Mechanical Business November/December 2020

NOV/DEC 2020 $6.95

PM #41536047

Also in this issue:

Modular solution for COVID-19 screening and testing

ww w . m e c ha ni c a l bus i nes s . c om

“MAXI-ROOTER IS BUILT LIKE A TANK” Maxi-Rooter

®

For over ten years, two General Maxi-Rooters have been the go-to machines for A. Pederson’s Plumbing of Dallas Oregon.

“There’s nothing quite built like the Maxi-Rooter—it’s built like a tank,” says Pederson plumber Trenton Hargrove.

Beyond its low maintenance and heavy-duty construction, Hargrove says the Maxi-Rooter’s sheer performance makes the machine a worthwhile investment. “In addition to the power and mobility, we are able to clean these lines out faster, which saves our customers money,” Hargrove concludes.

Questions? Call the Drain Brains ® at 800-245-6200.

To see Trenton Hargove rip out a massive tree root with his Maxi-Rooter, visit www.drainbrain.com/maxi-rooter

MADE IN U.S.A. © 2020 General Wire Spring

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CONTENTS O F

Pressurizing a

pod

34PROJECT PROFILE

B u s i n e s s

is not as simple as it looks

The pandemic may be hampering a lot of industries these days, but it’s also driving innovation, especially when it comes to HVAC and plumbing in modular buildings.

Denise Deveau

Bob (Hot Rod) Rohr

AN EDUCATOR AND A GENTLEMAN

48COVER STORY

From thrill show worker at 17, to self-described “ski bum” to winner of the Carlson-Holohan Industry Award of Excellence, Bob (Hot Rod) Rohr’s career path embodies his openness to learning and sharing his expertise. Kerry Turner

A

security blanket for your customers’ security blanket

What is replacing

R-410A in the residential and light commercial sector?

70REFRIGERANTS

Contractors need to take the time to learn about the new products from their suppliers before alternatives start to appear in the market.

Jonathon Harp

60PLUMBING

The best time to recommend the installation of a dependable battery backup system is when you are installing a new sump pump system. George Micevski

On the cover: Always curious as to how things work and how to make them work better, Bob (Hot Rod) Rohr loves talking about mechanical things, training and learning from others. Cover photo: Joe Thomas Greenbox Photography.

M e c h a n i c a l

T A B L E F E A T U R E S

M B

O F

S P E C I A L I S T S

A primer on glycol – Part I Jonathon Harp

46ROAD WARRIOR: Kim Meadus Denise Deveau

52COMBUSTION SAFETY:

26

Understanding carbon monoxide dangers Ray Wohlfarth

30

32

62PLUMBING: Mechanical contracting shop takes early lead in NSF-61 certification Denise Deveau

38

72HUMAN RESOURCES: For the record Sue Sodek

42

77WORTH A LOOK: Energy efficiency report offers nationwide perspective, trends and insights to the future.

HIGH PERFORMANCE HVAC Finding balance Gord Cooke Whenever I pull on the front door of a restaurant, I pause to notice if I am pulling against the negative pressure of the kitchen exhaust fan. If there is a big woosh of air, I question whether there has been a proper kitchen exhaust design completed.

HYDRONICS Tooling through life Bob “Hot Rod” Rohr Fit, feel and material matters; a true pro knows and appreciates a quality, lifetime tool.

ASK ROGER Great employees deliver when you need them most Roger Grochmal Build a solid culture around engaging your employees during these difficult times.

PLUMBING A mountain full of cross-connections Fred Bretzke You never know where you might run into a water cross-connection in your travels.

REFRIGERATION Oil cooling for screw compressors – Part I Phil J. Boudreau Refrigerant heats up during the vapour compression process.

This cooling method optimizes compressor life.

MARKETING Think like a charity when it comes to customer stewardship Doug MacMillan ‘Relationship equity’ will help firms rebound faster during the pandemic than those who haven’t invested in their customers to the same degree.

D E P A R T M E N T S 6From the Editor’s Desk 8News with Events Update 14Movers & Shakers 16People 76The Info Page 78By the Numbers 4

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44FREEZE PROTECTION:

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FROM Content Media Group Inc. 19 – 1525 Cornwall Road Oakville, ON L6J 0B2 Canada Tel: 905.465.2919 Fax: 905.465.2913 www.mechanicalbusiness.com November/December 2020 Issue Published 6 times per year.

Editor: Kerry Turner, C 416-435-1193 kerry.turner@mechanicalbusiness.com National Sales Manager: Jeff Superle, C 416-577-7687 jeff.superle@mechanicalbusiness.com Operations Manager: Caroline Bexfield, C 647-217-2076 caroline.bexfield@mechanicalbusiness.com Art Direction: Fourteen Orange Graphic Design Inc. davem@fourteenorange.com Circulation Manager: Shila Naik 905-272-4175 shila.naik@mechanicalbusiness.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) 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.

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M e c h a n i c a l

EDITOR’S

DESK

2020: Here’s your hat, what’s your hurry I giggled the first time I heard the expression: here’s your hat, what’s your hurry (as kids often find adult expressions silly and incomprehensible). It seemed even funnier with the add on: don’t let the door hit you on the *** on the way out. These juvenile retorts have gone through my mind many times in the last several months as 2020 just became more challenging.

Happy New Year has taken on a whole new meaning…we will all likely be happy to see January 1 roll around. Eternal optimists that we are, crossing the threshold to 2021 is akin to crossing the finish line after a very tough race.

For many people and for many industries the race has been a reality. The race to discover effective testing, a vaccine, and a way to manage a situation with the potential to become exponentially worse quickly, is a very real one. How all of this is going changes daily.

As the crisis has evolved so has innovation, seen in the development of alternatives to conventional buildings, and in methods of delivering services in virtually every sector of the economy. With a Canadian winter looming, great minds in the HVAC and plumbing industries have come together to try to find solutions to problems created when everyone heads indoors.

When you consider the collateral damage caused by this virus, some of which we won’t be fully aware of for several years, perhaps even decades, it would be absolutely unacceptable for stakeholders, educators and governments to ignore the importance of plumbing and HVAC to public health and the economy. With any luck, one outcome of this pandemic will be more attention paid to indoor environments and a little bit less to the bottom line.

But you know how important the industry and the work you do are and it is time to share. There are so many young people sequestered and hunkered down over cell phones and laptops; it is the ideal time to launch a full-scale, no holds barred social media campaign promoting careers in the mechanical industry.

As someone who is also sequestered and hunkered down (but already recruited into the industry), I will be sitting in my happy place over the holidays thinking how fortunate I am for what I have and what I am able to do. I will ignore the fact the Christmas tree is off centre due to the positioning of my office paraphernalia, and make ambitious plans for 2021.

I look forward to hearing from our readers and suppliers in the new year.

Kerry 6

THE

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T e Me The Th Mech Mechan han anic anic ical ic cal a Busi Bu siness sine si iness sss tea eam e am m wo w uld woul ulld like ke to k o wi wish w s our sh readers, supporters and advertisers happy holidays, Merry Christmas and all the best in 2021.

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12.20

News

www.mechanicalbusiness.com

Lead leaching standards tightened NSF International has issued newly published changes to NSF/ANSI/CAN 61, further restricting the amount of lead that can leach from plumbing products in drinking water. The requirements are significantly more rigorous to reduce lead leaching from endpoint devices that dispense drinking water, as well as from other components. All products will be required to meet the stricter requirements by January 1, 2024.

USask HVAC researchers studying COVID transmission

nsf.org

Canada Infrastructure Bank investment includes retrofits The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) announced a $10-billion investment to support Canada’s economic recovery over the next three years. Of that amount, $2 billion will be slated for building retrofits to make them more energy efficient. CIPH and MCAC are encouraging the government to also invest in skilled trades training, support efficiency by addressing trade barriers, and to partner with provinces and municipalities on public projects. cib-bic.ca

Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) have received federal funding to research airborne virus transmission in ventilation systems. The project, funded by Canada’s Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), is being led by Carey Simonson (shown here), along with industry partner Aldes Canada.

Simonson’s research will focus on using a barrier membrane in air exchangers to prevent viruses and other pathogens from contaminating fresh air.

Preliminary results will be available in the spring. If successful, the membranes could be incorporated into air exchangers within a year.

He is also working with colleague Jafar Soltan on testing the effectiveness and feasibility of using air sanitization devices to inactivate airborne pathogens in existing air conditioning systems. usask.ca

Super Bowl champion recognized

by Hall of Fame

SEPT/OCT 2020 $6.95

Laurent DuvernayTardif, Super Bowl champion and the subject of our own September/October 2020 cover story, was honoured by the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his front line COVID efforts. A doctor by training, the offensive lineman for the Kansas City Chiefs took a leave from the sport to help support frontline efforts in Montreal during the COVID-19 pandemic. To applaud his contribution, the Hall of Fame is displaying his medical scrubs and lab coat featuring a Dr. Duvernay-Tardif name badge and Chiefs logo.

Also in this issue:

PM #41536047

2021 AHR Expo cancelled

One cool broadcasting facility

The 2021 AHR Expo, originally scheduled to be held January 25-27, 2021 at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL has been cancelled. The show will now focus on preparing for the 2022 AHR Expo, in Las Vegas, NV slated for January 31 to February 2.

www.mechanicalbusiness.com

ahrexpo.com

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Kudos from CIPH HRAI names Merit Award winner David Weishuhn of Blue Flame Heating and Air Conditioning, is the 2020 Recipient of the HRAI Merit Award. The award is given to an industry representative in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the development and progress of HRAI and to the Canadian HVAC/R industry. hrai.ca

Ontario sets its sights on improving apprenticeship training The Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development is providing $75 million of funding to support the skilled trades sector and to encourage and enable more people to enter the trades. The funds include a $5.8-million Grant for Apprentice Learning to support apprentices ineligible for EI while attending in-class training; as well as a $24-million Apprentice Development Benefit to increase the maximum benefit rates for EI-eligible apprentices attending full-time in-class training.

The government had previously promised $37 million to help more than 15,000 people train for new jobs and upgrade their skills. That funding will support 86 projects and will provide training in high-demand skills including construction, among others. Some of the skills training projects receiving funding include $450,000 to the Provincial Building and Construction Trades Council of Ontario to support women in the trades and for health and safety training.

In a separate initiative, a skilled trades panel will advise the Ontario Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development and the Associate Minister of Children and Women’s Issues on modernizing and improving the skilled trades and apprenticeship system.

CIPH has presented its Lifetime Service Award to Mark Evans of Viega LLC. The award recognizes individuals who have dedicated 40 or more years to the plumbing industry. Evans is shown (standing right) with Vincent Kim, director of the CIPH BC Region board. Kim Scheitor, wholesaler distribution manager for BPL Sales in Winnipeg received the Young Executive Society (YES) award. Dan Jones of Jones Goodridge was awarded CIPH’s Outstanding Service Award recognizing 25 or more years with a CIPH company. ciph.com

Elon Musk promising p g next generation HVAC system Tesla CEO Elon Musk has hinted he will be developing a highly efficient, next generation HVAC system that features an advanced HEPA filter as soon as 2021. Musk believes he can make a more efficient and capable system that would upend the current competitive market. tesla.com

Federal government funding First Nations biomass projects The federal government has announced $13 million in funding for six biomass projects in Northern Ontario. According to Natural Resources Canada, the projects will help Indigenous communities reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, decrease emissions, and demonstrate the efficiency and costeffectiveness of biomass heating. Funding these initiatives will also increase local Indigenous economic development. nrcan.gc.ca

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

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www.mechanicalbusiness.com

MCAC awards 2020 Richard McKeagan Scholarships MCAC has named the recipients of the 2020 Richard McKeagan Scholarship Series.

This year more than $17,000 was given to 15 deserving students in the mechanical contracting and mechanical engineering fields.

Since its launch in 2006, the scholarship has awarded more than $50,000 to post-secondary students, as well as expanded its reach to include scholarships specifically for women, among other initiatives.

MCAC reports that the application portal for 2021 will open early next year. mcac.ca

Panel to focus on IAQ HRAI has established an expert advisory panel on indoor air quality (IAQ) in commercial and institutional buildings. The group’s focus will be on producing materials on the best practices currently in place to limit the transmission of COVID-19 through HVAC systems. In other HRAI news, Robert Flipse was appointed chair at HRAI’s 52nd Annual Meeting. Flipse is director of construction at Ainsworth in Vancouver, B.C. hrai.ca

Report highlights economic projections in green building sector CaGBC has released a new report on the state of the green building sector in Canada that shows projections for growth out to 2030. Entitled Canada’s Green Building Engine: Market Impact and Opportunities in a Critical Decade, the report indicates that Canada’s green building sector can contribute 1.5 million jobs and $150 billion GDP by 2030, while cutting greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by 53 megatonnes compared with 2018 levels. The report also notes that in 2018, the green building industry added 164,260 jobs, which is 55 per cent greater than in 2014. Over the same period, Canada’s oil and gas extraction, mining, and forestry industries stagnated in terms of job growth, contracting by 2.8 per cent or 7,580 positions.

New construction accounts for 80 per cent of all green building, it states.

However, the increasingly urgent climate challenge will drive the need to retrofit existing buildings. Currently green retrofits account for one in five jobs in green building construction and trades.

“This report offers a definitive look at Canada’s green building industry and far-reaching economic, environmental, and social benefits,” said Thomas Mueller, president and CEO of CaGBC. “It details the growth of the green building industry into a mature sector of the Canadian economy, which now generates more jobs than oil and gas extraction, mining, and forestry combined.” cagbc.org

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PPI and ASPE sign memorandum of understanding The Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI) and the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) have announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) intended to advance the benefits both organizations provide to the plumbing industry. Part of PPI’s mission is to educate the plumbing industry about correct applications for plastic pressure piping systems using CPVC, HDPE, PEX, PE-RT, PP-R and PP-RCT. “The MOU with ASPE will help to accelerate our goal to deliver accurate and thorough information about these systems,” said Lance MacNevin, director of engineering for PPI’s Building & Construction Division. plasticpipe.org aspe.org

DIGITAL ALERT Construction and service software Jonas’ all-in-one accounting and construction management software is designed to help mechanical contractors streamline processes and automate project life cycles. It features full integration of workflows, job costing and accounting processes via a single dashboard.

Users can use mobile technology to access the latest work order information, as well as manage and dispatch technicians. jonasconstruction.com

ASHRAE moving to net-zero energy global headquarters ASHRAE is moving to its global headquarters to a net-zero energy building located 10 miles north of its previous location at 180 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners, Ga. Planners project the rooftop and ground mounted photovoltaic solar energy system design currently in progress will be installed by March 2021. Other building features include a radiant ceiling panel system, overhead fresh air distribution, six water-source heat pumps, demand control ventilation, and more.

Contractor resource website XOi’s updated website has added new content and updated navigation. Designed to help residential and commercial field service companies in the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing industries communicate with and serve their customers, the site features an expanded library of professional resources, including the company’s online knowledge base, white papers, case studies, news, webinars, tech tips and videos. xoi.io

ashrae.org

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D 13.7" 15.6" 15.6" 17.1" 18.4"

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News

www.mechanicalbusiness.com

MCEE 2 2021 21 cancelled ll d CIPH and CMMTQ have cancelled MCEE 2021, which was scheduled to take place at the Palais des congrès de Montréal on April 7 and 8, 2021. The show owners confirmed the next show will take place in 2023. For more information, contact Elizabeth McCullough at e.mccullough@ciph.com or Nadine Bourgeois at nbourgeois@cmmtq.org. ciph.com cmmtq.org

CanREA 2020 holds virtual Renewable Energy Forum

Up to 12% more efficient.

More than 400 participants and experts in wind energy, solar energy and energy storage came together for the Canadian Renewable Energy Association’s (CanREA) first-ever virtual forum on November 9 and 10, 2020. “One message heard consistently throughout the Forum is that Canada must capitalize on its massive untapped wind and solar energy potential if it is to build an affordable, clean and reliable energy system that will help Canada reach the goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in 2050,” said CanREA’s president and CEO, Robert Hornung. “CanREA and its more than 250 members are committed to working towards this.” The Honourable Seamus O’Regan, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, participated in a live discussion about the role of wind energy, solar energy and energy storage in Canada’s future energy mix following his opening remarks.

R-32 systems are up to 12% more efficient than similar R-410A systems.

renewableassociation.ca

EVENTS IN EARLY 2021 GO VIRTUAL, OTHERS CANCELLED ASHRAE Winter Conference Virtual, February 9-11, 2021 ashrae.org

THIS IS JUST ONE OF 3 2 G R E AT R E A S O N S T O C H O O S E R - 3 2 R E F R I G E R A N T. S E E T H E M A L L AT R 3 2 R E A S O N S . C O M .

WITH MORE THAN 100 MILLION UNITS INSTALLED WORLDWIDE, R-32 IS ENDORSED BY:

AHR Expo Cancelled ahrexpo.com NAHB IBS Virtual, February 9-12, 2021 buildersshow.com KBIS Virtual, February 9-12, 2021 kbis.com ISH Frankfurt Virtual, March 22-26, 2021 messefrankfurt.com

MCEE Cancelled mcee.ca *MEET May 5-6, 2021 Moncton, N.B. meetshow.ca *Interior Design Show May 13-16, 2021 Toronto, Ont. toronto.interiordesignshow.com *REMI Show June 9-10, 2021 Toronto, Ont. remishow.com

*At press time these remained “in-person” events.

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Navien... making the world more comfortable every day with advanced high efficiency heating technology Navien has the right boiler options for both residential and commercial applications

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12.20

News www.mechanicalbusiness.com

SharkBite and HoldRite produce new video for sharing

CleanBC sets closing deadline for funding applications The closing deadline for the CleanBC Building Innovation Fund (CBBIF) applications is 11:59 PM PST on January 10, 2021. The fund provides funding for projects that accelerate the availability and affordability of low-carbon building solutions.

They include advanced building components and designs, new construction methods, low-carbon HVAC systems, and digital technology solutions. Further details on eligibility, funding streams and directions on how to apply can be found in the downloadable Program Guide. cleanbc.gov.ca

HoldRite and SharkBite have produced a new video that aims to encourage youth to consider a career in the plumbing trades. Launched to coincide with U.S.-based Careers in Construction Month, it steps out of the typical corporate video culture and plays like a movie trailer video. Search Jumpstart a Plumbing Career on YouTube. sharkbite.com

ASHRAE Learning Institute releases 2021 training schedule

AHR Expo names 2021 Innovation Award winners AHR Expo announced the 2021 AHR Expo Innovation Awards despite the physical show being cancelled. The winners are: Infinitum Electric (Building Automation), Emerson (Cooling), Advanced Cooling Technologies (Green Building), Viega (Heating), Des Champs Technologies (Indoor Air Quality), Caleffi Hydronic Solutions (Plumbing); Officine Mario Dorin Spa (Refrigeration), Willdan (Software), INFICON (Tools & Instruments), and Aldes (Ventilation). ahrexpo.com

Registration is now open for HVAC Design and Operations training through the ASHRAE Learning Institute (ALI). The online training sessions will run from December 2020 through June 2021. The schedule includes Level I and Level II HVAC Design programs. ashrae.org

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Movers & Shakers www.mechanicalbusiness.com

Stelpro Group acquires Flextherm The Stelpro Group has announced it has acquired Flextherm as part of its expansion into the heating cable products and controls market. This acquisition continues to consolidate Stelpro’s position in the North American electric heating market, said Yves Chabot, president. stelpro.com

Ontor Partners with Testo North America Ontor Limited has been appointed manufacturers’ representative for Testo North America, a manufacturer of test and measurement instruments. Under the terms of the agreement, Ontor will be supporting Testo across Canada. ontor.com testo.com

Deschenes Group expands reach Deschenes Group Inc. (DGI) has acquired Powrmatic of Canada, a distributor of residential, commercial and industrial supplies to the HVAC, electrical and hearth industries.

Powrmatic operates six branches from Ontario to the Maritimes. The acquisition enhances DGI’s regional coverage, in addition to improving its chimney and fireplace offerings. groupedeschenes.com powrmatic.ca

Mits Airconditioning moves Barrie location Mits Airconditioning Inc. has moved its HVAC distributorship in Barrie, ON to a new location at 691 Dunlop Street West to better serve its customers in the surrounding region. For information, email barrie@mitsair.com or branch manager Alan Coleman at alan.coleman@mitsair.com. mitsair.com

Viega g expands p North American manufacturing operations Viega LLC has added production lines to its McPherson, KS manufacturing operations to speed production and delivery to North American market distributors and customers. The expansion is a 200,000-square-foot manufacturing plant that will allow the company to increase production of its ProPress copper line and speed shipments to distributors and customers. viega.us

ecobee partners with 1VALET Smart building solution provider 1VALET Corp. has entered a strategic partnership with ecobee, developer of smart home devices. Under the terms of the agreement, ecobee’s line of thermostats will be fully integrated into 1VALET’s Smart Building Ecosystem platform to enable centralized remote control in multi-residential sites.

ecobee.com 1valet.com

Change g of ownership at SPIN Tools DiversiTech Corp. has purchased SPIN Tools from Cimport.

SPIN Tools feature a technology to rapidly flare or swage copper tubing without changing the underlying properties of the copper. The product is sold through HVAC/R wholesalers globally. diversitech.com spintools.com

Master continues to grow in Ontario The Master Group has acquired manufacturers’ representative EFI Concepts, a specialist in HVAC solutions for industrial, institutional and environmental business applications. This is Master’s sixth acquisition in Ontario since 2011. master.ca M e c h a n i c a l

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People in the news www.mechanicalbusiness.com

DESCO has announced the following promotions: Diana Di Carlo (1) is now marketing and retail manager where she will be responsible for all marketing activities as well as the Water Closet showroom business.

Paul Mehta (2) is now pricing and product manager responsible for all pricing practices and product line rationalization. Fidel Cuadra (3) has been promoted to quotations manager.

ZURN CANADA has made changes within its Canadian sales organization. Mark Wilson (1) is expanding his area manager role from British Columbia to all of Western Canada.

Bryon Keats (2) has migrated from his area manager role to senior business development manager, fire protection for the Canadian marketplace.

Adam Findlay (3) has been named digital sales manager. He will be overseeing the launch of the Zurn DiRXN strategy and product offering into the Canadian marketplace.

1

2

3

2

3

Max Rohr has joined the CALEFFI NORTH AMERICA team as education and training manager. He will partner with Caleffi reps to offer product and system design training for engineers, contractors and wholesalers.

DAIKIN has named Takayuki “Taka” Inoue chief sales and marketing officer of Goodman/Daikin North America. In his new role, he will lead sales, marketing and distribution for the Daikin, Goodman, Amana and Quietflex brands.

The OACETT (Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists) has appointed Cheryl Farrow as its new chief executive officer. She oversees the implementation of the organization’s new strategic plan while also connecting with stakeholders, partners and members.

RHEEM has appointed Dave Simpson as director of sales. He will be responsible for leadership of the company’s air and water sales teams. Simpson brings almost 20 years of business experience in construction and industrial sales.

Donald Doherty has joined the MITS AIRCONDITIONING team at its Barrie, ON branch. He brings over 10 years of technical support experience and extensive industry knowledge to his new sales and technical support role.

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FUJITSU has promoted Derrick Paul to director of sales, VRF products.

He will lead the sales efforts of Fujitsu General America's Airstage VRF systems throughout North America. He has more than 10 years of experience in the HVAC industry.

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Vito Varuzza has been appointed to the role of business solutions manager at RWC CANADA, where he will be focusing on the company’s presence in Quebec and the Maritime provinces. He brings with him extensive knowledge and experience of the plumbing wholesale and contractor networks.

Sébastien Laforge has been appointed president of WOLSELEY CANADA. He replaced Kevin Fancey who retired the end of October. Laforge was formerly vice president, Eastern Canada, and has been with the company since 1996.

REHAU has appointed Mark Hudoba vicepresident of building solutions for Americas region.

Hudoba will lead the business division and drive growth of the company’s plumbing and mechanical product lines including radiant heating/cooling, pre-insulated piping, geoexchange, snow melting, plumbing and municipal water service.

Dave Viola is assuming the role of chief executive officer for IAPMO effective Jan. 1, 2021. Viola has more than 25 years of senior management experience within the plumbing and mechanical industry, and was most recently IAPMO’s chief operating officer and executive vice-president.

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HIGH-PERFORMANCE HVAC

FINDING

E C N A BAL

A

t the risk of sounding obsessed with ventilation specifically and HVAC design generally, I will admit that whenever I pull on the front door of a restaurant, I pause to notice if I am pulling against the negative pressure of the kitchen exhaust fan. If there is a big woosh of air, I question whether there has been a proper kitchen exhaust design completed, or if the building owner is just trying to avoid heating and cooling costs of operating a make-up air system.

If there is no woosh of air, I imagine either they have a wellbalanced air make up system or that the kitchen workers may be experiencing less than ideal air quality due to inadequate exhaust. It might seem obvious, but I find some building owners or operators and the odd HVAC contractor tend to forget the basic physics that air out always equals air in. Proper HVAC design must consider keeping an appropriate balance across the building enclosures.

Consider why maintaining this balance is important: physics dictates that whatever amount of air you need or want to exhaust out to control pollutants from cooking, welding fumes, vehicle exhaust or any other applications, the same amount of air needs to come in to replace it. If there isn’t sufficient replacement air, referred to in codes and standards as “makeup air,” a negative pressure will be induced on the building enclosure itself, and subsequently on the exhaust fan.

This has important ramifications: First and most importantly, other appliances in the building susceptible to negative pressures will be impacted. Always consider the combustion safety impacts of large capacity

Gord Cooke

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M e c h a n i c a l

OVERCOMING BUILDING PRESSURE PRESS The National Building Code of Canada, and all provincial codes, express it this way:

6.2.3.11. Makeup Air In ventilating systems that exhaust air to the outdoors, provision shall be made for the admission of a supply of makeup air in sufficient quantity so that the operation of the exhaust system and other exhaust equipment or combustion equipment is not adversely affected. exhaust fans in buildings. Professional HVAC contractors will recognize the back-drafting potential of natural draft combustion appliances. In the absence of a specification from the manufacturer of the combustion appliance and venting system, a 5 Pascal negative pressure limit should be considered safe.

Next, in the absence of a specific make-up air duct or pathway, the building enclosure will be subjected to a negative pressure.

The magnitude of that pressure will be dependent on the air leakage characteristics of the building enclosure, that is, how tight is the building? In order to maintain the desired exhaust capacity for the application, the fan system will have

Gord is a professional engineer who has spent 20 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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OPTIMIZE AIR OUT COMPONENT Consider an application for an existing restaurant where some telltale symptoms of inadequate makeup air have been identified: a smoky kitchen, cold drafts and doors slamming shut. There are opportunities here to optimize performance and cut capital and ongoing operating costs, using that same physics principle: air in equals air out.

The performance of a kitchen exhaust hood is best described by its capture effectiveness: what percentage of the pollutants that come off the stove top are captured by the hood? Fortunately, there are industry guidelines and standards that help define and optimize this performance. Standards such as, NFPA 96 “Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations,” ASTM Standard F-1704, “Test Method for

capacity for the application, the fan system will have to overcome the building pressure it just induced, in addition to the resistance of the duct, fittings and termination hood.

As noted above, the pressure limit in buildings with natural draft combustion products prone to backdrafting is -5 Pascal (0.2 inch of water column).

In the absence of a combustion spillage concern, my experience has been that building enclosure pressures of more than -25 Pascal (0.1 inch of water column) result in those annoying drafts, hard to open doors and transfer of odours. Moreover, if you check the fan specifications, you may see that at -25 Pascal (0.1 inch of water column), the exhaust fan capacity may start to fall.

Clearly, a simple approach in a new application is to match the design capacity of the air makeup system with the design capacity of the exhaust system, and then adjust flows once installed to ensure the actual matches the design intent.

For safe, effective and efficient operation of large capacity exhaust systems, professional HVAC contractors should be measuring building enclosure pressures and properly matching makeup air systems to maintain the proper balance pressures.

Performance of Commercial Kitchen Ventilation Systems,” and UL 710 “Standard For Exhaust Hoods For Commercial Cooking Equipment.”

The performance is related to the exhaust hood geometry, the distance of the cooktop to the air intake grille, and of course the exhaust capacity, which is usually expressed as the volume of air per square foot (CFM/ft2) of the open space area of the exhaust hood, or in some standards it is expressed as volume per lineal foot (CFM/ft).

In an existing application, simple changes such as the addition of side panels to the capture hood, or adjusting the supply air grilles, can improve performance by eliminating cross drafts. Be sure to check with the appropriate authorities and the manufacturer of the hood to ensure proper fire protection has been maintained.

The type of cooking equipment and food being prepared also impact design. For example, cooking that produces smoke and grease requires specific fire suppression and liquid tight construction. It is useful to know that optimizing the performance of a kitchen exhaust system can cut exhaust requirements by up to half for the same capture effectiveness of a poorly designed system. This is an important opportunity you can present to clients.

Once the exhaust capacity has been optimized, a simple pressure measurement can be taken between inside and outside the building enclosure, using a digital pressure gauge while the exhaust system is operating at either peak or normal operation. If that pressure exceeds the -5 Pa level, then makeup air is necessary if there are spillage susceptible combustion appliances. While makeup air is recommended to keep the building in balance in all cases, a slight negative pressure is acceptable in certain settings.

If the air volume of the installed and operating exhaust system is known, that volume can be used to size the makeup air.

Of course, it may also be possible to measure the exhaust fan flow either at the open face of the hood or at the exhaust outlet on the exterior. This isn’t always practical, so for a smaller application where the fan flow is expected to be under 5,000 to 10,000 CFM, there is another technique to measure the exhaust flow. Employ a “blower door,” the same equipment used to measure the air tightness of residential and commercial buildings.

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HIGH-PERFORMANCE HVAC continued from page 19

First measure and take note of the pressure across the building with the exhaust system running. Then install the blower door fan system in an entry door.

Turn the blower door fan up until the pressure across the building gets below -5 Pa (or whatever limit you are hoping to achieve). The measured flow through the blower door system is the capacity you will need from a makeup air system.

WHEN IS NEGATIVE A POSITIVE There are certainly applications where a negative pressure across a building enclosure, or part of a building, is desirable. “Clean” rooms, smoking rooms and treatment or isolation rooms for infected people (such as we are experiencing with COVID-19), are applications where a consistent negative pressure is appropriate. Even in these spaces, pressures in the order of -5 to -10 Pascal are typically specified. This means we have a clear understanding that proper HVAC design for applications with large exhaust capacity would require consideration for a makeup air system. A system should be sufficient

Issues with negative pressure Consider the impacts or annoyances caused by negative pressure on the building itself. A restaurant isn’t very welcoming if patrons struggle to open the front door, or if there is an icy draft through windows and under doors near patrons’ tables. Similarly, in a welding shop, or other commercial and industrial applications with large exhaust air requirements, managing temperatures and even humidity levels can be a challenge if make-up air is provided simply through the building enclosure.

Imagine the odour complaints in a retail plaza if the exhaust fans from a hair salon are inducing air leakage through the demising wall of a neighbouring pet shop.

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to ensure the building enclosure is not subjected to more than -5 Pascal (if the application included spillage susceptible combustion appliances), and certainly no more than -25 Pascal in all other typical applications.

DCV DEVICES OFFER ENERGY SAVINGS Recently, helpful new controls have been developed for commercial exhaust hoods. Referred to as demand controlled ventilation (DCV), these devices use optical and heat sensors to detect smoke and heat across the face of a range top, and adjust exhaust capacity accordingly to manage capture effectiveness. While a makeup air system would have to be designed to the peak capacity, most DCVs are capable of sending output signals to the makeup air device to simultaneously adjust its flow rate, assuming it has variable speed fan capabilities. These types of controllers can have a significant impact on annual energy costs for restaurant owners, while optimizing comfort and air quality for the professional cooking staff. Case studies provided by Enbridge Gas demonstrate return on investment potential of less than a year and a half. For more information visit:

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HVAC/R Products P Renewable fuel burners AF and AFG burners from R.W. W. Beckett Corp. are now certified to use e biodiesel blends of up to 20% (B20). The burners are also certified for traditional home heating oils and renewable diesel blends up to 95% (R95).

Capacities are 0.40 to 3 gph and 56,000 to 420,000 BTU/H input.

The burners have a onepiece flame retention burner l line l head and a self-centring nozzle electrode assembly.

Overflow cut-off switch Safe-T-Switch low-voltage condensate overflow cutoff switches from RectorSeal are designed for residential and commercial AC equipment. Features include an SC1 inline cleanout device, a magnetic reed switch, and a built-in handratcheting float. Available in three models (SS1, SS2, SS3), the switches can detect clogged condensate drains to shut off A/C units and prevent water damage.

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HEPA filtration modules AJ Manufacturing’s UV-C radiation and needlepoint bipolar ionization modules for its Criti-Clean Ultra HEPA filtration units are designed to help combat airborne viruses, bacteria, mould, and other pathogens. All filtration units include a standard HEPA filter with an optional ULPA filter upgrade, and are also available as reverse-flow units for patient isolation areas.

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Smart thermostat The Comfort Sync A3 Ultra-Smart Thermostat from Allied Air is designed for pairing with the company’s Pro Series HVAC system to deliver additional features, including voice activation, a geo-fencing option to detect when a vehicle is a certain distance from home, maintenance alerts and diagnostic data delivery.

Single stage gas furnace The YORK LX Series TL9E Ultra-Low Low NOx gas furnace features induced combustion, hot surface ignition and high heat transfer stainless steel tubular heat exchangers.

It can be installed in upflow or horizontal applications. Available in n three models, input ratings range from 60,000 to 100,000 BTU/H, and output ratings from 57,000 to 95,000 BTU/H, with 95% AFUE in accordance with DOE testt procedures.

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HVAC/R Products P UBV upblast roof ventilator Continental Fan’s UBC upblast roof ventilators for hot or contaminated air streams, provide airflow capacities up to 61,000 cfm. They feature a V-belt drive, a weatherproof closure for vertical air discharge, a heavy duty welded steel base, a galvanized butterfly exhaust damper section, and a spark resistant cast aluminum airfoil axial impeller.

Diameters range from 18 in. to 60 in.

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Aermec’s URX CF heat recovery unit with a built-in refrigeration circuit is designed for fresh air renovation in buildings with DX systems such as stores, restaurants and offices. The heat pump refrigeration circuit supplies fresh air at neutral conditions and covers part of the internal loads. It provides 100% fresh air HRV and airflow of 441 to 1,942 CFM.

Electric warm air furnaces The KHE (multi-position) and KLE (lowboy) warm air furnaces from Granby are available in 10kW up to 27kW heating capacities. They offer ComfortMax modulation and Quiet Comfort features, a two-stage heating and HP or AC compressor-ready electronic control. They are available with high efficiency ECM or standard PSC blower motors.

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The Future of Cool.

Water source heat pumps SmartSource compact heat pumps from Daikin are designed for new construction and retrofits where space is limited. Available in vertical and horizontal configurations, they can be applied to boiler tower or geothermal applications in schools, offices, lodgings, condominiums and retail facilities. Design features include smart dehumidification, a waterside economizer, and a double-sloped drain pan to deter microbial growth.

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Pipe clamps Fieldpiece’s wired TC48 and wireless JL3LC pipe clamps for commercial and refrigeration field service professionals feature a 3/4 in. to 4 1/8 in. jaw opening range.

The clamps incorporate Rapid Rail Sensor technology for fast temperature reading. The JL3LC can be used with the Fieldpiece Job Link mobile app for recording and sharing data. The TC48 includes a 6 ft. kink-fee cable and emery cleaning cloth.

The RS family of refrigerants: • zero ozone depleting • drop-in replacements for existing refrigeration & air conditioning • compatible with most existing oils and system components .

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HVAC/R C/R PProd Products ducts Small split systems stems Three-phase small split systems from Allied Commercial feature efficiency ratings up to 16.0 EER and 9 HSPF. Products include a range of fieldinstallable accessories, including multiple voltages for added nd flexibility, ambient kits and compressor sound covers. s. The product line includes 3- to 5-ton TSA small split air conditioners, rs, 3- to 5-ton ML24XP1 small split heat pumps, and 2.5- to 5-ton n BCE7E air handlers handlers.

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The SunRadon Model 1030 and 1028 XP continuous radon monitors are designed for radon professionals to test air quality in homes, schools, office buildings and health care facilities. Both models feature OneRadon for desktop and full mobile and cloud support, integrated tamper sensors and tripod mount, and 300 hours of battery life.

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HYDRONICS

B y B o b “ Ho t R o d ” R o h r Bob “Hot Rod” Rohr has been a plumbing, radiant heat and solar contractor and installer for 30 years. A longtime columnist and trainer, he is manager of training and education with Caleffi North America. You can reach Hot Rod at bob.rohr@caleffi.com.

TOOLING THROUGH LIFE

T

radesfolk can get really passionate when they are talking about tools…or talking about trucks and tools. What often starts as a mere need or curiosity will sometimes turn to obsession–an expensive, but defensible, addiction.

Plumbers and other hydronic installation specialists usually depend on a few basics: pump pliers, a tape measure, level, tube cutters, usually a 4- or 6-in-one screwdriver, and a crescent wrench. While considered Neanderthal to some of the newer pipe joining techniques, scratch cloth and fitting brushes to prep for soldering are still required tools. And a hammer is nice to have for mounting pipes and devices. A pipe wrench is useful, too; maybe a 14 in. for starters.

A lot of us picked these up as an apprentice tool collection, followed by something to carry them in. Whether you go for a box, bucket, backpack or soft duffle, there are tons of options these days. Back in the day, a metal toolbox was the preferred, and perhaps the only, means to organize and transport tools. It’s a workout to carry one of those old, heavy gauge metal boxes around.

I make it a practice to buy quality tools and would highly recommend that you do as well. Don’t skimp on tools with your new hires either. It’s frustrating to work with inferior products. To find unique, top-quality hand tools, you might want to look to some of the European manufacturers.

It’s tough to argue with good old American iron, and the longevity of pipe-working tools from brands such as Ridgid and Reed. I, like many others I suspect, own tools with these brands, handed down from my dad and grandad.

The fit, feel and material matters, and a true pro knows and appreciates a quality, lifetime tool. You could blindfold a craftsperson and put an assortment of hand tools in their hand and the best choice would be obvious.

Like any addiction, once you have the taste, you want more and more. How many pairs of pump pliers, screwdrivers, wrenches, etc. are enough? I guess it comes down to how much space, money and muscles you have to store and transport your collection.

I don’t mean to leave any tools or brands out. I could go on for pages about all the tools I’ve enjoyed, and I know I’m not the only one. Tool hoarders, and tool-collecting wannabees, feel free to share your faves with me. I might have a little space in one of my boxes or bags.

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A box for every jo job I see some tradespeople with multiple, maybe dozens, of boxes and bags of tools, sometimes specialized to the tasks at hand.

Perhaps a plumber is doing a rough-in job one day, and the next, a boiler clean and check.

Having a box of tools for each task makes it easy to grab and go.

Of course, some of the expensive delicate stuff, such as meters and analyzers, may be best left in their own containers.

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HYDRONICS continues from page 26

Picking the right container

If I were still in the field on a daily basis, I would look for a soft bag or perhaps a backpack. As I travel by airliner most

I’ve found that tools accumulate

often these days, taking tools, parts and

in direct proportion to the space

samples is easiest with soft bags.

given them, and it’s easy to go

Plastic, stackable container systems

overboard on box size. When

are worth exploring. They help organize

it comes to brands, select

the truck and can be customized to the

companies that ask questions,

application or job. Of course, like any

have experience with tools, and

product, the good ones cost more.

are proud of their products.

And, if you go big, wheels make the case.

BY THE TRADE FOR THE TRADE Some of my favourite tools are ones imagined and designed by tradespeople.

Rarely do these inventors make the big time and turn the venture into a lifechanging income stream. I’ve even done a bit of this myself, and know that users appreciate a well-thought-out effort.

I have a spring-loaded pen-like device for inserting springs and cups in some singlehandle faucets. Slip the spring and cup seal on the end, line it up over the hole in the body and pull the trigger. Sure, it can be accomplished by using a pen or pencil, or even by hand, but just understanding the motivation and design-build process of the tool made it worth the entry fee.

I also found some brown jersey gloves with scouring pads sewed into the palms at a trade show once, and bright pink, openmesh scratch cloth can make it easier to keep track of pipe-prep tools in dimly-lit workspaces.

Going high tech, I have a Stabilia laser hole shooter. Hopefully that product comes back on the market. It made for quick accurate layout of a series of holes.

I’ve drilled holes from one end of a building to the other to thread in straight lengths of pipe that need to be spot on.

YOUR IMAGE MATTERS Having the right tools gives you credibility with your customers. I feel the box or JHYY`PUN JVU[HPULY THRLZ VY IYLHRZ [OL ÄYZ[ impression.

A tool I developed for removing or installing threaded steel or cast pump flanges didn’t quite make me a millionaire, but I noticed the idea caught on with some savvy manufacturers.

Some 30 or more years ago, I had a heavyduty aluminum tool box made in Utah. It was meticulously crafted, with TIG welded seams.

It’s still going, and is strong enough to stand on; is covered with stickers, including an early Radiant Panel Association (RPA) one; and still gets me comments to this day.

On the power tool side, I met the folks from REM tool at an ISH show back in the 1990s and have one of their Curvo pipe benders.

QUICK TIP: When travelling with tools know what security allows before you go.

Check www.tsa.gov and www.otc-cta.gc.ca.

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Complying with ASHRAE guidelines for Indoor Air Quality during COVID-19

Belimo RetroƼt Solutions Safe operation of HVAC systems and building water management systems are critical components of indoor air quality (IAQ). HVAC systems can be transformed into safe and reliable systems with Belimo actuators, valves, and sensors. Our retroƼt solutions offer quick and convenient replacements, compatible with all major control systems, maximizing system performance, meeting UL standards, and the new ASHRAE requirements.

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with Roger Grochmal

Great employees deliver when you need them most A

s I look back at the past six months, despite all the contingency planning in the world, it would not have been possible to predict what we have been through. The old adage “truth is stranger than fiction” has never been more appropriate.

Roger Grochmal is the CEO of AtlasCare in Oakville, Ont. To submit a question about your company, business practices, or the industry in general, send an email to Mechanical Business Magazine’s editor, Kerry Turner, kerry.turner@ mechanicalbusiness.com.

The virtues of virtual We couldn’t have done it without leaning on technology, and we are gaining long-term value out of the changes we were forced to make. We run our daily huddle virtually. No one has to travel, no one gets stuck in traffic and no one is late for meetings. Employees can join in from their truck or jobsite, making them so much more productive.

We have 100 per cent attendance.

Our field managers use chat groups to keep their people connected. They are able to ask questions, review performance, challenge each other, and celebrate successes on a call-by-call basis. These are permanent changes - I don’t see us ever going back to the way we used to do things.

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Our business lows in March and April were the worst we have experienced in 25 years, and we were not alone.

Since then however, the recovery has been quite remarkable. I count our blessings that we are not in the hospitality, travel or event management sectors. We are not out of the woods by a long shot, but many businesses in the home and building services industry have definitely come out as winners.

It hasn’t all been just luck. Another adage that a business is “only as strong as its weakest link” also holds true. We received some amazing performances from our people. At AtlasCare, while we kept our eye on many things during this difficult time, a lot of our energy went to our staff. We have built a solid culture around engaging our employees, and we took it to a whole new level this past summer.

KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT FROM EMPLOYEES The single best piece of advice I can give anyone is to join a best practices group. We belonged to several before we found the right fit. For AtlasCare it is Nexstar. These groups have helped us identify our core KPIs, how to measure them, and most importantly, what level of performance we should expect from our people. For us, at first, the expected performance standards looked completely unattainable from where we were starting.

Three years later, we are right on target.

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The first thing we did was make our morning meeting not only the most important thing our management team does every day, but also the most fun. They look forward to it.

They challenge each other to hit their targets and create opportunities for each other so they can all “win the day.” It is a terrific reminder that the effort we put into building a cohesive and connected team shows its rewards.

The second thing we did was hone in the core Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for staff, and the activities required to achieve them.

We already had these in place, so it wasn’t difficult to review them and set targets that were appropriate to the circumstances.

At every meeting, managers challenge each other to beat revenue targets, generate leads and collect money (as I’ve said before, cashflow is important). They have fun doing it with little side bets and rewards.

Managers then share this information with their teams.

Communication and transparency are essential: remember that everyone wants to know the score in the game so they can see how they are doing and what they can do to contribute.

During the pandemic, we have needed to review our targets through a new lens: the reality of what our people are dealing with at home and personally.

We have always tried to be empathetic employers while still expecting excellence from our people. We have been careful throughout this to keep an eye on their mental and physical needs as we ask them to focus on our agreed targets.

Get creative with motivation I am often asked how we address annual performance reviews. We believe performance measurement is a continuing, two-way process.

Annual reviews just don’t seem to work for us.

We could see the stress building in people as “review time� approached and it wasn’t healthy or productive. We find it is much better to have regular one-on one-meetings to review successes and provide coaching for areas ove people needing improvement. We can move along more quickly in real time and d the management team can share their approaches to motivating people so those practices can be applied more quickly.

It is the same with rewards. Long term rewards and profit-sharing plans are a thing of the past for us; we never saw the success we hoped for. We use spiffs and spot bonuses tied to performance.

The closer you can tie the reward to the performance, the better.

Allow your people to be creative in this area, and have some fun with it.

Our staff are not a collection of superheroes (although some days, I do think they have super powers!). They are regular people who are focused around performance metrics for success. We built trust through transparency and regular communication, and by empowering our managers. They engage g g their teams, challenge them to rise ri to the Nexstar standards of performance and provide feedback to them on a daily basis as to how they are doing.

We celebrate successes do and a reward teams as they go along. a We have all struggled to adapt to the new realities of 2020, and we are proud of the positive changes we have embraced as an organization.

Where Design & (IĂ€FLHQF\ Meat Oxford Energy Solutions pairs its leading-edge control platform with low-pressure refrigerants and scroll technology to transform a traditional mid-sized deli operation into an expansion UHDG\ ZRUOG FODVV HQHUJ\ HIĂ€FLHQW showcase.

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Find out what Oxford can do for you on your next project.

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oxfordenergy.ca B u s i n e s s

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By Fred Bretzke

Fred Bretzke is a full-time pipe trades instructor with SAIT Polytechnic in Calgary and the general manager of A&B Plumbing & Heating. He can be reached at fred.bretzke@sait.ca.

PLUMBING

A mountain full of cross-connections

M

y first hike in a long time was up a steep mountain incline and as it is with most hikes, water was at a premium. I had finished my whole bottle of water and I was dying of thirst. The spring water streaming down the mountain looked pure, cold and clean but was it? With my luck, a deer may have died upstream and would poison me. Now, that would be the ultimate cross-connection.

We take water for granted, as we have so much of it in Canada, but is it always clean? Over the years, there have been thousands of crossconnections around the world; it’s only been since the mid-‘70s that California began a cross-connection control program, which made its way to Alberta in the 1980s.

When I was offered a crossconnection control course in 1984 at Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, I didn’t think it was that important. Well, I was certainly proven wrong. I ended up teaching that very course.

Back in the 1980s and 1990s, there were still thousands of crossconnections in the Calgary water system, under and above ground.

Having performed many water main excavation repairs, I have witnessed how easily a cross-connection happens.

For example, when cutting into leaking ductile iron mains and replacing sections with blue brute, fresh water can get polluted by ground water and later, through back siphonage, can contaminate the drinking water. This is why we test, flush and pre-chlorinate for at least two hours before turning on the water.

Even though it seems unlikely now that a water cross-connection can happen, there have been many recorded instances. Tragedy struck in the early 1980s in a medical centre in the U.S. The four-storey building

32

M e c h a n i c a l

included facilities similar to those of a hospital. The top floor consisted of a dialysis room, complete with water fed dialysis units. The second and third floors included intensive care rooms, operating beds and lab sinks. The main floor had a commercial kitchen and cafeteria, along with several public washrooms with flushometer toilets and urinals. The basement housed boiler rooms and laundry facilities.

A water main riser ran through the building, feeding all of these fixtures and equipment. The same riser ran up to the roof, feeding the large glycol tank, which in turn fed the roof air conditioning units. The only valve feeding this system was a gate valve, which led to the possibility of a crossconnection. When the gate valve wore out things were fine at first because the water pressure feed was higher than in the tank. The problem was, as soon as the public washroom facilities were used, it dropped the pressure in the lower floors, and allowed poisonous glycol to back siphon into the top floor dialysis units. Tragically, this resulted in several deaths in this small hospital.

This would not have happened if a reduced pressure (RP) backflow device had been installed on the riser and on the dialysis units. RPs are the norm in hospitals now. Hospitals even require double RPs hooked in parallel installation for redundancy purposes.

When testing the water supply to the hospital, you can’t shut the water off, so you must test each device independently of each other, with the water on. All flushometer toilets also require vacuum breakers to prevent back siphonage. In addition, all boilers require reduced pressure backflow devices to prevent any possible crossconnection from possible glycol in the heating system.

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2020 winner of the American Water Works Association Western Canada Section Bad and Ugly photo contest. Reduced principle backflow on chemical fill line. The backflow preventer was installed upside down and the relief port was facing up instead of down.

WHAT IS A CROSS-CONNECTION? Any actual or potential connection between a potable and non-potable water supply.

For example, a hose bib.

WHY DO CROSSCONNECTIONS EXIST? Plumbing connections are frequently installed by individuals who are unaware of the inherent dangers of cross-connections.

The cross-connections are made as a matter of convenience without regard to the dangerous situation that might be created.

The connections are made with reliance on inadequate protection, such as a single valve or another mechanical device.

Source: St. John’s Department of Public Works and Parks Environmental Services Division

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PROJECT PROFILE

By Denise Deveau

Pressurizing a

pod is not as simple as it looks

What’s in the pod

A fully deployed Citizen Care Pod testing centre.

T

There are three considerations that go into designing the mechanical aspects of a Citizen Care Pod, says Zenon Radewych, principal with WZMH Architects in Toronto. “They need to be heated and cooled; they need to be properly vented to protect staff in the event someone with COVID enters the pod; and they need to be well pressurized so air is continuously pushed outside and never going in through windows. If someone standing outside a pass-through window is coughing or sneezing for example, you need to ensure that particles won’t enter the unit.”

The basic model is bare bones and includes a PTAC unit and several fan unit heater wallmounted systems.

More complex units would include the following specifications:

• • • • • • • 34

he pandemic may be hampering a lot of industries these days, but it’s also driving innovation, especially when it comes to modular building solutions.

Whether expanding a hospital’s capacity, or filling the void for screening and testing facilities, consulting engineers need to rapidly find new ways to improve the safety of workers and citizens.

A critical part of any project is making sure that heating and ventilation systems developed are up to COVID-19 safety standards.

A UGVI system for sterilizing Ability to move to 100 per cent fresh air, in the event of contamination A high plume exhaust fan for lab work processing and on-site testing Instantaneous hot water heaters HEPA filters Motorized dampers Pressurization control

M e c h a n i c a l

B u s i n e s s

Recently, a multi-disciplinary team led by Citizen Care Pods Corporation, WZMH Architects, and PCL Construction unveiled a new concept called the Citizen Care Pod. The modular, ready-touse solution is designed to enable COVID-19 screening and testing.

The premise is simple: 20 by 40 foot shipping containers are refabricated and customized to use as temporary screening sites.

The plan is that once perfected,

1 2 . 2 0

the concept can be reconfigured for more elaborate functions, such as vaccine clinics or rapid testing facilities.

“Because they are meant to be modular, they need to be simple and straightforward,” says Nigel Bastiampillai, principal with Loring Consulting Engineers, Inc. in Toronto.

The vision was to build a solution that could be deployed at large venues, high traffic business environments, airports, and even in remote communities as needed.

Each unit is preconfigured to suit different levels of ventilation and plumbing needs, from basic baseboard heating systems to individual or interconnected HVAC systems that can service multiple units, and includes modular handwashing stations and advanced filtration technologies.

The entry level design that was launched at the College of Carpenters in Woodbridge, ON has a separate heat pump split

Modular Citizen Care Pods are delivered preconfigured.

Modular Citizen Care Pods enable production times of two to three weeks.

unit and fan. “The key was to reduce the number of overall components, so the specifications could be quickly duplicated.

But after working on the mechanical specs, we saw the most practical approach was to eliminate the exhaust fan for the pressurization to work,” Bastiampillai explains. The current design pressurizes the container so air only flows out, protecting the frontline workers inside.

Depending on the intent of the installation, the mechanical components can be installed on the side of the container, he adds. These units are readily available to enable quick production times from the placement of an order–roughly two to three weeks. “Sometimes the PTAC style may not be appropriate. The challenge was to come up with solutions that were affordable.”

At the moment, the initial pods are for screening only, but future plans are to allow testing and vaccinations on the same sites.

This will require additional integration for the HVAC elements. “We could easily shift to a hospital grade style by incorporating HEPA filtration, a shift to near 100 per cent

fresh air and dedicated exhaust systems,” says Bastiampillai.

Other customization elements include connectivity for HVAC and plumbing.

Depending on the application, the units can accommodate water/wastewater tanks.

Alternatively, they can be connected to a building’s system.

Other add-ons under consideration are ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) systems, which would avoid any risk of COVID transmission in the air stream, he adds. “A higherend model would definitely have UV protection, as well as HEPA filtration, maximum air change, and pressurization and precise temperature control,” says Bastiampillai.

“Right now we have moved away from a tank system; the focus is around safety for people entering the pod,” he explains. “As the concept evolves, we will be offering upgrades to the ventilation to meet the needs of a lab or testing facility. Much of that would depend on how much of a barrier we would have to create between workers and visitors.”

Engineers are also investigating more sophisticated plumbing options. “Whatever the options, we can have all the engineering completed in-house to allow the pod to be connected onsite, where it can be plugged into an existing power source or run by a diesel-powered generator. The nice thing is, it’s all ,” explains Bastiampillai.

M e c h a n i c a l

Multiple units can also be interconnected. “In Italy, we have seen configurations where a container serves as a mechanical plant for distribution to other containers. In-building HVAC systems can also be connected to pods to provide high-quality air exchange rates. A number are also being tested in the U.S. as we speak. There are a lot of potential applications.”

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35

8

PROJECT PROFILE

REASON

A virus testing centre in Denver, CO.

STRIKING THE RIGHT BALANCE

Pure, not blended.

In preparing a pod, Gord Cooke, IAQ specialist and president of Building Knowledge Canada in Cambridge, Ont., says one of the first questions you need to ask is how much air is needed to maintain a desired positive or negative pressure, depending on the intended application.

R-32 is a single-component refrigerant making it easier to clean, reuse, recover and reclaim than blends.

“You can expect these pods to be relatively airtight, so you need to be careful in your calculations. You don’t want to blow the doors off the unit when they’re opened, or end up with a space that’s drafty.”

Cooke recommends the following guidelines: Assume a typical pod is 40 feet long, 8 feet high and 8 feet wide, and has about the same air tightness of a typical new home (three air changes per hour at 50 Pascal). That would mean just a 130 CFM exhaust fan would create a negative pressure of 50 Pascal or 0.2 inches of water column, which would make it difficult to open an outward swinging door.

THIS IS JUST ONE OF 3 2 G R E AT R E A S O N S T O C H O O S E R -3 2 R E F R I G E R A N T. S E E T H E M A L L AT R 3 2 R E A S O N S . C O M .

WITH MORE THAN 100 MILLION UNITS INSTALLED WORLDWIDE, R-32 IS ENDORSED BY:

36

M e c h a n i c a l

B u s i n e s s

In contaminant control applications (such as smoking rooms), recommended pressures are typically in the -5 to -10 Pascal range.

To create a -10 Pascal pressure in a pod with an air tightness level of 3 ACH@50 Pa would require an imbalance of 45 CFM. It is likely that a pod such as these would have an air tightness level as low as 1.5 ACH@50 Pa, and to create a -10 pa would require 25 CFM of exhaust flow to create a negative pressure, or 25 CFM of outdoor air to create a positive pressure.

Further, if you wanted an overall ventilation rate in the range of six air changes per hour in the pod, that would require a 250 CFM fresh air system. But that amount of air, either all exhaust or all supply, would create as much as a 375 Pascal or 1.5 inches of water column pressure on the walls, doors and windows of the pod.

“When designing ventilation for a pod, we must be sure to include provisions for both supply and exhaust air, with a slight imbalance of flow to create a modest -5 to -10 Pa pressure barrier on the pod enclosure,” says Cooke.

1 2 . 2 0

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REFRIGERATION

OIL COOLING FOR SCREW COMPRESSORS D

uring the vapour compression process, the refrigerant heats up. The amount of temperature and enthalpy increase depends on the refrigerant type, the compression efficiency, the pressure and temperature entering the compressor, along with the discharge pressure.

Refrigerants heat up in varying amounts according to their thermodynamic properties.

For example, even though R404A and R507 are very similar refrigerants, the resulting discharge temperatures will be different after the compression on process.

The return gas conditions also affect the final temperature of the refrigerant leaving the compressor. So, a higher suction superheat will result in a higher discharge temperature.

The efficiency of the compressor also has an overall impact on the final discharge temperature. The higher the efficiency of the compression process, the lower the discharge temperature will be.

As the compression ratio increases, the heat of compression increases. It is very important that the discharge temperature of the compressor does not exceed the compressor manufacturer’s published limits. Ideally, it is recommended to stay well within the limit and not just hover at the limit.

With reciprocating compressors, head cooling fans and liquid injection are the two common auxiliary cooling methods used. With screw compressors, oil cooling or liquid refrigerant injection are used.

In twin-rotor screw compressor designs, the rotating helical rotors are coated with a film of oil. This oil film occupies the volume between the two rotors, as well as the volume between the rotors and the rotor housing. This oil maintains the dynamic seal required for compression.

Phil Boudreau 38

M e c h a n i c a l

Due to the large volume of oil entering the rotor area, approximately seven to 10 GPM for the compressor used in Table 1, there is the same amount of oil leaving the rotors via the discharge port. Also, this oil will be at the same temperature as the refrigerant leaving the compressor. The oil is then separated from the refrigerant, cooled if necessary, and then returned to the compressor’s oil injection port.

The oil separator holds a generous quantity of oil to ensure there is always a good supply of oil available for compressor lubrication and also to maintain good high to low side sealing of the refrigerant compression process. With screw compressors, leakage will slowly increase with compression ratio. This also drives the discharge temperature upwards.

Unloading a compressor has the effect of decreasing the effective length of the rotors. With a shorter effective rotor length, the discharge temperature tends to climb due to the additional leakage that takes place at higher compression ratios. This is the reason why the amount of unloading is usually limited at higher compression ratios.

Phil is the Ontario sales manager 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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REFRIGERANT COMPARISON

TABLE 1 OIL COOLING LOAD AND PERCENTAGE OF COOLING CAPACITY

,! " ! ! ! $&' #+" $ #( *) $&+ ( * %% $%& *& $ &#* $" # '#' #(' + " &#& " " '#) $"# '# & %+& #% " '#) $## ') ' %)) #' % '#) $#& )& $ &$+ #) % (#) #(% ' " &$% " "

&'$ #(* # &&% %) + )$)

)&)#

" ##" " $"

Table 1 shows the performance of a 178 CFM, open-drive screw compressor using various refrigerants.

The refrigerating capacity and oil cooling capacity varies with refrigerant type. The oil cooling loads listed, were determined using the compressor manufacturer’s software and were ! ! based on maintaining a maximum discharge temperature of 175°F. It is

!

possible to adjust this value, as long as the manufacturer’s limitations are respected. However, this will also increase or decrease the oil cooling load requirement. The value chosen in this case, is the recommended value for efďŹ cient, long-term compressor operation.

To calculate the oil cooling load, we need to ďŹ nd the enthalpy of the discharge without cooling and then subtract the enthalpy of the discharge at 175°F. Next, we multiply the result by the mass ow rate leaving the compressor.

HOW TO SUPPRESS THE DISCHARGE TEMPERATURE Either liquid injection or oil cooling may be used to supress the discharge temperature. Liquid injection is the easiest and most economical solution. However, the use of liquid injection is very limited. The reason for this is that liquid injection tends to dilute the oil, reducing its viscosity. The reduced viscosity in turn, leads to less compressor lubrication and less of a compression seal, which in turn reduces compressor life.

As a general recommendation, it is a good idea to limit refrigerant injection cooling to a maximum of 10 per cent of the compressor capacity.

However, the compressor manufacturer must be consulted for its actual recommendations whenever possible.

Even though most screws are equipped with a discharge temperature sensor, the increasing amount of liquid injected into the rotors will tend to suppress the discharge temperature. As you can imagine, this could significantly reduce the life of the compressor. Fortunately, most opendrive and semi-hermetic screws are equipped with oil flow monitoring switches.

Additionally, the oil separator is monitored to ensure the oil level does not drop too low.

If the oil supply is too low, it is possible for the liquid injection flow rate to increase.

The simple oil cooling circuit shown is for a water or aqueous solution as the oil cooling medium. There are several ways to provide oil cooling, depending on the SIMPLE OIL COOLING CIRCUIT When the oil cooling load cooling medium available. Oil exceeds 10 per cent, the viscosity of the lubricant decreases. coolers can be direct expansion, water-cooled or air-cooled.

Table 1 indicates the oil cooling load along with its percentage of cooling capacity for the various refrigerants for the subject When an air-cooled condenser is used, oil cooling can also compressor. be incorporated into the condenser. However, it is important to remember that the oil cooling still needs to be controlled Oil cooling is the better option and optimizes compressor separately from refrigerant condensing. life; even when the oil cooling load is less than 10 per cent. Consider what happens when there is reduced oil Mixing valves are commonly used in oil cooler circuits to flow entering the compressor. In this case, the discharge allow the oil to bypass the oil cooler on start-up, allowing temperature will tend to increase. the oil to warm up quickly.

M e c h a n i c a l

B u s i n e s s

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39

REFRIGERATION Remember that economizing has some influence over the final discharge temperature. In economized applications, refrigerant is evaporated at a pressure several psi higher than the suction pressure. The latent heat required to accomplish this is removed from the liquid travelling to the metering device.

Again, it is important to remember that high-side mass flow rate must be used when calculating the oil cooling load. This is especially true with economized

screws because the high-side mass flow rate is the sum of the mass flow rates through the evaporator and the economizing subcooler.

If the low-side mass flow rate is used, the calculated oil cooling load will not be high enough to maintain the desired discharge temperature.

In the next article, we will discuss oil cooling further and explore the different oil cooler and mixing valve arrangements required to support reliable, robust compressor operation for many years.

Counterflow for Superheat and TD

COUNTERFLOW CORRECTION In the September/October 2020 issue, we discussed how a counterflow arrangement is generally preferred. The arrow showing the airflow temperature was placed in the wrong direction.

The graphic shown here is correct.

The key point of the discussion was to illustrate how this provides more consistent TD and provides a reliable heat source for superheat.

Our apologies for the error and any confusion it may have caused.

40

M e c h a n i c a l

B u s i n e s s

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Think like a charity when it comes to customer stewardship

I Rallying your people I watched our local Big Brothers shift from in-person to virtual youth mentoring in mere hours and it involved a lot more than downloading Zoom. We witnessed 15 poverty relief charities band together within three weeks with an incredibly organized food delivery program that has made the difference between eating and not eating for people in our community. They’ve done this without a grumble or whine (despite frequent calls from businesses that needed to pull promised funding), but with positivity, passion and incredible strength. They rallied, and they got it done.

Rallying their people meant connecting with valuable donors and supporters in their time of need. Nearly every charity needed money or another form of help, and they needed it fast. They were able to call on those relationships and the trust they share to help them meet urgent needs.

42

M e c h a n i c a l

’ve been fortunate over my career to work with dozens of charities across Canada.

I’ve volunteered on the front lines and sat on the boards. My agency has executed high profile public awareness campaigns, created messaging and branding strategies, and sponsored its fair share of galas, golf tournaments and fundraisers. All proud moments and certainly among my most fulfilling professional and personal experiences.

Over those years, I can no longer count the number of times I have heard someone say “charities need to start thinking more like a business!” It was a bit of a broken record about 15 years ago and it still is today. There is validity in the comment: some charities don’t always set effective key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the return on their investment in different programs.

Applying a for-profit lens to a non-profit organization can support improved sustainability and revenue streams.

At the same time, businesses can learn a thing or two from charities, too, and that record hasn’t been played enough in my opinion. Their resiliency and ability to “pivot” (that word…) is as nimble and smart as any business story I’ve read this year.

Relationship building Relat Wha charities do exceedingly well–better than nearly every business What I encounter, enc certainly including mine–is what they call “stewardship.”

Stewa Stewardship, by definition, means to “take care of something” and that’s exac how they view it: they take care of their donors and volunteers exactly with w care and attention.

I believe if companies with customers looked at their co communication as “stewardship” and followed some of the same prac practices, their connection with those customers–and ensuing loyalty fro those customers–would be stronger for it. This has been proven from s in spades during the pandemic, when customers were cautious about safe safety.

Customers were much more likely to invite a contractor into their home when they already had a strong, trusting relationship. The relationship made them B u s i n e s s

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less skeptical when contractors promised ed to follow lumbing strict protocols. I watched HVAC and plumbing quity’ contractors draw on that ‘relationship equity’ and rebound faster during the pandemic ic than those who haven’t invested in theirr customers to the same degree.

Charities follow a proven process when it comes to donor stewardship; a process that can easily be adopted as customer stewardship in the private sector. They create richly detailed annual al stewardship calendars that identify every ry single touchpoint, and they often measure ure the effectiveness of each of their efforts. s. These schedules include things such as personal nal telephone calls with their highest value donors at the beginning of the relationship, and on an ongoing basis.

They communicate frequently via email, personal hand-written notes and letters, or quarterly bulletins. They spotlight donors on their social media feeds, taking the time to tell their story and underscore why their relationship is important to them.

They send birthday or anniversary cards, small unexpected gifts and give them “front of the line” access to their most desirable auction items or event swag.

Charities excel at storytelling. They hire gifted writers to structure compelling and strategic narratives about their work, and the donors and volunteers they celebrate. They humanize their work, and use stories to help prospective donors see the value in getting involved. They shoot emotional videos that go viral and many do it on a shoestring budget.

Engage E n your customers cu M charities are very Most g good at being transp parent and honest aabout what they are u p to, the challengup e ess tthey face, and the hel lp they t help need. They are expec cte e to be open and expected bl businesses should accountable; similarly expect to be accountable to their customers. All too often, we bury our business problems so our customers don’t see weakness.

I’m keen to share a few of our challenges so customers understand, openly and honestly, how things are and what they can do to help. The present supply chain issues are a good example. Some companies tried to position themselves as the hero that will get it no matter what, then face the consequences when they could not.

Others were honest from the beginning and worked with clients to find an alternate solution. Those customers will last longer, guaranteed.

Perhaps most importantly, I’ve noticed charities aren’t afraid to draw on those relationships to help make their organizations better. Their strategic planning process is robust and includes extensive engagement with their donors and volunteers, in essence to ask them to help shape their mission and how to execute it. Our customers are an incredibly powerful resource that private companies do not access nearly enough when looking to the future. Who doesn’t love to be asked for an opinion?

M e c h a n i c a l

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43

FREEZE PROTECTION

By Jonathon Harp

glycol A primer on

Part I

W

ith the heating season upon us, it’s time to discuss glycol, which is essential to HVAC system performance in the coldest months of the year. Referred to in some circles as antifreeze, this fluid is instrumental to water-based HVAC systems making it through the winter without pipe bursts and freeze ups. The application of glycol is critical to both the system’s performance and longevity.

Types, characteristics and uses There are two types of glycol typically used in HVAC systems: propylene glycol and ethylene glycol. The concentration (referred to as the water/glycol mixture) used is determined by climatic conditions, and the system type and location (indoor or outdoor). The two types of glycol have differing properties and are used in different applications.

Propylene glycol is more widely used in HVAC systems and is considered the more environmentally responsible choice. It is non-toxic, and according to some experts, one could drink it and not suffer any health issues. Propylene is the glycol of choice in most HVAC applications, particularly where there is potential for exposure to humans, or contamination of potable water and consumables.

Only a small percentage of HVAC applications (generally industrial in nature) use ethylene glycol. It is moderately toxic, can be dangerous to humans, can contaminate drinking water or food, and is subject to environmental reporting in most jurisdictions in the event of a spill or discharge. Though ethylene glycol is lower cost, has lower viscosity, the environmental drawbacks have moved the industry away from it for the most part in HVAC systems.

Table 1 outlines the key characteristics of the two types of glycol.

Glycol is used in a wide range of equipment for protection from system damage in colder temperatures. In the HVAC industry, these systems can include: snow and ice melting systems, ground source heat pumps, solar water heating systems, and hydronic systems. Glycol is also used in chilled water cooling systems.

44

M e c h a n i c a l

B u s i n e s s

Determining glycol/water mixtures Systems requiring glycol use specific mixtures of water and glycol that will both provide protection from freezing and bursting, and not impede the performance and longevity of the system. The percentage of glycol in the mixture varies according to the temperature to which the system could be exposed. The lower the potential temperature, the higher the percentage of glycol required to protect the system.

Examples of glycol percentages in HVAC systems: 1. Snow and ice melting systems

50 to 60 per cent

2. Ground source heat pumps

15 to 25 per cent

3. Solar water heating systems

45 to 60 per cent

4. Hydronic systems

30 to 50 per cent

Higher percentages of glycol are typically used in systems located outside where they are subject to lower temperatures, such as snow and ice melting, and solar water heating systems. Special types of glycol are needed for solar water heating systems to prevent breakdown of the fluid mixture, and potential system blockages in summer heat. Special mixtures are also necessary when there is a need for low fluid toxicity for ground source heat pumps (propylene glycol is typically used in this instance).

“The most popular glycol concentration requested by contractors for HVAC systems is 50-50 water to glycol,” says Brent Hicks of Chemfax, a glycol manufacturer. “This provides both freeze and burst protection for most systems.” Other popular mixtures within the HVAC industry fluctuate between 35 per cent and 70 per cent glycol.

TABLE 1

Characteristic

Ethylene

Propylene

Viscosity

Lower

Higher

Flammability

Low

Low

Toxicity

High level of acute toxicity if consumed

Low level of acute toxicity

Carcinogenic

No

No

1 2 . 2 0

Tips to help determine the right glycol concentration for a particular system

1 2

ETHYLENE GLYCOL

PROPYLENE GLYCOL

Per cent Volume

Freeze Point (C)

Per cent Volume

Freeze Point (C)

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

13.6

-5.4

14.5

-5.8

20.1

-8.9

21.4

-9.1

24.8

-12

26.4

-12.4

30.6

-16.2

32.4

-16.8

36.5

-21.3

38.5

-21.9

< 25 ppm sulfate

41.5

-26.4

43.7

-27.4

If you are not using premixed glycol, be sure to have the water analyzed for these characteristics. If the hardness or other factors for the water being used are significantly higher than recommended guidelines, softened or de-ionized water can be used.

45.5

-31.1

47.8

-33.4

50.6

-37.9

53.0

-45.5

52.7

-47.1

55.0

-51.1

When determining the glycol concentration to obtain the desired freeze and burst protection, use a freeze point at least 2.5º C below the lowest anticipated operating/exposure temperature of the system.

Water quality is essential for glycol-water mixtures. One guideline for such mixtures uses the following parameters for water: < 50 ppm calcium hardness < 50 ppm magnesium hardness < 25 ppm chloride

3

TABLE 2

When “topping up” systems, do not use water only. This can degrade the freeze and burst protection of the system. Any additions should be made with a proper mixture of water, glycol and inhibitors to maintain the desired level of protection.

Table 2 shows examples of percentage volumes versus freeze points for ethylene and propylene mixtures.

Freezing point versus burst protection The two protective properties of glycol in water-based HVAC systems are to prevent freezing and burst piping. Freeze protection involves a glycol/water mixture that ensures at the coldest temperatures the system might encounter, the fluid will not begin to form ice crystals in the piping. Once you’ve found the proper mixture for freeze protection, you have also ensured protection against burst piping (burst protection is the temperature at which the mixture in the pipes thickens to the point where the pipes expand, causing them to burst).

The freeze protection temperature has an inherent burst protection temperature within it. For example, a 50-50 glycol/water mixture will typically provide freeze protection to around -34º C. The burst protection temperature for that mixture is about -100º C. Be aware that if the system is exposed to the maximum temperature (-100º C), while the piping will not burst, it will have a difficult time with startup. The design mixture can be increased to 55 or 60 per cent glycol to accommodate this problem.

Part II of this two-part series on glycol will appear in the January/ February 2021 issue of MB, and will delve into issues concerning the performance and operation of glycol systems, as well as providing tips for contractors on key factors to ensure systems perform well throughout their usable lives. Readers can reach Jonathon Harp at editorial@mechanicalbusiness.com.

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Road Warrior

Name: Kim Meadus Employer: Link ClimateCare, Beaverton, ON Job Title: Senior Service Technician Lives in: Washago, ON Age: 63 Partner: Janet Meadus Joined the mechanical industry: 1994

Kim Meadus

Kim Meadus: Fix-it Man Extraordinaire

K

im Meadus always had a natural talent for fixing things. “I grew up with a gift from God,” he says.

“I could look at anything and figure out how to take it apart and put it back together without ever losing a part or having anything left over.”

Mark Ridout, Ridout Photography

So when a heating contractor for Consumers Gas asked him to join him 26 years ago, he decided to get his gas fitter certification at George Brown. With his papers in hand, he joined his friend doing midnight diagnostic and service calls.

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The transition was easy since given his fix-it history. “I had the mechanical aptitude to understand how pipes got put together,” he says. Since then he’s picked up a lot of additional skills, and is a resident expert on residential gas, hydronic, heat pump and geothermal systems.

Five years into his new found career, he joined Link ClimateCare in Beaverton and is now the longest standing non-family member for the company. “They really are a pretty nice group of people to work with.”

M e c h a n i c a l

B u s i n e s s

Meadus says he owes a lot of his work ethic to his father, who was a skilled master carpenter. “He stressed that patience and listening to others is a virtue. That’s especially true in this type of business.”

At the heart of everything he does is the satisfaction he gets from improving someone’s day by doing a job right. “I like fixing things for people and making them comfortable, happy and safe. That’s the biggest part of our business.”

The same passion for fixing things carries over to his home life. “I refuse to throw anything out that can be fixed. I was brought up to reuse, recycle and repair. I believe in making things right wherever I can.”

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By Denise Deveau

Animal Crackers Kim Meadus has another passion beyond mechanics and planes. He’s an animal lover through and through.

“I must have saved about 10 turtles a year from being run over when I’m on the road. I have to stop and save them.”

He loves doing calls in rural areas because he gets to enjoy the countryside and sightings of moose, deer and wild turkey in their natural habitat.

“You can’t beat that.”

One of his most memorable calls as a customer in n Kirkfield was ho had exotic tu urtles in his who turtles sement. “I’ve gotten to basement. ow them since, and have quite a know port with their anim rapport animals.”

Although he hasn’t travelled much in his life, his retirement bucket list speaks to his love of animals. “My first choice is a toss-up between Madagascar or the Galapagos for the wildlife. Then Tasmania and New Zealand. I would really love that.”

Greatest teacher: Rick Schwab at Sarox Heating.

“Back then he taught me everything I know.”

Current urrent ride: A new Chevy service van Favourite car: A Corv Corvette Kilometers driven per day: Up to 200 km Service area: Anything within a one hour’s drive from Beaverton B eave erton Favourite dispa dispatch atch area: area Anywhere rural. I love to see tthe th e countrys countryside side Most M Mo ost useful tool in the toolbox: Myy multimet multimeter Favourite tool: My combu combustion analyzer Tool you wish you had: A magic wand…or a better boroscope b oros rosscope Favourite performer: Gordon Lightfoot Favourite TV show: Ice Pilots NWT and Highway Thru Hell Favourite cartoon: Bugs Bunny Favourite sport: Tennis or Formula 1 racing–it’s a toss-up Favourite actor: Morgan Freeman Favourite season: All of them.

I don’t like consistent hot or cold Pets: 3 cats: Kit Kat (alias Mama Bear), Sage, and her sister Mini Me (aka Million Dollar Cat–lots of vet bills) Favourite video game: MS Flight Simulator Favourite outdoor activity: Radio controlled flying What you would like to do in a perfect world: Fly for a living Favourite place to hang out: At home with my wife.

Favourite snack: Pickle-flavoured chips

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COVER STORY

By Kerry Turner

Bob (Hot Rod) Rohr

AN EDUCATOR AND A GENTLEMAN rom thrill show worker at 17, to self-described “ski bum” to winner of the Carlson-Holohan Industry Award of Excellence, Bob (Hot Rod) Rohr’s career path embodies his openness to learning something new.

F

Rohr, who is currently education manager with Caleffi North America, Inc., has always loved to tinker with any mechanical device, so when an opportunity came along for a summer job with the American Thrill Show, he jumped at the chance. Just out of high school, Rohr was 17 and deemed “too young to do death defying stunts.”

Photos by Joe Thomas Greenbox Photography

“I graduated early and was too young to work there so I changed my age,” says Rohr.

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While working there he was in his glory driving motorcycles off ramps and he even worked on cars that would later be used in stunts in a James Bond movie.

“I did that for a summer; the American Thrill Show was sponsored by American Motors which no longer exists. Once you get into it you realize that there are ways of doing things that the M e c h a n i c a l

audience doesn’t see. “One stunt the show had was called the AstralSpiral; the car would spin in the air and land on a ramp. I didn’t get to drive the cars because I was six feet tall. The driver had to sit on the console for it to work and couldn’t be taller than 5 ft. 2 in. The stunt took 2.7 seconds and the drunk people in the stands would turn and miss it–then they would shout at us you to do it again, which we couldn’t do.”

If the car missed the ramp Rohr and the other mechanics had to fix it and try again and again.

As Rohr and his wife Ellen search for a new home in Utah the number one priority is a workshop – no surprise for a “tinkerer.” the Thrill Show hit a Porsche. That accident changed his future. He testified for the car owner…and lost his job.

“Tom, the mechanic whose car was hit, and I became friends. He was heading out to Utah to be a ski instructor and suggested I go with him. I didn’t know how to ski but he said he had the gear and I could learn, so I went,” recalls Rohr.

“I went from a thrill show to ski bumming. I was anxious to see the country, to leave New York. I have been out west ever since.”

“I didn’t tell my mother what I was doing. Eventually they found out and did come to a show.”

No doubt Rohr’s parents weren’t too thrilled about the Thrill Show.

Even though he worked on the cars, Rohr was not there to see the Astral-Spiral performed as a movie stunt. “I didn’t get to go to the movie set, outside Bangkok, where they filmed the stunt for The Man with the Golden Gun.” The stunt involved “his” car spectacularly smashing through the showroom glass window of an American Motors Dealer. Rohr did, however, witness a truck carrying cars for

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This month Rohr will return to Utah, the place where years ago he started a business with Richard Yox. “Hot Rod and Yox” was later sold and Rohr ran his own plumbing, radiant heat and renewable energy contracting company for a number of years before joining Caleffi in 2008.

Photo Caleffi North America

Son Max and wife Ellen celebrate Rohr’s win at AHR.

The “Academy Award” of hydronics

Rohr heads to Utah for his ski adventure with bikes in tow Hot Rod’s history with mechanics started early. “I worked for my dad growing up, started way early maybe eight or nine years old on weekends and in my spare time cleaning fittings, playing with the plumbers’ putty. The carrot dad dangled was he would build me a go kart; the neighbour’s kids both had one. The go cart turned into a mini bike, as he only had two wheels to build from.

“I got my finger caught in the chain of this mini bike, that is how I lost that finger at age nine! My mom remembered it by “you will be 10 years old with only nine fingers” she never embraced the mini bike,” says Rohr.

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On February 4, 2020, the last night of the AHR Expo in Orlando, FL the Radiant Professionals Alliance (RPA) announced that Rohr was recipient of the 20202022 Carlson-Holohan Industry Award of Excellence. His name joins a list of recipients, which includes such industry notables as Robert Bean, David Yates, Ingrid Mattsson, John Goshulak, Ken Webster, John Siegenthaler, and Mark Eartherton.

“This award means everything,” Rohr said afterward. “It’s like the Academy Award of the industry!”

John Siegenthaler, principal at Appropriate Designs, Holland Patent, NY, and the person Rohr attributes much of his interest in “thinking beyond the manuals” to, was among those in attendance.

“Bob is one of the most generous people I know as far as helping people in the trades learn how to do hydronics right,” he said.

“I wouldn’t venture to guess how many thousands of people he’s helped train. He’s a very humble guy–a character trait that is to be admired today. He’s done a lot for the industry,” said Siegenthaler.

DID YOU KNOW? Ellen Rohr is well-known for her books and presentations on pricing HUK Y\UUPUN H WYVÄ[HISL contracting company.

4H_ 9VOY OHZ QVPULK *HSLMÄ HZ a trainer-proud dad is thinking this will lighten his load.

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COVER STORY

Training in trying times When he joined Caleffi Rohr already had a lot of training experience with RPA and manufacturers but this training gig was special. “This was the first time I was paid,” says Rohr. “I started right in the middle of the recession.” The steady income, along with doing what he likes best– talking about mechanical things and travelling–have been a good mix.

Rohr has been with the company for 12 years now.

Off the road now after travelling from coast to coast providing training and attending events for years, Rohr notes that “education and training is another product Caleffi offers; Coffee with Caleffi was already up to speed before the pandemic–offerings morphed into a stay-at-home training.”

With company resources he was able to make that transition

Snapshots Goal in life Anything that doesn’t move could be a radiator (and he’s tried, note the dog sculpture a.k.a radiator) Memories made on Canadian soil Family vacations in Parry Sound and firework displays at Honey Harbour in Ontario Where did the moniker Hot Rod come from?

Neighbours in Orchard Park, NY thought it was appropriate given his Thrill Show experience and it has just stuck Solar enthusiast Holds a patent for the StarMax Solar Thermal collector What do you like to do in your downtime?

Tinkering with any mechanical device, I have a pretty nice shop. I don’t golf but I do ski

“If you ask the world to come to your party you have to deliver. Give everyone in the room what they are looking for, be professional and know your material.” successfully but there are challenges as more companies got on board with virtual. “Now there may be 50 manufacturers doing it. It is getting trickier. Contractors can’t just sit in front of the computer. They have to get on the tools and earn a living.”

We are working on solutions for contractors, thinking in terms of shorter. Maybe podcasts the contractors can listen to in their trucks.”

He has some ideas on what it takes to draw people, including doing things that are relevant in these times, and providing hands-on experiences. Most importantly, as someone who has seen some less than stellar webinars, Rohr says, “If you ask the world to come to your party you have to deliver. Give everyone in the room what they are looking for, be professional and know your material.”

As much as Rohr prepares for his training sessions, his enthusiasm comes in part from knowing he will learn something from those in attendance.

He suggests industry cohorts watch social media where young people are posting some innovative approaches to design, installations and repairs. “It is neat to see the evolution,” says Rohr.

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COMBUSTION SAFETY UNDERSTANDING

carbon monoxide dangers “Something’s wrong with the new boiler,” bo oiller,” beer the anxious caller said, one December evening. Sensing his concern, I asked, “What happened?”

How is it formed?

Carbon monoxide is formed during the combustion process, and is like the grumpy old neighbour who yells at the children about going in the yard. CO hates change. Any time you change the firing rate or fuel-to-air ratio of the flame, CO is produced.

“My CO alarm keeps ringing. It must be the boiler,” the man continued. The “new” boiler was actually installed five years earlier.

“Open your windows, turn off the boiler, and leave the house. I’m on the way.”

Once there, I switched on my carbon monoxide meter outside the house to calibrate it before entering.

The CO detector should be calibrated in a space without carbon monoxide exposure to avoid false readings when inside. When the digital display reached zero, I walked inside.

In the home, the CO levels were safe, but not ideal, coming in between three and five parts per million. In the basement, I switched the boiler on and opened the hot water valve on the nearby sink to get a call for the water heater.

Using the CO meter, I could see there was no carbon monoxide produced by either the water heater or the boiler. Walking upstairs, the nervous owner asked about the boiler. After assuring him both the water heater and boiler were working correctly, I asked what he was doing when the alarm sounded.

“Baking Christmas cookies,” he said smiling.

Even combustion air temperature can affect the production of CO, due to the density variations of air at different temperatures. A quarterturn of the gas pressure regulator can spike the carbon monoxide levels from zero PPM to several thousand PPM.

It only took a few minutes after switching the oven on before the numbers on my detector started rising rapidly. Turning the oven off, I explained the source of the alarm was the oven. A minute later, the CO alarm sounded, confirming my diagnosis.

The customer thanked me and asked, “Are you going to charge me?” (I didn’t.)

Each year, we hear stories of accidental carbon monoxide poisonings. I can recall a recent incident with a motel in Winnipeg where 46 people were sent to the hospital with CO poisoning, 15 in critical condition. The cause of the exposure was attributed to improper venting of the boiler.

According to a 2017 study provided by the University of the Fraser Valley, between 2000 and 2013, there were 1,125 deaths in Canada with CO listed as the cause, so while the cause was not the heating system for my customer, the concern was valid. Carbon monoxide is not a gas to be taken lightly.

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B y R ay W o h lfarth

How to protect yourself

During one of my boiler seminars, an attendee boasted that he purchased a plug-in type of carbon monoxide alarm, similar to the one you may have in your home. He takes it with him on every service call and plugs it into the wall. While it seemed like a good idea, the plug-in types are not designed to be taken from job to job.

Kidde, a manufacturer of CO detectors, includes the following warning on its plug-in devices: “This CO alarm is designed to act as a monitor; it is not designed for use as a short-term testing device to perform a quick check for the presence of CO.” Obviously, this tech was not the only one to have this idea.

The drawback of using these alarms on a service call is the reaction time. Exposure to CO greater than 12,800 PPM can cause death within one to three minutes.

The reaction time for these types of alarms to sense dangerous, life-threatening CO levels can be 15 minutes, and most need at least four minutes. As you can see, the math is against you.

I believe every service technician should have a carbon monoxide detector/meter with rapid reading capability and use it on every service call. Assume every customer has a dangerous level of carbon monoxide unless proven otherwise. Not only will it protect m the technician, but it will also protect the customer.

What is a part per million?

Carbon monoxide is measured in parts per million or PPM. To see just how small a PPM is, consider this: one PPM is equivalent to one goal in 16,666 hockey games or one day in 2,739 years.

You may wonder how they measure something so small. In earlier times, miners used to take a canary in the coal mines with them. If the canary stopped singing because of elevated CO, the coal miners hastily exited the mine.

Now, we have more humane ways of testing for carbon monoxide. These devices range from personal ones that attach to your belt, handheld versions, and permanently installed CO detectors.

Ray Wohlfarth is the author of Lessons Learned in a Boiler Room: A commonsense approach to servicing and installing commercial boilers, and president of Fire & Ice Heating and Cooling. He can be reached at ray@fireiceheat.com.

Why is CO dangerous?

Carbon monoxide displaces the oxygen in the body’s hemoglobin, essentially suffocating the organs. CO forms carboxyhemoglobin in the blood, and the weird part is your body prefers CO over two hundred times more than oxygen.

The troubling issue with CO is the five-hour half-life. Half-life is the amount of time it takes for your body’s blood to surrender the CO naturally and drop it to half the exposure level.

If you were exposed to three hundred PPM of carbon monoxide, it would take five hours after being removed from the contaminated air for the CO level inside the blood to drop to half of that, or 150 PPM. After an additional five hours, the level would drop to 75 PPM. In severe cases, the exposed person is placed inside a hyperbaric chamber, which can accelerate the process.

CO effects The human body has the following reactions to different levels of CO exposure • 35 PPM - Headache and dizziness in 6 to 8 hours

Understanding your CO readings When servicing a boiler, the limit is 400 PPM “air-free” CO in the flue gases. I work hard to get the reading well below that, and as close to zero as possible.

Air-free CO is the carbon monoxide reading after you remove the excess air from the calculation.

Think of it as a cup of coffee. You and a friend purchase a small coffee, and it tastes bitter. You add creamer to it to make it less bitter. Your coffee still has the same amount of bitterness as your friend’s, but you have added creamer to dilute it.

That is what excess air does with CO. Stay safe out there!

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• 400 PPM - Frontal headaches in 1 to 2 hours, becoming life-threatening after 3 hours • 800 PPM - Nausea and convulsions present; death within 2 hours • 1,600 PPM - Nausea within 20 minutes; death within an hour • 12,800 PPM - Death in 1 to 3 minutes

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PLUMBING

Products

Thermostatic mixing g valve Bradley’s Navigator thermostatic mixing valve (TMV) is designed for both commerommercial faucets and emergency safety eyewash fixtures in laboratory applications.

Combining two valves in one reduces ces installation time and conserves underdersink space. During regular use the TMV delivers tempered water for uses such as handwashing. For emergencies, it delivers ANSI/ISEA-required A-required tepid water.

Heater stand and platform HoldRite’s line of water heater quick stand and platform accessories is designed for both residential and commercial markets and meets all UPC code requirements. The stands and platforms can be used to secure and elevate water heaters above the floor and support up to 100 gallons. Accessories include sheds and straps.

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Cordless sectional machine Milwaukee Tool’s M18 Fuel sectionall machine for 5/8 in. and 7/8 in. cable le is designed to clear heavy roots up to o 150 ft. out. Lightweight and compact, ct, this cordless system can transition between outdoor use and indoor applications, and includes a carry strap for transporting onto rooftop jobs. Features include a brushless motor, intelligent communication to the lithium battery pack, and wireless tracking.

Water heater installation accessories SharkBite offers flexible water heater connectors designed for joining pipes in tight spaces that do not line up. Its thermal expansion relief valves eliminate the need for an expansion tank, shut-off valve and fitting where high-pressure conditions are likely to occur.

The valves are compatible with PEX, copper, CPVC, PE-RT and HDPE pipe.

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Mechanical cleanout plugs Cherne’s mechanical cleanout plugs feature a two-stage locking mechanism that locks firmly in test and drain positions while still allowing for highpressure testing. No tools are required for installation or removal. The plugs are compatible with PVC, ABS and castiron cleanout tees.

Bathroom collection Belshire from DXV is an art deco-inspired suite of fittings, fixtures and furniture.

It offers the choice of level, cross or cushion handles on low- or high-spout faucets. Available in satin brass, platinum nickel, brushed nickel or chrome finishes, the line includes faucets, shower and bath sets, as well as wall-hung toilets and a freestanding soaker tub.

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Commercial gas water heaters The eF 120 series of commercial gas water heaters from Bradford White Canada incorporate building management and modulation technologies for remote monitoring capability. Capacity is 119 gallons, with thermal efficiency ratings of 96.5% for the 400 3N, and 95% for the 500 3N models.

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Electronic mixing valve The Legiomix Station from Caleffi includes a 6000 Series electronic mixing valve for domestic hot water systems. It features a daily self-cleaning function, automatic scheduling of thermal disinfection, and is certified by ICC-ES for compliance with NSF/ANSI 372, ASSE 1017, CSA B125.3 and CSA Z317.1 standards, and IPC, IRC, NPC and UPC codes.

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Valve system

Handheld drain cleaner

The M-Core valve system from Moen is designed to simplify installation of shower systems by enabling adaptable functionnality once the system has been n plumbed. Features include an integrated mounting bracket that secures the valve directly to a brace, a quicker temperature limit stop adjustment process, and an integrated testt es plug. Mixing and transfer valves are available in several inlet and nd outlet options.

The Uni-Stand from General Pipe Cleaners supports hand-held drain cleaners when working in tight spaces.

The adjustable clamp slides around the motor housing. It is designed to fit the Super-Vee, PowerVee and Handylectric hand-held drain cleaners.

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Intelligent variable frequency drive

Fire sprinkler connections Anvil International’s SprinkFlex hose combined with the SprinkFlex Infinite Position Tall (IPT) bracket is designed to accommodate pendant, semi-recessed and concealed fire sprinkler heads. The fully braided hose is UL listed and has a 2 in. bend radius, 1 in. inner diameter and three-piece construction. The bracket ships with pre-installed mounting screws.

Hoses are available in 28 in. to 71 in.

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sure control centre from Pentair is an intelligent VFD that responds to fluctuations in household demand by directing changes in submersible pump motor speed. It maintains constant water pressure, regardless of how many people or appliances are using water at the same time.

Functions can be controlled through the Pentair Home app.

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

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System XFR® DWV from IPEX is an engineered PVC DWV system available in diameters from 1.5” to 18”.

It delivers greater corrosion resistance, flow rates and carrying capacity, and lower thermal conductivity than metal. It also has higher impact resistance, lasts longer, costs less to maintain AND weighs less than cast iron.

System XFR® DWV… fast becoming the preferred choice across Canada.

Ask for System XFR® DWV by name.

Be sure to check out our entire line of DWV System pipe and fitting products.

For more information please contact 1-800-463-9572 or visit ipexna.com

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Products

Pressure balance rough-in valve The GrohSafe 3.0 from Grohe is a pressure balance rough-in valve offering with coordinating trims. Design elements include a small valve body that fits into tight spaces, a flat back for sturdy installation, and a pre-installed flush plug that allows hot and cold water to be flushed simultaneously. The dezincification brass valves offer four connection options.

Hands-free faucets Delta commercial faucets with Proximity Sensing Technology are designed for facilities that require hands-free operation, vandal resistance, reliable operation and ease of maintenance. They allow users to turn on the water by simply placing a hand near the faucet spout. The entire faucet body acts as a sensor, responding when activated

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Filtered kitchen faucet American Standard’s Saybrook filtered kitchen faucet delivers filtered water at the push of a button on the spray head. The design features two water channels to separate regular tap and drinking water, LED indicator for filter changes, and a pull-down, dual-function spray head. The faucet is available in polished chrome or stainless steel finishes.

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Dialectic union Nibco’s FIP x press dielectric union features a nylon insulator ring that interrupts the electric current caused by joining two pipes of dissimilar metals, helping to prevent galvanic corrosion. Features include dezincification resistant brass press ends. The product is certified lead-free, available in sizes ½ in. to 1 in., and is compatible with several press tools.

Portable hand washing stationss

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Portable hand washing stations from Zurn can be deployed in a variety of settings, including schools, daycares, doctors’ offices, break rooms and cafeterias to expand handwashing capabilities to meet healthcare guidelines. The units can also be used in outdoor settings where water is limited, such as sporting venues.

Electric hot water tank Stainless steel electric tanks from Eco-King feature an integrated mixing valve and Nanopur insulation. They are available in single (S 200-300) or dual element (Saga SX 200300) options in 3 or 4.8 kW and 50- or 80-USG capacities.

The systems are also 100% recyclable.

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PLUMBING

By George Micevski

A

security blanket

for your customers’ security blanket

Battery-powered back-up systems ensure the sump pump runs, even when the power is out.

I

t is always a good idea to have a pump system in a basement to help protect your customer’s home and their belongings against the dangers of flooding. The only problem with a traditional pump system, however, is whether it will perform when it is most needed.

The most likely time a basement will flood, of course, is during a severe rain storm. Incidentally, this is also the time of greatest risk of the power going out. No power in the home means no power to the pump, and if it fails, the risk of flooding increases significantly.

A good solution is a battery-powered back up system that will keep the pump system running, no matter what is happening outside. A backup system may only be needed once out of every 100 storms, but your customer will always be thankful for the peace of mind it brings. It only takes a small amount of water to cause thousands of dollars in damage, not to mention the loss of potentially irreplaceable personal items.

Homeowners and contractors alike need systems that not only have outstanding performance, but are also built to last. The nature of a backup system puts it in a demanding role of needing to work with vigour, even after years of neglect or lack of use.

Consider your customer’s needs (and your own)

Adding onto your sale The best time to recommend the

There are a few key considerations contractors should take into account when presenting options to their clients:

installation of a dependable battery backup system is when you are installing

• Compatibility: Customers may not be amenable to a system that requires them to purchase and install an entirely ne new ssump mp pump. A battery back-up that can be installed alongside an existing system and keep it running when it needs to run is ideal.

• Connectivity: We live in a connected world. Pumps are available with Wi-Fienabled control systems to monitor and notify homeowners and contractors with alerts.

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a new sump pump system. Making the homeowner aware of the technology and its benefits helps enhance your credibility, and shows that you are a contractor who cares about the longterm protection of their property.

Of course, this credibility will be negated

• Built-in Redundancy: Floats that can get hung up on the walls of the basin and debris are a concern. A secondary float switch can provide redundancy, and a high-water alarm that can turn on the pump can also be beneficial.

if the system being sold is inferior,

• Maintenance: Homeowners don’t want the burden of regular maintenance, and are likely to forget they have a pump system that needs regular monitoring and checking. A self-testing system can help, and it gives you more information about the system so you can better serve your customers.

recommending. Ask your client if they

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or does not do what it claims to. Be sure to research the product you are are interested in some of the more recent advances in technical features, such as pumps with Wi-Fi sensor alarms.

Stronger together.

Manufacturing is the backbone of the Canadian economy. Here at Bibby-Ste-Croix, our team members are working hard providing essential services by manufacturing plumbing and municipal products.

The crisis we are facing has brought to the forefront the need to examine the need for Canada to bring back manufacturing jobs.

We are all in this together. Buy Canadian made products.

Thomas Leonard, President

418-926-3262 Bibby-Ste-Croix.com

PLUMBING Denise Deveau

Mechanical contracting shop takes early lead in

NSF-61certification A

chieving CSA NSF/ANSI Standard 61 (NSF61) certification for drinking water system components is nothing out of the ordinary for a lot of organizations in the manufacturing sector.

But it’s rare to see a mechanical contractor get the certification. That’s just what the stainless steel pipework fabrication team at Pitt Meadows Plumbing & Mechanical Systems Ltd. (PMP) managed to do.

As most in the trade know, NSF-61 is a set of national standards related to drinking water. It establishes stringent requirements for the control of parts, pieces and equipment that come into contact with potable water or products that support the production of potable water.

PRE-FAB MODEL WORKS WELL DURING PANDEMIC The company’s pre-fabrication approach has delivered even more advantages since COVID restrictions came into play. Up to 75 per cent of each project’s installation is pre-built at the 55,000 sq. ft. Maple Ridge manufacturing facility, which has always been a highly controlled environment. “Since COVID hit our model benefits our clients and their customers more than ever, because it reduces the number of workers required on site,” Revel said. “And the layout of our facility makes it easy to distance workers and set up dividers, as well as control access and egress.”

For months, the pre-fabrication team at PMP worked with the CSA Group to achieve the certification for domestic drinking water pipework spools. These are fabricated in their Maple Ridge, BC shop before shipping to job sites for installation across Metro Vancouver and beyond. The company achieved the certification in July 2020.

“We have worked closely with the CSA Group to ensure that our fabrication methods and welding standards meet the stringent requirements of the NSF/ANSI-61 certification,” said Sam Revel, senior pre-fabrication manager. “Over the last few years, we have developed some of the most advanced stainless-steel pipework production methods available to the market, leveraging 3D modelling, automated machinery, and orbital welding robots.”

Most Canadian businesses with this certification are suppliers of potable water tanks, piping and materials related to the delivery of drinking water, he explained.

“It’s certainly unusual for a mechanical contractor to earn the certification. Typically, NSF-61 is required for suppliers and manufacturers producing pipe and fittings. I believe we’re the first in BC that is serving the high-rise residential and institutional sectors, whilst also completing the full scope of mechanical contract work.”

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Revel said its decision to apply for certification provided them with an opportunity to maximize the welding of stainless pipework and remove potential leak paths from every system installed to ensure consistent plumbing installations.

The decision was also driven by the City of Vancouver’s recent move to require the NSF/ANSI61 certificate to weld stainless steel pipework for plumbing systems, Revel explained.

“While the B.C. Plumbing Code allowed welding of stainless steel pipes, it was not regulated in any way, which poses a risk if correct fabrication

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After the mandate came down, the team began working with the certification group at CSA, beginning with a full presentation in January of 2020 on the fabrication process and the different elements in the processes and materials used. The audit also included a factory visit and inspection.

Sample spool pieces of pipe were sent to CSA for testing and certification. The head plumbing inspector for the city also visited the site to inspect the shop operations and processes.

“The local mechanical contractors that have become NSF-61 pre-fabricated welding shops really need to be acknowledged as leaders in this Industry,” said Phil White, manager of trades inspections with the City of Vancouver.

“The public in the City of Vancouver can have confidence that by meeting the NSF/ ANSI/CAN 61: Drinking Water System Components–Health Effects certification, these certified welded stainless steel systems address human health protection and infrastructure longevity concerns.”

While the certification has not yet been required on projects, Revel believes it will increasingly become a key selling point for developers.

The focus in recent months has been on projects in and around the City of Vancouver area. But the certification can be applied further afield. “We expect to see this requirement come out in the next B.C. Plumbing Code update,” Revel said.

“It will be fantastic to say we already have the certification.”

The certification is just one feather in the cap of PMP’s achievements in recent years. The company recently won a Digital Supply Chain & Fabrication award from CanBIM for its implementation of Stratus automation software for off-site fabrication, highlighting its position as one of the leaders in off-site fabrication and 3D modelling in North America.

WATCO QUICKTRIM

It was a relatively easy transition for his team, he added. “The shop was already meeting the standards as our fabrication processes were already very stringent. We were very happy to achieve certification without having to change anything.”

Automation kudos

®

processes are not followed. The City identified that issue and decided to rectify it by having manufacturers of domestic drinking water spools certified to NSF standards,” said Revel.

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Hydronic Products Condensate neutralizers The NC-1W from Axiom is a wall hung condensate neutralizer that features a provisionally patented integrated bypass with float and magnetic latch for visual identification of required service due to an overflow condition.

Other features include a reversible wall mount lid allowing for left or right outlet connections, along with a translucent vertical flow, two-chamber capsule. www.

Burners ProFire SBR-5 series burners from CleaverBrooks are compatible with firetube and watertube boilers. Designed for use with applications where strict emission levels must be met, the series offers a natural gas fuel option from 10.5 to 42 MMBTU/H, and is capable of firing ultra-low sulfur diesel as a backup fuel.

axiomind.com

www. cleaverbrooks.com

Air-to-water heat pumps

Gas vents

SpacePak’s solstice inverter monoblock air-to-water heat ssors pump utilizes inverter compressors and DC driven fan motors forr optimal load matching, The SIM IM is available in 3 and 5 ton models els for ntial heating and cooling in residential ions. and light commercial applications.

Suited for zoning, it can be used sed in conjunction with SpacePak’s h hydronic d i air handlers and fan coils, and other ter options. emitter www. w.

Cheminee Lining gass vents are an installation-ready venting ng solution for condensing boilers. They are offered ered in stainless steel in diameters meters ranging from 6 in. to o 48 in. ffers a The company also offers ries, full range of accessories, including elbows, fittings, guides and supports. The vents are laser welded and UL/ULc listed.

spacepak.com cepak.com

www. chemineelining.com om

Condensing boilers 3-Way ball valves Pro-Pal 3-way ball valves from Webstone are designed to divert, select, or mix fluids based on application needs. Flow options include a 90° handle operation to divert or select; or a 180° handle operation to divert, select, or mix. Forged from lead-free DZR brass, they are available in 1/2 in. to 2 in. sizes. www.

webstonevalves.com

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Weil-McLain Canada’s ECO Tec highsidential efficiency condensing boiler for residential applications, delivers up to 95% efficiency in 4 heating (80, 110, 150 and 199 MBH) and 3 combi (110, 150 and 199 MBH) sizes. It can provide space heating and up to 5.4 GPM of domestic hot water at a 70°F rise and up to 10:1 turn-down, and can power and control up to five circulators. www.

weil-mclain.ca

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Need to Handle Both Space Heating and Hot Water Demands of Today’s Modern Homes?

THE BRUTE FT MAKES IT EASY. ®

The Brute FT® Combination Boiler and Water Heater utilizes the latest in fire tube technology to offer your customers: • Exceptional Efficiency. The Brute FT®’s modulating technology automatically adjusts fuel usage to match heat demand – to help your customers save on heating utility bills compared to standard “on-off” boilers! ENERGY STAR® rated, 95% AFUE. • Outstanding Performance with Higher Flow Rates (4.8 GPM at a 77°F rise). The Brute FT® Combi has a shell-and-tube domestic hot water heat exchanger that gives your customers unrestricted flow and better performance than brazed plate heat exchangers.

©2020, Bradford White Corporation. All rights reserved. BWMBPL1120

• Quicker Hot Water Delivery. The Brute FT® combines storage with on-demand hot water for faster performance.

• Compact Design. Easy to install and service, even in tight spaces.

• Excellent Flexibility. The Brute FT® is field convertible between natural gas & propane, is cascadable up to 20 units, and can be vented with PVC, CPVC, or polypropylene.

To learn more about the Brute FT® Combi, visit bradfordwhite.com

Hydronic Products By-pass feeders Hood Chemical’s VTF series of by-pass feeders available from Neptune feature wide-mouth easy close caps and hold string wound filters. Working pressure is up to 300 psi max at 200°F for a two-gallon, 11 gauge steel unit. Max pressure is 300 psi when paired with an LMO filter housing.

www. hoodchemical.com

Control system The Vitotronic 300 GW6C from Viessmann is a digital boiler and system control that features an outdoor reset function. The unit modulates input and rotates boilers to meet the heating system’s load. The standard control package can regulate supply water temperatures for one high temperature circuit, two mixing valve circuits and one domestic hot water circuit.

www. viessmann.ca

Heat pump water heaters Lochinvar air source heat pumps for commercial and industrial applications heat domestic water to temperatures as high as 160°F. Designed to meet decarbonisation requirements, air source heat pumps transfer atmospheric heat via a refrigeration cycle for domestic hot water use. Available in six sizes, they offer 50 to 500 gallons ns per hour recovery rates and 25,000 to 250,000 BTU/H outputs.

www. lochinvar.com

Gas appliance venting High-efficiency boilers The Camus DynaForce series of boilers feature thermal efficiency ratings up to 99%. They are available in sizes ranging from 300,000 to 5,000,000 BTU/H with a 5:1 turndown ratio. The units are built with stainless steel vertical, cylindrical heat exchangers. The boilers can be used for hydronic heating or domestic hot water production.

www. camus-hydronics.com

High efficiency venting from Selkirk is suited to special gas vent applications.

The venting is available in 3 in. to 32 in. diameters (ID), stainless steel single wall and double wall models, and multiple grade options.

www. selkirkcorp.ca

Variable speed circulators Taco’s 0034e and 0034ePlus high-efficiency, variable speed, wet-rotor circulators are designed for large residential and light commercial hydronic heating, chilled water cooling and domestic hot water systems.

They feature ECM permanent magnet technology and a dial (0034e) or digital user interface (0034ePlus). Their variable speed performance curves are equivalent to other Taco models.

www. tacocomfort.com 66

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Hydronic Products Ultrasonic thermal energy meter The Dynasonics UHC100 ultrasonic thermal energy meter from Badger Meter calculates energy quantity by measuring the amount of liquid flowing through the flow sensor at a given time, and the liquid temperature at the supply and return flow positions to obtain the temperature difference. It is approved

by Measurement Canada for liquid heating and cooling applications.

www.

badgermeter.com

Water tube condensing boiler Torus water tube condensing boilers and water heaters from RBI are available in sizes ranging from o 1,250,000 to 4,000,000 BTU/H. Boilers are up to 97.5% and water heaters up to 98% efficient. Units feature a 5:1 turndown. Additional features include a 316L stainless steel heat exchanger, and a 4-pass design that works in concert with mutli-channel manifold and increased tube diameters.

www.

rbiwaterheaters.com

Fire tube boiler The Instinct stainless steel fire tube boiler from Triangle Tube is available in solo sizes ranging from 110,000 to 199,000 BTU/H, and combination sizes ranging from 155,000 to 199,000 BTU/H. They offer turndown ratios up to 8:1 and are built with a 3-in-1 universal vent adapter. The boilers have efficiencies up to 95% AFUE. www.

triangletube.com

Buffer tank Flexcon’s Argosy is a pressurized composite buffer tank designed for potable and nonpotable water. Features include threaded stainless steel water connections, a continuous strand fibreglass inner tank, high R-value closed cell foam insulation, and a non-corrosive plastic outer jacket.

www. flexcon.com

Commercial and industrial boiler

Inverter heat pumps

Fulton’s Endura+ condensing boiler is designed for variable primary flow systems in commercial and industrial applications. Equipped with a duplex steel heat exchanger, it is available in sizes from 2.5 million to 6 million BTU/H. Units have a turndown ratio of up to 15:1 and attain a thermal efficiency of up to 96.8%.

Ten boilers can be sequenced together in a single system.

GeoSmart NetZero variable capacity water-to-water inverter heat pumps offer COP ratings of over 5.0. The units can be used with a variety of renewable energy sources, including ground source, air source or in hybrid arrangements. Its products cover from 3 kW to 600 kW with the range of modulation starting as low as 25%.

www. geosmartenergy.com

www.

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REFRIGERANTS

B y Jo n at h o n H arp

What is replacing

R-410A

in the residential and light commercial sector?

The refrigeration and air conditioning ning (RAC) industry has moved through significant refrigerant changes nges since the early 1990s because of environmental concerns ns over ozone depletion and global warming. To date, CFC refrigerants have been phased out,, virgin HCFCs are no longer available in Canada, and certain HFCs are being ng h phased down because of their high global warming potentials (GWP)..

Be aware though, the changes to ustry ar re refrigerants used in the RAC industry are nowhere near over.

In 2015, the Kigali Amendment to o the Montreal Protocol included a phase down schedule to reduce the he availability of high GWP HFCs over ver thee next 15 years. This was adopted to o spurr the international development of refrigerant refrige gera rant ra nt alternatives that have lower GWP. P. The development of the next generation on of alternative refrigerants has been underway nderway for a number of years; both refrigerant erant and equipment manufacturers have ve been or will be commercializing these new refrigerants to the RAC marketplace in the near future.

Specifically left off the list of equipment under the new regulations was light commercial and residential air conditioning equipment (LCRAC). Both the Canadian and U.S. governments agreed to delay specific regulations concerning the LCRAC sector to allow refrigerant and equipment manufacturers more time to develop alternatives for R-410A, which is the predominant refrigerant used in this sector.

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At present, there are no specific federal regulations in Canada or the U.S. to restrict the supply or use of R-410A in the LCRAC sector. At the provincial level in Canada, the government of Quebec released a proposal in July of 2019 to eliminate the use of HFCs in certain types of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment by 2021.

In the U.S., the only jurisdiction proposing regulations that would affect R-410A in the LCRAC sector is California. The state is proposing as of January 1, 2023, refrigerants in newly installed air conditioning systems must run on a refrigerant with a GWP of less than 750 (R-410A has a GWP of 2088).

In May 2020, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published Proposed Rule 23 under its Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program, which lists low GWP alternative

reefrig refr ig gerants that refrigerants wo oulld be acceptable would for use in the LCRAC sector. Each of the a alternatives listed in the proposal is classified

by ASHRAE as A2L, which are refrigerants with low toxicity and mild flammability.

In addition to the HFC phase down, Environment & Climate Change Canada (ECCC) put in place regulations in 2016 that established maximum GWP limits for refrigerant used in a wide range of refrigeration and air conditioning applications, including chillers, stand alone and centralized refrigeration systems, and condensing units. These new regulations have started to come into force for certain equipment types in 2020.

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Rule 23 also restricts use of these refrigerants to new A2L certified equipment, and A2Ls cannot be used to retrofit field installed units. Equipment using A2Ls must have a specific warning that states the unit uses a mildly flammable refrigerant. Note, this rule is only in the proposal stage at this point.

In Canada, a regulatory issue affecting the new low GWP refrigerants is the requirement to have them listed in the building code of each province where they are proposed for use. The code committees and authorities will have to consider issues such as the mildly flammable rating of A2L refrigerants, and whether the alternatives can be used for retrofit applications as part of the approval process. The time needed to have these refrigerants approved and listed in the building codes is a key factor in determining when these alternatives will be introduced to the Canadian market.

PREPARING FOR WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TO COME

GETTING READY

As a contractor, how do you prepare for the coming changes in refrigerants? MB recently spoke with some industry manufacturers about their plans to deal with the coming refrigerant changes in the LCRAC sector, and how these changes would impact Canadian contractors. All agree that contractors need to be aware of the changes and how they will potentially affect their businesses. Most importantly, before these alternatives start to appear in the market, contractors need to take the time to learn about the new products from their suppliers.

Three of the leading candidates to replace R-410A and other HFCs in the LCRAC sector Decisions about low GWP replacements for are R-32, R-454B and R-466A. R-32 and R-454B are A2L rated. R-466A is A1 rated. Table 1 R-410A and other HFCs in the LCRAC sector reviews some of the technical aspects of each refrigerant: have not yet been made for some equipment types. However, some TABLE 1 SPECIFICATIONS OF LOW GWP REFRIGERANTS FOR LCRAC SECTOR of the new low GWP refrigerants have started Type Composition GWP Refrigerant to be promoted to A2L (single component) Canadian contractors R-32 HFC-32 (100%)

SV^LY [OHU ( TPSKS` Ă&#x2026;HTTHISL (or will be starting in the near future). How do you ( 3 ISLUK manage this?

HFC-32 (68.9%) 9 ) TPSKS` Ă&#x2026;HTTHISL

SV^LY [OHU ( /-6 `M

Here are a few suggestions: Make sure your 9 ( employees are aware that the next generation of refrigerants are on the horizon and explain why (have them read this article).

Although there is some uncertainty about low GWP refrigerants right now, this will be changing relatively quickly in the next couple of years. Find a way to keep this transition on your companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s radar.

Talk to your equipment suppliers, and ďŹ nd out where they are going with low GWP refrigerants and when. Ask how they will keep your company informed and trained on this subject in the future.

Make sure you make informed choices by fully understanding the pros and cons of the new refrigerants and equipment.

We all need to be prepared for the coming changes. Get engaged in the process.

Assign someone in your company to take the lead on this matter. Remember, all new refrigerants have to go through extensive testing and evaluation before being commercially sold. When considering the various refrigerant options that are available, examine all aspects of each option (such as ease of use and maintenance) so youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll make an informed choice when the time comes.

Simply be a good consumer and do your homework. Your investment of time at this stage will be recouped by having an efďŹ cient and effective company transition to the next generation of refrigerants.

( ISLUK UVU Ă&#x2026;HTTHISL

/-*

HFC-125 (11.5%) CF-31 (39.5%)

SV^LY [OHU (

Keep in mind, these are three of the more prominent low GWP alternatives introduced to date. There could be more alternatives released in the future for use in the LCRAC sector.

Training technicians on the safe handling of new refrigerants is paramount. Industry manufacturers contacted agreed that training on these new refrigerants (particularly A2Ls) is necessary to ensure safe handling throughout the supply chain, and safe management by technicians in the ďŹ eld.

Whether training is offered through refrigerant manufacturers, equipment manufacturers, wholesalers or industry associations such as HRAI and MCAC, proper guidelines to address new challenges, such as the mildly ďŹ&#x201A;ammable rating of A2L, will need to be established and included in codes and standards, as well as training programs.

WHAT SHOULD

CONTRACTORS

DO?

The next generation of refrigerants will not have a â&#x20AC;&#x153;single solution refrigerantâ&#x20AC;? for the LCRAC sector and each alternative will have differing characteristics and safety ratings. There are several things contractors can do to mitigate this: 1. Tap into reliable resources that provide information on the new generation of refrigerants as they appear to ensure informed decisions are made in the future.

2. Decide what type of equipment to stock based on what ďŹ ts best with your business model.

3. Research safety concerns for each refrigerant option and ensure your technicians are properly trained to handle them.

4. In the longer term, decide how broadly based your equipment service will continue to be, and how widely your technicians will be trained: will you cover all types of equipment in the ďŹ eld, or narrow your focus by specializing in certain refrigerants and equipment?

Readers can reach Jonathon Harp at editorial@mechanicalbusiness.com.

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HUMAN RESOURCES

By Sue Sodek

Sue Sodek has over twenty years of Human Resource consulting and management experience, and can be reached at sue.sodek@gmail.com.

For the record W

e are all weary of hearing the phrase “In these unprecedented times…”, but the truth of the matter is that the world, and the world of work, has dramatically changed. At the best of times, small business owners are kept busy wearing many hats–crisis manager, marketing strategist, labour and transportation coordinator–but managing a paper trail for each and every employee is usually not high on the priorities list.

Good record keeping is a legal requirement, but it can also help you make more efficient personnel decisions and protect your business. There’s rarely time to spare to review employee files, but the small steps you can take today may help you avoid trouble in the future.

Whether paper or digital, what kinds of things should be in an employee file?

Other than name, address, payroll and other personal data, it’s best practice to have on hand any employment agreement currently in place, a copy of the resume or application form at hire, and any correspondence related to leaves or vacation time.

If your employees work on an hourly basis, you need to keep a record of hours worked each day and each week; if your employees are salaried, you must track any overtime. Requests for time off, leaves or illness should also be kept on file, along with any performance reviews or reprimands. All records should be securely stored, to protect sensitive information: if you keep paper files, keep them under lock and key, and if your records are digital, ensure they are well password protected.

As to previous employees, while it’s tempting to simply delete a file when someone has moved on, be aware that most Canadian jurisdictions require business owners to retain complete employee files for a period of at least three years after the employment relationship ceases. Don’t forget to include documentation around why an employee leaves–was the end amicable, did you provide a reference, and is the worker eligible for rehire in the future. Once you have exceeded the three-year period, ensure you shred or otherwise securely dispose of any sensitive documentation.

Given the stakes, it’s never been a better time to review your employee records.

Maintaining up to date, accurate files is not only your legal obligation as an employer, but a time and money saver that will help protect you and your business.

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Stay current, not exposed A next and critical step should be reviewing your current employee contracts. More often than not, business owners and managers assume once a new employee has signed on the dotted line, this process is complete, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Think carefully: have there been any title changes, or significant alterations to job responsibilities since these contracts were signed? Has anyone gone from full or part-time (or vice versa) due to shifting business needs? Whether you have one employee or 100, you need to be aware that any changes or alterations to original employment contracts can in fact nullify those agreements leaving you exposed to potential wrongful dismissal claims (and big payouts few businesses can afford to make). Consider the following example: ABC Contracting hired Bob back in 2017 on a one-year, full-time contract as an HVAC tech, and he’s carried on working there ever since. No further documents were ever signed, beyond the initial one year agreement. Sadly, due to COVID downturns, business has

slowed, and ABC decided to tell Bob he will be dropped down to part-time. Because they have no current contract in place, Bob can now refuse, quit, and make a claim against ABC for wrongful dismissal and it’s very likely he is going to win.

While they do have the right to set and change schedules, business owners must understand that Canadian courts operate under the assumption that employers have the upper hand in any employment relationship, and will generally favour the worker, especially when it comes to employment contracts that contain terms that are vague or long out of date. Taking the time to review your contracts now before any issues arise, can save you future headaches and dollars.

Don’t forget good performance While it’s easy to remember and document the “bad”complaints, missed shifts, or reprimands, it can be very helpful to have the “good” on file as well. Add copies of previous performance reviews, client recommendations, or compliments from customers to your employee files. This will help you track your strongest performers at a glance, and can save you extra work come performance review time.

Your business is your life’s work. Let’s protect it.

Run Your Business. Don’t Let It Run You. I thought I had a big business. We had three divisions that did a total of $7M. Truthfully, though, we were busy and exhausted, but we weren’t really profitable.

Today, we’re doing over $18M and are extremely profitable.

My managers are highly trained and effective leaders.

I enjoy coming to work again.

“Make a decision to improve your life, the lives of your employees, and the community you serve.”

Nexstar is the reason. Their coaches and trainers have taught us to run every part of our business.

-Brian Take control and run your business. Improve your Williams life, the lives of your employees, and the Ashton Service Group - Vancouver, BC community you serve. Join Nexstar and Nexstar Member since 2012 don’t look back.

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STUFF YOU NEED Thermal imaging camera The R2160 thermal imaging camera from Reed Instruments features a 160 x 120 (19,200 pixels) infrared sensor that can detect temperatures between 14 to 752°F (-10 to 400°C).

Features include a 2.8 in. colour LCD screen with a choice of five different colour palettes, an IP65 rated double-molded housing. It is drop tested up to 2 metres.

www. reedinstruments.com

Brushless tools The 20V Max brushless tools from Dewalt include a 7 ¼ in. circular saw 1/2 in. diameter hammer drill/driver, reciprocating saw, and a 4 1/2 in. to 5 in. cordless grinder. Each tool features Flexvolt Advantage technology that can recognize the battery attached and adjust power output accordingly.

www. dewalt.ca

Cut 1 PU coated gloves oves Protective gloves from Ballistik have a seamless 15 gauge nylon liner and durable polyurethane palm dipped coating. The gloves are lightweight with an extended cuff for improved dexterity. They are available in sizes from 6 to 11.

www. ballistik.ca

MEP workflow app SysQue version 8.0 app from Trimble is designed for mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) contractors to improve electrical, pipe, and duct workflows. Key additions include 3- and 4-point saddles to the electrical application, improved mechanical joint and flange x flange workflows, and automatic population of electrical auto reducers.

www. trimble.com

Milwaukee Tool’s lineup of new laser solutions and accessories includes two lasers on the M12 System, and three powered by Redlithium USB. M12 lasers provide over 15 hours of continuous run-time and visibility up to 125 ft. and 165 ft. of range with a laser detector. The USB batteries provide the equivalent consumption of 6,000 alkaline batteries. Additional accessories are also available.

www. milwaukeetool.ca M e c h a n i c a l

B u s i n e s s

Klein Tools safety helmets have been tested for top, side, front/back impact and penetration. The compact design allows for easy access to confined spaces and at-height applications. The helmets feature integrated chin straps, rechargeable headlamps, detachable visors, and pivot and ratchet adjustment.

www. ontor.com kleintools.com

Laser solutions and accessories

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Thank you...

to our readers for being there for Canada during COVID

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www.watts.ca

www.nexstarnetwork.com

www.drainbrain.com

www.ipexna.com

www.watcomfg.com

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National Sales Manager PAGE # C: 416.577.7687 45 T: 905.465.2919 x221 jeff.superle@mechanicalbusiness.com

WORTH A LOOK

What about the feds?

HOW DOES YOUR PROVINCE MEASURE UP ON THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY FRONT? British Columbia is first, Saskatchewan is last, Prince Edward Island is most improved, and the federal government needs to help all provinces ramp up to meet national energy efficiency goals. This is the message from the second annual Scorecard of provincial energy efficiency policies by a Carletonbased research organization, Efficiency Canada.

The 250-page report benchmarks Canadian provinces across 42 separate metrics, such as energy savings from public utility programs, electric vehicle registrations, building code adoption, and industrial energy management.

Energy efficiency has become a go-to solution to recover from COVID-19’s social and economic impacts in a way that promotes clean energy and long-term resilience. In 2020, the federal government committed to improving average energy intensity by three per cent per year, which is a tripling from current levels. Organizations such as the International Energy Agency and Canada’s Task Force for a Resilient Recovery recommend investing in building retrofits because it creates jobs, promotes spending in local economies, and spurs productive local investments.

“Most energy saving policies are implemented by the provinces, because they control areas such as public utility regulation and building

The report authors see the federal government playing an important role in bolstering provincial energy efficiency performance, identifying the following five federal policy priorities: • Using the low-carbon economy fund to expand energy efficiency programs as an immediate job creation strategy • Financing deeper energy retrofits • Introducing a national zeroemission vehicle mandate • Spurring the adoption of the 2020 national model buildings codes • Promoting industrial energy management systems

PROVINCIAL RATINGS

codes. The Scorecard tracks provincial performance and policy initiatives, while aiming to spur healthy competition amongst policymakers,” said the report’s lead author, James Gaede.

The Scorecard gave the top rank to British Columbia for the second year. The province is ahead in net-zero energy-ready building codes, electric vehicle registrations, industrial energy management systems, and low-carbon heating.

Prince Edward Island was the most improved province, and narrowly took the lead away from Nova Scotia in the report’s assessment of energy efficiency programs. PEI is now top in per capita program spending, with a strong emphasis on lowincome and Indigenous communities.

Quebec is second place and leads in the transportation category. This year, the province made its first update to energy efficiency standards for large buildings since 1983.

Saskatchewan is in last place, lagging in energy efficiency program savings and spending.

Alberta and Ontario both saw a significant drop in scores compared to the previous year. “The

= most improved

reduction in program budgets and savings in Ontario and Alberta have a significant national impact. If these trends continue, national efficiency and emission reduction goals could be out of reach,” noted Gaede.

All provinces have significant room to improve. On a scale with 100 available points, the highest score this year is 58 and the lowest 17.

The authors also note that energy efficiency is a policy area that should unite all provinces rather than creating regional conflicts. “Energy waste is everywhere, which makes it an energy resource that all provinces can benefit from. If the federal government enables provincial actions, and the provinces learn from each other, we can make federalism work for energy efficiency,” said co-author Brendan Haley.

Efficiency Canada intends to produce the Scorecard annually, and also manages a detailed provincial policy database. www.scorecard.efficiencycanada.org/2020

M e c h a n i c a l

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BTN

Compiled by Mechanical Business

BY THE NUMBERS

HOT AND COOL RUNNINGS 10 The amount of atomic bombs of energy a large hurricane releases. No wonder they call them “heat engines.”

GREAT MINDS

STRESS RELIEF Canadians are definitely feeling stress more than they used to.

Some of the greatest heating and plumbing inventions have a long history. Noteworthy dates include:

42% say they are feeling more stress vs.

3000 BC

five years ago.

The earliest standardized plumbing system of the Indus River Valley civilization.

45% say their work is their greatest cause of stress.

1200 BC

42% say exercise is the top activity for reducing stress.

The first known use of warm-air heating systems by the Romans.

A SLEEPING LESSON Sleep deprivation is never fun. There are plenty of good reasons why people need to get a good healthy dose of z’s.

1 in 2 Adults have trouble going to sleep or staying asleep.

1 in 3 Adults have trouble staying awake during waking hours.

36.3% Are poor sleepers who have chronic stress.

12.3% Are poor sleepers who report having mental health issues.

28 X 24 78 114

1596

The first flushing toilet was invented by John Harrington.

1882

Thomas Edison invents the first electric heater.

1939

Al Moen invents the single-handle faucet.

‘TIS THE SEASON This year’s hockey season may not be what it used to be. But here are some facts you can keep in mind for your next Zoom trivia round.

2,857 Wayne Gretzky’s NHL points record.

3,966 Most career penalty minutes by Maple Leaf’s Dave “Tiger” Williams.

108.8 MPH Fastest slapshot reported by Boston Bruins’ Zdeno Chara.

116 min. Longest overtime play: Detroit Red Wings vs. Montreal (1936). $94,613 Price of the most expensive hockey card ever sold: a mint condition Wayne Gretzky rookie card.

Feeling as if our long winter nights will never end? Guess again. The polar night lasts for around 28 twenty-four-hour periods. On the upside, it’s daytime in the Antarctic!

M e c h a n i c a l

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