construction sales manager for Johnson Controls. Larson has been with Johnson Controls for more than six years, most recently as HVAC sales and operations manager – Canada.

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Rinnai America Corporation has promoted three employees to its executive leadership team as part of a strategic realignment. Kevin Headley (1) has been promoted to vice president of sales, responsible for sales in Canada and the U.S. Headley joined the company in 2020 as senior director of sales. Tim Wiley (2) has been named senior vice president of customer experience, after being vice president of sales with Rinnai since 2015. Judd Greene (3) has been promoted to senior vice president of administration, responsible for human resources, ﬁnance and information technology.

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Matt Byron has joined Duravit USA’s sales team in western Canada as sales representative, based in Vancouver, BC.

Masco Canada welcomes Rob Marchio as regional sales manager.

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HYDRONICS

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A few things about

system design and installation

here really is no excuse for improperly designing and installing a hydronic system. Since the world has moved online, we have been treated to pictures of all types of jobs from around the planet. If you visit any of the chatrooms or Instagram regularly you will see botched or compromised jobs. Not only sloppy systems or poor workmanship, there are many installations that bump right up against what many pros consider dangerous, or at the very least, not in code compliance. I’d like to think all hydronic jobs are designed and piped to do the job efﬁciently and safely, and get installed correctly and that installers are following the manufacturers’ guidelines at a bare minimum. That being said, over the many years I have been pulling wrenches, the bad installs are not going away, or even down in numbers. Here is a handful of avoidable mistakes when starting a hydronic system design and/or installation. Perhaps this list of to-dos looks overwhelming. It does take time, written procedures and communication to implement these best practices. So, start now and don’t stop. If your employees are all on the same page the job, and outcome, will be proper and predictable. May these suggestions become your company’s standards.

Don’t guess on design. We are living in the information age. Answers are just a click or call away. But also know there is plenty of bad advice and information to go around. I recently acquired an empty steel barrel from a neighbour who has a cabinet shop. These 50-gallon drums contained lacquer thinner, and he had dozens that are non-returnable, and not easily scrapped or recycled. There was a trace of liquid in the sealed drums and plenty of fumes still coming out when I opened it. So, I thought I would Google and YouTube search for the safest way to remove one end to make a wood scrap storage container. One fellow suggested a cutting

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“If you do not have the time or willingness to do the ﬁrst design steps, hire it out.”

torch. However, another wisely advised a clever, spark-free pneumatic shear. Choose your YouTube experts carefully. If you do not have the time or willingness to do the first design steps, hire it out. Suppliers, reps and manufacturers may help with load calculations and system design. The shopping list to start assembling your parts and pieces might also be included. Retired plumbers and mechanical folks often start consulting businesses. Call around to get a feel for what a design consultant can supply and your comfort level with their experience and abilities. Therefore, if you are inclined to ask for help or an opinion on a system, first you need to qualify the source. The horse’s mouth, to use an old analogy, is often considered to be the manufacturer of the product. For the most part, the factory tech support lines are handled by qualified people. However, in these days of labour shortages, not every position is filled by a knowledgeable, experienced support person. If it sounds like they are reading from a script when you have them on the line ... they probably are.

HYDRONICS

Cont’d from pg. 26

Meet with the owners and understand their needs and wants. Over the years I have misjudged the amount of DHW a family needed. I had to correct a few on my nickel as it was not clearly deﬁned on the plan or builder’s quote. I assumed one family’s DHW needs were the same as the next. Or that they would live within the parameters of what the system I installed would provide. Within reason, you have to give the customer what they want. Engage in a conversation directly with the people who will be living or working in the building. Sometimes a general contractor will dissuade you from speaking directly with the owners. That is bad protocol. Insist on face-to-face (or via

every job “value engineered.” While that term began as a sound concept, it has been reduced to mean cheap. Avoid contractors (and owners) who want rock bottom pricing with the promise of additional jobs. Learn to say no when the situation is compromising your trade and acumen.

sizing. I’m referring to the boiler, tube sizing, circulator selection, venting, and so on. Modulating boilers and variable speed circulators give you more ﬂexibility in sizing selection. There is always a “best size”

Document everything.

Manufacturers offer tools to help with sizing components, there is no reason to eyeball it or guess. Avoid stocking up on parts, pipe and ﬁttings, until you have

visited the jobsite and have a clear plan. A plan can be as simple as a hand drawn sketch. A tape measure and some pictures of the location will keep info at your ﬁngertips. Don’t tie up cash and shop space with soon-to-be-outdated inventory. Stocking up on anything may be an oxymoron these days.

Labels can save

needless callbacks. The critical shutoffs and service valves and switches should be labelled for the owners or next service person. Label makers are inexpensive and very compact these days. They have a place at work and home.

Bob “Hot Rod” Rohr has been a plumbing, radiant heat and solar contractor and installer for 30 years. A long-time columnist and trainer, he is manager of training and education with Calefﬁ North America. You can reach Hot Rod at bob.rohr@calefﬁ.com.

M e c h a n i c a l

space or rooms have been shrinking. Builders want mainly living space under the roof and not many think about how much room is required to handle all the plumbing and mechanical needs. These days it is rare to see a new construction home that doesn’t include air conditioning. If this is in the form of a ducted, central system, they are real space hogs.

Avoid working with builders who want

Don’t guess on

Consult with the other trades that are involved. Mechanical

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This is for your future reference, the next tradesperson, and potential liability issues. Your smartphone is a powerful documentation device. Pictures, videos with voice over, can be stored in Dropbox or Google Drive. Infrared stills or videos are a nice touch for showing off radiant and knowing where tubes are located. Drones are also a great tool to document tube layouts. In some cases, I have made a paper overlay of tube layout. If a radiant ﬂoor is to have nail-down hardwood, a paper map will indicate exactly where nailing is possible or where ﬂoor-mount receptacles can be placed.

Avoid the “dine and dash” work ethic. Hydronic systems often need some final tweaking after the building is occupied. Your bid should include some callback time to make the final adjustments. In some cases, a full heating season is needed to get controls such as outdoor reset perfected. High-efficiency boilers need routine checks and maintenance. Consider adding a service contract along with your bid. Homeowners like to have a person who they trust to take care of any issues. The technician that was involved from day one is the best set of eyes to have on a job if problems arise.

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Pipe transitions Combustible DWV versus non-combustible DWV: can’t we just all get along?

he use of PVC and cast-iron piping in the drain, waste and vent (DWV) market has been an issue for as long as I can remember. Having said that, not all installers have adopted PVC piping for the full DWV piping system yet and vice versa with cast-iron pipe. As a result, using a combination of certified DWV materials such as IPEX System XFR PVC and Bibby’s traditional cast-iron piping has become very common in today’s construction industry. Building codes and recognized firestop testing standards do not adequately address this common industry practice. Building Officials are often required to interpret the Code and make judgement calls for many installation configurations. I’ll try to help clarify the use of “hybrid” DWV systems. Photo credit: Courtesy Kevin Yong-Ping

FIGURE 1 Common pipe transition in a DWV piping system

Common Application The most common application for transitioning between combustible and non-combustible piping materials would be transitioning from a cast-iron DWV stack to 1-1/2-in. System XFR branch laterals to service common plumbing ﬁxtures such as sinks, ﬂoor drains, urinal traps and water closets as shown in Figure 1. In Ontario, the Ontario Building Code (Part 3) is silent on the topic of transitioning between combustible and non-combustible piping, although it is recognized in the Ontario Building Code (Part 7) that connections of dissimilar materials are permitted (Section 7. 3. 3. 6) and states: (1) Adapters, connectors or mechanical joints used to join dissimilar materials shall be designed to accommodate the required transition. In the National Building Code (Part 3), the language is also vague and does not cover this topic adequately. However, none of the Codes prohibit pipe transitions.

The test standard for penetrations in fire separations and fire-rated assemblies, CAN/ULC S115 Fire Tests of Fire Stop Systems, does not address common pipe transition components such as combustible pipe couplings (MJ couplings) or branch laterals within the test assembly setup. In the test assembly setup, a continuous pipe (interpreted as one homogeneous material) extends 300 mm below and 915 mm above the slab. This 915 mm dimension has often been misunderstood as a value for construction to allow for transitions beyond this dimension, however, this premise is incorrect. It has been clarified by the S115 standards committee of Underwriters Laboratories of Canada as a dimension used solely for the purpose for the construction of the test assembly (see ULC Standards Bulletin 2013-23, Appendix A). In fact, the bulletin* mentions that the penetrating item within the 915 mm for the purpose of the test in the standard is to be continuous. In other words, it does not even account for gaps (or transitions) in the pipe assembly created by commonly used combustible MJ pipe couplings.

*The bulletin is a good read, short and to the point: https://canada. ul. com/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2014/06/Standards_Bulletin_2013-23_S115-11_EN. pdf.

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Differing viewpoints

In the end, a code change proposal #1365 was submitted and reviewed by the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes utilizing the very same bulletin put out by ULC.

The perception in the ﬁeld among industry professionals can vary widely. The combustible pipe manufacturers will tell you one thing and the cast-iron manufacturers will tell you another. In my general opinion, and hopefully among building ofﬁcials, this is much ado about nothing, as most municipalities recognize this is a common method of construction that has occurred for many years.

The outcome: a code change to the NBC, including language on pipe transitions, was successfully adopted for the next printing of the 2020 NBC.

In rare cases, there are preconceived FIGURE 2 Perception of fire behaviour in branch transitions perceptions about the behaviour of the assembly in a fire condition. One hypothesis is that a fire in the compartment below will heat a vertical cast-iron That’s it for this edition of Quattro’s Corner. (metallic) stack so much it will transfer heat and “melt” the PVC on See you next time. Agent Q signing out. the unexposed side and spread the fire. Another hypothesis is that hot gases from a fire in the compartment below will travel through the vertical cast-iron stack and will evaporate any water in a P-Trap, thus enabling the easy spread of smoke and gases from the fire (see Figure 2). In addition, some people believe the closer the transition is to the slab the more likely it is that the hybrid system will not maintain the integrity of the fire separation in a fire.

Andrew Quattrociocchi, C.B.C.O., is the deputy chief building ofﬁcial for the Township of Oro-Medonte, a director with the Ontario Plumbing Inspectors Association and author of the Photographic Code and Guide through ORDERLINE. If readers have questions or a funny photo they would like considered for an upcoming edition of Quattro’s Corner, send an email to Andrew at quattroscorner@hotmail.com.

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Air Quality Sensing in enclosed parking facilities M

aintaining a healthy indoor environment has become extremely important in commercial building design and operation. While it is commonly thought of as an issue for building occupancy patterns, it is also important in areas associated with commercial spaces. Underground parking garages must also be considered as part of the solution to provide a quality building environment. Automobile exhaust contains toxic gases such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide. These gases can cause health problems, including respiratory difficulties even at low concentrations over a prolonged period. Let us not forget the tremendous fatal danger these gasses pose at high concentrations. Not only will this affect people when they are in the garage, but it also acts as a pathway of pollutants to adjacent spaces. Therefore, it is essential that the sensors used in these gas monitoring systems are accurate at a wide range of concentrations but especially effective at a low concentration where chronic exposure is most dangerous. Many provincial building codes require proper ventilation for enclosed storage or repair garages. In the Ontario Building Code, it is found in Section 6.2.2.3. There is further detail provided there regarding minimum and maximum mounting heights. You can find similar information in BC Building Code section 6.3.1.4. Cities even list requirements for carbon monoxide detection systems such as Toronto’s Municipal Code 629. When gas monitoring systems were first developed many cities had no codes enforcing these life-saving measures.

10 34

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Figure 1 Common parking garage mechanical system

HOW MUCH AIR? The mechanical ventilation system in enclosed parking garages is usually sized and designed by a mechanical engineer. The point of reference for the design is found in ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2019 Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality. ASHRAE 62-1 speaks to a fixed exhaust ventilation rate of 0.75 CFM/sq. ft. of floor area. For example, a 20,000-sq. ft. garage with a typical eight ft.-high ceiling would require approximately 5.6 air changes per hour. That is a large volume of air being changed in the space. All the cars in the garage aren’t necessarily running simultaneously so that amount of ventilation is not needed 100 per cent of the time. In fact, excessive ventilation can waste energy and cause other potential problems such as introducing cold air which can freeze any exposed piping. The most common mechanical system utilized in parking garage applications is exhaust fans and motorized dampers to control air flow, as shown in Figure 1. The goal is to minimize fan run time and energy consumption as much as possible while satisfying the air change

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requirement. When gas monitors are used in conjunction with the exhaust fans and motorized dampers this becomes a type of demand control ventilation. As the concentration of gas increases, the ventilation demand increases. Many gas monitor systems use multiple programmed levels of concentration to initiate higher levels of ventilation. Higher levels of concentration also trigger higher levels of alarms from the gas monitors. The relays onboard the gas monitor are used to start fan motors on the exhaust fans and open the outside air dampers. The sequencing and programming are left to the system integrator as per the manufacturers installation instructions but in accordance with the maximum concentrations set out in the local building code. The Ontario Building Code sets the concentration of carbon monoxide at no more than 100ppm when measured between 900mm and 1800mm from the garage ﬂoor for gasoline-fueled engine vehicles. It also states a limit of no more than 3ppm of nitrogen oxide when installed as per the manufacturer’s instructions. (Section 6.2.2.3 item 1a and 1b)

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT Most commercial buildings today utilize a Building Management System (BMS). The garage sensors are integrated into an existing BMS. The most common type of integration utilizes the interoperable BACNet standard. In addition, a standard communication wiring conﬁguration such as MSTP should be available. BACNet MSTP is widely-used, inexpensive and familiar to system integrators.

Laying out a parking garage for gas monitor-sensor placement The most common location for gas monitors is on the pillars that provide garage support. Local jurisdictions often require the CO sensor to be four ft. off the floor and the NOx gas detector be mounted at half the ceiling height. Installation cost can be significantly reduced if both sensors are in the same device. The next step is to select the pillars to mount the monitors on. Circles can be placed on the garage floor plan to represent the coverage area of each sensor – a 48 to 50 ft.-radius is common.

Multi-level alarm indication

Dual sensors

Keypad programming

CO & NOx

Integrated siren Relays

Bus-network

BACnet network

OPTIONS AND MORE OPTIONS An ideal garage ventilation sensing and control system needs to be as ﬂexible as possible to cover different site sizes, applications, and speciﬁc building requirements. Be sure to consider the following:

• Choice of built-in relays or networked control • Cost effective in both small and large applications • Ease of integration with existing BAS • Local communication network if needed • Multiple area sensing via smart gas monitors • Standalone gas monitoring and control where needed • Easily replaceable sensing elements for maintenance purposes • Keypad display for easy setup and conﬁguration • Local or remote network alarming M e c h a n i c a l

It is permissible to have overlapping circles on the ﬂoorplan to optimize sensor coverage. If questions arise as to the proper location or coverage, the gas monitoring system contractor, BAS system integrator, or sensor manufacturer can verify the layout.

After installation and integration The garage ventilation system may be part of the building commissioning process. The gas monitoring system contractor may need to work with a third-party commissioning agent to verify the ventilation system works properly. The gas monitoring system contractor should be able to provide a commissioning certiﬁcate if they are factory-trained on the system being installed. Keep in mind that gas monitoring systems are not a “set it and forget it” type of system. At a minimum they should be checked on an annual basis by a gas monitoring contractor who is factory-trained for the installed system. System operation must be validated and recalibrated. The sensors in these gas monitors do eventually lose their effectiveness.With proper maintenance you can be assured they are operating safely for the occupants. Rick Ellul is regional sales manager - Central and Western Canada with Belimo. David Alliband is general manager of Belimo Sensors Inc. in Montreal.

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ENERGY EFFICIENCY

SCORECARD DEMONSTRATES A CANADA-WIDE DROP IN SAVINGS O

n November 18, 2021, Carleton Universitybased research organization, Efficiency Canada, released the third annual Provincial Energy Efficiency Scorecard. When it comes to energysaving policies, British Columbia, Quebec, and Nova Scotia maintained their first, second and third place rankings, respectively, while Newfoundland and Labrador dropped below Saskatchewan into last place. The Scorecard outlines federal policy recommendations to support and encourage better provincial energy efficiency performance, which will be vital to meeting national climate targets. The full report benchmarks Canadian provinces across 54 separate metrics, such as energy savings from public utility programs, electric vehicle registrations, building code adoption, and industrial energy management. Summary reports have also been produced to highlight provincial performance. COVID-19 related factors such as supply chain disruptions, contractor shortages, and interruptions caused by pandemic-related restrictions challenged program administrators in meeting budget and savings targets which were established pre-pandemic. Efficiency Canada research shows that the pandemic disrupted energy efficiency programs, particularly in participation levels. At the

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same time, the energy efficiency sector as a whole demonstrated resilience in face of these challenges. However, it is policy changes such as Ontario’s cancellation of residential electricity energy saving programs and the shut-down of Energy Efficiency Alberta that explain a downward trend in annual incremental energy savings amounting to roughly 38 per cent since 2017. “Canada is coming out of the COP26 Climate Summit with the resolve to reach net-zero emissions. The Scorecard is a tool for policymakers and advocates to benchmark performance and review best practice policies. Unfortunately, the data shows that provincial energy efficiency progress is stalling,” said the report’s lead author, James Gaede.

Scorecard results The Scorecard gave the top rank to British Columbia for the third year in a row. The province is one of the few that managed to hit savings and spending targets in 2020, despite the pandemic. In the case of British Columbia, time-limited adjustments to incentive levels by both utilities and the government appears to have largely negated any detrimental impacts from the pandemic. And, as more Canadians get vaccinated, the ensuing recovery offers abundant opportunities to ramp up efforts and gain back the ground lost during the pandemic, and then some. BC also led the country in the percentage of vehicle sales that were electric or plug-in hybrid (8.4 per cent) in 2020 and remains the only province with a commitment to a net-zero emissions code for new buildings. Quebec maintains its second-place position, leading in the transportation category with the most comprehensive charging network in Canada and a plan to eliminate the sale of fossil fuel passenger vehicles by 2035. Newfoundland and Labrador fell below Saskatchewan into last place. However, the province has plans to promote greater electrification of transportation, while maintaining energy efficiency programs, which should result in energy efficiency policy improvements. The rankings of Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Prince Edward Island remained the same, from the previous year’s rankings. PEI achieves top scores in fossil fuel savings and spending per capita, as well as investments in low-income energy efficiency. While Ontario leads the nation in grid modernization, budget caps directed by the provincial government have reduced energy savings and had a big national impact. The results demonstrate that all provinces have significant room to improve. On a scale with 100 available points, the highest score this year is 55 and the lowest 13.

Figure 1. Map of Canada showing provincial standings

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Province Strengths

Reversing the downward trend of Canadian energy savings

Opportunities

The report authors highlight four key areas where the federal government can support and catalyze better provincial energy efficiency performance: • Take leadership to stop the stalling of building codes • Transform building retrofits • Expand scale and scope of low-income energy efficiency • Promote energy management systems in industry They note that energy efficiency is a policy area that should unite all provinces rather than creating regional conflicts. Recent commitments on the part of the federal government could help to address falling spending and savings at the provincial level. Between the Canada Infrastructure Bank’s Commercial Building Retrofits Initiative and Natural Resource

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kelowna

calgary

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edmonton

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winnipeg

toronto

laval

montreal

halifax

Canada’s Greener Homes Program, nation-wide annual spending on energy efﬁciency could double. This additional spending could complement existing provincial programs and help to achieve deeper and wider energy savings. For this to occur, it will be important to ensure that federal and provincial program administrators coordinate efforts to leverage up participation and the scale of improvements undertaken. There is a danger that the provinces might react to federal funding by ramping down provincial support, as was seen in Manitoba.

“Cutting energy waste is the ﬁrst chapter in Canada’s climate plan and we have seen new federal policy initiatives over the past year. However, some of the stalling at the provincial level is due to federal delays in areas like publishing national model building codes. With a new mandate to aggressively reduce emissions there is an opportunity for federal policy to complement and accelerate provincial action,” said Efﬁciency Canada policy director, Brendan Haley.

The 2030 target for all new buildings to be net-zero energy-ready is rapidly approaching and the Liberal Party campaigned on a plan for new buildings to be “net zero emissions” by 2025. Yet, the updated national model codes − formally titled the “2020” versions− have yet to materialize. The Construction Codes Reconciliation Agreement aims to reduce variation in provincial building codes and encourages provinces to adopt the latest codes. But Efﬁciency Canada also fears it could perversely cap ambitions as provinces and municipalities are moving towards higher performance net-zero energy ready codes and/or zero-carbon codes. To achieve a net-zero emissions economy, building performance standards must set requirements on the energy use performance and/or greenhouse gas emissions of existing buildings.

Efﬁciency Canada produces the Scorecard annually and manages a detailed provincial policy database.

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Road Warrior By Carolyn Cooper Tradesperson’s Name: Vanessa Lam Nickname: Val Company: Arpi’s Industries Job title: Service technician Born in: Toronto, ON Lives in: Calgary, AB Age: 35 Spouse: Donna Son: Caleb, two

Vanessa Lam: Life-long learner

Photo by Dan MacDonald, Purple House Photography

ike many young people ﬁnishing high school, Vanessa Lam had no idea what she wanted to do for a career. After moving from Toronto to Fort McMurray, AB to pursue job opportunities, her brother-in-law suggested she lend a hand at his HVAC company. “I had no idea what the trades were because I was never exposed to them,” recalls Lam. “And literally, my ﬁrst workday I was helping to replace a furnace and I thought to myself, ‘This is so cool.’ And from then I just decided to pursue it.” While working in the industry Lam began studying at Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), and eventually relocated to Calgary, where she joined Arpi’s Industries, a provider of HVAC and plumbing services to Calgary area residents. Lam services everything from furnaces to air conditioners and rooftop units, and has even worked on an indoor swimming pool mechanical room, something she says was a key learning experience. Lam says the advantage of being at a large company is learning from a team of colleagues. “There are days when we’ll be working with another tech, whether that be a journeyperson or a second- or third-year tech, just to kind of feed off of each other. Those days are when I’ve learned the most.” Lam admits to having a constant need to learn more, especially as new products and technology appear. “We’re getting into heat pumps now, something that we were not really exposed to, because Calgary has very severe temperatures,” she explains. “But due to climate change and advances in technology, it’s something we’re looking at.” The company is also expanding into solar power and geothermal energy.

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One challenge Lam continues to face is the surprise she says some customers express when she shows up to service calls. “There have been calls where the customer had assumed that I was the ofﬁce staff calling to conﬁrm the service appointment,” she says. “And although at times it still picks away at me, the feeling I get from being able to solve the issue and hearing them say how thankful they are is an indescribable feeling. And they will ask for me to come back the next time. But I also get a lot of customers who are happy to

see a woman tradesperson, so that’s been surprisingly positive.” Lam also encourages young people looking for a dynamic career to consider the skilled trades. “Getting into trades changed my life, and it doesn’t just beneﬁt me, it beneﬁts my family. Now I’m the go-to person when things in their homes break down, and the feeling that you can help your family in that way is amazing.”

In the mechanical industry since: 2013 Schools and programs: Graduated from SAIT and became a Certiﬁed Red Seal Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Journeyperson in 2019 Favourite teachers: Bill Keating, Tyson Frank and Dominic Auger at SAIT Favourite class: Shop class The most useful tool in your toolbox: Klein personal work light and multimeter Favourite tool in your toolbox: Klein ¼ in. electrician mini ratchet set Tool that you wish you had? Thermal imager Best advice you’ve ever received: Don’t judge a book by its cover The current work ride: GMC Savana cargo van Service area: Calgary and surroundings areas Any area you like to get dispatched to? Any area but ideally closer to home at the end of the day is always great Favourite part of the job? Seeing the customer’s smile when you ﬁx the issue If you were granted one wish: That COVID never existed Biggest pet peeves: Being unprepared Favourite performer: Sam Smith Favourite book: The Chrysalids

Favourite car (or ot other vehicle) of all time: Audi R8 Favourite movies: Marvel Avengers, Limitless, Inception Favourite sports: Badminton, volleyball Favourite video game and preferred gaming system: Overcooked on Nintendo Switch Favourite season: Summer Favourite food: Homemade Vietnamese dishes Favourite outdoor activity: Charcoal barbecue with family When I was a kid, I wanted to be … an architect Last book you read: Delirium Last movie you saw: Don’t Look Up One place in the world you would like to visit: Maldives

Favourite TV shows: Friends, Modern Family M e c h a n i c a l

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Z Z Z R Q W R U F R P

REFRIGERATION

SUPERMARKET HOT GAS DEFROST SYSTEMS R efrigeration systems in supermarkets and other large commercial-industrial applications frequently utilize several compressors connected in parallel. These parallel systems are often referred to as racks. The rack refrigeration system approach provides better capacity control when more compressors are used along with a VFD or with a compressor where all heads are unloadable. Many evaporators are connected to the rack. The evaporators are grouped into several circuits and piped into the rack’s suction and discharge headers. Each circuit can operate at a different pressure so it is important that only the evaporators which will operate at the same evaporating temperature are grouped together. The compressors are staged to maintain a pressure within the suction header that is low enough to allow ﬂow through all the circuits. This means the suction header must be held at a pressure slightly lower than the lowest pressure circuit. To accomplish this, each circuit is equipped with an evaporator pressure regulator or EPR valve. The EPR valve is typically installed on the rack, but it could also be installed in a remote header. Some systems are set up this way so most of the solenoid valves and regulators can be separated from the rack and this often makes it easier to access and service these components. Mechanical and electronic EPR valves are upstream or inlet regulators. With mechanical EPR valves, the spring pressure is increased by turning the adjustment stem in a clockwise direction. This results in the port closing somewhat and restricting the ﬂow from the evaporators to the suction header. Electronic valves are typically driven by a stepper motor, which in turn is fed a series of electrical pulses to drive the motor in an opening or closing direction.

Supermarket rack with EPR and DDR valves.

In addition to maintaining a minimum evaporating pressure, the EPR valve can serve as a suction stop valve. This is required during the reverse-cycle hot gas defrost cycle. The rack will also be equipped with a hot gas defrost header. Note that this defrost header is separate from the discharge header and supplies hot gas from a point that is after the oil separator.

Electronic EPR

EPR with suction stop feature Whenever the evaporator coil is cold enough to permit frost formation on its fins, the frost will reduce the capacity and efficiency of the evaporator. Frost build-up also restricts airflow through the evaporator.

Phil Boudreau

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Phil provides sales and application support for Bitzer Canada Inc. and provides training and technical support for Bitzer’s clientele. He can be contacted at pboudreau@bitzer.ca.

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REFRIGERATION Cont’d from pg. 44

The control system will initiate a defrost cycle a few times a day to clear the coils of frost and maintain maximum capacity, efficiency, and air flow. First, the liquid line solenoid to each evaporator is closed and then the EPR valve common to all evaporators connected to the circuit is driven closed. The EPR valve needs to be closed so the hot gas, when fed into the suction line, does not take the path of least resistance and travel to the suction header. Between the defrost header and the EPR valve inlet is a normally-closed solenoid valve. This solenoid is energized during defrost to permit hot gas flow from the defrost header to the suction line. Hot gas will then flow into the suction line of the circuit toward the evaporator coil outlets. However, we closed the liquid line, so we somehow need to allow the liquid to return to the liquid header. To accomplish this, the expansion valve and liquid line solenoid valves will need to have a bypass line installed around them, such that the liquid produced in each evaporator during defrost can exit the coil and travel around the expansion valve and the liquid line solenoid. There are different approaches to this, but this is basically the way it works.

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Supermarket system The system needs to be equipped to address another challenge. How can we achieve reverse ﬂow of hot gas from the suction line back to the liquid header, which is at a similar pressure to the hot gas? This is accomplished by installing a regulator that will produce a differential pressure during defrost. The idea here is to ensure that the discharge pressure is 20 to 30 psi or so above the pressure in the liquid header.

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the receiver, above the liquid where it is ﬁrst desuperheated to some extent. This means that the receiver pressure needs to be high enough to permit reverse ﬂow through the evaporator(s) and back to the liquid header.

THE DDR VERSUS THE LDR There are two main methods used to produce this differential pressure. The discharge arge differential regulator (DDR) is installed in the discharge arator and the line, between the rack’s oil separator eam condenser. Everything downstream from this regulator will operatee at a pressure that is several psi below w the compressor discharge header pressure. When the solenoid on this valve is energized, it will be fully open. If there are no circuits in defrost then it is less efﬁcient to operate in differential mode, so we open n the valve fully. When a circuit goes into defrost, liquid line solenoids in the circuit uit close, the EPR opens, the hot gas valve between etween the defrost header and the EPR inlet et opens, and the DDR valve is de-energized so that it will hold a differential pressure.

Differential regulators

Note that this method will not work with the Hussmann Koolgas defrost method because the receiver will be at a pressure too low to feed desuperheated gas to the evaporator(s). With the Koolgas defrost approach, high pressure discharge vapour enters

Another option is to use a liquid differential regulator or LDR valve. The LDR valve is energized when all circuits are in refrigeration mode and de-energized when any of the circuits are defrosting. The LDR is also a differential regulator. However, the LDR is installed between the receiver outlet and the liquid header. This forces the discharge pressure and receiver pressure to some level above the liquid header pressure. A variant of the LDR valve is the OLDR valve. The OLDR is basically the same as the LDR valve except the OLDR valve is de-energized for full-open operation and energized during differential mode. Note that either an LDR or OLDR or similar type of regulating valve must be used on systems that employ the Koolgas defrost approach.

Note for this example, we have looked at the Sporlan/Parker DDR, LDR and OLDR. However, any regulator that can operate in both full-open and differential pressure modes can be used.

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By Fred Bretzke

Fred Bretzke is a full-time pipe trades instructor with SAIT Polytechnic in Calgary. He can be reached at fred.bretzke@sait.ca.

PLUMBING

UP THE ANTE WITH

CROSS CONNECTION CONTROL CERTIFICATION

ross connection control is a very important part of public safety and never more so than during these pandemic times. In western Canada, it’s the Western Canada Section of the American Water Works Association (WCS AWWA) that is the governing authority of cross connection control (CCC). We saw it come to Calgary in 1984 while I was a fourth-year apprentice at SAIT. Since then I have been CCC-certified and I have taught the cross connection control course for many years. This is a handy certification to possess. As I tell my students, if you are CCC-certified you are an even more employable technician, especially if you own a CCC test kit.

THE DOUBLE CHECK VALVE ASSEMBLY (DCVA) DCVAs are typically used for premise isolation on commercial buildings. They are required for moderate hazards in non-health conditions. These devices protect the public water mains from any possible pollutants, including discoloured or distasteful water, cross connecting into them. You will ﬁnd most DCVAs in the mechanical room just downstream of the water meter bypass. In order to explain how to repair these devices, one should ﬁrst know the test procedure.

DCVA TEST PROCEDURE The following is the AWWA test procedure for a DCVA.

Let’s play CCC service technician for this article and see what we can learn. When it comes to CCC devices or repairs, it’s all about being transparent to customers. There are many devices but only three testable devices, which are tested annually, or on new installations, or reinstallations, or when repairs are made. These include the pressure vacuum breaker (most often used for irrigation systems), the double check valve assembly (DCVA) and reduced pressure (RP) backﬂow devices. For the purposes of this article, we’ll focus on the DCVA and the RP.

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Test Procedures for Double Check Valve and Double Check Detector-type Assemblies using a Differential Pressure Gauge Test Kit: Check Valve #1 and Check Valve #2 Performance Criteria: The check valves shall be loaded internally so that when the supply pressure is at least 1 psi and the outlet pressure is atmospheric, each check valve will be drip-tight in the normal direction of ﬂow. [AWWA C510 Sec. 4.3.2.1]

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PLUMBING

Cont’d from pg. 48

To test check valve #1 and check valve #2 for tightness in the direction of ﬂow, and determine the static pressure drop across each check valve using a differential pressure gauge test kit. This is accomplished by: • Connecting the differential pressure gauge to the upstream side of the check valve being tested. The test gauge centre line must be held at the same level as the downstream test cock reference point (outlet of the test cock or the water level if a sight tube is used).

• Closing both shut-off valves on the DCVA to isolate the pressure within the assembly.

THE BEST LEAKS IN LIFE ARE UNSEEN

• Releasing water downstream of the check valve so the pressure is reduced to atmospheric.

• When ﬂow from the downstream test cock ceases and the differential pressure gauge reading has stabilized, record the psid across the check valve.

• The check valve should be holding tight at a minimum of 1.0 psid or greater. Basically, this means that you are testing the pressure differential (through the hose connections) between the two internal check valves. If these pressures differential exceed one psi the check valves need to be checked, repaired or replaced.

Wilkins and Conbraco. Most CCC devices have spring checks but some devices use compound check valves that work like a compound bow. You usually only need a crescent wrench, slot screw There is a saying: driver and Philips screw driver and of course, a test “The best things in life are kit to complete repairs. Remember the best service unseen;” you could also tech is the one who has the right tools to do the job. say the best leaks in life are The most common leaks occur when the check or unseen, especially with the seat is scarred. The springs on the DCVA are the Testing the DCVA pressure differential in a SAIT lab. DCVA. If a DCVA is leaking, same coil pressure and are easy to attain or switch. it leaks internally and the only way you can detect it is by doing a If a device fails you are required to eventually pull it apart, repair, CCC test. Quite often these devices could leak on new installation and retest all at the customer’s cost. if they haven’t been flushed enough through the spring check valves. This is why they are required to be tested on THE ULTIMATE new installations. DEVICE The problem with unseen leaks is there has to be a level of trust between the customer and the RP backflow devices with tester. Many years ago, when the servicemen at my atmospheric ports are the plumbing company were testing approximately ultimate CCC device. If 2,000 devices annually, the issue of trust came up. they leak, they typically leak One of our property management customers did externally through the visible not believe our technician when he failed the DCVA port. These devices offer device. When you fail a device, you are to notify three levels of protection, The bonnet has cracked on a DCVA the city and the property owner that it needs to be causing it to leak. the third being the relief port repaired. on the bottom or side of the What could be wrong with it? It could be a worn device. However, there is still brass housing, or a chip or crack in the actual check, a misconception that if a RP or a worn spring, or just sediment lodged in the leaks occasionally out the port seat of the check. The property owner didn’t believe that means it is doing its job. the test and hired another plumber who was a Most likely there are pressure friend of his to test it. His friend claimed it passed, fluctuations downstream of the but he probably didn’t even test it, let alone repair second check valve causing the it. I phoned the chief CCC inspector at the time, and port to relieve that pressure by he wanted to help me, but insisted it is possible for purging itself. the device to fail with sediment lodged in the check RP backflow devices offer three levels If the device is relieving of protection. valve and then pass later if the sediment got pushed constantly there is an internal out through pressure. This tells us that testers must problem with sediment or be honest when they test by actually doing the test one of the checks. Typically, there is debris found on and not just filling out the form, and owners must trust the first poppet or check, which usually deforms the their plumbers. rubber seal. If that’s the case and you don’t have a Typically, when repairing CCC devices, you should have a healthy seal, you can flip the seal over and temporarily use its stock of parts from various manufacturers, including Watts, Zurn good side.

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PLUMBING By Tony Furst and Kazi Nasar

THE RISKS OF SIZING PLUMBING SYSTEMS USING

Hunter’s Curve

Tony Furst and Kazi Nasar are with Armstrong Fluid Technology.

As plumbing professionals know, Hunter’s Curve is a common method of estimating the water demand of a building using statistical probabilities. For more than 70 years, the Hunter’s Curve method has been used to size plumbing systems, including booster packages, supply and drainage piping, and storage tanks. When Roy B. Hunter first created this basic method of measuring a plumbing fixture’s water flow in duration of flow and the probability that it would be in use, it was a very useful guideline (see Figure 1). Although its simplicity is still seductive, we now consider it to be a very conservativee approach that significantly oversizess plumbing systems and can lead to substantial increases in total cost of lso ownership. More importantly, it can also cause some potentially serious health cconcerns. on nccerns errns ns. Figure 1 Current approach to sizing

Water use will vary greatly depending on the building type, application and plumbing system sizing must take those factors into account.

THE LIMITATIONS OF HUNTER’S CURVE 1 2

Hunter’s original sizing concept was based on a large population for estimating demand, but the accuracy of the sizing curve diminishes as real-world populations are examined. When compared to other methods of sizing plumbing systems, such as IPC, UPC, IAMPO Water Demand Calculator, and so on, there can be huge discrepancies in estimated and actual results.

1 - FLUSH VALVE 2 - FLUSH TANK

As seen in Figure 2 on page 54, Hunter’s (shown as existing) and the other sizing methods are almost always much higher than the actual measured results. In one instance, there is a difference of nearly 400 GPM versus less than 100 GPM. Modiﬁed Hunter’s Curve Method Curve A - Restaurants Curve B - Hospitals, nursing homes, nurses’ residences, dormitories, hotels and motels Curve C - Apartment buildings Curve D - Ofﬁce buildings, elementary and high schools Conversion factor: L/s = gpm x 0.0631

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X, P M C t a See us 1130 booth #

PLUMBING

Cont’d from pg. 52

Figure 2 Shortcomings of Hunter’s Curve: Standards versus reality Estimated vs Measured Flowrate Comparison 74% reduction from what was calculated

74% reduction from existing 73% reduction from what was calculated

92% reduction from what was calculated

Existing Calculated Method 1 Calculated Method 2 Measured Note: Not all calculations were done at all sites

85% reduction from existing 55% reduction from calculated

58 54

Impact of using Hunter’s Curve: Bioﬁlm

Increased costs as a result of oversizing

Unfortunately, there is an even greater problem with using Hunter’s Curve and that is the potential danger of harmful bacteria growing, and for contaminants to leach from the pipes into the water. Because this method often overestimates water demand, designers sometimes install oversized pipes. This can cause water to remain in Velocity and turbulent flow minimize the plumbing the formation of biofilms. system for longer than intended and/or circulate in the piping at lower velocities, allowing harmful bacteria to grow. Regardless of the type of water treatment the municipality and the building might use, there will be some degree of bacteria growth in your system. Domestic water systems that have low or no flow can develop bacteria blooms due to lack of chlorine and lack of fluid movement can result in biofilm coating the pipes. Not only does this biofilm create health risks, it also constrains the flow in the piping; increasing pressure drop and therefore energy costs. There can also be the issue of “dead legs,” which are defined as any area of the distribution piping system where water does not flow. These are prime areas for bacteria to blossom.

There are, of course, a number of other problems with oversizing plumbing systems, including the tendency to oversize the various system components. Oversizing booster pumps, for example, can add significant costs and require much more power to operate. Providing more power over a period of time can also dramatically increase electricity costs. Another costly consequence of oversizing is the larger footprint required to fit the larger equipment. In new buildings we have seen footprint reductions of more than 60 per cent, which save the building owners significant money. In retrofit situations it frees up valuable space to use for other purposes.

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Alternative sizing methods Now that we have a better understanding of some of the drawbacks of using Hunter’s Curve the obvious question is “what is the best alternative?” It should be noted that the IAPMO Water Demand Calculator is currently under review and we are advocating for the adoption of this new method. It’s currently only for residential, but we suggest using it as a guideline in combination with engineering judgement for use in other building types. However, none of the methods mentioned here are 100 per cent accurate and most of them still significantly oversize the system. In a recent survey conducted in conjunction with a webinar on this topic, we found that 43 per cent of participants still used the Hunter’s Curve or a derivation thereof. Another 35 per cent used IPC or UPC, 10 per cent used the IAPMO Water Demand Calculator and 12 per cent were self-developed based on experience. There are a variety of consulting engineering firms and manufacturers who can help you determine current or anticipated needs, measure existing flow (where applicable), and create a sizing system that can save you time, money and energy. However, there are two indispensable steps in the process that need to be followed: 1) The first step in the process is to have a clear understanding of pipe sizing and your flow velocity. As plumbing professionals are aware, there 0 4 . 2 2

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PLUMBING

Cont’d from pg. 54

are two types of flow – laminar flow (slow flow) and turbulent flow (fast flow). We also know that pressure loss in piping is related to the velocity of the flow and the friction loss along the pipe wall reduces the available pressure. The two most common equations for friction loss are Darcy-Weisbach and Hazen-Williams. We have found that the Darcy-Weisbach method provides the most accurate results.

demand will take some time to propagate down to the booster. • Older buildings or buildings more susceptible to leaks, which can erroneously be treated as if it was actual demand.

2) The second step is factor in the following information: • Type of piping material • Supply pressure (inside the building) • Demand pressure • Flow rate (quantity) • Velocity limitation

You are now ready to size your system and determine design flow. Of course, your needs and demands can vary greatly depending on the type of building. For example, a hotel or office building will obviously have different water demands and usage patterns than a residential or university building. But regardless of the specific installation, there are certain factors to consider. Look for engineering partners who can offer proven experience in measuring water usage and designing customized solutions for buildings that are 100 per cent (or close to) occupied and don’t have variable occupancy levels; booster systems with advanced software solutions with advanced controls and analytics, including energy and water consumption data and profiling; and small mechanical footprints plus ease of installation and commissioning. By following these steps and working with the right partner you should be able to more accurately design your plumbing system while saving valuable time and energy.

Once you are armed with this information, you are now ready for booster and drawdown tank sizing. Booster pumps are arguably the single most important piece of equipment because they are responsible for increasing pressure and delivering fresh water to tenants and equipment alike throughout the entire building. Although more contentious, drawdown tanks can also be important in certain circumstances, especially in the following installation types: • Large buildings that have a large variance between peak flow, minimum flow and average flow. • Tall buildings where the pressure drop resulting from water

Supply

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Drainage

Support

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Sizing your speciﬁc plumbing system

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CONSTRUCTION TRENDS

B y Jo n at h o n Harp

The move towards mass timber buildings − Part I

Environmental construction approach is gaining momentum Origine is a 13-storey residential project in Quebec City’s Pointe-auxLièvres ecodistrict. It consists of a 12-ﬂoor solid wood structure on a concrete podium and measures 40.9 metres in height. Photos: Stephane Groleau

uildings constructed of mass timber are becoming the “new kids on the block” for the residential and commercial sector. Mass timber architecture appeals to both builders and owners alike because of the ease of construction, large open spaces and high ceilings containing attractive wooden beams. Mass timbers are also more durable than typical wood products used in building construction according to experts in that ﬁeld. So, what is “mass timber” (or “heavy timber” as it’s called in the U.S.)? Signiﬁcantly different from wood purchased at the local lumber store, mass timber is made from large pieces of wood either cut from a single log or made by laminating wood pieces together with glue or nails and screws. Types of mass timber include cross-laminated timber (CLT), glue-laminated timber (glulam) and nail-laminated timber (NLT). These timbers are then assembled during construction using custom joints and typically wooden pegs.

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THE REGULATORY STOREY Mass timber buildings are relatively new in Canada, dating back about 10 years. The first mass timber structures permitted under building codes were primarily one- and two-storey buildings. A significant change occurred in 2015 when the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) increased the allowable number of storeys for mass timber buildings to six. In 2020, the NBCC moved the allowable limit to 12 storeys. British Columbia has been a leader in mass timber construction since it was first introduced. With a ready supply of timber and the desire to support the forestry industry, BC changed its provincial building code in 2019 to permit mass timber structures up to 12 storeys. BC Premier John Horgan stated at the time, “BC will be the first province in Canada to allow the construction of tall wood buildings up to 12 storeys, which means that we are ahead of the National Building Code.” Of the large provinces that have their own building codes, Alberta, British Columbia and Quebec have adopted the 12 storey provisions from the 2020 NBCC. Ontario’s current mass timber building code provisions remain at the six-storey level. Key regulatory concerns since the advent of mass timber construction are fire hazard and risk to public safety. Mass timber experts dispute these claims stating mass timber buildings are in fact fire resistant. One 0 4 . 2 2

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CONSTRUCTION TRENDS Cont’d from pg. 58

online source explains “When exposed to fire, the outer layer chars and acts as a protective coating, insulating the wood underneath. Additionally, the lightweight nature of mass timber, weighing approximately one fifth of equivalent concrete buildings, allows for smaller foundations and seismic resistance.” According to Horgan, “We’re not waiting for the rest of the country to get here. We already know that the product we are building or creating here is fire-resistant. We know that we can build faster and we know that it is better for the environment.”

With the right planning, 1,300 square metres of CLT can be installed per day, cutting construction schedules signiﬁcantly. UBC’s Brock Commons tower rose 18-storeys in eight weeks.

Photo: Forestry Innovation Investment

PROS AND CONS Like all construction processes, there are advantages and disadvantages for mass timber. The most obvious advantage according to the industry is the unique look of the building where the timbers are left uncovered creating “a rustic look and feel that many people find welcoming.” Mass timber builders claim the construction process moves faster and fewer workers are needed on the jobsite. Construction involves large timbers that have been “cut to fit” specific parts of the structure and when brought to the jobsite, the timbers are simply joined together to construct the building. Some of the other advantages listed by the industry include: much stronger than standard buildings using • structurally “dimensional lumber” such as two by fours,

• additional ﬂoor space and open areas in the building

sustainable use of local wood for the timbers results in “a lower carbon footprint and lower cost to the environment.”

• less wood being used by mass timber buildings as versus

Mass timber construction also has its challenges. One significant issue is the limited space for the mechanical services in the structure. While exposed timbers are aesthetically attractive, the trades have difficulty finding places to “hide” parts such as ductwork, wiring and piping. (Note: This will be covered in more detail in Part II of mass timber construction in an upcoming issue).

because of fewer load-bearing walls, and standard lumber buildings.

Mass timber structures are also touted as “environmentally friendly” primarily because the timbers are a reusable resource and have a reuse life that can last as much as 100 years. Another environmental attribute is the CO2 large timbers can sequester within the wood. There is also less wood waste from the jobsite because of the “Lego-like” production of the timbers. These factors as well as the

58 60

A signiﬁcant issue with mass timber construction is the limited space for the mechanical services in the structure.

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Also, the simplicity of the construction process has to be weighed against the production time needed to precision cut the timbers and the heavy equipment needed on the jobsite to assemble the large timbers.

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CONSTRUCTION TRENDS Cont’d from pg. 60

There are also two sides to the fire safety aspect of mass timber. The response to the claims of the mass timber industry appears to be the difference between fire “resistant” and fire “resistive.” Fire resistant products do not meet the Fire Code definition of fire resistive in that they still catch fire and must be extinguished. This distinction in the fire codes affects insurance and risk issues for mass timber buildings. Being a combustible product, mass timber is under significant scrutiny by underwriters at present, which leads to higher costs for insurance during and after completion of construction. These costs should decrease as more mass timber structures are built and more experience is gained with this type of construction.

Effects from water exposure from severe weather conditions during and after construction such as warping, rot and mould are another risk. The industry is responding to this concern with solutions such as “tenting” of buildings during construction, a “glue topper” on exposed mass timber edges and decking, and moisture testing to determine the timber’s ability to dry out during construction. Mass timber construction is relatively new in Canada. Realistically, this method is in its infancy and as industry experts suggest, many of the challenges facing mass timber need time and experience to determine solutions that will meet both building owner needs and insurance requirements. However, it is clear mass timber construction is here to stay and is growing in popularity as Canada considers the low carbon and GHG reduction targets the world needs in the future.

Be sure to look for Part II of “The move towards mass timber buildings” in an upcoming issue of Mechanical Business, which will cover HVAC and plumbing systems in mass timber buildings, and review key mass timber projects that have been or are being built in Canada.

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JOBSITE JARGON

Match the terminology you hear in the field to the correct definition or function by April 14, 2022 and enter for your chance to win a Kane 599 wireless TRMS clamp meter. Send your answers tokerry.turner@mechanicalbusiness.com or enter online at mechanicalbusiness.com. In the event of a tie, the first entry in will be given the win, so don’t delay!

WIN!

EXAMPLE: 1) Damper: Opens and closes to regulate how much ch air flows through vents, or ducts ¨ Answer 1, K A) Space where the pressure is significantly below standard atmospheric pressure B) Controls the flow of refrigerant into a direct expansion evaporator C) A heating and cooling system contained in one outdoor unit

1) Damper

D) Analysis of atmospheric conditions, particularly moisture in the air

2) One Ton

E) Device that creates a constant evaporator temperature by

3) Psychrometric

regulation of refrigerant ﬂow through the system

4) Reciprocating Compressor

F) 12,000 BTUH G) Joule per second, can be used to express the rate of energy transformation with respect to time

5) EEV

H) Energy released or absorbed, by a body or a thermodynamic

6) Latent Heat

system, during a constant-temperature process that creates a change of state

7) Watt I)

8) Package Unit

Used in cooling systems to compress refrigerant by using a piston action

J) Component that controls motor speed to increase system’s

9) Inverter

energy efﬁciency

10) TEV

K) Opens and closes to regulate how much air ﬂows through vents, or ducts

11) Vacuum

L) Allows cold-climate heat pumps to improve performance in

12) EVI

cold temperatures by allowing increased refrigerant ﬂow into the evaporator coil

Congratulations! 24 64

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B u s i n e s s

The winner of the Jobsite Jargon in the January/February 2022 issue is Sean Dufﬁeld. Dufﬁeld is a gas technician in Stouffville, ON.

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HVAC/R

By Tony Gonzalez

When refrigeration or A/C systems are being replaced, undergoing repairs or being serviced, refrigerants have the potential to be released into the surrounding environment.

REFRIGERANT RECOVERY: THREE TIPS FOR BETTER RESULTS! R

efrigerant recovery is among the most common procedures done by service technicians, but best practices continue to change and evolve over time. This means continued learning and professional education are a must. Where recovery once revolved around time-consuming methods and heavy, cumbersome equipment, updated techniques and new technology allow for more options, easier-to-use equipment and faster recovery times. Being in-the-know about emergent tips and tricks within the field helps create greater levels of day-to-day professional efficiency and, since time is money, this translates to cost savings too. Implementing refrigerant recovery best practices allows experienced technicians and industry newcomers alike to optimize processes, prevent harm to themselves and premature equipment failure, finish the job more quickly, and ensure greater accuracy in the process.

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Emphasize refrigerant recovery safety

With the ever-present concern that refrigerants could discharge at some point during a procedure, service technicians should be aware of pertinent regulations as well as the appropriate personal protective equipment that should be utilized when working with refrigerant, recovery machines and cylinders. Items such as protective gloves and shoes, as well as splashproof safety goggles or glasses, should always be worn. Speciﬁcally, provincial and federal refrigerant regulations mandate that refrigerant recovery be performed before opening any ACR system, whether for service or repair. This work must be conducted by a provincially- or federally-certiﬁed mechanic or technician, educated in the proper handling of refrigerant and adhering to established recovery practices. Whether in liquid or vapour form, refrigerants are considered highly harmful to the environment. As such, it is a violation of provincial and federal regulations to: • Fail to keep, or knowingly falsify, refrigerant records. • Fail to reach required evacuation rates prior to opening or disposing of appliances. • Knowingly release CFCs, HCFCs, or HFCs when repairing appliances. • Vent CFCs, HCFCs or HFCs.

HVAC/R

Cont’d from pg. 66

When refrigeration or A/C systems are being replaced, undergoing repairs or being serviced, refrigerants have the potential to be released into the surrounding environment and eventually impact the ozone layer. Provincial and federal regulations allow for the safe handling of these harmful synthetic compounds by properly trained and certiﬁed professionals – allowing techs and HVAC/R companies to avoid costly government ﬁnes for violations while guaranteeing the safety of the environment and local communities they serve. More provincial and federal regulatory requirements to keep in mind include: • Do not vent refrigerants, as most cannot be legally vented. • Do not mix refrigerants in the recovery tank or in the system. • Recharging is generally OK. • Be sure to keep records of charge and recovery. In addition, using a recovery machine as required with each individual job, for example, ensures that refrigerant recovery is safely conducted, thus keeping refrigerant out of the environment.

Understand recovery options As trained service technicians know, refrigerant is consistently flowing throughout the line set of the HVAC/R equipment. As such, any time a technician encounters a leak in the system or must cut into the refrigerant circuit to remove or install a new part, they must recover the refrigerant from the system first. Recovery is the process of safely transporting refrigerant from an HVAC/R system to a recovery cylinder. The speed at which this process is effectively and safely completed is of fundamental concern to the service technician. To completely recover all the refrigerant, there are three different methods most utilized in the field: liquid, vapour, and push-pull. • Liquid refrigerant recovery refers to the method where service technicians transfer refrigerant while it is in the liquid state. Refrigerant recovered in liquid form is by far the fastest method, but it has the potential to be problematic as it may cause liquid slugging at the recovery machine if the flow rate isn’t governed by a variable speed motor or a manual throttle. Likewise, depending on the specifications and circumstances of the job, this recovery method is not always possible, such as when outside ambient temperatures of approximately 21ºC or more cause refrigerant to vaporize. • Vapour refrigerant recovery refers to the method where refrigerant is removed while in a vapour state. Overall, the most time spent recovering refrigerant is in vapour form. When

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done effectively and with an advanced recovery machine, more removed vapour is then condensed into a liquid in the recovery cylinder. This option is typically slower than liquid recovery as higher pressures build within the recovery tank, and the tank may require cooling via either submersion in an ice bucket or by running cold water over the cylinder. The speed that refrigerant recovery • Push-pull refrigerant recovery refers to the method is effectively and safely completed where the recovery unit is of fundamental concern to the effectively pulls vapour from service technician. the recovery cylinder, creating pressurized gas that then pushes the liquid from the entire system, ultimately returning it once again to the recovery cylinder. This process is slightly more complicated and should only be used for faster recovery on larger systems with more than 10 kilograms of refrigerant. For service technicians who know that a larger job requires more time, push-pull recovery is the best choice.

Use the correct hoses and filters for optimal performance Knowing the impact that hoses and Schrader valves have on the overall speed of any given recovery method is extremely important to the efficiency of the job. As a rule of thumb, using a hose thick in diameter and short in length results in faster rates of recovery. Utilizing short, larger diameter hoses lessens the restriction within the hose itself and provides a larger Implementing refrigerant recovery pathway for the refrigerant best practices allows experienced to travel through thereby technicians and industry newcomers creating a greater flow of alike to optimize processes. refrigerant recovered in far less time. Similarly, using valve core removal tools to remove the Schrader valves minimize restrictions and allow for even smoother flow of refrigerant. To simplify overall setup for any job, connecting the recovery machine directly to the system and throttling as necessary at the recovery machine speeds up set-up time, eliminates one more hose connection that would otherwise be required and means one less hose, one less step. It is recommended that service technicians use a filter dryer before the inlet port to ensure the continued protection of the recovery machine. The state of your filter dryer is telling of how bad the contaminants or physical filtration within the system may be. Through general use, these machines are likely to be exposed to external contaminants that impact the longevity and life of professional equipment. Keeping dirt, metallic slivers and other debris out of the machine, and making it a practice to swap out filter driers and screens regularly aids greatly to ensuring quality and reliable use. Tony Gonzalez is technical training manager at Fieldpiece Instruments, Inc., a manufacturer of professional-grade tools for the HVAC/R industry.

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HIGH-PERFORMANCE HVAC

FOCUS ON O

GLAZING

ne morning I was oddly excited because when I looked at my weather station out on the deck the temperature was -21ºC and that happened to be 3ºC below the “design day” temperature listed in the National Building Code for the city I live in. As a geeky HVAC enthusiast, I imagined I might be getting some calls that day from builders or homeowners who were uncomfortably cold or simply had concerns that the “furnace was running all the time.”

I prepared myself by putting on an extra sweater and by noon I was in the great room of a beautiful model home of a large builder, helping a small group of their sales team learn about the technical features of the homes. Within a short period of time, I was uncomfortably warm. The great room featured a nine-ft. ceiling with beautiful, large garden door assemblies that happened to face due south. On this cold sunny day the great room was quickly overheating due speciﬁcally to the radiant gains through that expanse of glass. While I appreciated the fact these windows were able to contribute valuable energy in the winter, I did the math as to what that heat gain would do to cooling loads.

DOING THE MATH The math starts with the amazing power of our sun. The power per unit area of electromagnetic radiation received from the sun is called the solar irradiance. On a clear day, at sea level, the maximum normal surface irradiance is approximately 1000 W/m2 (317 Btus/hr/ft2); think of a one kW baseboard heater on every square meter of your house or yard. The impact of that power source varies depending on at least the elevation, angle, shading, and the colour and material type of the surface it illuminates. The power of the sun that illuminates the window glass is commonly referred to in codes and standards as the incident solar radiation or solar incidence. It again is expressed in watts per square metre and it varies as a function of the orientation of the window, any shading of the window and the slope of the window. This radiant gain is separate from the conduction heat flow through the glass at any given time. The conductive heat flow is primarily a function of the difference in air temperature between outdoors and indoors. In doing the math for that large great room window for the worst-case summer condition, we have to consider both the conductive and radiant flow.

Gord Cooke

M e c h a n i c a l

Glazing gurus tell me that comfort complaints due to glazing tend be more prevalent in rooms where the window area in the room is greater than 15 per cent of the ﬂoor area of that room. This may be a quick test for contractors to use in determining the cause and solution of comfort challenges.

The formulas for heat flow are well described in the CAN/CSA F280-12 Determining the Required Capacity of Residential Space Heating and Cooling Appliances Standard. The conductive flow is given by the common heat loss/heat gain formula; Heat flow equals the area of the window times the temperature difference across the window divided by the insulation value of the window, usually expressed as the RSI value (R-value if Imperial values are used).

HF = Area x Temperature difference/RSI OR Area x Temperature difference x U-Factor The radiant heat ﬂow equals the area of the window times the incident solar radiation times the solar heat gain coefﬁcient of the window.

HF = Area x solar radiation x solar heat gain coefﬁcient (SHGC) The CSA F280-12 Standard provides a table of incident solar radiation values to be used across Canada. It should be of interest that the values are effectively the same across Canada except for a small latitude correction for south, southeast and southwest facing windows. If windows are well shaded with overhangs, trees or adjacent buildings, the solar radiation for north can be used in any orientation.

Gord is a professional engineer who has spent 35 years helping builders and HVAC contractors implement innovative technologies into high-performance homes. He has particular expertise in IAQ and airﬂow management in houses, and can be contacted at gordc@buildingknowledge.ca.

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It is significant too when you consider the cooling airflow required to mitigate that heat gain. To assess that we need one more formula to determine the sensible cooling capacity available from the distribution ducts of a central air conditioning system. The formula is: Airflow required in litres per second = sensible cooling required divided by the temperature drop across the air conditioning coil divided by 1.2 Flow in L/s = Watts/Temp. Difference/1.2 (Or Flow in CFM = BTUH / Temp. Difference/1.1) Most contractors would know to set up the airflow in the furnace or air handler such that during an air conditioning call the temperature drop across the coil would be approximately 12 to 14ºC or 20 to 25ºF. Therefore, the airflow required to offset the heat gain from that one window facing west would be:

L/s = 1283/14/1.2 = 76.4 L/s or approximately 162 CFM

Notice the impact of orientation in Figure 1. If that large, unshaded window is facing east or west, there will be three times the heat gain as compared to the same window facing north. Note too, the impact of a skylight or a glass ceiling, almost double again that of an east or west facing window. Take the specific example of the large great room garden doors that have a total glass area of nine square metres (just under 100 sq. ft.). Consider a summer design day at 31ºC (88 F) and the typical inside design temperature of 24ºC (75ºF). Let’s assume the builder has put in an ENERGY STAR qualified door and the glazing has a U-value of 1.20 W/ m2 and a solar heat gain coefficient of 0.50. The Conductive Heat Gain would equal, 9 x (31-24) x 1.2 = 75.6 watts or just 258 BTUH The Radiant Gain for a north facing window would equal:

9 x 93 x 0.5 = 418.5 watts or 1,427 BTUH. Now imagine that room has a view to the west and the heat gain, when the sun is brightly shining, is a signiﬁcant 9 x 285 x 0.5 = 1,283 watts or 4,375 BTUH. It is signiﬁcant compared to the conductive gains of just 75.6 watts (258 BTUH).

Figure 1 - Estimated Solar Radiation (W/m2)

Of course, this isn’t impossible. It’s just a couple of six-in. diameter supply ducts strategically placed in the room. It is a challenge though to imagine how to balance this need for 162 CFM of air for sunny afternoons and evenings in the summer with the heating and cooling needs of the rest of the house over the rest of the year. At the time of house or renovation design, HVAC designers can be most helpful by pointing out there are many glazing options that would mitigate this intermittent cooling load. In the example above, the glazing had a high solar heat gain coefﬁcient of 0.50. Consider the impact if a low solar gain glass with a SHGC of just 0.25 were chosen. This would cut the solar gain in half and the incremental cost of that choice is very small. In new construction there may also be options for designing in thermal mass to absorb the intermittent heat gain such as concrete and tile ﬂoors or double layers of drywall on illuminated walls.

Radiant gains through glass In existing homes, be ready to demonstrate and explain the dramatic impact solar gain can have on critical spaces in a home. When homeowners ask how big an air conditioner they need for their 2,000 sq. ft., ask them how many square feet of glass they have facing east to west. Afterall, the radiant gains through glass may account for as much as 60 per cent of the total cooling load. Be sure to carry a simple compass and a device called a Low E detector that can measure the solar heat gain coefficient of windows. Assess and discuss the shading potential of trees, overhangs and their use of blinds and curtains. These simple extra steps will help customers understand why you are recommending zoning or multi-stage equipment or even a dedicated mini-split for a specific space. When discussing summer comfort concerns, I like keeping 285 watts per square metre or 90 BTUs per sq. ft. for east and west windows top of mind. It helps focus on the significant intermittent impact of radiant gains through windows on the clients’ comfort.

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RENEWABLES

B y A m r u t a K n an olkar

building decarbonization Why start with space and water heating?

hen people set their thermostat or take a hot shower, they usually aren’t thinking about their heating system or water heater. For the vast majority of households, the technologies heating and cooling their spaces and water are out of sight and out of mind, each one in charge of a singular, but important, job. Yet as North America adds more renewable energy to the grid and more communities commit to building decarbonization as a way to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that are fuelling climate change, demand for energy-efﬁcient radiant designs, which use water to heat or cool interior spaces, and heat pump technology for domestic hot water heating is expected to grow. Besides using less energy, radiant heating systems and heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) can help grid managers by storing thermal energy (hot water) for later use. This makes them attractive to grid managers who are looking for low-cost, readily available technologies to store excess renewable energy (mainly wind and solar) from the grid and deploy it during times of peak demand (or peak

M e c h a n i c a l

load), when the grid is powered by fossil fuels. This is especially true in cold climates such as much of Canada where there is a winter peak demand for electricity. Grid-connected, energy-efficient radiant heating and cooling systems and HPWHs can play a key role in building decarbonization, which eliminates emissions at the building as well as at the generation source. Radiant heating and cooling systems are 20 to 60 per cent more energy efficient than all-air systems, depending on type and climate zone, according to a 2017 report led by New Buildings Institute (NBI) and commissioned by the California Energy Commission. HPWHs are two-to-four times more efficient than other water heating options in conventional applications. Many of today’s models are equipped with advanced controls, which will allow for two-way communication with the grid, further advancing the role this technology will play in grid management in the future.

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Buildings are responsible for 39 per cent of global carbon emissions, making them a key strategy to limit global warming to 1.5°C as advised by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Canada has committed to reducing its GHG emissions to net zero by 2050. And some of the U.S. and Canada’s biggest cities, including Vancouver, BC, Seattle, WA, and Ithaca, NY have passed building electriﬁcation policies as a way to accelerate their path to zero energy. Experts agree that electrifying building end-uses − space heating and cooling, water heating, cooking and laundry − and generating electricity with emissions-free sources is the best path to building decarbonization. Today, space heating and cooling represents the largest energy use in Canadian and U.S. homes, followed closely by water heating. Combined, these two energy uses represent roughly 70 per cent and 81 per cent of U.S. and Canadian household’s energy use, respectively. The current building stock is heavily supplied by natural gas with standard furnaces combusting fuel − typically, gas or oil − onsite to generate heat. The vast majority of hot water heaters run on electricity or combust fuel − also typically gas or oil − to heat water. NBI found that swapping out gas

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RENEWABLES Cont’d from pg. 72

Additionally, the public health beneﬁts resulting from eliminating combustion appliances from buildings is signiﬁcant. There is growing concern about public safety issues and economic consequences of outdated gas infrastructure.

Building momentum for radiant heating and cooling systems Radiant heating and cooling systems are known for providing comfortable, conditioned spaces without moving air. Median energy use intensity (EUI) for buildings with radiant cooling is 14 to 66 per cent lower than standard buildings of comparable type and climate zone, according to a 2017 study led by NBI. That same study found that ofﬁces with radiant heating use 31 per cent less energy while also scoring higher among building occupants for satisfaction. This is in part because radiant heating and cooling systems decouple ventilation load from space cooling load, which is typical of all-air heating and cooling systems. This reduces energy use by fans and pumps, creating tremendous energy savings during the heating season. For designers and builders aiming to achieve zero energy and zero carbon goals, radiant heating and cooling systems are a clear choice. According to NBI’s Getting to Zero Buildings database, the most comprehensive listing of zero energy buildings in North America, 42 per cent of net zero energy buildings use radiant heating and cooling systems.

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Accelerating adoption of HPWHs HPWHs are a mature, decades-old technology that can support the implementation of electrification policies across North America. They work like a refrigerator in reverse, using an electric compressor to move heat from one place to another. Compared to standard electric resistance hot water heaters and gas-fired hot water heaters, HPWHs produce up to four times less carbon emissions. The cost of HPWHs has come down in recent years, thanks in part to market transformation efforts such as the Advanced Water Heating Initiative in the U.S. and the Greener Homes Grant in Canada. When you factor the benefits of grid connectivity into the cost of a HPWH (in locations where utilities offer incentives for energy storage), the costs are becoming more comparable to standard electric resistance and gas-fired hot water heaters, especially with rich utility incentives. In some places, utility HPWHs are two-to-four times more companies are offering LMÄJPLU[ [OHU V[OLY ^H[LY OLH[PUN incentives to customers VW[PVUZ PU JVU]LU[PVUHS HWWSPJH[PVUZ to swap out equipment. They are also studying how much to pay customers with grid-enabled HPWHs for the electricity they did not use during peak demand/load. Water heaters generally last for 12 to14 years, which means that by 2035 all water heaters currently in use will likely need to be replaced. Manufacturers will soon be coming to market with low-power, 120-volt HPWH models that can plug into existing wall outlets without requiring panel upgrades and/or home rewiring. Once validated it has potential to revolutionize the market and make retrofitting buildings with HPWHs more affordable. While the technology is promising, widespread adoption of radiant heating and cooling systems, and HPWHs faces a number of challenges in the buildings sector. Building owners need better education about the benefits

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Photo: Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance and Hot Water Solutions

water heating systems to electric in new and existing buildings in the U.S. over the next 20 years would cut GHG emissions by 100 million tons.

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RENEWABLES Cont’d from pg. 74

of energy-efﬁcient, all-electric alternatives. HPWHs are currently a very small part of the market in the U.S. and Canada. This means higher upfront costs, especially for lower-income households, which bear a higher energy burden in monthly utility bills relative to income. Without incentives or tax and rate subsidies, many lower-income households will not have the means to cover the costs of buying and installing low-emission appliances in new buildings or swapping out equipment in existing buildings.

Bottom line With Canada and the U.S. committing to a 100 per cent carbonfree grid by 2035, fossil-fuel space and water heating will become a greater share of strategies to reduce the GHG footprint. A key part of the Canadian government’s electriﬁcation heating strategy is the use of heat pump technology, particularly cold climate heat pump technologies that work effectively for both air and water heating in the country’s extreme winter weather. The U.S. Department of Energy’s E3 initiative seeks similar goals. With these intentions,

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radiant heating and cooling systems and HPWHs will play an increasingly important role in reducing emissions and helping with grid management. Amruta Khanolkar is a senior project manager for NBI based in Portland, OR. She is the program manager for the Advanced Water Heating Initiative (AWHI), an effort working to transform the water heater market and install HPWHs across the U.S.

Tower of Montréal, Downtown Montréal (Photo courtesy of tomcondos.com)

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PLUMBING Silvano Ferrazzo is director engineering, marketing and business development NA at Zurn GTG. He can be reached at silvano.ferrazzo@zurn.com.

B y Si l v a no F er r a z z o

About grease interceptors G

rease interceptors, or grease traps as they are often-misnamed, are frequently misunderstood and largely overlooked. After all, they are usually out of sight and therefore out of mind. Grease interceptors are supposed to capture greasy wastewater and keep the facility in regulatory compliance without much hassle for the facility manager. Historically, if the grease interceptor was installed inside the food prep area, such as a commercial kitchen, they were called “grease traps.” The term grease trap was often confused with plumbing traps installed directly in a sink drain, so code ofﬁcials renamed them. Grease removal devices (GRDs) or grease interceptors are now categorized into gravity grease interceptors (GGI), hydromechanical grease interceptors (HGI), which were previously called grease traps, and automatic or semi-automatic grease removal devices (AGRDs). This discussion will focus on GGIs and HGIs. Owners, architects, and design engineers have options when choosing the best grease interceptor for any given project. Those options can be narrowed by space constraints, installation costs, performance requirements, maintenance costs, interceptor material, and ultimately regulatory compliance. It is recommended that these choices be weighed with respect to the life cycle cost of the interceptor and total cost of ownership.

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Separation and capture of pollutants HGIs use hydromechanical separation, which is often achieved by means of flow control devices such as air entrainment and baffles, to separate the waste pollutants (fats, oil grease and food particles) from the incoming wastewater. This prevents those pollutants from discharging to the sewer and causing clogs and sanitary sewer overflows. Conventional HGIs are typically smaller in volume in order to fit inside the kitchen. They tend to be less costly than the bigger gravity interceptors that are usually installed outside the building, but the smaller volume means more frequent maintenance to evacuate the collected pollutants, which can be more costly to the facility owner. Some of the newer large capacity HGIs reduce some of the higher maintenance costs by achieving larger holding capacities for the pollutants, to reduce pumping maintenance frequency. GGIs achieve separation based on Stokes’ Law, which, simply put, means pollutants heavier than water such as food particles and sediment, among

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PLUMBING Cont’d from pg. 78

others, fall to the bottom of the wastewater. Pollutants lighter than water, such as food grease, rise to the surface of the wastewater. This is achieved by managing incoming wastewater flow and interceptor volume to ensure the wastewater is retained within the interceptor for a sufficient time to allow the pollutants to separate and become captured in the interceptor. New engineered GGIs do this efficiently, and because of their usually larger size, they tend to require less frequent maintenance, saving the owner maintenance costs over the life of the facility. Deep burial interceptor applications call for consideration of the extra burial load.

TESTING AND CERTIFICATION The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) released ANSI/CAN/IAPMO Z1001, Prefabricated Gravity Grease Interceptors, as an American National Standard (ANS) and National Standard of Canada (NSC) in October 2021. The binational standard is available in both English and French. First published in 2007, this is the fourth edition of IAPMO Z1001 and the first to be published as an ANS and NSC. This standard supersedes the previous editions, last published in 2016. This is the first edition of this standard with both American and Canadian designation.The ANSI/CAN/ IAPMO Z1001 standard covers prefabricated gravity grease interceptors made of concrete, fiber-reinforced polyester (FRP), thermoplastic, or steel, and specifies requirements for design, materials, performance, testing and markings. IAPMO received accreditation through the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) in 2018 for development of National Standards of Canada, thus accepting the responsibility for development of CAN/IAPMO-designated standards. HGIs can be performance tested under PDI G-101 and ASME A112.14.3 test standards, which establish test apparatus and controlled testing criteria to allow comparison of performance efficiencies of comparable interceptors. For example, in order for an HGI to be certified and accepted under CSA B481.1 it must be tested following the ASME A112.14.3 protocol, and separate and capture at least 90 per cent of the incoming grease.

MATERIALS OF CONSTRUCTION Historically, HGIs have been made of steel, coated steel or stainless steel. Steel and coated steel are prone to corrosion, especially if the coating is scratched or damaged, due to the corrosive environment found inside a grease interceptor. More recent innovation by manufacturers now provides better corrosion resistant materials of construction, such as high-density polyethylene, polypropylene, plastic co-polymers, or ﬁbreglass. These materials are all designed to withstand the corrosive environment found inside a grease interceptor. Similarly, GGIs were often constructed of materials susceptible to corrosion, cracking and even structural failure, such as concrete, and even coated steel. Recent innovations by manufacturers now offer high corrosion resistance and structural durability with materials such as ﬁbreglass and plastics.The construction material of construction can also impact installation costs. Interceptor buoyancy can sometimes mean the interceptor needs to be anchored in burial situations. In deep burial interceptor applications, we must take into account extra burial load and may require re-enforcement of the interceptor. All of these installation criteria impact the overall cost of the project.

PERFORMANCE Besides the method of separation and capture of pollutants, the other difference revolves around performance. HGIs, as stated above, must be tested and meet the minimum grease removal efficiency of 90 per cent. Some newer designs often exceed this minimum, so a buyer has the option to purchase a better performing interceptor, which will discharge less pollutants to the sewer and better protect the environment. GGIs are not tested to the performance standards such as PDI G-101 or ASME A112.14.3, primarily because test equipment has not been designed to test the much larger capacities. However, some manufacturers have their GGI performance tested in real-life applications, at commercial kitchens of diverse facilities. By having effluent discharge from the interceptor tested at certified independent laboratories, real life performance can be determined.

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VENTILATION

B y P et er M er idew

Peter Meridew is a certiﬁed ventilation designer with TECA and was previously a workshop instructor in Ontario and Nova Scotia with both the R2000 program and HRAI. More recently he has been designing residential HRV systems for Habitat for Humanity in Nanaimo, BC. He can be reached at pmeridew@shaw.ca.

The lowdown on

BASEMENTS, CELLARS AND CRAWLSPACES

Water and drain pipes need special attention in unheated spaces. Today basements are commonly partitioned and occupied spaces, further complicating ventilation requirements.

his discussion deals with homes that are “intentionally air-tight” and where the basement, cellar or crawlspace is part of the conditioned [heated] space – section 9.32. The next question is whether the basement is part of the occupied space, or not. Fairly obviously, a crawlspace will hopefully not be an occupied space, but a basement may have several, partitioned rooms, a washroom and potential occupants, thus requiring both supply and exhaust air quantity calculations. The fresh air supply and exhaust ventilation quantities will be calculated based on occupants and floor area – depending on the regulation being applied, but CSA-F.326 will just require 20 cfm supply to each partitioned area when there are no occupants and with no specified maximum floor area. With a properly-designed, central forced air heating system, the fresh air to a crawlspace will obviously be provided via this system, but the quantity will depend on the relative heat loss of

58 82

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this space as compared to the total home heat loss. This is a pet peeve of mine, but it seems to work out some of the time. When basements are part of the main floor heating system, they are seldom warm enough because they experience year-long heat loss. The furnace fan must run continuously. According to the BC Code, the forced air system supplying an eight-ft. high, unoccupied basement, or crawlspace only needs to have one outlet for each 425 ft2 of full-height floor area and proportionately larger floor areas for lower ceiling heights, so a four-ft. crawlspace is good for 862 ft2 floor area, and so on. If no return air opening is provided, which is acceptable, then at least one transfer grille must be installed to the floor above − 12 sq. in. for each 1,000 sq. ft. of floor area. Typically, a three-in. by 10-in. register (16 in.2 free area) will be OK, but remember to remove the damper blades. With a non-forced air system (electric or hydronic − these would be my preference, because independent thermostat

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CHECK THE CODES Definitions of basements, cellars and crawlspaces can be quite tricky and should be checked against the local building code. Some are defined as 50 per cent above grade or not 50 per cent above grade, and so on. For the purposes here, we are not discussing basements that have outdoor air louvres for cross-ventilation, or basements with dirt or gravel floors. If this is your situation you can check the National Building Code, or your local Code section 9.18 for more natural ventilation details. Some experts say that ventilating this type of a basement simply causes more problems. In either of these situations, the floor above must be made air-tight from the basement and be very wellinsulated. Water and drain pipes will need special attention to avoid freezing. Similarly, ductwork must be wellinsulated and joints made air-tight. settings can be made for less-used spaces) for the crawlspace the ventilation system is still only required to supply the calculated air volume as long as that above-mentioned transfer grille is provided. One is minimum, but two would be better and located in a pantry, closet, or laundry room to avoid having the cooler air causing complaints. Ventilating these spaces requires a careful approach and knowledge of whole Code sub-sections.

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WHEN WATER RECIRC C S ITS C TECHNOLOGY LOSES COOL I t’s a, well, creepy sort of problem. That is, when hot water recircs lose their ability to govern themselves. But, let’s back up just a bit. Let’s start with an explanation. Then we’ll talk to the experts. There’s little debate that residential or light commercial domestic hot water recirculation (DHWR) technology has proven its value in the world of plumbing and mechanical systems. The devices guard our safety, comfort and health. Hot water recirc systems move potable hot water to ﬁxtures quickly, without waiting for the water to get hot, so there’s less wasted water, and time. The key challenge to these simple systems ystems is the problem of “hot water creep.” Let’s take a closer look, beginning with an n examination of the components thatt have a role in the recirculation of a home’s domestic hot water.

With a hot water recirc system in place, hot water is quickly available at all taps and shower heads.

WHAT’S IN THE MIX? Let’s ﬁrst deﬁne the “system.” After all, the various components, if not connected intelligently and working in concert, would accomplish nothing:

Preparing to install a hot water recirculation system with key components under the sink. 84

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Water heater without a tempering/mixing valve. Essentially, an unprotected, full-on arrangement that places anyone at risk.

Water heater with a distribution tempering/mixing valve (typically, an ASSE 1017, or ASSE 1070 valve). This is most common, and became the point of introduction for DHWR systems.

Water heater with distribution tempering/mixing valve with a DHW recirculation pump and a bypass valve or pump located at the domestic water system’s most remote ﬁxture − with use of the cold water line as a means of returning water to the water heater.

Water heater with distribution tempering/mixing valve with a DHW recirculation pump and a dedicated return line from the most remote ﬁxture on that particular hot water zone. Ideally, this is how a DHWR system is installed.

Finally, all of the above, to include a control of some means; aquastat, timer or combination control with some kind of logic.

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PLUMBING

Cont’d from pg. 84

“It takes some, or several of the components above, to make a DHWR system,” explained Rick Mayo, product and applications instructor, Western region, Taco Comfort Systems. Most recirc systems, by design, have a tempering valve that continuously adjusts its temperature when water flows through it – while tempering (that is, mixing) it with cold water – to maintain proper outlet water temperature for rapid release at points of use. The challenge is to maintain the mixed water temp during periods of no demand. The reason for this: the recirc’s pump enables flow through the valve, even when there’s no demand, or draw, from points of use – such as faucets and other fixtures. For this reason, recirc pumps must be piped so that the recirc’s returning flow can reach both the cold connection of the valve as well as the cold connection of the heat source.

SMART, BY

design

Typically, a water heater’s storage temperature is set for about 140°F for legionella mitigation, and the DHWR’s hot water temperature is reduced to about 120°F at the hot connection of the valve (with the reduced temp made possible by mixing with cold water, by design).

This can cause the valve assembly to gain temperature; that is, until it reaches the hot water’s set-temp. The internal thermostat adjusts the piston to open the cold port and close the hot port, allowing hot water to recirculate.

Figure 1 Recirculatio Recirculation piping

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PLUMBING

Cont’d from pg. 86

Unfortunately, there can be challenges to the intended nded function of these systems. “It’s often a piping challenge,” said tekmar’s general ral manager, Greg Leupin. “For many hot water recirc ‘creep’ challenges, hallenges, en the recirc the challenge has to do with incorrect piping. When is off or at rest, thermal ‘ghost flow’ can affect the amount of ip ping. g hot water that makes its way into the [distribution] p piping. Leupin added that many recirc loops lack a mixing valve, ure in causing excessive – sometimes unsafe – temperature the recirc loop, increasing the risk of scalding. Thiss can also lead to inefficiency from heat loss, especially when the domestic water lines aren’t insulated. Creepy situation #1: If the hot water distribution system ystem isn’t perature to insulated, this can cause the distribution loop temperature drop during periods of no demand. Creepy situation #2: Domestic water systems installed without a hot water recirculation pump or, for that matter, a malfunctioning DHWR or an improperly piped DHWR, will cause the distribution tempering valve to overheat during periods of no demand. This overheating of the valve assembly may go unnoticed for quite a while and can damage or cause early failure of the DHWR device, and components. Mayo offers this insight: The ASSE 1070 valve does a better job of restricting flow of the hot water than the ASSE 1017

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− offering greater ass assurance of preventing “creep.” He clarifies: clarifie “Don’t get me ASSE 1017 valves work wrong. Those ASS non-recirc systems. If as intended in n the temperature is set for 115°F, they regulate the temperature te to that point, almost assure assuredly. But as soon as you match them up with a (DHW) recirc, problem problems can begin.” Creep situation #3: Make Creepy sure there’s always sufficient flow to meet the DHWR valve valve’s minimum flow requir requirement. All DHWR control va valves need a certain amount of flow to function properly. A properly-sized, recirc pump will usually assure sufficient flow. Creepy situation #4: A point-of-distribution, ASSE 1017 mixing valve (or, for that matter, even the ASSE 1070 valve) that does not have a full- or completely-closed function for its inlet port can cause thermal creep if not properly piped; most mixing valves with an electronic actuator have a fullyclosed position so that this doesn’t occur.

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Cont’d from pg. 88

technology

SMART

Manufacturers have stepped in to help negate the risk of domestic water creep when recirc systems are installed. “Installation instructions are more explicit and the technology has improved,” said Mayo. “The problem begins when there’s an inability to dissipate the heat during periods of no demand,” added Mayo. “As referenced earlier, some [DHWR] devices close the hot

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side better than others, so both the built-in control strategy may help, as does the installation piping. Of course, the recirc shouldn’t be running when the distribution system’s already sufficiently full of hot water, readily accessible at taps and other points of use.” As Mayo stated earlier, ASSE 1017 thermostatic valves installed at the water heater or heat source may not close off sufficiently in some instances (while the circulator is running) to stop the outward flow of heat. If this happens, and a recirc pump continues to run, temperatures within the distribution piping creep upward – creating the potential for unexpectedly hot water at taps. In a situation like that one, the need for hot water [in the distribution piping] is satisfied, but if the [DHWR] pump’s running, ‘creep’ can occur,” concluded Mayo. “Yet another solution protects users from unexpectedly high temps at the tap with or without replacement of the distribution safety valve – and that is the installation of 1016 or 1070 pointof-use valves. They’re most often used for commercial installations, though there are many residential uses of the valves.”

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TECHNOLOGY B y G a ry Lo

BUILDING A CLOUD

ROADMAP: HOW TO GET STARTED

usinesses of all shapes and sizes are adopting cloud technology to transform the way they do business. According to predictions from Gartner, global spending on public cloud services is expected to reach $397 billion US in 2022. That’s up 47 per cent from just two years prior.

WHY SHOULD YOUR BUSINESS MIGRATE TO THE CLOUD?

But what is the cloud exactly? And how can moving your IT systems and applications to the cloud beneﬁt your business?

Businesses of all sizes are always looking for better ways to serve customers and improve efﬁciency. While moving your IT services to the cloud may sound like a headache, there are many beneﬁts that make it worth your while. These include:

At its most basic level, the cloud is simply a model of using the internet to set up servers, networks, storage and apps. It’s the technology that allows you to access ﬁles or software both at the ofﬁce and when you’re out on the road. If you’ve ever used storage services such as Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive or Apple iCloud, or SaaS-based apps like Salesforce, Slack or QuickBooks Online, you’ve used the cloud. Rather than store information on your computer, the cloud stores it online − making it accessible from any device. For many, moving to the cloud became a necessity to enable remote work during the pandemic. The cloud also supports technological innovation and helps companies stay competitive within their industry. As the business landscape continues to be shaped by the rise of remote work, increased security risks and the pressure to innovate, more and more businesses will be making this choice. Although moving to the cloud is becoming the norm, developing a cloud roadmap can be complex – especially for organizations that have on-premise infrastructure or legacy technology. The following is key information you need to know to successfully leverage the cloud.

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• More flexibility: Cloud services are flexible. You typically only pay for what you need, and it’s easy to scale up and down services. • Accessible: With cloud services, you can access data, applications and files across different devices. This is ideal for businesses where a large portion of your workforce is not office-based. • Lower cost: Because of their flexible nature, cloud services often cost your business less. You may also save money by avoiding managing and replacing physical infrastructure, which can be a costly capital expense. • Enhanced security: Cloud services come with enhanced security measures. It’s easy for cloud services to be updated, meaning they can be quickly protected from new security threats. • Less risk: Cloud services often have disaster recovery and backups built into the system, meaning you run less risk of having all your data wiped or lost.

STEPS TO BUILDING YOUR CLOUD ROADMAP

Set your goals

Migrating to the cloud isn’t just an IT project − this is a change that will impact how all areas of your business work. It’s important to start by understanding your goals, and how they align with broader business and strategic plans. This stage may involve a period of research, forecasting and establishing key benchmarks. It becomes easier for everyone − from execs to technicians − to get on board with making the change if you can show what beneﬁts this project will have for the business. Understanding and clearly communicating your goals should be the foundation of your cloud roadmap.

Inventory your IT environment

Before you can decide which workﬂows will be migrated to the cloud, thoroughly review the systems and workﬂows you’re currently using. Cataloguing all the systems you’re currently using will help you to decide what cloud solution may work best for you. As you’re creating your inventory, remember to pay special attention to any software or application that is performing poorly or using a lot of resources. It may be that as you migrate to the cloud, there are some older applications that you decide to retire in favour of a new solution.

THE LINGO There are lots of terms you’ll see used when investigating cloud technologies. Here are some of the key ones that you’ll want to be familiar with:

• Public cloud: The public cloud is cloud computing

services that are offered by third-party companies. Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform and Amazon Web Services are common examples.

• Private cloud: Private clouds mean setting up computing services and infrastructure that are used only by your business. This is in comparison to the public cloud, where many other organizations are also able to access the same resources.

Plan your migration

Once you have clarity about your current IT landscape, it’s time to plan your migration. This stage may include: • Evaluating different cloud service providers. • Determining your ideal cloud service model (public, private, hybrid). • Plotting out your timelines, milestones, KPIs, etc. • Choosing the right migration strategy. When it comes to migration, there are six common strategies: rehosting, replatforming, repurchasing, refactoring, retiring and retaining. Often, these are used in combination. If you’re unsure about which methods to choose, it’s a good idea to get help from a cloud consulting and engineering company. All roadmaps are different and you want your migration to match your needs.

Execute the plan

Optimize and maintain

This is the stage where you’ll put your plan into action. This will probably occur in phases over a longer period of time. It’s unlikely you’ll move your whole IT infrastructure to the cloud in one swoop. As you’re migrating to the cloud, it’s important to carefully consider and manage any disruption during the transition. Again, this is where a cloud technology partner can add value or expand your IT capacity.

Once you’ve migrated to the cloud, it’s time to manage it. This will generally involve you or your cloud partner conﬁguring, monitoring and maintaining your new cloud environment. You can also begin to optimize your services, making sure that you’re maximizing the efﬁciency and cost-effectiveness of the cloud. You’ll want to put a plan in place to keep up with rapidly changing cloud technology and opportunities.

• Hybrid cloud: As the name implies, hybrid cloud is a

solution that is made up of the components you need. This may include both public and private cloud, as well as existing noncloud IT systems.

Gary Lo is vice president, product management and marketing with Watserv, a Toronto, ON-based IT solutions provider. Lo can be reached at Gary.Lo@watserv.com.

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67 93

TOOLS By Braedlyn McEwen

How to choose the best pipe cutter for the job W

hen you need to cut PVC or ABS pipe, grab a pipe cutter to make the process smooth and easy. Pipe cutters are simple to use and can be used to cut an array of pipe, hose or tubing. Created with high-quality steel blades that are easy to replace, pipe cutters are a staple in any tool box. The trick is to choose the correct pipe cutter for your application, and to learn how to properly and safely use it.

What materials can a pipe cutter be used with? There is a range off ma materials pipe cutters have the ability to cut through ugh including:

• • • • • • • • •

1 in. pipe cutters with a plastic handle Plastic handled pipe cutters are speciﬁcally designed to handle thin wall pipe, hosing and tubing. They have long lasting steel, creating a blade that is sharp and holds its edge longer to ensure clean and precise cuts. A stainless-steel spring provides a quick and easy opening. 1 in. pipe cutters with metal handles: are more robust pipe cutters and are designed to cut through poly, ABS, PEX, PVC (Sch.40) with an ID of 1 in. and rubber hose. The durable cast metal body allows for a straight cut with a simple squeezing action. Features may include a latching handle for safe storage in the closed position, and a reversible and replaceable blade.

Cutting Tip: The cutting action is produced by lightly rotating the cutter on the pipe while squeezing gently on the handles. Once you have used this technique a couple of times, you will be able to make clean, straight and fast cuts. This rotating action does not necessarily need to be used when working with rubber hose or soft tubing.

1-1/4 in. pipe cutters with cast metal bodies are reliable for straight cuts using a smooth ratcheting action. These pipe cutters cut through PVC, Poly (PE), ABS, PEX, CPVC pipe or conduit. Features may include a quick release thumb lever for opening the blade with ease. be If the blade becomes dull or cracked, the blade can be easily replaced, saving you from purch needing to purchase a new pipe cutter.

PVC pipe

2-in Ratcheting pipe cutter 2-in.

CPVC pipe

J Just like the 1-1/4-in. pipe cutter, the 2-in. pipe cutter shown here has a cast metal body. It also shares other similarities such as a locking handle and stainless blade. Look for a rubber handle for optimal grip during operation. This pipe cutter may be equipped with a point on the blade to easily and effectively pierce through the pipe p wall to provide a straight cut with minimal distortion of the pipe.

ABS pipe Poly pipe PVC hose PVC reinforced hose Rubber hose Poly tubing PEX tubing

Braedlyn McEwen is social media and content coordinator with Boshart Industries.

Types of pipe cutters

M e c h a n i c a l

Cutting Tip: When using the pipe cutter in cold weather, it is advised that you heat the pipe in lukewarm water prior to cutting to ensure the pipe does not shatter during the cutting process. Once the pipe has been cut, it is recommended that you apply rust proof oil to the cutting blade before storing.

Pipe cutters can cut through a large collection of materials and thickness, depending on the pipe cutter you choose of course. There is a pipe cutter available for any situation – ensure you pick the right one for the job. B u s i n e s s

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HYDRONICS

B y E m ilie B oyer Emilie Boyer is hydronic product manager with The Master Group.

HEAD LOSS CALCULATION: UNDERSTAND THE FINER POINTS

he system head loss calculation cannot be ignored during the design and installation of a hydronic system. Nowadays, several software options are available to efﬁciently determine the total head loss of a hydronic system. However, it is important to realize that software cannot replace the designer/installer input. We need to understand the reasoning behind these calculations to make the right assumptions and then determine the optimal solutions for the systems that we are designing/installing. Formula 1 groups the variables that must be taken into consideration when we need to calculate the total heat loss of a system. Without this calculation the selection and sizing of the system pumps would be impossible.

Formula 1 Total head loss in a hydronic system

TOTAL HEAD LOSS (ft H2O) = PFRICTION (PIPING + ELBOWS/TEES) + PSTATIC HEIGHT + POTHER COMPONENTS The following detailed description of each of these variables is provided for a better understanding of the concepts surrounding the calculation of total head loss of a hydronic system. To visualize these variables reference Figure 1.

PFRICTION (PIPING + ELBOWS/TEES) The variable PFriction (Piping + Elbows/Tees) represents the sum of all pressure losses that are due to the interaction of the ﬂuid with the surface of the piping/conduit and other components connected to this system such as elbows and tees. In n this case, the ﬂuid may be water or a mixture of water and antifreeze (propylene opylene glycol, ethylene glycol, and so on).

Figure 1 Plumbing/Piping Schematic

Frictional pressure losses vary according to three distinct elements: the piping material (roughness of the material) and its accessories; the length of the piping and the flow rate; and/or velocity of the fluid flowing through the piping and its components.

M e c h a n i c a l

NTI Boilers Inc.

The methodologies commonly used for calculating friction loss for piping are those involving piping manufacturers’ pressure loss charts or those involving data tables (refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3).

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Figure 2 Friction loss in 304 stainless steel pipe It should be noted that these two calculation methodologies are derived from the Darcy-Weisbach equation (refer to Formula 2). As is the case with any mathematical equation, it is important to understand its limitations. The designer must also ensure the equation is applicable and that it meets the design/installation criteria of the project.

Formula 2 Darcy-Weisbach equation

ΔP total = γ ×

ρf v2 2

( )( ) L dh

ΔP total: Friction pressure loss in fluid flow (Pa (N/m2), psf (lb/ft2)) L: length of pipe (m; ft) v: Velocity of fluid (m/s; ft/s) dh: Internal pipe diameter (m; ft)

ρf : Fluid density (kg/m3, slugs/ft3)

To calculate the pressure loss due to friction in elbows, tees or other plumbing fittings, the calculation methodology commonly used is the “equivalent pipe length.” This method consists of:

Figure 3 Table for estimated pressure friction loss for Schedule 40 steel pipes

1) Determining the type and quantity of pipe fittings used in the system

Figure 2,3,4 Engineering ToolBox

2) Calculating the equivalent length (refer to Formula 3 on page 98) for the various types of plumbing fittings based on the equivalent pipe length chart (refer to Figure 4 on page 98). 3) Take the equivalent length calculated at step 2 and add this length to the total piping length of piping of the system. M e c h a n i c a l

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67 97

HYDRONICS

Cont’d from pg. 97

Figure 4 Equivalent length chart for plumbing ﬁttings/accessories FITTING

Formula 3 Total Equivalent Length equation for plumbing ﬁttings/accessories

Lequi_total =

( ) L D

45º Elbow Curved. Threaded

× dh × N

45º Elbow Mitered

Lequi_total: Total equivalent length (ft)

180º Bend

N: Quantity of the same plumbing fitting/accessory If we take the example shown in Figure 1 on page XX, we can see that we have eight tees of type “through branches as an elbow flanged r/D = 1 in.” If all eight tees have an external diameter of 2-1/2-in. (ID: 2.469 in.), we can then determine the equivalent length corresponding to these plumbing fittings.

L D

Long Radius (R/D = 1.5) 1 weld 45º

2 welds 22.5º

6 50

ﬂanged (R/D = 1) all types (R/D = 1.5) threaded (r/D = 1)

Tee Through-branch as an Elbow

threaded (r/D = 1.5) 20

ﬂanged (r/D = 1) stub-in branch

POTHER COMPONENTS

× dh × N

The variable POther Components represents the sum of all pressure losses caused by a fluid flowing through elements/components in a specific hydronic system. When we refer to Figure 1, we can see several components are shown in the plumbing schematic: boiler, indirect water heater, strainers, valves, and so on. If we analyze the technical documentation provided by the manufacturers, we can see that the pressure loss is proportional to the water flow rate in a system (refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7).

Lequi_total = 20 x 2.469” × 1ft/12” × 8 Lequi_total = 32.92 ft

Bell & Gossett

PSTATIC HEIGHT

NTI Boilers Inc

( )

(L/D)eq

threaded, close-return (R/D = 1)

dh: Internal pipe diameter (m; ft)

Lequi_total =

TYPES Standard Radius (R/D = 1)

Figure 6 Head loss (ft) vs ﬂow rate in a boiler

The variable PStatic Height represents the pressure difference in ft. H2O between two elevations which a pump must provide the energy to raise the water to a certain level for a speciﬁc hydronic system. This elevation only needs to be considered when we have an open loop system (a system in which the water can “escape’’ to the atmosphere or does not return to its starting point). When we mention the term open loop system, we often refer to hydronic systems that include a cooling tower (refer to Figure 5). When we talk about a heating system, as shown in Figure 1 on page 96, we can see that the variable PStatic Height should not be taken into consideration since water will always return to its starting point. In other words, water will always circulate in a “closed loop’’ system. Therefore, the value given to this variable will be zero (0).

M e c h a n i c a l

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Mueller Steam Specialty

Figure 5 Open loop schematic

Figure 7 Pressure drop (PSI) vs flow rate in a Y strainer screwed end In conclusion, calculating the head loss of a system requires a thorough analysis and understanding of the system we are designing/installing. If the result of the head loss calculation is too high compared to what we have specified for our system, this will lead to oversizing the pumps and increased energy costs related to the operation of the building’s pumps. However, if the result of the head loss calculation is too low in comparison to what we have specified, this could be even more detrimental. In fact, the pumps will be undersized and will not be able to provide the adequate flow to mechanical equipment (boiler, fan coils, chillers, and so on), which will result in poor equipment performance. 0 4 . 2 2

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March 23 - March 25, 2022

Canadian Mechanical& Plumbing Exposition

After a four-year hiatus Canada’s largest trade show for the mechanicals industry returns to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre March 23 to 25. Attendees can connect with more than 300 exhibitors, and discover the newest products and latest equipment from the HVAC/R and plumbing industries. The show once again features a complimentary education program that will keep attendees up-to-date with industry trends, and leave them with key takeaways to increase earning potential. Visit the Mechanical Business team at Booth 22. We are looking forward to seeing you there.

Show Hours Wednesday, March 23 - 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Thursday, March 24 - 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Friday, March 25 - 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Metro Toronto Convention Centre, North Building 255 Front Street West, Toronto, ON

Show Highlights CIPH Gala in support of Habitat for Humanity Join CIPH in celebrating the CIPH Gala In Support of Habitat for Humanity. Featuring Steve Patterson, host of CBC’s The Debaters, and award-winning comedian and humour writer. WHEN: Tuesday, March 22 | 6:00 p.m. WHERE: InterContinental Toronto Centre

Register for free at cmpxshow.com using the code MECHBIZ. Pre-registration without promo code is $10, onsite registration is $20.

Free WIFI Free WIFI is available across the show ﬂoor. Network name and password are provided in the show app and onsite.

Education Catch three days of free education sessions on the show ﬂoor. Listen to the experts and stay up-to-date on industry issues. See page 108 for session descriptions.

New Product Showcase Check out some of the industry leading technology starting on page 115.

Skills Competition Young and upcoming professionals show off their abilities and expertise. To view safety measures and protocols visit cmpxshow.com/safety-guidelines. CMPX has been jointly produced by HRAI and CIPH since 1972.

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Canadian Mechanical& Plumbing Exposition

102

Axiom Industries ...............................1920

CIPH .......................................................13

Baumen Associates ..........................1709

City of Toronto ................................1037

See Page 112 for complete ﬂoor plan

BCA Énergie,Hargassner Atlantic .....635

ClimateCare ................................1903

A. O. Smith .................................1438

Beijing Sunset Electric & Machinery1138

CM CANADA ....................................1240

A.M.T.S. .............................................1109

Berner International..........................1715

CMS Air Filters ..................................2016

Aalberts ........................................304

Best H Flow Control ...........................937

Component Hardware .......................912

Acme Engineering ..............................914

Bibby-Ste-Croix.................................1039

Condor Industriel................................934

Acmeline Industries ..........................1912

Bisan ..................................................1423

Conestoga College ............................320

Acquaer Pompe ..................................434

BITZER Canada .................................1218

Construction Ontario ......................2314

Acuva Technologies .........................1918

BMI Canada ......................................2408

Continental Fireplaces .....................1515

ADEY Innovation...............................1935

Boilermag North America ..................636

Controls Depot ...................................839

A-Gas ...................................................919

Boshart Industries ...............................806

Cool Estate........................................1025

AIC Heat Exchangers .......................1425

Bradford White ...........................1313

Coratech Metal ...................................521

Aimco International ............................739

Brandt Tractor Ltd. ............................309

CR Wall ..............................................1910

Airmax Technologies .......................1925

Brant Radiant Heaters ........................439

CSA Group ........................................2000

Aldes North America..........................645

Bray Controls Canada ........................743

CWQA .................................................519

Allied Technical Solutions..................313

Bronte Collection ..........................530

dahl Valve ..........................................1541

Alltemp .....................................1007,1008

BuildersMeet ......................................335

Dayus Register & Grille ....................1811

Amantii Electric Fireplaces .............2123

Calefactio Solutions .........................1416

DCL Supply .......................................1208

American Standard .....................1615

Calefﬁ Hydronic Solutions ............706

Deﬂecto .............................................1113

American Technical Publishers........1419

Calorek Technologies ........................307

Dettson Industries ............................1820

Amvic Building System ....................1419

Cameron Instruments .......................2117

Dewair Corporation ...........................817

Appion Tools .....................................521

Camus Hydronics ........................1913

Dexcomm Answering Service..........1523

Aquatec India....................................2627

Canada Controls ...............................2036

Diffusion Solutions Integrees ...........437

Aqua-Tech Sales and Marketing ...404

Canadian Consulting Engineer .........435

Direct Coil .........................................1512

Aquatechnik North America ............1245

Canarm .......................................1231

Dobbin Sales .....................................2216

Arbourdale ........................................2213

Canature WaterGroup ..................407

Dynamic Air Quality Solutions...........910

Arctic Compressors ..........................1525

Canplas Industries ............................1938

ebm-papst Canada...........................1907

Arkema Canada ..........................1819

Carlo Gavazzi (Canada) ....................1934

Ecotherm ...........................................1118

Armacell-Woodford-Watco .............2222

Cayman Tape .....................................321

Eden Energy Equipment ................1630

Armstrong Fluid Technology...........2331

CB Supplies .......................................1418

Emerson Automation Solutions ............3

Arzel Zoning Technology...................935

Centennial College ..........................2634

Emerson Canada ..............................1509

ASC Engineered Solutions ..............1221

Centrotherm Eco Systems .................713

Empire Machinery & Tools ................731

ASPE GTA ............................................10

CHC .....................................................411

Enersol ...............................................2045

Atmosphere ......................................1106

Chemfax Products .............................413

Enginuity Power Systems ...................424

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Canadian Mechanical& Plumbing Exposition

104

Griswold Controls ...............................712

IPEX ............................................2319

Grohe .................................................1615

Jak Tool .............................................1238

Enolgas Bonomi Canada ...................707

Groupe Distribution Dulac ...............523

Javelin Drain Products .....................2121

Envira-North Systems .........................523

Hangzhou Hikmicro Sensing .............736

Johnson Controls Canada .................831

Environmental Systems ...................1845

Hathorn..............................................2309

Jomar Valve/NEO Valves .................2220

Equipco ........................................711,721

Haws ....................................................640

Kane (Canada) Measurement ............5

Etal ....................................................1530

HCP Pumps Sales & Solutions...........936

KeepRite Refrigeration .....................1624

Fab-cut Systems................................1038

HeatLink Group ................................1439

Kilmer Environmental .........................906

Fairview..............................................1242

Hilmor ................................................1008

King Heating Products .....................1140

Fantech ..............................................1431

HiMark .................................................800

La cie J. Chevrier Instruments .........1921

Far Rubinetterie ..................................621

Honeywell ...................................1917

Lavelle Industries ..............................1134

Fernco Connectors ...........................2224

Howell Pipe & Valve Supply ............1442

Lennox Commercial .........................1815

FGI Canada Limited .........................1807

HPAC .....................................................19

Les Produits De Construction Maria

Fieldboss .............................................720

HRAI .......................................................15

Catherina ...........................................2515

Fielding Environmental ....................1110

HTS ....................................................1119

Liberty Pumps .....................................630

Fieldpiece Instruments.....................1112

Hubbell Water Heaters ......................213

Lovato Electric ..................................1116

Flexmaster Canada Limited .............1125

HVAC Rentals....................................2235

Loyol ..................................................1634

FLIR Systems .......................................838

HVAC Xchanger ................................1321

LynCar Waterline ........................1130

Fluidmaster .......................................2034

Hydro FLOW Canada .......................1344

M. A. Stewart & Sons .......................1041

Forest Énergie et Air Solutions ......1023

Hydronic Systems Canada ...............1931

Mack Constructions ..........................1421

Formadrain ........................................2308

Hy-Lok Distribution...........................2530

Mafna Air Technologies ..................1717

Franke Kindred Canada ...................1812

IAPMO ...............................................1536

Mainline BackFlow Products............2226

FreshAire UV .....................................1008

IBC Technologies ............................1631

Maritime Geothermal .......................1031

Fujitsu General America................616

Idralink ...............................................2219

MarketAir ...........................................2120

Fulton...................................................810

Imperial Manufacturing Group........2131

Marking Services Canada ..................614

General Pipe Cleaners ................2109

Industrial Chimney Company ............925

Marlig Industries ...............................1034

GeoSmart Energy ...............................812

Industrial Plastics Fabricators ............211

MARS Canada ...................................1825

Giacomini Consulting Canada ........1427

Inﬁcon ...............................................1530

Masco Canada ............................1941

Gigawatt Heat Pump Supply ...........1035

Infraair Sales and Marketing ..............913

Mastercool ........................................1222

GLP Canada ........................................543

InSinkErator Canada .........................1614

MB HVAC Beneﬁts ...........................2318

Goldstone HVACR ............................1724

Insuite HVAC Group.........................1744

MCAC ................................................1539

Goss Industries .................................1530

International Power Systems ...........1144

McKay Boiler Supplies .......................816

Greenmech .........................................821

Interplay Learning ..............................815

Mechanical Business Magazine .......22

Greentek..............................................510

Interpump ..........................................544

Merit Ontario ...................................2316

Gripple Canada ..................................331

Intertek ......................................2221

Metropolitan Pump ...........................625

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Canadian Mechanical& Plumbing Exposition

Mifab........................................................4

Newgen Sales ...................................2115

Milwaukee Tool.................................2007

Nexnord...............................................305

Mits Airconditioning ...................1323

Niagara & Halton Skilled Trades ....2017

OS&B ............................................909

Mitsubishi Electric Sales ..................1213

Noritz America ....................................316

OS&B Industrial ..........................1636

Miura Canada....................................1620

North Star Water Treatment............2317

Packard ..............................................1007

Modern Air Filters ...........................1317

NTI Boilers ..................................1331

Panasonic ............................................823

Modine Manufacturing ....................2134

Nu-Calgon Wholesaler.....................1814

Parker Hanniﬁn–Sporlan...................1526

Moen..................................................1831

NuvoH2O ..........................................2035

PDM US .............................................1538

Morris Lee ...........................................323

NV Eco Vision Sales..........................1937

Pentair Canada .................................1122

MSA Bacharach.................................1618

Oatey SCS Canada........................701

Pinnacle Infotech ................................231

Multi HVAC .......................................2037

Olimpia Splendid USA ..................931

PlumbingVoid .....................................515

NAPCO Royal Pipe & Fittings .........2112

OPIA ........................................................9

Powrmatic...................................1741

Napoleon/Continental .....................1731

OPTTA ...............................................2332

PremierOne Product ........................1114

National Energy Equipment ............2320

Ontario Geothermal Association .......21

Prier Products......................................923

NAVAC .......................................2013

Ontor ............................................918

Pro Kontrol ........................................1413

Navien.........................................2025

ORAC.................................................1638

Procore ..............................................1524

NCI Canada.......................................1417

Ortech Industries ........................1320

Prolon Controls ..................................916

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Canadian Mechanical& Plumbing Exposition

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Sioux Chief..................................1024

UA Canada ..........................................734

SJE Rhombus ....................................1343

UA Local 787 .....................................1640

Quadra.................................................819

Skidmore Pump,VEXO ......................617

United Rentals ...................................622

Rafales Agency .................................2423

Smart Hydronics .................................619

Uniweld Products..............................1625

Rapid Locking System .................1537

Smith Energy .......................................531

Uponor...............................................2425

Ratech Electronics.......................1813

Snap Home Finance .........................2018

Vents-US ............................................2208

RectorSeal ...........................................930

Space-Ray ..........................................1835

Victaulic ......................................2019

Reed Mfg ....................................2022

Spartan Peripheral Devices .........1816

Viega ..................................................2141

Reed Water .........................................917

Spectronics .......................................1530

Viessmann .....................................507

RefPlus ...............................................1906

SpeedClean.......................................1008

Waleco ...............................................1621

Refrigerant Services/RS Cool ......1808

SPX/Marley ..........................................422

Wassertek ..........................................1540

REHAU ...............................................1841

Stanley Black & Decker ....................2409

Waterloo Manufacturing ..................1045

RenewAire .........................................2040

Stelpro .................................................717

Watts Water Technologies..........2231

Resideo Technologies ........................317

Stone Mountain Technologies ........2012

Weil-McLain Canada ..........................423

Respicaire ..........................................1339

Stove Builder International ..............1930

Wellfab Services .....................................1

Rheem Canada ............................1631

Strato Automation ............................1341

Wessels Company ..............................607

Rhella ...................................................841

Sunrise Tradex (GREE) .....................1518

Westway Machinery............................330

RIDGID...............................................1607

Superior Radiant Products ...............1319

Wildon Sales & Marketing ...............1530

Riello North America ........................1531

Systemair ...........................................1437

Wilo Canada .................................431

Riobel...................................................842

Taco Comfort Solutions ................417

Winters Instruments ......................420

Robertshaw .......................................1720

Tapmaster ..........................................919

WiringPro...........................................1622

Rosenberg Fans Canada..................2325

Taylor Walraven ..........................1123

Women in HVACR Canada ..............1136

Roth North America......................410

Technical Translation Services ..............8

Yorkland Controls .............................1223

Ruck Air Movement ..........................1923

Technoact ..........................................1645

Zebra HVAC ......................................1530

RWC/Reliance Worldwide ...........1824

Tecumseh Products of Canada .......2031

Ziehl-Abegg ........................................807

Sani Seal ...........................................1936

Test Products International................820

Zoeller Canada .................................1030

Sanuvox Technologies .....................2138

The Master Group ........................735

Zoneﬁrst.............................................1713

Sauermann Americas .......................1535

The Whalen Company .......................609

ZSi ......................................................1530

Seal and Design Canada ...................935

Thermal Hydronic Supply ..................631

Zurn Industries ..................................1721

Selkirk ................................................2130

Thermo 2000 .......................................714

Service Roundtable ..........................1719

Thermo Manufacturing ...............1214

ServiceTrade .....................................1821

Thermolec .........................................1420

SFA Saniﬂo .................................1445

Trades for Tomorrow .......................2215

Shop Data Systems ............................834

Triangle Tube ................................718

Sinus North America ..........................613

Trimble ..............................................1914

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*List as supplied by show management as of press time. Companies in red have ads appearing in this edition of Mechanical Business.

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Canadian Mechanical& Plumbing Exposition

CMPX 2022 EDUCATION SESSIONS Location: Main Stage

Wednesday, March 23

10:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. Fighting the FOG: An overview of grease interceptors Speaker: Faith Winter, market development specialist, Endura

11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Lower GWP refrigerants − What commercial contractors ought to expect Speaker: Philip Johnston, general manager, low GWP program leader, Daikin Applied

1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Meeting the need of the future: air to water heat pumps Speaker: Mike Miller, vice president of sales, Canada, Taco Comfort Solutions

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2:00 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. Transitioning to low GWP refrigerants for commercial refrigeration Speaker: Andre Patenaude, director solutions strategy – cold chain, Emerson Commercial & Residential Solutions

3:00 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating carbon taxes using solar thermal technology Speaker: Steve Royce, commercial projects coordinator, Viessmann Manufacturing Company Inc.

4:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. How a uniform protocol can aid plumbing system maintenance Speaker: Avi Yurman, head of product, Reed Water

Thursday, March 24 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Introduction to Skilled Trades Ontario Speaker: John Vander Doelen, director policy, research and standards, Skilled Trades Ontario

11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. IAQ pandemic protection strategy with ventilation and ﬁltration Speaker: Jeffrey Siegel, Bahen/ Tanenbaum chair in civil engineering department of civil and mineral engineering, University of Toronto

1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Performance of cold climate air source heat pumps and hybrid heat pump systems in Canadian climates, and an introduction to NRCan’s Air Source Heat Pump Sizing And Selection Toolkit Speaker: Jeremy Sager, HVAC and renewables research engineer, CanmetENERGY − Ottawa, Natural Resources Canada/Government of Canada M e c h a n i c a l

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67 109

Canadian Mechanical& Plumbing Exposition

CMPX 2022 EDUCATION SESSIONS Location: Main Stage

Thursday, March 24 2:00 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. Explore the possibilities with Women in HVACR A panel discussion with women in the industry from the tools, to ownership and beyond Panelists: Jessica Bannister, Level 3 HVAC apprentice in British Columbia and president of Women in HVACR Canada; Kelly Burns, vice president, TRI-AIR Systems; Glenda Rahn, program manager, Support Ontario Youth; Brandi Ferenc, HVAC mentor – Apprenticeship, Support Ontario Youth; Nathalie Brooks,owner, Brooks Heating & Air – Ontario, co-founder of Women in HVACR Canada

3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Canadian Hydronic Council Panel Discussion The changing landscape of hydronics: Climate change and how it affects the hydronics industry Moderator: Jerry Leyte, president and general manager, Viessmann Manufacturing Company Panelists: Dave Hughes, technical advisor, CIPH; Gary Milligan, TECA; Mike Miller, vice president of sales, Canada, Taco Comfort Solutions; Mark Evans, senior director of corporate development, Viega LLC; and Jason Jackson, professor/coordinator mechanical and plumbing, Fleming College

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4:15 p.m. to 5 p.m. Gas absorption heat pumps offer an economically sustainable path to decarbonized heating Speaker: Scott Reed, vice president of sales and marketing, Anesi Gas Heat Pumps Friday, March 25 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. TSSA’s outcome-based regulator transformation: Focusing on high-risk reduction and industry support to improve safety in Ontario Speaker: Bonnie Rose, president and CEO, TSSA

1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Energy efﬁciency incentives for commercial sectors Speakers: George Hantzis (1), supervisor, energy conservation commercial market, Enbridge Gas Inc. and Robert Edwards (2), business advisor, private sector, IESO

1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Understanding the fundamentals of central plant optimization controls, monitoring, metering, and data management Speaker: Andrei Hari, Canadian business development manager, Armstrong Fluid Technology

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www.cmpxshow.com PROMO CODE: MECHBIZ

AISLES

CMPX: MPX: Canada’s echanical show mechanical returns to Toronto

METRO TORONTO CONVENTION CENTRE

COURTESY OF MECHANICAL BUSINESS!

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Canadian Mechanical& Plumbing Exposition

M e c h a n i c a l V

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THE BEST IN

FIRETUBE TECHNOLOGY Avenger

• Two pass fully condensing stainless steel boiler & water heater • Models ranging from 1,000 MBH up to 4,000 MBH • Turndown of up to 25:1 • Up to 95% thermal efficiencies

Valiant-FT

• Fully condensing stainless steel boiler (for floor or wall mount) • Models ranging from 80 MBH up to 399 MBH • Turndown of up to 10:1 • Up to 97% thermal efficiencies Visit www.camus-hydronics.com for more info

Laboratory testing has shown that when cleaned regularly this surface delivers continuous and ongoing antibacterial action.

MORE THAN 60 YEARS OF INNOVATION and customer support Visit deltafaucet.ca/copper-defense for details regarding laboratory testing and infection control practices.

deltafaucet.ca

The comprehensive, quality backed, parts and accessories program customized for Canadian plumbing needs. Offering a ZLGH UDQJH RI XQLYHUVDO åW DQG VHOHFW OEM plumbing parts for both plumbing repair and installation.

Modern design with

reliable performance

masterplumber.ca

RESIDENTIAL PLUMBING

waltecfaucets.ca

BATHING

VISIT US AT BOOTH #1941

WATER SUPPLY

PLUMBING REPAIR

COMMERCIAL PLUMBING

150+

Product Showcase

IAQ

One-stop shop: Trade show in print

HVAC

Leading suppliers to the mechanical industry in Canada have provided specially-selected product offerings for this, the seventh edition of the Mechanical Business Product Showcase. This edition of the Product Showcase includes new technologies, and some that are tried and true, all with detailed information, including features, capabilities and capacities of the product or service available in the Canadian marketplace.

Plumbing Hydronics Refrigeration

See pg.116

Over the years Mechanical Business has featured thousands of leading-edge technologies on its pages. We have watched the evolution of new sectors within the industry, all of which have driven the development of products to meet the demands of the market. It is challenging for installers and service providers to keep up with product offerings. This popular product section arms readers with information to help them serve customers’ needs. For those of you who are attending CMPX 2022 trade show in Toronto, look for these items on the show ﬂoor, where you can check them out in person.

See pg.139

If you are not able to visit the show this year, consider our showcase to be your trade show in print. If you would like more information about a featured product after checking out the listings here, you will ﬁnd the manufacturer’s website below their proﬁle. See pg.145

Read on! See pg.127

Multi Tank Softener (MTS) • The MTS Controller manages multiple softener systems • It activates/deactivates units by flow rate • Activation of softeners by flow prevents hardness leakage • Brine reclaim is available to further reduce salt usage • Duplex, Triplex and Quad configurations are available

CAN 2540/4040 Reverse Osmosis • • • • •

CMPX #5 CMPX #407

Up to 20,000 gallons per day Electronic controller with storage tank status indication Low energy reverse osmosis membranes Stainless steel membrane housings Rejection of >98% of dissolved solids

canaturewg-cied.com B u s i n e s s 0 4 . 2 2 colemanac.com

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Product Showcase POWERS™ IntelliStation Jr. • • • • •

Manage hot water delivery with smart, thermostatic mixing technologies Connects to your Building Automation System (BAS) Control of water temperature +/- 2°F in accordance with ASSE 1017 Smart, colour touchscreen displays pressure, temperature, and ﬂow/BTU data BACnet IP, BACnet MSTP, and Modbus protocols are supported

Watts iDROSET CSD • Calibrated flow measurement and balancing valve • 100% factory tested and calibrated to +/- 10% accuracy • Gauge reads flow directly with no external instruments, calculations, or guesswork • Lockable hand wheel quickly and easily sets flow with no tools • Balancing turn-down ratio of up to 25:1 covers broad range of design flow requirements

SentryPlus Alert™ • • • • •

Remote monitoring system offers automated flood protection alerts Continuously monitors for potential catastrophic flood conditions Sends real-time notifications via text, email, and phone call Easily retrofits existing RPZ backflow preventer with flood protection Upgrade kit works with any RPZ backflow preventer

BLÜCHER® HygienicPro® • • • • •

Hygienic, efficient cleaning for the highest level of food safety Stainless steel design without corners that may hide bacterial growth Long lasting and resistant to a wide range cleaning chemicals Not affected by high-temperature cleaning and steam disinfection Smooth surfaces aid efficient flow and are easy to clean

wattswater.com

CMPX #2231 116

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Product Showcase Vitodens 100-W, B1HE/B1KE • Wall-mounted gas-ﬁred condensing boiler for every budget • Fuel switching with the push of a button (propane or natural gas) • Available in combi models (B1KE, 120 MBH and 199 MBH) and non-combi models (B1HE, 85 MBH to 199 MBH). • Wi-Fi built-in • Adjustable height control panel with 3.5” LCD screen

Vitodens 200-W, B2HE • • • • •

Wall-mounted gas-ﬁred condensing boiler (85 MBH to 199 MBH) Highest efﬁciency up to 98% at full modulation; 95% AFUE on all models Fuel switching with the push of a button (propane or natural gas) Wi-Fi built-in Powerful, user-friendly 7 inch touchscreen display

New Vitocrossal 200, CI2 (Available in Spring 2022) • 6 sizes (399 MBH to 2000 MBH) for large residential and commercial applications • Industry leading 97.5% Thermal Efﬁciency and 95% AFUE for lower energy costs • High modulation up to industry leading 30:1 turndown ratio • Industry’s most advanced active self-calibrating O2 trim technology • Small footprint allows easy access through standard doors

Vitoguide • All-in-one app for installation, service, maintenance and monitoring • Enhanced customer experience with annual automated maintenance reminders • Faster installation with guided step-by-step start up and commissioning reporting • Simpliﬁed maintenance with replacement parts guide • Proactive monitoring with remote diagnostics and notiﬁcations

viessmann.ca

CMPX #507 M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase System 15® PVC DWV • The economical choice for low building & light commercial applications • Made of tough, impact resistant PVC reducing jobsite damage and waste • Lightweight and easy to handle, making installation fast and easy • Complete system offering of pipe, ﬁttings, cements and accessories • Available in 1 ½” to 24” sizes

System XFR® PVC DWV • • • • •

World’s first engineered PVC completely certified to CAN/ULC S102.2 Suitable for DWV applications in high buildings and plenums High impact strength in cold temperatures Complete system offering of pipe, fittings, cements and accessories Available in 1 ½” to 18” sizes

MJ Grey™ Mechanical Couplings • • • • •

Designed speciﬁcally for use with System15® and System XFR® DWV Alternative to solvent welding when working in cold weather or from heights Flexible nature allows for minor adjustments to piping alignment Certiﬁed to both CSA B602 and CAN/ULC S102.2 Available in 1 ½” to 18” sizes

AquaRise® Potable Water Piping Systems • • • • •

Used in commercial, industrial and high buildings SDR 11 pipe available for hot & cold water distribution SDR 21 pipe exclusively available for cold water distribution Fully approved for non-combustible applications Pipe, ﬁttings and valves available in ½” to 4” sizes

ipexna.com

CMPX #2319 118

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Product Showcase Flexi-Rooter • • • • •

Built-in, variable-speed electric motor Super-strong rod design Foot-pedal safety control Unique ClogChopper® and Carbide-Tipped Chain Cutters Folding handle facilitates Flexi-Rooter transport to and from work

Sewerooter T-4: New Mid-size Machine • • • • •

Heavy-duty 9/16” Flexicore cable does a better job clearing inside drain line Clear 3” to 4” lines up to 100 ft. long Switch to 75’ x 5/8” cable to add root cutting capability Variable speed feed drives and retracts cable at up to 20 ft./min. Stair climbers, 10” wheels, truck loading wheel for easier handling

PD-25 Auto Handy • • • • •

Operate it as a hand tool – or a power tool Durable polyurethane drum designed for use with Flexicore cables Automatic feed using your favourite cordless drill Polyurethane drum drop tested from 8 ft. fully loaded - without damage Uses industry-leader Flexicore® cables

Gen-Eye X-POD Plus • • • • •

Includes the Gen-Pack™ battery adapter USB recording drive with voice over recording Wi-Fi transmitter for use with tablets and smart phones 7” LCD screen for crisp clear pictures Inspect 3” to 10” drain lines up to 200 ft. long

drainbrain.com

CMPX #2109 M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase

FRZERO50®

HTO (Hardness, Taste & Odour Removal)

• For use in non-combustible buildings • Meets CAN/ULC S102.210 flame and smoke requirements • Will not support combustion in presence of ignition source • cCSAus meets UPC Certification • Available products: waste/overflows, shower drains and Island Tub Drain®

• Benefits of a softener and whole home carbon filter in one • Removes bad taste and odour caused by chlorine and chloramines • IAPMO R&T certified for 97% chlorine removal for 1.1 million gallons • High efficiency softening saves salt, water and money • Seven-year valve warranty and lifetime pressure tank warranty

Aqua Flo QCRO Testable Waste and Overﬂows

• Certified for the reduction of lead, PFOS/PFOA & other contaminants • Quick change filters: twist off the old cartridge and twist on the new • Ten filters can be configured to meet specific requirements • Slim design for under sink applications • The single manifold ensures reliability & houses 4 separate filters

• Thread-in test plug (overﬂow and waste) • Spin-on tie plate with aggressive threads for an easier install • Thick foam overﬂow gasket with adhesive back • Available in ABS and PVC models, offset and direct in 16”, 20”, kit, half kit styles

Island Tub Drain® Rough-In

485HE Softener

• Metal deck flange for easier installation in tighter spaces • Built-in snap-off test cap to allow water/air/smoke testing g • Low profile design for installation in 8” or greater joist oist space • Available in ABS (ITD35), PVC (ITD5135) and cast iron (ID357) • Patented in Canada and the US, cCSAus meets UPC certification

• IAPMO R & T certified against NSF/ANSI 44 and CSA B483.1 • High-efficiency softening uses 75% less salt & 64% less water • 7-year valve warranty and lifetime pressure tank warranty • Save water each regeneration by skipping up to 10 backwash cycles • Time saving quick connect fittings on bypass, drain & brine line

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CMPX #835 #909

CMPX #407

osb.ca

novowater.com

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Product Showcase

Retroﬁtting Solution (427A)

The Oxford LPP™ Platform

• Similar performance to HCFC-22 • No equipment change necessary • Works well with residual mineral oil or AB • Broad range of low, medium, and high temperature applications • Low global warming potential

• Refrigeration designed for today! • 100% designed around advantages of low-pressure refrigerants • Eliminates conventional components, no ambient limitations • Built on a zero-leak rate approach, no cumbersome safeties • Future adaptability, standard solar kit integration

Lower Refrigeration Retrofits (407A) • Closely matches the cooling capacity and flow rates of R-22 at lower refrigeration temperatures • Well suited as a retrofit for R-22 in supermarket and food storage applications • Energy efficient retrofit option for refrigeration applications • Zero ozone depletion potential

Replacement Solution (410A) • 50/50 blend of HFC-32 and HFC-125 • Accepted by all air-conditioning OEMs for new AC systems • Higher refrigerating capacity and pressures than R-22 • Zero ozone depletion potential

Oxford’s Vapour Drive™ Technology • Oil-less, ﬁeld-repairable, magnetic-drive scroll compressor • Operates from 0% to 100% load • Compatible with standard oil, oil-reduced or oil-free system • Reduces energy consumption, system complexity, maintenance • 2 standard sizes, run at variable rates to match load

Oxford Sensori™ Control System • Highest level of cyber security, plug & play system • Advanced controls - reduced manual effort, no set-up required • Integrated system, machine learning/adaptive predictability • Adapts to ambient conditions, temperature changes, load proﬁles • Full redundancy for stand alone or connected systems

CMPX #1819

CMPX #909

forane-us.com

oxfordenergy.ca M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase Oatey Canada Freestanding Tub Drain • • • • •

Remove the guesswork & complexity from installing island/freestanding tubs Super-compact drain body can be installed in tight spaces Available in ABS, PVC or cast iron with stainless steel ﬂange Can be installed with a brass (supplied) or plastic tailpiece Comes with easy to remove, high visibility tile cover

TrueBlue Bath Waste Contractor Kits • • • • •

Innovative, flexible and designed with the plumber in mind Overflow fitting and lock nut tighten by hand Features new Low Profile Dome Stopper Kits include angle adaptor and sanitary tee Trim kits available in chrome, brushed nickel and matte black

Masters PRO Solvents Cements • • • • •

Developed in collaboration with plumbing installers across the country Specially formulated for the Canadian market Low VOC and certiﬁed to meet all applicable codes and standards Available for all types of plastic pipe welding Provides solutions for a wide range of application conditions

MODA Secondary Drain Box • • • • •

Ultimate solution for laundry set-ups using condensing/ventless dryer Has an integrated connection and funnel for recessed condensate drain Rated for high-ﬂow (10 GPM) secondary applications Available in F1807 and F1960, with or without built-in hammer arrestors Secure and compact design replaces the need for multiple boxes/outlets

oatey.ca

CMPX #701 122

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Product Showcase eF Series® Commercial Gas Water Heater • • • • •

Reliable commercial power and performance ENERGY STAR® models available up to 94% efﬁciency Available in a variety of capacities including 119 gallons eF120T features BMS integration for remote monitoring for easier troubles Ultra-Low NOx models available

AeroTherm® Series Heat Pump Water Heater • • • • •

Delivers outstanding efﬁciency up to 3.48 UEF Provides 4 operating modes for greater control and ﬂexibility Available in 50-, 65- and 80-gallon capacities Features superior Vitraglas® corrosion protection First hour delivery ratings up to 87 gallons

Laars Plate™ Double Wall Water Heater • • • • •

Produces up to 150 GPM of domestic hot water Quickly responds to variable load patterns to maintain accurate temperature User conﬁgurable controls Two-way operation available when used with VFD pumps Compact design is ideal for use where space is tight

Laars Commercial Electric Boiler • • • • •

Compact design with up to 300 kW in a small footprint Delivers 100% efﬁciency with zero emissions No air intake or exhaust venting required Quiet operation – all combustion noise is eliminated Built-in digital temperature control

bradfordwhite.com

CMPX #1313 M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase Goodman GM9C96 Two-Stage Gas Furnace • • • • •

Aluminized-steel, primary heat exchanger with wrinkle-bend technology 9-speed ECM motor adjusts airﬂow to match comfort needs 3-digit LED display with status codes for enhanced serviceability Bluetooth compatibility and data port for expandable BLE Plugin module Two-speed, induced-draft blower for precise control and energy-efﬁciency

AlumaFin7™ Evaporator Coil: Compact, Corrosion Resistant Performance • Outstanding corrosion resistance & cooling performance in a compact package • Perfect for tight installations; reduces height of most matchups by 4” • Innovative 7 mm grooved tubing, multi-louvered design improves heat transfer • Thoughtfully engineered drain pan features a “no-water retention” design • Corrosion- and mould-resistant thermoplastic drain pan controls condensate

ComfortBridge™ Communicating Technology • Focused on helping HVAC contractors • More options, excellent intelligent control, unbeatable performance beneﬁt • Works seamlessly with single-stage, 24-volt thermostat/smart home automation • Gathers data constantly, automatically adjusts for peak performance • Factory-installed inside select Goodman brand HVAC systems

CoolCloud™ Phone/Tablet App: A Timesaver for Contractors • • • • •

No more waiting to initially diagnose select HVAC systems Connects wirelessly via Bluetooth to ComfortBridge-compatible systems Quick and simpliﬁed commissioning, conﬁguration and troubleshooting Reduces manual effort to diagnose HVAC systems Provides historical system data, allows customizable select system settings

goodmanmfg.com 124

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Product Showcase HydroFlame Pro Series Cast-in-Place Firestop Sleeves • • • • •

Solutions available for 1/2” to 12” penetrants Telescoping models adjust from 7-1/2” to 11-3/4” in ¼” increments UL listed ﬁrestop devices (2 or 3-hour F-Ratings) UL 50 Pa ratings Built-in ﬁre, smoke, gas and water protection

#117 Series No-Hub Fitting Restraints • • • • •

Prevents hubless cast iron soil pipes separation in high-thrust conditions Meets plumbing codes and pipe manufacturer installation instructions No ﬁeld cutting or modiﬁcations required Installs in minutes Galvanized solutions up to 15”

QuickStand Equipment Platforms • • • • •

Ideal for water heater support Water tight platform eliminates need for additional drain pan Includes a built-in drain pan with 1” drain ﬁtting Ceiling or wall mount models available Supports up to 50-gallon water heaters or 750 pounds

TestRite Inline DWV Testing System • Easy to install, keeps contractor and jobsite safe and dry • Designed for PVC, ABS and cast-iron piping systems with 2” to 6” piping solutions • Performs up to 5X faster than inﬂatable DWV testing devices • TestRite Test Wedge lasts at least 2X as long as inﬂatable DWV test devices

holdrite.com

CMPX #1824 M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase Bevel Boss Cordless Pipe Beveler • • • • •

Portable pipe beveler uses battery power and guide plate Provides a quick, easy and safe way to bevel plastic pipe Bevels 2 inch and larger diameter plastic pipe Able to bevel OD or ID Ideal for large diameter plastic pipe

Clean Ream Extreme • • • • •

Clean leftover pipe and solvent cement residue from plastic fittings Reduce labour time and materials costs by reusing the fittings Offered in specific fitting sizes to give the best clean-out Pilot diameter aids in cutting on centre and stops tool at proper depth Plastic pipe reamers are also known as socket savers and/or hub savers

Pump Stick Water Transfer Pump • • • • •

Battery operated pump transfers water at 15 gallons per minute Compatible with different battery brands by changing battery adapter plate Secure, magnetic hose connection provides fast, reliable link Hard shell, aluminum main body shaft outlasts the competition Long, slim design ﬁts into challenging spaces

Electric Hydrostatic Test Pump • • • • •

Smooth running, quiet 3/4 HP, electric motor Electric pump includes a 15’ (46m) high pressure hose for ﬁlling Test water meters, lines, pressure vessels, solar systems and sprinklers Pumps are self-priming and work with pressurized or non-pressurized water Pump housed in protective cage

reedmfgco.com

CMPX #2022 126

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Product Showcase NTI FTVN Fire Tube Condensing Boiler • • • • •

Stainless steel heat exchanger for exceptional efﬁciency and durability Wi-Fi on-board for remote control and monitoring Integrated ECM pump and DHW diverter valve on all models Models up to 96% AFUE Heat only and combi versions available

NTI GF150 Combi Furnace • • • • •

Combination forced air, DHW and radiant heat Preconﬁgured package for easy installation Wi-Fi on-board for remote control and monitoring Pair your boiler with an air handler, with all the work done for you Communication between boiler and air handler, for superior comfort

NTI High Output Combi System • • • • •

Versatility to pair our S20W indirect water heater with 6 boiler models Easy to install with NTI boilers using pre-conﬁgured piping kit Low loss header included for easy system piping A combi with all the advantages of a tank Wall mountable tank for smaller footprint

NTI TRX Water Tube Condensing Boiler • • • • •

XTRATECH® stainless steel heat exchanger with large diameter tubing Wi-Fi on-board for remote control and monitoring Integrated ECM pump and DHW diverter valve on all models Models up to 96% AFUE Heat only and combi versions available

ntiboilers.com

CMPX #1331 M e c h a n i c a l

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67 127

Product Showcase

Malco AVM6/AVM7: Right and Left AVsMini Snips

The ARMOR® Condensing Water Heater •Operates at up to 99% thermal efﬁciency •Available in 10 models •Direct vent up to 150 feet •400,000 to 4 million Btu/hr •Turndown ratios up to 10:1 depending on model

• Works in spaces where full size aviation snips won’t go • Forged steel jaws and serrated lower blade make precision cuts • Offset design offers superior material ﬂow in 24-gauge steel • Cuts squares and tight circles on curved surfaces with ease • Handle contours and opening complement stroke of any size hand

The KNIGHT™ XL Malco TBP33: JobSite Ready HVAC Tool Backpack • 33-pocket, 25 lb. capacity designed d for organizing HVAC tools • Wide opening with duo-coloured pockets for easy access to tools • Padded, zippered, dense nylon woven shell offers lasting tool protection • Impact-resistant, seamless base protects against drop damage and elements • Wide, padded shoulder straps and back pads help shoulder load

• Performs at up to 97% thermal efficiency • Offers five models, ranging from 399,000 to one million Btu/hr • Heat exchanger requires less pump energy for high system efficiency • Next-gen SMART TOUCH™ operating control • CON·X·Us® remote connectivity to ARMOR water heater & KNIGHT XL boiler

C-RHEX Cleanable Reversible Magnetic Hex Driver

CREST+HELLCAT™ Combustion Technology

• Cleanable reversible 1/4” and 5/16”, and 5/16” and 3/8” hexx socket • Easy-clean magnet • Tested one-piece driver strength • Ideal for use with Malco zip-in and bit-tip screws • Available in four lengths – 2”, 2-5/8”, 4” and 6”

• Feed-forward and feedback data • Delivers a targeted combustion RealTime O2 Trim™ range • 8 models from 999,000 to 6 million Btu/hr • Up to 96.2% thermal efﬁciency • Up to 25:1 turndown ratio

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CMPX #835

CMPX #404

malcotools.com

aquatech-canada.com

M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase

ACO Drain • Simplified grading and more efficient water collection • Heelsafe, ADA, slipresistant, or architectural grates • Channels made of strong and long lasting polymer concrete • Pre-sloped invert for efficient drainage and self cleaning • Manufactured in the Great Lakes region

ACO Oleopator P

ECOPEAK® Technology Residential Electric • Spread energy consumption throughout the day • No difference in your electricity costs • Available in bottom water entry for 10% more hot water • Less stress on electrical components, extends service life

Commercial Electric Water Heaters, Flexible Models

• Efﬁcient treatment of high ﬂows in a compact tank • Simple installation • Automatic shut-off valve to prevent accidental leaks • Corrosion resistant, watertight, and lasting polyethylene • Optional alarm for high liquid, oil, or solids level

• Field convertible voltage, phase and wattage input • Multiple electric conﬁgurations for your hot water needs • 2 high-quality magnesium anodes, oversized on certain models • Easy service access to components, single panel junction box • Hinged door and removable element panel

ACO Stainless

Condensing Water Heater for Residential or Commercial Applications

• Stainless steel drains ensure optimum hygienic performance • Solutions for heavy loading applications • Pickle passivated after manufacturing for corrosion free • Standard sizes and variety of grates to fit any application • Hygienic box channels and floor drains are NSF certified

• Stainless steel inner tank and burner, 120 volt motor, wave modulation control • Whisper quiet feature, 50 db at 5 feet (1.5 m), for peace of mind • Thermal efﬁciency up to 96%, output range from 100,000 to 199,000 BTU • Multiple venting system options, include digital operating control

CMPX #2019

acocan.ca

giantinc.com M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase EcoBlue Rooftop Unit • • • • •

75% fewer moving parts Intuitive fan adjustment controls Up to 40% more efﬁcient No belts or pulleys No shaft or shaft bearings

NQ500 Hospital-Grade Air Puriﬁer • • • • •

3 stages of mechanical ﬁltration Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI) Destroys viruses (Coronavirus), bacteria, molds & allergens Deploys quickly, autonomously and is low maintenance Used in commercial, medical, industrial & military settings

carrierenterprise.ca KANE599 - Wireless TRMS ECM Tester • • • • •

Comprehensive HVAC/R functionality 3-phase motor rotation testing Motor unbalanced test & low pass ﬁlter Differential temperature Wireless to free app - graph, log & email results

KANE458S - Wireless Combustion Analyzer • • • • •

Wireless connectivity Differential pressure 3 types of sensor protection Large 6 line backlit display Up to 6 year warranty with annual recertiﬁcation

CMPX #5

kanetest.ca Centurion High-efﬁciency Compact Water Heaters • 20:1 turndown; low NOx burner <20 ppm • Patented modulating high turndown air/fuel delivery system • Corrosion-resistant AquaPLEX® duplex stainless-steel ﬁre tube heat exchanger • Advanced edge controller • 65% smaller vs the competition

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Product Showcase

HVAC Compliance to 60335-2-40 • UL 60335-2-40 is the future of HVACR safety compliance • UL 60335-2-40 is currently active for products to be tested • Intertek can guide you through everything you need to know • Transition easily from UL 1995 to the new UL 60335-2-40 • Intertek is your total Quality Assurance testing provider

Benchmark® Platinum Condensing Boiler • AERtrim™ patented O2 trim technology • Edge® controller advanced features such as EZ Setup and Combustion Calibration Assist • Edge mobile app enables full unit setup and control with enhanced diagnostics/ configuration capabilities • Dual returns for maximum efficiency and application flexibility • onAER® predictive maintenance analytics tool ensures system operates at peak performance

CMPX #2221

intertek.com

Element® Q Complete Engineered Hot Water Wellness Solution • Reduces design time signiﬁcantly • Sustainably mitigates waterborne pathogens • Compact footprint • High efﬁciency • Automatic reports to support ASHRAE 188

aerco.com

Super Slim Fan Series (ODDSS-100-3HS) • Low speed (30 CFM) M) is optional • Comes with built-in n humidity sensor • ETL evaluated and conforms to UL and cUL safety standards • Low speed runs continuously (adjustable table from 30 CFM to max CFM) • Very quiet three speeds DC motor fan for ceiling or wall mounted hold

CMPX #1934

lyncbywatts.com

CMPX #1320

ortechindustries.com M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase

185UF HTO (Hardness, Taste, Odour Removal) • Benefits of a softener and whole home carbon filter in one • Removes bad taste and odour caused by chlorine and chloramines • IAPMO R&T certified for 97% chlorine removal for 1.1 million gallons • High efficiency softening saves salt, water and money • 7-year valve warranty and lifetime pressure tank warranty

Sanicom® 2 – Two 2-HP HP Duplex Commercial Drain Pump • Capable of handling up to 194ºF/90ºC high-acidic water • Processes large volumes of high-temp water, grease, or chemicals • Discharges gray water up to 32 ft. vertically/390 ft. horizontally • Designed to keep maintenance to a minimum • Smart-pump technology allows both pumps to work simultaneously

Saniswift® Pro – Heavy-Duty y-Duty Drain Pump

185UF Softener • IAPMO R & T certified against NSF/ANSI 44 and CSA B483.1 • High efficiency softening uses 75% less salt and 64% less water • Time saving quick connect fittings on bypass, drain and brine line • 7-year valve warranty and lifetime pressure tank warranty • Save water each regeneration by skipping up to 10 backwash cycles

• Ideal for residential and commercial applications • gray water discharged up to 14 ft. vertically/140 ft. horizontally • 2” low inlets with built-in check valves • Superior water detection system m gives a longer life expectancy • Built with heavy-duty enclosure for chemical drain resistance

Aqua Flo QCRO

Sanicubic® 2VX – Duplex x Vortex Lift-Station

• Certified for the reduction of lead, PFOS/PFOA & other contaminants • Quick change filters: twist off the old cartridge and twist on the new • 10 filters can be configured to meet specific requirements • Slim design for under sink applications • The single manifold ensures reliability & houses 4 separate filters

• Fail-safe technology allows both pumps to work simultaneously • Smart pump technology allows discharge up to 1,137 litres per minute • Two 1.5 HP vortex impellers capable of handling up to 2” solidss • IP68 rated system will discharge through a 2” or 4” diameter pipe • Can handle liquids with highly acidic properties

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CMPX #407

CMPX #1445

watergroup.com

saniflo.ca

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Product Showcase Rheem® ProTerra™ Hybrid Heat Pump • • • • •

Award winning - 2021 Gold Winner Edison Award for Sustainability Up to 4.0 UEF; reduces operating cost ENERGY STAR® rated Integrated leak detection and prevention system Integrated EcoNet® Wi-Fi-connected technology and free mobile app

Rheem® Prestige® Series Gas Furnaces • 98% residential gas furnace with EcoNet® enabled communication technology • Modulating operation to save energy and maintain optimal comfort level • Variable speed blower motor; ultimate humidity control; quieter sound level • Rheem’s exclusive PlusOne® Ignition System for more dependable performance • EcoNet Enabled Modulating Gas Furnace

Rheem® Triton™ Commercial Water Heater • • • • •

Up to 98% thermal efﬁciency LeakSense™ - intelligent leak detection system EcoNet® smart monitoring technology with integrated Wi-Fi Easy retroﬁt with multiple connection points; side, top, and bottom LeakGuard™ - leak detection & prevention system with auto shut off valve

Prestige® Two-Stage Air Conditioner RA20 • Designed to operate with EcoNet™ Smart Thermostat – remote access via app • Smart new composite base pan design helps eliminate corrosion • Variable-Speed Copeland Scroll™ compressor technology • Curved louver panels provide ultimate coil protection • Quieter performance

rheem.ca

CMPX #1631 M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase Delta® Portage® Single Handle Lavatory Faucet • • • • •

Available in chrome or matte black Strong, poised footings and ﬂuid lines Brings contemporary elegance to the bath Inspired by the smooth surface of a calm lake Available in 1 or 3-hole installation

Delta® Commercial Electronic Faucets • • • • •

Faucet acts as a sensor, responds when approached Designed for tough conditions and busy facilities Hardwire, battery, plug-in and daisy-chain power options available Programmable metering mode and periodic line flush Style, finish and flow rate options for almost any application

New Waltec® Kitchen & Bath Series • • • • •

Caraquet™ Kitchen & Bath Series Landry™ Kitchen & Bath Series Contemporary and transitional designs 4 new kitchen faucets 3 new lavatory faucets and 10 new tub/shower trims

Mirolin® Freestanding Tubs • • • • •

7 styles and 11 models 60” and 66” models available All models boast sleek proportions for a streamlined aesthetic Cut-in overﬂows and silkscreened logos enhance the minimalist design White pop-ups remove distractions of mismatched ﬁnishes in the bathroom

mascocanada.com

CMPX #1941 134

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Product Showcase QuickVic™ System • • • • •

New Style 107V Rigid Coupling & QuickVic™ Fittings The first and only coupling designed for high-performance impact guns Quick, no hassle installs with one-touch tightening Unmatched installation confidence with enhanced visual verification Outstanding fabrication value in a lighter, more efficient design

Potable Water Solutions • • • • •

Products designed for use on potable water piping systems Grade P gasket technology for improved resistance to typical disinfectants Installation-Ready™ couplings provide fast, easy installation Complete system includes valves, expansion joints and PRV stations Easily identiﬁable with blue housings

Victaulic Riser Solution Package • • • • •

Ensure optimal accommodation for movement, seismic and stress A completed engineered solution to reduce risk and labour costs Full package integrating engineered products, drawings and fabrication Ensures constructability and reliability Fully coordinated deliveries signiﬁcantly reduce material handling

QuickVic™ SD Installation-Ready™ System • • • • •

Most efﬁcient solution for joining ½ - 2” carbon steel piping No threading, pressing or sweating Only small diameter solution with fully adjustable/repositionable design Installs with common jobsite tools Up to 4x faster install delivering total installed cost savings

victaulic.com

CMPX #2019 M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase Vertex™ HV Powerful, Highly Efficient Residential Gas Water Heaters • Exceptional performance, continuous hot water flow - 2.8 GPM @ 65°F for a 50 USG tank • Power direct vent or power vent in one design • ENERGY STAR® qualified and UEF of 0.90, saves money on operating costs • Advanced electronic controls and built-in diagnostics • Multi-function design suitable for combination space and water heating applications

ProLine® XE Heat Pump Water Heaters • Absorbs ambient heat from surrounding air to heat water • Efficiency, hybrid or electric modes to match heating requirements • ENERGY STAR and Canada Greener Homes Grant qualified • Ducting capability for installation in confined spaces • 10-year limited tank and parts warranty

Space Saver® Electric Tankless Water Heaters • • • • •

Compact size for installations with space constraints Scale-reduction technology reduces scale deposits on elements Single & 2-chamber models available, 2-chamber features digital interface Vertical or horizontal wall mounting options 6-year limited chamber warranty and 1-year limited parts warranty

Cyclone® MXi High-Efﬁciency Commercial Gas Water Heaters • • • • •

Modulating burner increases the life of the water heater Touch screen display with built-in Wi-Fi for remote monitoring Powered titanium anodes never need replacing 95%+ thermal efﬁciency and ENERGY STAR® qualiﬁed Intelligent Demand Response (IDR) senses large water draws and adjusts temperature

hotwatercanada.ca

CMPX #1438 136

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Product Showcase Flash™ Shower Rough-In Valve • • • • •

Intuitive flat back designed to work in tight spaces Strong, durable construction with cast brass body Can be rotated 180° to accommodate reversed hot and cold supply lines Solid materials + flawless attention to detail = dependable performance for life Test cap makes sweat-in, flushing and testing simple and fast

Cadet® Touchless Right Height Elongated Toilet • • • • •

Hands-free operation for a more hygienic bathroom experience Powerful Cadet ﬂushing system ensures everyday dependability Sensor module detects hand proximity and ﬂushes toilet automatically Compact, 2-½ in. sensor module can be installed on wall or on toilet tank EverClean® inhibits the growth of stain- and odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew

Spectra® Filtered 4-Spray Hand Shower Rail • • • • •

Includes activated carbon filter that reduces up to 50% of chlorine Reduces the drying effects on skin and hair Sleek, retrofit rail system installs using existing plumbing Integrated filter unscrews from rail housing for easy replacement Hand shower features four spray functions: Drench, Sensitive, PowerWash, and Massage

Ultima Flush Valve • Dyna-Clean™ self-cleaning technology prevents valve run-on due to clogging • ADA-compliant non-hold open handle provides automatic shut-off after every ﬂush • Durable construction reduces maintenance, even in the most demanding locations • High back pressure vacuum breaker prevents dripping • PWRX 10-year battery system for less downtime and maintenance

americanstandard.ca

CMPX #1615 M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase Valiant-FT Series II • • • • •

Fully condensing counter-flow firetube boiler 5 models available ranging in sizes of 400-850 MBTU Up to 99.4% thermal efficiency Available in natural gas (10:1 turndown) or propane (5:1 turndown) SOLA colour touchscreen

Avenger • • • • •

Fully condensing two-pass counter-flow corrugated firetube boiler 7 models available ranging in sizes of 1 million BTU up to 4 million BTU Up to 97% thermal efficiency Turndown ratio up to 25:1 SOLA colour touchscreen

VTech • • • • •

Fully modulating dedicated hot water system with a 5:1 turndown Inputs ranging from 80,000 to 499,000 BTU/hr Stainless steel storage tank sizes range from 60 - 125 gallons Fully condensing with efﬁciencies up to 95% Available in natural gas or propane

DynaFlame • • • • •

Thermal efﬁciencies up to 95% Up to 5:1 turndown Inputs range from 500 up to 6000 MBTU/hr Primary heat exchanger available in copper or stainless steel Available in non-condensing, near-condensing or condensing

camus-hydronics.com

CMPX #1913 138

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Product Showcase Gas Monitoring Devices • Universal robust enclosure, electronic display, audible and visual alarms • Reduce cabling with a daisy-chain network of up to 32 devices • Stand-alone and seamless integration into the BMS with BACnet or CAN bus • UL-2075/ULC-588 (single element CO monitors), UL-61010 (6000-A & B series) • Factory calibrated and can measure up to two different gases simultaneously

Room Sensors • Near Field Communication (NFC) allows fast programming and commissioning • Spring-loaded removable terminal block saves wiring time ensures contact • Low wall coupling factor provides accurate room temperature • MP-Bus integration offering enhanced communication on select models • Measure temperature, humidity, and CO2

Belimo Energy Valve • Designed to EN1434/MID standards providing for transparent tenant billing • Monitors and enhances energy usage delivering optimal system performance • Delta T Manager algorithm reduces pumping & chiller/boiler operating costs • Power over Ethernet (PoE) • Using BACnet or Modbus, the valve can easily communicate directly to BMS

Pressure Independent Press Fit Zone Valve • • • • •

Reliable sealing, faster installation with reduced labour time and cost Actuator runs at 0.3 W saving energy and transformer power Flow is adjustable at the actuator and always perfectly balanced Permits PIV installation in tight spaces Performs the function of a balancing valve and control valve in 1 unit

belimo.ca

CMPX #523 M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase CONTECA™ Measure, Display, Totalize • The Caleffi CONTECA direct heat meter precisely measures and records thermal energy usage • Perfect for tenant billing applications • Easily read instantaneous temps, flow rate, energy consumption, and more • Data logging of daily and monthly totalization of flow and energy usage • Approved for thermal energy measurement by the Canadian Minister of Industry

Double Up Protection with DIRTMAG® Pro • The Caleffi DIRTMAG PRO is the latest advancement in ferrous and non-ferrous debris separation • Powerful, dual magnetic fields & redesigned collision mesh delivers 40% more power for greater efficiency in dirt removal • All debris is quickly purged from the system via a blow down valve • No disassembly or scraping magnetite from wetted magnets is required, resulting in clean hands and fast servicing

AutoFill™ Automatic Fast-Filling Valve • The Caleffi AutoFill hydronic system pressure control valve is the set-it-andforget-it solution • Fast-fill function makes filling the system quicker and simpler by automatically opening fully until fill pressure is reached • System pressure is maintained per the setpoint dial or close integral shut off valve for system isolation from the makeup supply • Optional pre-assembly with low-lead ASSE 1012 dual-check backflow preventer

DISCAL® High-Performance Air Elimination • The Calefﬁ DISCAL micro-bubble coalescing air separator features a high discharge capacity and unique chamber design • Automatically and efﬁciently eliminates system gases • A robust design and 100% anti-corrosion components enable DISCAL to provide a long, trouble-free life

caleffi.com

CMPX #706 140

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Product Showcase NPE-A2 Condensing Tankless Water Heater • • • • •

2” PVC venting up to 75 ft. High efﬁciency up to 0.95 UEF and up to 15:1 TDR Durable dual stainless steel heat exchangers EZNav™ multi-line control with built-in intuitive software ComfortFlow® internal buffer tank and recirculation pump

NCB-H Condensing Combi-boiler • • • • •

Highest DHW max BTU/h in residential combi-boilers, up to 210,000 Highest DHW ﬂow rate at 70°F rise, up to 5.4 GPM Highest residential combi DHW TDR, 15:1 for all models Highest residential combi heating TDR, up to 11:1 Highest number of built-in zone controls for valves or pumps, up to three

NFB-H Condensing Fire Tube Boiler • • • • •

Patented stainless steel ﬁre tube heat exchanger Advanced user interface and controls Built-in hardware to connect a boiler pump, 3 zone pumps or 3 zone valves Common venting up to 8 units and cascading up to 16 units Easy-to-use Setup Wizard

NFC-H Condensing Fire Tube Combi-boiler • • • • •

Highest DHW ﬂow rate at 70°F rise, up to 5.4 GPM Highest DHW max BTU/h in residential combi-boilers, up to 210,000 Patented stainless steel ﬁre tube heat exchanger Built-in hardware to connect up to 3 zone pumps or 3 zone valves Advanced user interface control with setup wizard

navieninc.com

CMPX #2025 M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase Fujitsu Airstage VRF J-IV • • • • •

This system is used for small and medium-sized buildings Connection of up to 15 indoor units to one outdoor unit Intelligent refrigerant control for improved comfort/efﬁcient operation Expanded heating operation range down to -15°F outdoor temperature Increased installation ﬂexibility; external static pressure up to 0.12” W

Airstage Integration Manager • Compact controller and platform for connecting systems to a commercial BMS • Global design that can scale for future needs • Easy to install, integrate and deploy • Conﬁguration and control software is custom-designed for Airstage systems • Guided conﬁguration tool, basic monitoring/control functions, cloud-based

Halcyon Multi-Position Air Handler • True multi-position design - up flow, down flow, & horizontal • Inverter driven h/p, high-efficiency ECM motor, all-aluminum indoor coil • Indoor sound levels as low as 24 dBA, outdoor sound levels as low as 53 dBA • Minimal clearance on 3 sides, only 24” clearance on the front for service • Variable speed inverter-driven compressor for optimum system operation

Halcyon XLTH Low Temp Heating Lineup • • • • •

Condensing units engineered to operate in temperatures down to -15°F Metal fan guards, most capable of withstanding the colder elements Built-in base pan heater on the outdoor unit so condensation doesn’t freeze Features a large heat exchanger and a high-capacity compressor Available in different sizes, styles, and rated outdoor temperatures

fujitsugeneral.com

CMPX #616 142

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Product Showcase TM

HE-Z Series Air Handler • • • • •

Quiet operation Constant air circulation Multi-positional air handler Space saving small diameter ducts Also available with 2, 3 and 4 outlet zoning package

Cube Series Compact Air Handler • The most ﬂexible option for small space heating and cooling • Featuring variable speed backward curved fan • Little or no maintenance, only 2 moving parts • Multi-positional to suit any mechanical location • Available in 1 and 2 ton sizes

HEPS Hi-Velocity Air Purification System • Complete home or office purification up to 3,000 sq. ft. • Three stage in-duct air purification • UV light neutralizes disease germs on contact • MERV-13 filter removes allergens electrostatically • PRO-Cell panel reduces toxic VOCs and odours

RS-50 (R-442A) Low GWP Refrigerant • Drop-in replacement for R-404A/R-507 • Non ozone depleting and low GWP (1888) • ASHRAE A1 safety designation, non-ﬂammable • Fast, effective low-cost solution to replace R-404A/R-507A • For low and medium temperature applications

RS-70 Low GWP Refrigerant • Fast effective, low-cost solution for replacing R-22 • For high, medium and low temperature applications • Drop-in replacement, no oil change or system modiﬁcations • Low GWP(1765) • ASHRAE A1 safety designation non-ﬂammable

RS-52 (R-428A) Refrigerant • Fast effective, low-cost solution for replacing HP80 (R-402A) • For low and medium temperature applications • Drop-in replacement, no oil change or system modiﬁcations • Also replaces R-502 and R-408A • ASHRAE A1 safety designation, non-ﬂammable

CMPX #1808

hi-velocity.com

rscool.com M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase

PrimeTime Series Electronic Trap Primers

Vehicle Leasing

• Can service up to 30 drains with one unit • Can be integrated into a building’s EMS S • Conserve water • ASSE 1044, UPC, and CSA B125.3-18 plumbing ﬁttings • Lead free - NSF/ANSI 372

• Customized lease terms that match your unique needs • Open-end lease: maximize cash ﬂow and reduce residual risks • Closed-end lease: true operating lease with ﬁxed lease payments

Mini-Prime MPB500 Electronic Trap Primer

Fleet Management • Manage your vehicle ﬂeet with our fuel and maintenance card • Reduce the administrative burden and simplify complicated tasks • Powerful analytic tools with 24/7 access

• Made in an ISO 9001/ISO 14001 certiﬁed green factory • Can be integrated into a building’s EMS • Conserve water • ASSE 1044, UPC, and CSA B125.3-18 plumbing ﬁttings • Lead free - NSF/ANSI 372

PrimeRite Pressure Activated Trap Primer

Telematics • A connected ﬂeet results in lower costs and more uptime • Vehicle tracking with fast, precise updates • Monitor and improve driver safety • Optimize your entire ﬂeet

• Made in an ISO-9001/ISO-14001 certified green factory • Lead free NSF/ANSI 372 • UPC and ASSE 1018 certified • CSA B125.3-18 plumbing fittings • PPP Revit library available

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CMPX #835

CMPX #909

pppinc.net

jimpattisonlease.com

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Aquor House Hydrants NextGeneration Outdoor Faucets • Connect garden hoses in less than a second • 7X better freeze protection than brass • Ultra-reliable, leak-proof valve • 316L marine-grade stainless steel • No leaks, no maintenance, no worries

Serenity Shower Drain: New HEX model • Solid brass construction, cCSAus meets UPC certification • Round, Square or Hex models • 3” for molded shower bases plus new 2” models for tile shower bases • A multitude of finishes including luxe bronze and brushed gold • New custom split finishes

Thermasol Steam Shower: Ultra Smart, Ultra Connected Spa Experience • Control water, sound, steam, and light • Thermatouch 7” or 10” smart touchscreen control • Just ask Alexa powered by Android™ • Industry-ﬁrst ThermaStore apps • New digital shower valve with 3-output functionality

VN24025FLT: NSF rated control valve • The ﬁrst NSF rated, UL certiﬁed, globe-style control valve • Cast from C87850 EcoBrass-DZR, lead-free brass • Compatible with readily available quick connect unions • Designed, cast, assembled and tested in Canada • Compatible with all Spartan PD actuators

SV402N/SV202N V202N • SV series valvess are used for drinking water systems • Unique ﬂoating g ball valves require uire very low torque • Controlled with h a small compact actuator • Standard: position indicator and quick-connect linkage • NSF 61 and CSA B125.3 certiﬁed

Spartan 1-2-3: Right-to-Repair • Spartan believes and stands by the Right-to-Repair • Spartan PD components are cross compatible and upgradable • Valve bodies are guaranteed for the life fe of the building • Valves can be retroﬁtted in situ, saving g plumbing costs • Modernize your control system for a fraction of cost

CMPX #530

CMPX #1816

brontecollection.ca

spartan-pd.com M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase Instinct Floor Boiler with Tsync Technology • • • • •

Calefﬁ 548 series separator (shown mounted) Stainless-steel ﬁre tube heat exchanger Left or right-side boiler & gas connection options Industry leading 5+ GPM DHW in combi units Solo 110, 155, 199 MBH and Combi 155, 199 MBH

Tsync Wi-Fi Connectivity • • • • •

Comes factory equipped in Instinct Floor Standing Boilers Compatible: Instinct Wall and Prestige PA (display software ≥ 2.26) Boiler monitoring with remote diagnostics and notiﬁcations Easy installation with step-by-step start up guide Available for download on IOS or Android

Instinct Wall Boiler • • • • •

Stainless-steel ﬁre tube heat exchanger Compatible with Tsync Wi-Fi connectivity CTRLMAX control system (EZ 60 second setup) Industry leading 5+ GPM DHW in combi units Solo 110, 155, 199 MBH and Combi 155, 199 MBH

Smart 316 Indirect Fired Water Heater • • • • •

Exclusive tank-in-tank technology Built in Aquastat Stainless-steel 316 L inner tank with acid pickling Lowest pressure drop in the industry Sizes available: 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, 120 gallons

triangletube.com

CMPX #718 146

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Product Showcase American Standard: Cadet Pro Toilet • • • • •

Ideal for both commercial and residential use Standard 5 year warranty Meets EPA WaterSense® criteria/ADA compliant PowerWash® rim scrubs bowl with each ﬂush Includes EZ-Install tools

Victaulic: QuickVic SD Install-Ready Systems • • • • •

No threading, pressing or sweating – corrosion resistant Effective pipe-joining solution for Schedule 5 through 80 carbon steel pipe Available for sizes ½” to 2” pipe Pressures up to 300PSI/2068kPa/21Bar Includes 15 individual pieces and tools

Luxaire: W Series Mini-Split Systems • • • • •

Single-phase multi-zone heat pump system with 18k to 42k capacity High-efficiency, quiet operation, optimal comfort Multi-zone system (up to five) Warranties: 5-year parts, 10-year labour, 7-year compressor Indoor coil freeze protection, up to 22 SEER efficiency rating

Eco-King: The Supreme Boiler Line • • • • •

Up to 95% high efﬁciency wall-hung boilers 3 Models: 100K BTU, 140K BTU, 200K BTU 2 Year parts warranty, 12 year heat exchanger warranty, made in Canada Easy install & outdoor sensor included with all boilers Fully modulating – condensing 6-1 turn down ratio

desco.ca M e c h a n i c a l

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Product Showcase

Thermopan

CJF Series Low Proﬁle Jet Fans

• Anywhere you can pan a joist, you can use our Thermopan. • Tested and trusted since 1992 • Celebrating 30 years of Thermopan in 2022 • Six sizes of Thermopan and four sizes of Thermopan Headers • Precision-cut Thermopan Headers complete return air installs

• Low proﬁle, ideal for low ceiling heights • Thrust between 15 - 45N air ﬂow up to 3,649 CFM • CJF casing is made of galvanized sheet steel • OSHA protective intake grille • Three phase - single or two speed motors

CBF Series Commercial Box Fans

Return Air Frames • Plastic alternative to sheet metal return air frame • Multiple sizes and types available • Fits all common types of grilles and registers • Windowed model - clear ﬁlm blocks air ﬂow & catches debris • Filtered model - catches debris during rough-in

• Available in 4 sizes with CFMs from 60 to 1,500 • EC motor with forward curved wheel • Built-in speed control • Low profile, quiet and energy efficient, ceiling exhauster • Ideal for offices, conference rooms and public restrooms

Flex Duct Saddle

DPL-DD Direct Drive Plenum Fans

• Install insulated flex duct like a pro • Saddles designed to mitigate common issues with hanging flex • Can be used with any common hanging strap • Two sizes of flex duct saddles available • Saddles can be linked together to fit any size of flex duct

• Bolted, 4 piece, galvanized frame construction • Backward inclined wheel DPL-DDL - Class I • Welded backward curved wheel DPL-DDC - Class II • Welded aluminum backward curved airfoil wheel DPL-DDP - Cl • Ideal for OEM applications such as air handlers

148

CMPX #1214

CMPX #1231

thermopan.ca

canarm.com

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Product Showcase Maestro Smart 9 HP (115V)-R410A • • • • •

Cooling capacity (Btus): up to 9,200 Heating capacity (Btus): up to 8,500 Single stage compressor, 3 speed fan motor Wi-Fi capable Decibels as low as 33 dBA

Maestro Pro Inverter 12 HP (115V/230V)-R410A • • • • •

Cooling capacity (Btus): up to 11,600 Heating capacity (Btus): up to 10,600 Rotating ﬂap: provides total air diffusion for consistent temperature Backlite display: on-board touch control (wall thermostat optional) 230V model available with 2 kw electric heat

Dolceclima Fresco 12K & 15K (115V)-R32 • • • • •

Capacity: 12,000 Btu/h, SACC 8,000 Btu/h Capacity 15,000 Btu/h, SACC 10,000 Btu/h Sound power: as low as dBA 62 12H timer, hand-held remote & LED display, Wi-Fi ready 5 modes: fan, dehumidiﬁcation, sleep, auto and turbo

Nexya Inverter Mini-Split Heat Pumps (115V/230V)-R410A • • • • •

6 models: 9K/12K (115V), 18K/24K/30K/36K (230V) Efﬁciency: up to 24 SEER/13.5 EER Decibels as low as 54 dBA Single zone application with indoor wall-mounted cassette Warranty: 5 year compressor, 5 year parts

olimpiasplendidusa.com

CMPX #931 M e c h a n i c a l

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67 149

Product Showcase

XPERT S5 Radiant/Hydronic Tubing

OxBox Laundry Access Box

• Five Layer PE-RT tubing (Polyethylene of Raised Temperature) • DOWLEX™ 2344 Polyethylene Copolymer Resin • Layers: PE-RT - Adhesive - EVOH oxygen diffusion barrier Adhesive - PE-RT • Used for all radiant and hydronic heating applications • Unsurpassed ﬂexibility and recyclable

• Installs in half the time of traditional boxes • The most secure laundry box installation in the industry • Separate supply and drain boxes • High-quality valves with integral water hammer arresters • Ultimate installation versatility

HydroTec Heavy-Duty Trench Drains RSS Stainless Steel Manifold

• Perfect for a variety of applications - up to DIN Class F900 ete channels • Fibre-reinforced concrete with iron edge rails • Highly stable - installs with no fasteners or joint int hardware • Bolt-less grate locking feature • Weather-resistant, non-ﬂammable, eco-friendlyy

• Constructed of “eco” friendly, non-polished stainless steel • Available in 1” and 1 1/4” trunk sizes, 2 - 12 loop connections • Temperature Gauge Range 32°F 176°F (0°C - 80°C) • Flowmeter Range 0 - 2 gpm (0 - 7.5 lpm) • Great price

StrongArm Stub Out Bracketing System

Radiant Panel System stem

• Rock-solid installations secures any CTS stub outt • Available with a variety of accessories for any application • Works with 16” or 24” stud bays - wood or metal studs ve • Versatile and cost-effective • No need to solder stub outs to brackets

• Can be installed over anyy new or existing subfloor • Used with a variety of floor oor coverings • Ideal for wall and ceiling radiant installations • Easily installed over an existing concrete floor • Lightweight - easy to transport and install

150

CMPX #410

CMPX #1024

roth-america.com

siouxchief.com

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Product Showcase

RLS Press Fittings for HVAC/R

Lead Free Instrumentation

• Save time with reliable press connections in just 10 seconds • No flames, no fire hazards, no gas, no brazing materials • No burn permits, no fire spotters, no nitrogen purging • Field-proven since 2015 with 10 million+ fittings installed • UL listed to 700 psi, CRN registered (#0A22551)

• For potable water systems • Lead free brass wetted parts • Gauges are NSF-61-372 certiﬁed • National Plumbing Code (NPC) 2015 compliant • 5-year warranty

PFD WinAIR Differential Gauge RLS Press Tools and Jaws • 19 kN and 32 kN tools made by Klauke • Jaws available for most press tools - RIDGID, Milwaukee & more • Short pressing cycle for joints in 10 seconds or less ess • Fast battery charging in just 15 minutes • Up to 400 presses/charge with 4.0 Ah battery 150 for 2.0 Ah

RLS XL (Extra Large) Fittings • New 1-5/8” and 2-1/8” RLS press ﬁttings • Includes couplings, 90° and 45° elbows, tees and reducers • Offers even greater time savings when compared to brazing • Features the patented, proven RLS double circular press • Every joint features 360° metal-tometal connections

• Low pressure differential gauge for noncorrosive gas and air • Industrial grade die-cast aluminum case • Extreme temperature tolerance with O-ring seal • Easily accessible re-zero adjustment screw • 5-year warranty

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ńŃ( .ŉ CIPH GALA IN SUPPORT OF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

We hope that you will join the more than 300 industry colleagues who will be there to celebrate CIPH’s Partnership with Habitat for Humanity! Featuring:

Steve Patterson,

Host of CBC’s The Debaters and Award-Winning Comedian & Humour Writer

March 22, 2022 6:00pm InterContinental Toronto Centre 225 FRONT STREET WEST, TORONTO, ON M5V 2X3

$360 + HST Table of 8: $2760 + HST Individual Tickets:

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Marketing

with th DOUG MACMILLAN

Doug MacMillana is president of The Letter M Marketing in Guelph, ON. To reach him, email doug@letterm.ca.

This is the time to put your brand under a microscope

t’s a blindingly obvious statement to say that 2022 will be a pivotal year for many companies, but it’s worth reminding ng us that business won’t be as usual anymore. As we emerge from the pandemic pundits from McKinsey to Deloitte to PwC are reminding emindingg us that the entire landscape will have changed. Safety and health will be more important than gadget-y features. tures. Genuine, caring service and community support will have more meritt than once-and-done service calls and nominal donations. Real al videos and stories of real people will be more effective than ﬂashy footage of ate change gleaming products. Through it all, social issues such as climate and inclusion not-so-quietly became the beacons for the newest west generation of consumers and tone-deaf brands will be shunned. ned. In short, the values that brands trumpeted before COVID will need a critical eye. More than ever, it comes down to purpose.

Crafting C rafting a successful successful brand brand Behind every great brand is an even greater purpose, and to craft a successful brand you need to know exactly what you’re doing and why you’re doing it. In 2022, rather than focusing on the “what do we do” or “what do we want?” businesses and organizations are taking a few steps backward toward the fundamentals, asking “what difference can we make?” It’s a scary question, no doubt. I’m sure at some point in your life you’ve been sitting in some kind of “get to know you” conversation, perhaps a job interview or customer presentation, and the person across the table says the dreaded “so, tell me a little bit about why you’re doing this?” You panic. Do you

tell them about your goals? Your passions? Your dog? What is it they really want to know? Is this a loaded question? Is there a wrong answer? While the circumstances might be different, the basic principle is the same: be genuine in your response. No one wants fluff anymore: your impressive, trendy, big-britchestype answers actually fall flat in comparison to if you were to just stick to the basics of what makes you who you are. The same goes for your brand, and that’s a great way to start the exploration. Brands are aligning their actions and messages with the core values that define why they come to work each day. Connecting directly with customers, being reliable and accountable, showing gratitude and appreciation, supporting community, and prioritizing safety, health and wellbeing for employees and customers remain primary tenets of effective brands. Consumers − especially the younger generations noted earlier − are expecting more from these messages than just details about the latest seasonal sale. Rather, they are questioning whether a brand supports fairness, sincerity, and diversity and inclusion both publicly and behind the camera and this focus is becoming increasingly important to brands as well. But it’s not enough to just market inclusiveness or diversity, as recent studies have shown 57 per cent of consumers are more loyal to brands that commit to addressing social inequities in their actions. (Deloitte, 2021).

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A mission and a purpose (Jr.), for example. Loblaw Companies Limited and President’s Choice is a huge company with a substantial monopoly over a variety of consumer goods. Some might argue that his face doesn’t need to be involved in selling their products – they do well without it. But when COVID began, there he was, communicating openly with his already loyal market.

“How a brand ‘ﬁts’ in with your values, beliefs system and lifestyle will arguably determine whether you buy into that brand,” explains Envato brand designer, Sophie Dunn. “A brand’s mission and purpose play a huge part in who you repeatedly buy from and choose to align with.” And she’s right. Whether it be corporate social responsibility, giving back to the community, or simply making quality products over simply making a quick buck, sincerity matters. “There’s an increasing expectation among consumers that brands don’t just exist to make a proﬁt,” Dunn continues. “Their values, wallets, and loyalty lie with brands who endorse, advocate and contribute to a greater good. It’s one of the easiest, most powerful ways for consumers to feel they’re playing their part.” This is why so many brands are going back to their roots, having genuine and openly compassionate messages directly from the leader of the company. Take Galen Weston

In order to stay up to date with what your consumers want, it’s helpful to look at what other successful brands are doing, and evidently, since the beginning of the pandemic especially, corporate branding experts are diving headﬁrst into their company’s core values.

Galen Weston presents a special message in March of 2020 about COVID-19 and how it may affect customers’ experiences in Loblaws stores.

Has your brand taken a hard look in the mirror lately? Now is the time, as a business owner, to ask yourself “who are we, really?” You might be surprised by the number of people who align with who that really is, and ultimately support you for it.

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TRENDS By Carolyn Cooper

ENERGY EFFICIENCY, SUSTAINABILITY AND IAQ ARE TOP OF MIND FOR NEW HOMEBUYERS

n January 2022, members of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) received a preview of the latest Canadian Home Buyer Preference National Study in a presentation by Tim Bailey, chief strategy officer for Avid Ratings. Now in its seventh year, the national study surveyed approximately 19,000 Canadian new homebuyers about their home buying preferences, with roughly 1,500 respondents. According to the study, millennials make up about 38 per cent of total new homebuyers, up 2.2 per cent from the previous year. “So, it is a growing segment of the market as millennials are in the peak family and household formation years,” explains Bailey. Generation X consumers comprised 31 per cent of respondents, while baby boomers were about 24 per cent of new homebuyers – both lower than in 2020. Bailey notes that Generation Z, which weren’t on the radar when the survey first launched in 2015, are now emerging and make up 6.5 per cent of new homebuyers. The survey found that energy efficiency and sustainability are top of mind with new homebuyers, and 60 per cent say an

Top 10 Preferred Home Features 1. High efficiency windows 2. Energy efficient appliances 3. Overall energy efficient home 4. Walk-in closets 5. Kitchen island 6. HRV/ERV air exchange system 7. Open-concept kitchen 8. Linen closets 9. Two-car garage

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“Forty-six per cent stated their motivation to invest in energy efficient features is lower utility costs,” says Bailey, “but this segment has been shrinking from 53 per cent last year. So, we are seeing that the motivation to incorporate energy efficient designs as standard features has been changing.” Bailey says smart technology is also showing greater demand. “The most important smart home features are Wi Fi thermostats, and 84.4 per cent of homebuyers say that these are a must have or a really want feature.” The next most popular smart technology preferred by respondents is smart lighting, followed by security systems. When looking at most important features, a detached two storey was w desirable to 45 per cent of respondents, 43 per cent wanted a secondary primary suite, 16 per cent of respondents wanted a four-bedroom home, 26 per cent want two and a half baths iin their home. In terms of preferred home types, 72 per cent of respondents said that when considering their next home o tthey would choose a single detached home, which Bailey says has increased by 27.7 per cent since 2015. Of that, 45 per cent of respondents wanted a two-storey house, while 27 per cent wanted a bungalow. The pandemic has had a significant impact on how people invest in their homes. “We’re seeing an increase in importance in this concept of rooms, directly attributed to the fact that we’re increasing the pressure on the home, with more people in the home,” says Bailey. Other important features to homebuyers included a legal secondary suite (53 per cent), a second primary suite (43 per cent), and a main-floor primary suite (52 per cent), all of which Bailey says point to the trend of “aging in place.” For that reason, he says older homebuyers are also willing to pay for convenience/luxury features such as motion sensor lights, snow melt for driveways and stairs, and a master light switch. This article is based on a webinar presented by CHBA. The survey is free to CHBA members.

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overall energy efficient home is a must have, while 50 per cent say they must have a certification or rating by a designated program. High-efficiency windows and HRV/ERV air exchange systems are the other top sustainability features cited by respondents.

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Canada’s Show for the HVACR C VACR and Plum Plumbing Industries

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BOILERS

B y W ill Wilson Will Wilson manages the sustainability division of Pace Solutions in Delta, BC. His focus is on educating the market on innovative solutions to achieve building energy efﬁciency and emissions reductions.

TREATING WATER TO REDUCE MECHANICAL LOAD AND ENERGY USE H ydronic systems are the most common commercial space heating system used in the northern hemisphere. Space heating represents the largest energy use in buildings, consuming more than seven trillion Joules of energy in the U.S. alone. Along with high utility bills, energy use is often fficiency of directly linked to the efficiency the mechanical systems cycling the water. However, replacing ing existing h more mechanical systems with ment can be efficient modern equipment cost prohibitive, leadingg some to mproved the wonder, “What if we improved efficiency of the water instead?”

Over the past 30 years, a significant focus has been on the use of Replacing aging equipment with more energy-efficient mechanics is a costly surfactant additives to reduce surface tension with the goal oal of improving endeavour, especially for older systems running on tight operational budgets. heat transfer between the he system water and the heating unit. Typical ypical heating units include radiators, radiators HOW NON-IONIC SURFACTANTS WORK HO fan coils or heat exchangers. Studies have shown that surfacHydronic systems transport water or a water/glycol tants improve heat transfer, but long-term temperature stability mixture through pipes to provide heating and cooling remained the barrier in their efficacy in commercial systems. in a building. Water’s naturally high surface tension Recent advancements in non-ionic surfactant technology have creates laminar flow along the boundary layer, trapping produced a stable additive that is not susceptible to breaking an insulating layer of water in micro-imperfections on down in commercial HVAC systems. Solving the stability issues the surface. The insulating effect sequesters the heat to has allowed for broad scale testing and case studies. The results the centre of the stream, hampering proper heat transfer show an increase in heat delivery, a decrease in system cycling, as shown in Figure 1. The system consumes excess and greater energy efficiency with reductions in energy conenergy and generates more emissions as the demand sumption of up to 15 per cent. Figure 1 - Improvement to heat exchange

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Figure 2 - Time and fuel required to reach set points on mechanical components to deliver heat increases. Surfactants reduce surface tension facilitating better contact with the surfaces, increasing heat transfer, resulting in increased efficiency and reduced run times em (see Figure 2). The system will hit set-points faster and run less frequently to eratures maintain ambient temperatures. Specific surfactants are compatible with glycol and corrosion inhibitors and require no changes to the system. The concentration of a non-ionic surfactant should remain at around one per cent with annual testing recommended. Installation of the additive is a one-person task, requires no downtime and, in most cases, involves no extra equipment. Barring significant leaks causing a reduction in concentration, installations have shown to be effective for up to 10 years.

AN OPTION TO COSTLY RETROFITS Space heating represents the largest energy usage in buildings and generates a large percentage of global emissions. Surfactants are an option to lower building energy consumption and emissions without the need for costly retrofits. Non-ionic surfactants are also noted to be less corrosive than water, compatible with common system materials and traditional corrosion inhibitors. Look for a surfactant that has no impact on the freeze protection of commonly-used glycols and one that has been verified by major boiler manufacturers. Testing has shown some surfactants to be thermally stable, allowing for years of improved heat transfer and energy efficiency in hydronic HVAC systems. Enhanced water efficiency decreases the number of cycles required from pumps, lowering electricity costs. It also improves ⌬T, requiring less burning of fossil fuels to heat the water, decreasing emissions and further lowering utility costs. All of this together can mean a short payback with no downtime and a dramatic improvement to the building or facility’s carbon footprint.

CASE STUDY: UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA DISTRICT HEATING NETWORK The University of British Columbia (UBC) tested a non-ionic surfactant to determine the improvement of ⌬T (Delta T - the difference between supply water temperature and return water temperature) inside a secondary system on the university’s district heating network. The Horticulture Building within the UBC DES system is set up with 15-minute monitoring on ﬂow/return temperatures, internal comfort conditions, and external ambient air temperatures to allow the variable ﬂow valve to open/close dependent on the demand and weather conditions. The goal was to monitor the additive’s impact on the system’s ⌬T and verify if the additive could improve heat transfer. The test also monitored the valve position (VF) at the heat exchanger, recording building demand compared to outside temperature (see Table 1). Results of testing showed the non-ionic surfactant reduced the average valve position creating a reduction in the electrical workload of the pump to maintain the comfort conditions required in UBC’s district energy system. Table 1– A comparison of system ⌬Ts at known valve positions.

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HUMAN RESOURCES

B y S u e Sodek Sue Sodek has over 20 years of human resources and consulting experience across a variety of businesses, and currently manages HR for UCEL Inc in Uxbridge, ON. She can be reached at sue.sodek@gmail.com.

How to get a worker off the injured reserve and back on your roster W

hile we would all agree that accident prevention and building a culture of “safety ﬁrst” is the ideal, the reality is, as long as you have people doing the work, there will be injuries on the job. Learning how to help employees get back to productive work after an injury is a skill all managers must rely on at one time or another. Since no two incidents are quite the same, you’ll need to work with not only your employee, but possibly their doctor, the health and safety body in your jurisdiction, your supervisors, and the rest of your our team when you’re formulating a plan to get an injured ed worker back on the job. When an employee is hurt and loses time at work, itt can make for a high stress time for both them and the company. ompany. The ﬁrst priority of course is getting the worker medical dical assistance, and aiding them in whatever way is most needed by providing transportation to a hospital or doctor, contacting family members, arranging to secure and deliver their ir personal belongings or vehicle home, anything else so they have ave one less worry. Whenever possible, talking to the employee directly is the easiest and best way to know what would be the most helpful in each situation. After an injury at work, as an employer you have a variety of reporting and tracking obligations in order to ensure that you remain in compliance with local workplace safety insurance legislation. These obligations vary slightly by province, so if in doubt check with your provincial authority. Beyond the initial reporting and paperwork though is your obligation (and interest) in getting that person back to work, usually as quickly as possible. In these days of labour shortages and record sick days, the last thing any company needs are seasoned workers sitting home idle. While every case must to be considered individually, there are some basic steps managers should follow when bringing back a worker who has been off due to an injury, and some common places where companies often get tripped up while navigating the process. 160

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STEP ONE

Identify the essential functions of the job. The simplest way to understand what tasks are essential to a job is to start with the basics. A plumber works with pipes, an electrician with wiring and a mechanic with machines. What are the role’s essential tasks? For most skilled trades, operating a vehicle, manipulating tools, and communicating with others are likely on the list as well. Now think beyond those tasks to the physical demands of

these essential components. For example, someone who installs and maintains residential furnaces probably cannot do their job without the ability to climb stairs, bend at their kn knees, or use their hands. How much bending, lifting, or st standing are required on a daily (or hourly) basis for the job? A Are there repetitive motions that may be required, which co could aggravate or lead to further injury? Once you have a so solid grasp of the physical demands, you can start to look for m modiﬁcations, depending of course on the limitations of the in injured worker.

earnings. This can mean anything from modifying their current job or offering an alternative position for the short- or long-term. Common modiﬁcations include what’s termed light duties – meaning where possible, the physical demands of a role are eased or removed (less lifting, less travel time, or work performed sitting instead of standing). Depending on the size of your company, this may also mean moving someone who is normally in a more physically demanding role to one where they take on more administration, allowing them time to heal on the job while still earning and contributing.

C Common error: Failing to narrow down to the essential functions of the job. e

Modiﬁcations are a legal obligation for all employers, but only up to the point that they cause undue hardship for your business. For example, you can and should offer someone with a broken leg work that allows them to sit where possible. However, you are not obligated to create an entirely new, unnecessary role, or to invent “busy work” just to keep someone employed. The size of your business and workforce may play a role here, and not every company has the ability to offer light duties. This may be an opportunity for vocational training, assigning partners or project work, or you may be forced to reduce hours until the worker is back to full strength. Each case is different, and openly communicating with your employee is key.

When crafting job descriptions, I’ve noticed many managers include every possible task and eventuality they can conceive a person performing, all under the heading of must do when of course most roles can be boiled down to four or ﬁve critical tasks (at most). Make sure you are keeping this in mind when you start to investigate and build your back-to-work plan. Keep to the essentials and focus on what’s required at a basic level.

STEP TWO

Identify the barriers to performing those essential functions and possible alternatives. The work, the individual, the severity of the injury, the amount of time needed for recovery all factor into and impact return to work discussions. Again, while each case should be weighed on its own merits, there will likely be some tasks a person can still complete, and some ome that will have to be modified ified or er is back to full delegated until the worker functionality. Communicate with your employee. They may be anxious (and missing their paycheque). Ask them to share their thoughts and let them know you are open to working out a plan for their safe return. In general, workers who have been injured on the job need to be offered work they are qualified and able to do, and which allows them to maintain (or at least approach) their usual

Common error: Failing (or refusing) to meet with the affected employee in a timely manner. There are solid legal reasons why you should keep in close touch with your yo you injured employee, but it’s also good business and the e rright thing to do. Ask plenty of questions and be op to what your worker has to say. There can be open suspicion on both sides of these conversations. Employees may worry they will be ﬁred for being hurt, and employers may feel their workers are exaggerating symptoms and looking for extra vacation time. The best antidote is direct, open communication. You can’t make good decisions about what someone else is capable of doing without talking to them.

Com Common error: Failing to meaningfully investigate/explore alternatives. investi This is a pitfall you definitely want to avoid. Legally, you must make every effort to work with your employee to try to find solutions to get them back on the job. If you dismiss every reasonable suggestion, and fail to offer any solutions of your own, you will land yourself fines and worse from WSIB, workers’ compensation board or applicable health and safety governing body. Communication and documentation, as always, is key here.

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HUMAN RESOURCES Cont’d from pg. 161

STEP THREE Common error: Failing to keep detailed records.

Develop a plan and monitor it for effectiveness Once you’ve talked to yourr employee and determined d how their position can be modiﬁed (and equally importantly, how long the modiﬁcations are going to be in place), implement your plan and start to track whether it’s working. Set calendar reminders for yourself to check in at the end of day one, week one, month one and so on, and document how things are progressing progressing. In many cases, workers themselves will let you know when they improve, but it’s your obligation to keep the lines of communication open and ensure a return to full duties happens as soon as they are able.

We alll wear so many hats over the course of our workday, and keeping keepin HR documentation up to date is never high on the to do d list. There are quick ways you can do better at record keeping, and it doesn’t have to be formal or re time consuming. At a minimum, when you’ve had a verbal discussion with an employee, follow up with a brief email summarizing what was decided and you’ll have an instant record of your conversation. Keep copies of any documents sent or received from the WSIB, workers’ compensation board or applicable health and safety governing body or the employee, in the employee file for quick reference. r When Wh the employee is ready to return to regular duties, duties it’s always worth having a final conversation and going over ove the process as a whole: how they will avoid a repeat of the injury, i how they found the modifications, and if they have any suggestions or improvements for the future. While we all hope not to need them, following these steps (and avoiding the common missteps) will protect your business and help you work your way back to a fully-functioning team.

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RENEWABLES ENBRIDGE GAS LAUNCHES FIRST HYDROGENBLENDING PROJECT IN NORTH AMERICA

algary, AB-based Enbridge Gas Inc. has announced that North America’s ﬁrst hydrogen-blending project is now fully operational in Markham, ON. Hydrogen blending involves injecting clean hydrogen into the delivered natural gas to reduce its carbon footprint, in this case up to two per cent by volume of the natural gas supplied. According to Enbridge, the innovative technology will supply green gas and lead to larger made-in-Ontario clean energy solutions.

The $5.2-million pilot project is in partnership with Cummins Inc., with support from Sustainable Development Technology Canada, the Canadian Gas Association and NGIF Capital Corporation. The project involves enhancements to the existing Markham Power-to-Gas facility built by Enbridge and Cummins in 2018 to allow it to store surplus electricity as pure hydrogen until needed. The project will eliminate up to 117 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, without impacting the market cost of natural gas. “Zero-carbon hydrogen is now playing a role in Ontario’s shift to lower-carbon, sustainable energy solutions and is an important example of the investments Enbridge Gas is making across multiple markets to green the natural gas grid while continuing to meet the demand for safe, reliable and affordable energy,” says Cynthia Hansen, executive vice president, and president, gas distribution and storage, for Enbridge. enbridgegas.com/hydrogen

Hydrogen can be blended into Enbridge’s 145,000 km. natural gas system.

Facts & Figures • On October 29, 2020, the Ontario Energy Board approved an application by Enbridge Gas for a project to leverage the Markham Power-to-Gas facility in order to pilot the blending of renewable hydrogen gas into the existing natural gas network, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

• Through this pilot project, Enbridge Gas will initially

provide a maximum hydrogen blended content of up to two per cent by volume of the natural gas supplied to approximately 3,600 customers in Markham, ON in Q3-2021, eliminating up to 117 tons of CO2 annually from the atmosphere.

• The pilot project will not impact the standard market cost of natural gas.

• The hydrogen-blending project construction cost was $5.2M.

• The Markham Power-to-Gas facility was commissioned

in 2018 through a partnership between Enbridge Gas and Cummins Inc., which acquired Hydrogenics in 2019, with support from the Province of Ontario. Since then, the facility has provided regulation services to the IESO to help balance electricity supply and demand, and ensure system reliability.

• The plant has also proven its potential as a solution to

the challenge of storing the province’s surplus electrical energy using Enbridge’s existing natural gas pipeline infrastructure or in the form of pure hydrogen, which can later be reconverted back to electricity.

For more information on blending hydrogen, see Jonathon Harp’s article Is hydrogen entering the NG mix? in Mechanical Business March 2021 at mechanicalbusiness.com. Harp also addressed hydrogen and electriﬁcation in Mechanical Business January/February 2022, p66. M e c h a n i c a l

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE CRITERIA FOR SUCCESS IN DELIVERING BC’S LARGEST SECONDARY SCHOOL ABLE CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT, QUICK RESPONSE TO EMERGING ISSUES, AND ITEM-BY-ITEM PROBLEM-SOLVING GET PROJECT OVER FINISH LINE.

New Westminster Secondary ofﬁcially opened to students in January 2021.

n 2017, Graham Group was selected as the design-build provider to replace the City of New Westminster’s 70-year-old high school with a state-of-the-art facility for 1,900 students and 200 staff. In addition to managing the project, Graham executed the concrete work and the general carpentry with its own forces.

KEY ELEMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

Experience in designbuild contracts The project’s complexity came not from size or physical layout but its diversity of features − “program” in industry terms. The client and owner had laid out their many needs and wants in a statement of requirements and an “indicative design” document. This required, for example, complicated wiring to support a network of devices and range of equipment – everything from woodworking tools and dust extraction, to theatre lighting and IT networking – as well as numerous wall ﬁnishes.

At the time, the biggest construction-related challenge in BC’s Lower Mainland was the scarcity of trades due to the hot building market. But what was regarded as manageable for an experienced builder delivering a large and richly programed project, would soon spiral into labour shortages, construction slowdowns, sub-contractor interruptions and murky supply-chain disruptions − all brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, New Westminster Secondary ofﬁcially opened to students in January 2021.

Graham’s experience with large, complex projects and sophisticated contracting models such as designbuild, and its access to top-ﬂight partners − in this case KMBR Architects and Planners – met the foundational criterion for project success.

Deliverance from the effects of COVID-19 was not brought about by any silver bullet. There was no swinging for the fences. Instead, explains Justin Marchiel, Graham’s senior project manager on the three-and-a-half yearlong project, it was more like a game of inches. Keeping the project from bogging down and getting it over the ﬁnish line on-budget and to its revised deadline, says Marchiel, was accomplished through able construction management, quick response to emerging issues and item-by-item problem-solving. 164 58

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Graham spent a lot of time on acoustics with trial assemblies, building test walls between classrooms several different ways to ensure walls that are high performing acoustically.

Operating ﬂexibility

After the qualifying round organized by Infrastructure BC, a competitive ﬁeld of proponents submitted detailed proposals that met the statement of requirements, including an initial design, and Graham was awarded the project. Division 15 Mechanical Ltd. in Richmond, BC was later selected as mechanical contractor on the $78.8-million project. “Recognizing potential obstacles at the design stage and solving them on paper is a far better way of doing things than having to go through contortions to develop innovative work-arounds during execution,” is how Marchiel puts it. Because it places a project’s architecture/design/engineering provider and the construction contractor on the same team, the design-build contract model opens a path to avoid “constructability” issues stemming from design elements that are naïve, impractical or too costly.

Graham knew BC’s hot construction market required particular attentiveness to managing trades and subcontractors, making the most of availabilities, paying immediate attention to delays and minimizing the ripple effect on other trades. Accordingly, Graham deployed more management resources to the site than usual. After COVID descended, even more would be needed. “After the challenges of lining up and scheduling trades, we were finally underway and had established good momentum, and then the pandemic hit. Things either shut down or slowed down. Some companies shut down, and some workers were no longer available,” recalls Marchiel. Graham responded by maintaining the extra resources brought in earlier. “We broke the building down into smaller pieces, and deployed sector-by-sector project managers and superintendents,” says Marchiel. “One each for the exterior, for the main floor/gymnasium, and for the upper floors.” The result, he says, was that “they were able to spend time really focusing and dealing directly with the details. This allowed the trades to deal with someone directly, so that we could identify emerging problems early on and manage them more swiftly and in detail.” Following all of this, recalls Marchiel, “Then the supply-chain issues sprang up. How do we deal with not having writeable surfaces for the classroom walls, or specialized wall finishes? Audio components? Kitchen equipment? Any number of items were suddenly not available when we actually needed it. Our writeable surfaces were coming from China and we were unsure when they would actually show up.” Such problems have brought thousands of construction projects and renovations to a virtual standstill. Determined that New Westminster Secondary wouldn’t be one, Marchiel says the team decided “to finish all the physical systems, put all the switches and wall plates on, test and prove the systems, and then when the wall finishes finally showed up, take the plates off again, finish the walls, and replate everything.” In the end, the original writeable surfaces were replaced with alternate ones. “But at least we knew the building would work,” notes Marchiel.

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PROJECT PROFILE

Cont’d from pg. 165

The end result By summer 2020 it was clear the coming school year would not be a normal one and the two sides agreed upon a revised opening of January 2021. The largest high school ever built in BC meets LEED Gold standards, covers 236,000 sq. ft. plus a separate IT and maintenance building serving the whole school district. LEED-related systems include energy-efficient boilers and HVAC systems, glazing on all exterior glass with heat-control shutters, water conservation measures, use of natural light and LED options. The building’s look clearly takes inspiration from West Coast architectural styles, while optimizing the use of glazing. New Westminster Secondary School holds an 18,500-sq.-ft. gymnasium, 272-seat theatre plus a mini or “black box” theatre, full commercial kitchen called the “servery,” band/choir/recording studios, dedicated dance room, fully equipped tech-ed and shop spaces, eight science rooms including an engineering lab, 60 general classrooms, many multipurpose/flexible learning spaces, a wellness centre, welcoming centre and an Indigenous Friendship Centre. “It’s always a wonderful experience, after ‘living’ a project for several years, and you’ve learned every last detail, all the ins and outs, and then to have people walk into the finished facility and see their eyes get big, them looking every which way and expressing awe at how great it turned out, how awesome it is, that’s very gratifying,” says Marchiel.

Graham upgraded the ﬁbre cement siding to phenolic panels, and worked with its concrete partner to develop a thin lightweight concrete panel.

The Real Difference.

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11/23/21 10:54 AM

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CONSERVATION By Zack Oostrom

Zack Oostrom is a project manager and estimator with Greyter Water Systems. He can be reached at zoostrom@greyter.com.

CREATING WATER-EFFICIENT COMMUNITIES W

ater reuse and stormwater management are rapidly becoming a sector of interest in residential, commercial and industrial development. Everybody wins when water-efficient communities are created. Municipalities can reduce fresh water demands and reduce the load on aging infrastructure while meeting conservation targets and maintaining growth security. Developers, builders and engineers can meet local code and sustainability checklists requirements, receive expedited permits, and achieve density bonuses. Building owners can reduce their water consumption cost while committing to environmental mitigation and sustainability. Many cities in North America rely on a combined sanitary-storm sewer system. As the demand on the aging infrastructure rises and large storms become more frequent, overflows and flooding cause erosion, contamination of rivers and lakes, and contribute to the disruptions of municipal water treatment plants. Flooding ultimately has a devastating impact on a city’s infrastructure and its communities. Stormwater recycling is one of many water-efficient strategies that increases water supply while reducing the risk of flooding. Stormwater management looks to mitigate these extenuating pressures on the municipal storm infrastructure. Reused and reclaimed water increases water availability as an alternative to freshwater, and offers opportunities for stormwater integrated design solutions.

“The complexities of possible water reuse and reclamation sources HUK \ZLZ HYL ZPTWSPÄLK I` PKLU[PM`PUN ZWLJPÄJ KYP]LYZ ^OPSL ÄUKPUN opportunities within the regulatory parameters.”

Commercial building water system solution that collects, ﬁlters and disinfects reclaimed stormwater for non-potable purposes such as toilet ﬂushing and irrigation is expected to save Platform Condos in Toronto, ON an average of 15,000 L of fresh water each month. 168 58

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When and where to consider water reclamation When considering water reuse or rainwater harvesting, best practice would prescribe beginning with identifying the drivers and parameters of the project. Drivers highlight the intentions of the water reclamation project. Examples are stormwater balancing, freshwater conservation, sanitary waste reduction, LEED certiﬁcation credits, funding incentives, and meeting municipal code requirements. Stormwater balancing reduces the load on the storm sewer during a heavy storm event. Freshwater conservation can be achieved by reducing the overall volume of freshwater demands by introducing an alternative non-potable water source. Sanitary waste reduction targets can be met by treating greywater onsite and reusing it for nonpotable applications. Water reuse parameters include the potential sources and uses for non-potable water (NPW). Potential sources of NPW include rainwater, stormwater, foundation drainage, groundwater, surface water, greywater, and blackwater. Potential uses for reclaimed water are toilet ﬂushing, trap seal primers, spray irrigation, subsurface/drip irrigation, car washes, cooling towers, and ultimately potable water. From a technical perspective, it’s possible to treat water from all these sources to a level suitable for any of the above uses. However, this may not be feasible from a practical perspective. Equipment and operating expenses, health and safety provisions, and regulatory limits pose challenges to many strategies making them less than appealing and economically undesirable.

System design After identifying the drivers and parameters of a project, the next step is to design a system that makes the best sense. Considerations include source water quality, volume, and frequency of replenishment while determining treatment methods that produce desired end-use water quality, ﬂow rates, and pressure requirements for point of connection use. Water storage capacity and water availability is calculated while conforming to regulatory requirements, permits, and agreements. Maintenance requirements are also considered to protect the capital investment of the equipment and most importantly, safety. Health risk and potential exposure risks for human contact are taken very seriously. Treatment method considerations are determined by source water quality and the purpose of end-use. For example, rainwater from a clean roof only requires minimal treatment when used for subsurface irrigation but would require multiple barriers of disinfection if supplied to residential

Figure 1: CSA B805 end use tier approach 1 to 4

Cooling towers by design use signiﬁcant quantities of water making the application ideal for reclaimed water use.

Codes and Standards to reference Navigating the pitfalls and challenges of the various reclaimed water sources and uses with accompanying regulatory requirements may be challenging but there are resources available: • Canadian guidelines have been produced by the federal and provincial governments. The Federal Government published Canadian Guidelines for Domestic Reclaimed Water for Use in Toilet and Urinal Flushing in 2010. • CSA B128.1 and CSA B128.2 outline the design and installation of non-potable water systems, maintenance, and ﬁeld testing. • CSA B128.3 outlines the performance requirements of non-potable water re-use systems. • CSA B805 addresses roof surface rainwater and stormwater, that is rainwater that has come in contact with the ground or a green roof. The term “rainwater harvesting” is used generically in this standard and can refer to the harvesting of either roof runoff or stormwater runoff. • Ontario’s Building Code OBC Part 7.7.1.1. NonPotable Connections to a plumbing system lists safety precautions to prevent cross-contamination of non-potable and potable water sources.

toilet flushing, car washes, and NPW hose bibs. As source water quality decreases, an increase in treatment equipment is required to produce a level of water quality suitable for the end-user. Reducing operations and maintenance costs while providing high standards of water quality will contribute to the quality and effective use of the water management system. The complexities of possible water reuse and reclamation sources and uses are simplified by identifying specific drivers while finding opportunities within the regulatory parameters. With increased water security and flood protection, communities can thrive on dividends of sustainable design. Municipalities, developers, building owners, tenants, and operators all have a role in building a sustainable and water-efficient community. Together, we all win.

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HVAC

Amanveer Pandher is an application engineer with Danfoss.

B y A m a nv e e r P a n d h e r

What is the primary use for the snow melting system? Will this be melting snow on a sidewalk, driveway, critical building entrance such as a hospital or wheelchair accessible ramp? Where is the geographical project location? Snow melting calculations are based on ASHRAE Snow Melting Heat Flux Requirement standards. It’s measured by ﬁve atmospheric factors: • Rate of snowfall • Snowfall-coincident air dry-bulb temperature • Humidity • Wind speed near the heated surface • Apparent sky temperature Other factors such as back and edge heat losses must be considered in the complete design, and it is recommended to refer to ASHRAE 2019 Handbook, Heating, Ventilating, And Air-Conditioning Applications, Chapter 52 Snow Melting and Freeze Protection. This will determine how much heat you need based on the speciﬁc project location and how critical it is to keep the area clear of all snow accumulation.

Snow melting systems can eliminate the need for de-icing chemicals and salt

Considerations for

electric radiant snow melting systems

lectric snow melting solutions have been around for over 50 years in North America, and while the technology of the heating element has remained relatively unchanged, the quality and durability of surrounding materials have improved. Installation practices are also very similar, even 50 years later. Where technology has advanced is in the speed and accuracy of controls that instantaneously measure temperature, moisture and precipitation, by activating quickly. This has been key to lowering energy consumption, and now these controls are so accurate that they are only energizing the heating cables when necessary. Before beginning any snow melting project, there are general questions we typically ask, so the manufacturer can make its best recommendation based on the needs and requirements of the system. It is highly recommended to consult with the product manufacturer and work closely with them to design the perfect system for the speciﬁc application.

What type of surface material covering will be used? The most popular material is concrete, as it is the best for thermal conductivity, but there are additional options discussed below.

Concrete: Know where your expansion joints are Before beginning any concrete installation, it’s important to know where those expansion joints will be located so the system can be designed with cables ﬁtting between expansion joints, ensuring maximum system longevity. Heating cable being covered in concrete.

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Asphalt: Planning is required Asphalt is another popular covering; however, it does require planning and may lead to additional labour costs due to the required slow and cautious pouring processes. Ensure only a high-quality, durable heating cable is used, as only some cables can withstand the heat and compression from freshly-poured asphalt. Because the aggregate is very hot, coupled with the high compression of the installation equipment, installers must be very careful that the cables are not destroyed during the installation of the asphalt.

contraction joints. So even though these radiant cables will be embedded directly in the concrete, multiple cables and/or mats must be used to cover these larger areas that require expansion joints. Concrete will heave, expand and move slightly so it’s important to not cross expansioncontraction joints under any circumstances, otherwise if the concrete moves, the cables will break.

Depth matters Other things to remember when working with concrete are thickness, and if insulation can be used under the slab. When placing the cables before concrete is poured it’s important to prepare the concrete forms and reinforcement/rebar to ensure the cable is suspended at the correct depth. Depth matters. Put the cables too deep and you are heating the earth below the concrete ﬁrst and heat will migrate to the concrete eventually. Put the cables too shallow and there is not enough time to thermally dissipate heat horizontally before it rises. Most manufacturers recommend a depth of two to three in. (50 mm. to 76 mm.) to achieve maximum horizontal and vertical heat dissipation.

Additional concrete considerations Pour and ﬁnish each slab area between the expansion joints individually. Be sure to check for damage and avoid walking or striking the mats with shovels or other tools. The concrete mixture must not contain sharp stones which may damage the cable.

Concrete needs 30 days to harden before operation of the heating cables.

In the application of asphalt, a maximum load of two tons is recommended for the roller.

Additional asphalt considerations Extreme caution must be taken to ensure that the heating cable manufacturer’s maximum temperate rating of the cable is not exceeded. Typically, hot asphalt can exceed 240°F (115°C), so the cables must be protected, or the asphalt must be cooled to below the maximum temperature requirements of the cable. Ensure there is a ﬁrm base of four to eight in. (102 to 203 mm.) of concrete, sand or rock aggregate tamped down and ready to receive the asphalt. Clean the area below the heating mat/cable so that it is free from sharp objects. It is extremely important to keep heavy equipment, machinery, vehicles, shovels and rakes away from the cable to prevent damage. In the application of asphalt, we recommend a maximum load of two tons for the roller. To minimize strain on the cable, lay the mats perpendicular to the roller’s path.

Save energy costs by installing insulation Insulation is always recommended, and high-density polyurethane is very popular, as it’s rated for ground and masonry contact. The cost is minimal upfront to add insulation, but sadly many installers or DIYers are simply unaware. There are major long-term advantages to insulating, including providing a barrier from the cold ground. Heat, much like electricity, takes the path of least resistance. So, if the cold ground below the cable is not isolated the heating cable will transfer most of its heat to these areas before heat is built up enough to radiate up to the paved surface. Insulation can not only lower overall energy consumption; it can also help to optimize the system, speed up reaction times, and reduce power consumption, since no heat is lost to the ground. This also can help the cables to run less often, prolonging the life of the system.

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HVAC

Cont’d from pg. 171

Reasons to invest in an electric radiant snow melting system

Cables can be accessed even after installation is completed.

Paver surfaces: Easier to install This application requires the cables to be placed in sand below the pavers. Pavers can be considered anything from bricks, flagstone, marble, tiles, or any stone/masonry the customer wishes to use as the finished surface. These installations are much easier to install, as the cables can be accessed even after installation is completed. The only real considerations for this application are to think about the thickness of the paver, and how this will impact the reaction time of the heat. The thicker the paver, the longer it will take to transfer the heat. Anything thicker than five in. in depth and it becomes very difficult to transfer enough heat to be 100 per cent effective, as in concrete with a cable depth of three in. (76 mm.) from the surface.

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Efficient Snow Removal – Designed area is kept free from ice and snow at all times. For engineers and architects considering these products in LEED applications, keep in mind these electric systems can be part of a clean renewable energy program. This eliminates costly plowing and labour-intensive snow removal, coupled with less salt and mess being tracked into buildings. Better for the environment - The environmental benefits are also very attractive as the snow melting system can eliminate the need for harmful de-icing chemicals and salts from entering local waterways. Utilizing this technology can tie directly into renewable energy. Fully automated, maintenance-free operation - Electric radiant snow melting systems are silent and have no moving parts, making them virtually maintenance free. Like most other comparable heating systems, yearly checkups and repairs are not needed. In addition, the snow melting system automatically detects precipitation and temperature and operates only when needed, such as just before a snowstorm arrives. Enhances Safety – Avoid slips, falls and injuries (and the subsequent litigation) sustained from icy steps, walkways, and driveways and keep traffic/working areas free from snow and ice.

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DAIKIN ATMOSPHERA – OPENING DOORS TO NEW OPPORTUNITIES

Discover our next generation of single zone ductless products with low Global Warming Potential (GWP) R-32 refrigerant. Daikin ATMOSPHERA is available in four sizes from 9,000 to 24,000 BTU and is the first product from Daikin to use R-32 refrigerant in North America. Daikin ATMOSPHERA reduces the Global Warming Potential impact on the environment by up to 80% compared to similar R-410A systems. And R-32 has been shown in Daikin’s labs to increase efficiency by up to 12% over R-410A with comparable products, lowering electricity consumption and indirect emissions. A noteworthy new feature includes a new hybrid cooling technology that dehumidifies even in low cooling loads and continues to maintain dehumidification once a set-point temperature is reached. The indoor unit also includes built-in Wi-Fi for connectivity to the Daikin Comfort Control App. In addition to the included wireless I/R controller, Daikin ATMOSPHERA is compatible with several other Daikin controllers, including the Daikin One+ smart thermostat.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Before purchasing this appliance, read important information about its estimated annual energy consumption, yearly operating cost, or energy efficiency rating that is available from your retailer.

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DISCOVER MORE AT: DAIKINATMOSPHERA.COM

THE INFO PAGE A. O. Smith .....................103,136 hotwatercanada.ca

Daikin ..................................6,173 daikincomfort.com

Master Group ..........................13 master.ca

Aalberts ...................................49 aalberts-ips.us

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ACO Systems .................129,155 acocan.ca

Ecco Supply ...........................162 eccosupply.ca

NAVAC ..................................109 navacglobal.com

AERCO ..............................51,131 aerco.com

Flocor .......................................57 ﬂocor.ca

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Nexstar Network ....................11 nexstarnetwork.com

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General Pipe Cleaners ........2,119 drainbrain.com

Novo/WaterGroup ... 89,120,132 canaturewg.com

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Aztec Washer ..........................88 aztecwasher.com

Hi-Velocity Systems .........17,143 hi-velocity.com

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Precision Plumbing ...........32,144 pppinc.net

Carrier ...............................14,130 carrierenterprise.ca

LynCar ......................................53 lyncar.com

Prime Warranty .......................59 primewarranty.ca

ClimateCare ...........................110 climatecare.com

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CMPX .....................................157 cmpxshow.com

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Rapid Locking System ....100,151 rapidlockingsystem.com

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Ratech-Electronics .................110 ratech-electronics.com

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Reed Mfg ..........................79,126 reedmfgco.com

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Rheem Canada .................85,133 rheem.ca

Taylor Walraven ......................24 taylorwalraven.ca

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Thermo Mfg ..................... 16,148 thermopan.ca

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RWC ..................................81,125 rwc.com

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Saniﬂo ...............................86,132 saniﬂo.ca

Victaulic .............................31,135 victaulic.com

CALENDAR NCI High Performance HVAC Summit April 4 - 7 Scottsdale, AZ gotosummit.com ABMA BOILER 2022 April 11 – 13 Dallas, TX boiler2022.com CIPH Ontario Region Business Meeting & AGM April 21 Mississauga, ON ciph.com/events MEET (Mechanical Electrical Electronic Technology) Show May 4 – 5 Moncton, NB meetshow.ca Emerging Water Technology Symposium May 10 – 11 San Antonio, TX ewts.org National Apprenticeship Conference May 29 – 31 Halifax, NS caf-fca.org

EVENTS

Supporting Women in Trades Conference June 2 – 3 St. John’s, NL caf-fca.org CIPH ABC June 19 – 21 Jasper, AB ciph.com 13th International Industrial Ventilation Conference for Contaminant Control June 22 – 24 Toronto, ON ashrae.org ASHRAE Annual Conference June 25 – 29 Toronto, ON ashrae.org World Refrigeration Day June 26 Around the world worldrefrigerationday.org ASPE Convention & Expo September 16 – 21 Indianapolis, IN expo.aspe.org

M e c h a n i c a l

Come and see us at Booth 22

2 0 2 2 IFHE Conference September 17 – 21 Toronto, ON IFHE2022.org The Canadian Hydronics Conference September 27 – 28 Saskatoon, SK ciph.com Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada Conference September 28 – October 1 Halifax, NS mcac.ca Chilventa October 11 – 13 Nuremburg, Germany chilventa.de/en Greenbuild International Conference and Expo November 1 – 3 San Francisco, CA informaconnect.com/greenbuild Unless speciﬁed otherwise, events are in-person. For the most current information regarding event status visit mechanicalbusiness.com.

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SOURCE Canadian Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists

INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Don’t write off

radon A report by Take Action on Radon (TAOR) reveals the overwhelming majority of communities which took part in its Radon Test Kit Challenge program are ﬁnding dangerous levels of radon are much more common than han Health Canada’s national estimate mate that only seven per cent of Canadian dian homes vels. have elevated radon levels.

A Canada-wide citizen science initiative conducted over the past three years has uncovered a startling trend: radon levels consistently above provincial and national estimates.

Figure 1 Distribution of test kits by province from 2019 to 2021.

“Our 2021 results paintt a much different picture than Health Canada’s summaries,” says Pam Warkentin, off TAOR. “Almost all of the communities we’vee worked with have seen radon levels which far ’s exceed Health Canada’s estimates.” Radon gas is a serious problem, as exposure ead to elevated levels can lead to lung cancer. “Radon gas is the ancer in leading cause of lung cancer u smoke the non-smokers, and if you combined risk is even higher. The only way to determine if your home has high levels of radon is to test. We encourage people in Canada to test their homes for radon as soon as possible and take action to reduce levels if necessary,” says Lynn Murad, senior specialist cancer prevention with the Canadian Cancer Society. In 2012, Health Canada released a report summarizing its CrossCanada Survey of Radon 176 58

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Concentration in Homes. This work, which measured radon in almost 14,000 homes, provided an estimate of the percentage of homes with radon levels above 200 Bq/m3 on the national, provincial and health region levels. Overall, Health Canada’s provincial

Technical Note A Becquerel is a unit that measures the amount of radiation given off per second. A Bq/m3 is a measurement of radioactive activity in a cubic metre of air.

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averages ranged from four per cent to 25 per cent, cent and their estimated national average was seven per cent. “I was shocked by our citizen science results,” says Warkentin. “Particularly as we’re seeing high levels across the country. Of the 43 communities we have tested so far, 39 communities are at or above Health Canada’s national estimate.” “Relying on provincial averages to address the radon problem

in Canada is just not working,” says Anne-Marie Nicol, an associate professor of health science at Simon Fraser University. “Provincial averages obscure the fact that there are many regions where radon action is urgently needed. We need to start talking about radon at a much more local level. Right now, there are very few provincial policies that protect people from radon exposure. The Radon Test Kit Challenge has shown us that many municipalities are interested and willing to take action once they know about the radon in their region,” notes Nicol.

About Take Action on Radon Take Action on Radon is a national initiative that works to bring together radon stakeholders and raise radon awareness across Canada. The initiative is led by the Canadian Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (CARST), CAREX Canada, and the Canadian Cancer Society. TakeActionOnRadon.ca

Figure 2: CNW Group/Canadian Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists

Figure 2 Results from all 43 communities in Canada that have taken part in the 100 Radon Test Kit Challenge, as compared to Health Canada’s national estimate.

Erin Curry, a TAOR lead, says “Each year, the more test kits we distribute, the more homes we ﬁnd with elevated levels. It is a misconception to think that radon is a problem just in certain areas. We are ﬁnding elevated levels in all regions; in small towns and larger cities and in all types and ages of homes.” It has been almost 10 years since the Cross-Canada Survey was released, but most provinces and communities still aren’t addressing radon in a meaningful way. One big hurdle is that the data has not been easily accessible at the community level, and granular results are buried in averages. Once communities do engage in radon testing, they are often empowered to protect their citizens; communities in several provinces have implemented changes to building practices, provided mitigation grants, or made testing more accessible to their residents.

What is Radon? Radon is an odourless, colourless, radioactive soil gas that is formed as uranium breaks down over time. Radon gas is unstable and releases alpha particles, a type of radiation that is particularly damaging to lung tissues. Radon is a problem across Canada as uranium is present in the soils and rocks of all regions. Radon poses a problem indoors as it enters buildings from the surrounding soil through the foundation. don gas levels can build du p and exceed Over time, radon up recommended d guidelines, posing a health hea e lth risk. Search radon at mechanicalbusiness.com usiness.com pful resources. for more helpful

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BTN

Compiled by Mechanical Business

BY THE NUMBERS

SUGAR SHACK SEASON 75

WORKERS NEEEDED

1 in 5

Number of jobs Skilled Trades Ontario estimates will be in the trades by 2025.

29 Average age of an apprentice today.

350,000 Number of skilled labour jobs Ontario will be short of by 2025, according to Skilled Trades Ontario.

Percentage of the world’s maple syrup Canada produces, 92 per cent from Quebec, four per cent from New Brunswick, three per cent from Ontario and one per cent from Nova Scotia.

40 Gallons of maple sap it takes to produce one gallon of maple syrup.

14.3 million Gallons of maple syrup harvested by Canadian producers in 2020, a new record.

68 Number of countries in 2020 that imported Canadian maple products, including g the U.S. (59.1per p cent), Germany y (9.8 per p cent), the U.K. (six per p cent), Australia 5.2 per cent), Japan (4.8 per cent), France (4.4 per cent), and other her countries (10.8 per cent).

BOOSTING OSTING EFFICIENCY 250

HOME SMART HOME 258.54 Million of residences worldwide in 2021 considered to be smart homes with remote-controlled devices, appliances or security. The U.S. is the largest market for smart home automation, where 50 per cent of households have at least one smart home device.

30 Percentage of U.S. consumers who bought smart thermostats in 2020, the third most popular smart home device that year. Number one was smart televisions (55 per cent), followed by connected intelligent security systems (31 per cent).

178

Average litres of water per person Canadians use each day. That compares to 330 L in 2005 before water efﬁcient household appliances entered the market.

500,000 Estimated number of single detached houses in BC that the government believes may beneﬁt from home performance upgrades.

61.6 Percentage of the energy used in the average Canadian home on space heating, according to Natural Resources Canada. Water heating accounts for 19.3 per cent, appliances for 13.6 per cent, lighting for 3.6 per cent, and space cooling for 1.9 per cent.

Percentage of Canadian employees who will be eligible to retire by 2026, according to a 2022 report from the Conference Board of Canada. Industries that will be most hard hit include construction, manufacturing and healthcare. Just less than 10 per cent of workers in the skilled trades will be eligible to retire by the end of 2026.

M e c h a n i c a l

B u s i n e s s

0 4 . 2 2

Island Tub Drain The art is in the installation. Accept no imitation.

The Red Drain company.

osb.ca Island Tub Drain® is patented in Canada (2 813 010) and the United States of America (US 9,551,138 B2).

Control the Power of Water

• Continuously monitors for potential catastrophic ﬂood condition

The New Standard for Plumbing Connected technology and IoT-enabled products are not the future. They’re here. SentryPlus Alert™ Technology by Watts uses these innovations to detect and protect against excessive Reduced Pressure Zone discharge. ((RPZ) (R R RPZ) PZ) discharge

Watts.com// W FloodProtectionSystem

• Automatically shuts off water supply • Provides real time multichannel alerts: call, text, email • Available as an upgrade kit, in conjunction with a backﬂow or ACV, or as a complete system

Mechanical Business March/April 2022

Articles inside

INDOOR AIR QUALITY Don’t write off radon

RENEWABLES Enbridge Gas launches first hydrogen- blending project in North America

BOILERS Treating water to reduce mechanical load and energy use

HIGH-PERFORMANCE HVAC Focus on glazing

TRENDS Energy efficiency, sustainability and IAQ are top of mind for new homebuyers

HYDRONICS A few things about hydronics

REFRIGERATION Supermarket hot gas defrost systems

PLUMBING Up the ante with cross connection control certification

MARKETING This is the time to put your brand under a microscope

TECHNOLOGY Building a Cloud roadmap: How to get started

TOOLS How to choose the best pipe cutter for