intelligent hydronic controls

A Publication

february 2010vol. 11, no. 2A Contractor’s Guide to Drain Cleaning

Intelligent

Hydronic

Controls

Defining�the

contractor/

technology

interface

Story�begins�on�page�40

Circle 1 on Reader Reply Card

Simple as that.For 85 years, Ward malleable and cast iron fittings have formed, hardened and tumbled from molds in Blossburg, PA. Made by men and women who know the brand in their bones, count it in tons and wear iton their sleeves.

Rigorous testing, aggressive quality control and 100% recycled raw material. Cast or malleable, elbows, couplings or tees, forget call-backs. Ward fittings work the first time, every time.

Order to invoice, Ward’s 28 offices and 22 warehouses deliver. Accuracy, fill rates and answers are priority one. Every day, nationwide. It’s right, it’s fast, it’s done.

Get ready for reliability. Ward makes it easier. Simple as that.

Reliability.Reliability.

Famous Ward fittings.Famous Ward fittings.

©©2009


4 Phc News — FEBRUARY 2010In thIs Issue

www.webstonevalves.comTel: (800) 225-9529 • Fax (800) 336-5133

THE PAST CANNOT PREDICT

THE FUTURE

“Very practical and high quality” Dane Anderson, APHAC, Galva, IL

“Great valve, saves so much time!” Richy Becker

Becker’s Plumbing & HeatingScranton, PA

“Also perfect for Solar”Chris Warfel, Entech Engineering

Block Island, RI

• Installs in half the time

• Less leak paths—full fl ow

• Available 1/2"– 2" IPS and SWT

• Use it after the water meter

• Use it in pre-fab headers

• Use it anywhere you need a ball valve and a drain

G U A R A N T E E D F O R L I F E

What’s in your future?


www.phcnews.com

Owner

Tom M. Brown, Jr.

Chief EditorJohn MesenbrinkManaging EditorJames SchaibleContributing EditorsMary Jo MartinMark BrunoRichard DiTomaMorris R. BeschlossDan HolohanEllen RohrBristol Stickney

Production ManagerCate C. BrownAdministrative AssistantSadie Bechtold

Editorial Offices1838 Techny Court

Northbrook, IL 60062Phone: 847/564-1127Fax: 847/564-1264,

[email protected]

Sales OfficesDavid Schulte, PublisherMidwest, Southeast,Eastern Canada

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Fax: 847/[email protected]

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Direct subscriptioninquiries to:Cynthia LewisCreative Data Services519 E. Briarcliff RoadBolingbrook, IL [email protected] 630-739-0900 x203Fax: 630-739-7648

TMB Publishing, Inc.

Tom M. Brown Jr., President

plumbing & hydronic contractor news

DepartmentsGuide to drain cleaners – pg. 44

Clearing crud& gunk fromhotel’s hydronics– pg. 52

Clearing crud& gunk fromhotel’s hydronics– pg. 52

ColumnsDAN HOLOHAN: King Charles II liked jellies, so we got relief valves . .20ELLEN ROHR: Can you get away with lying to yourself? . . . . . . . . . .22BRISTOL STICKNEY: Solar energy makes a great pool heater . . . . . . . . .24JOHN BARBA: You’re not a commodity, so don’t behave like one . . . . . .28RICHARD DITOMA: Give your techs tools for pricing jobs . . . . . . . . . . . .30MORRIS BESCHLOSS: Battling Washington as economy picks up steam . . . .32

Field ReportsTaco air & dirt separator puts hotel’s hydronic system in the clear . . .52

In the News1,800+ exhibitors at AHR Show; exhibitors, attendees pleased . . .6Elkhart Brass freezes prices; RIDGID intros online tool for pros using digital info . . . . . . . .8THE PULSE: Portable torches; fuel prices on the rise . . . . . . . . . .10Taco, Mestek training schedules . .12Metropolitan Green Tech Expo draws good attention . . . . . . . .14PHCC’s “Fix a Leak” Week to highlight water conservation; MCAA adds speakers for 2010 . .17Product, Tool News . . . . . . . .54, 55Movers & Shakers . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Features cont.Cable vs. Jetters: A handy drain cleaner guide . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

From the EditorsAHR Show attendance up for 2010, observers see a brighter economic picture . . . . . . . . . .58

38 Lead-free bellwethersLead no longer is tolerated in manufacturedproducts, especially plumbing products that con-tact potable water. This month Phc News introduces abi-monthly page devoted to all things lead-free, from legislation tocodes to products to innovations.

48 Heat-pump water heatersWater heating via integrated heat pumps is a relatively new concept,so we present the facts and clear up the misconceptions surroundingthis highly efficient means of generating hot water for consumerand commercial use.

Features

On the Cover

There was a time that a hydronic systemtook its instructions from a simple thermo-stat; the building needed heat and the sys-tem switched on. Those wasteful days areover as intelligent controls manage all ofthe building’s HVAC and hydronics via a sin-gle network control system. Check out thisgrowing opportunity on page 40.

LEAD

[email protected]

Tel: (800) 225-9529 • Fax (800) 336-5133

P A T E N T E D T E C H N O L O G Y

WE HEARD YOU LOUD AND CLEAR

“The EXP works very well, and when you add up all the components, leak paths and installation

time… these kits are very economical.”James Fye, Owner

A-Able Plumbing Inc., Broadway, VA

“The EXP valve is the greatest thing since sliced bread when it comes to tankless water

heater installations and fl ushing systems!”Richard Wetze, CEO

William North Co Inc., Jackson, MI

“The EXP is well designed, hammer down, the best in the business. Webstone gives you the

ability to install and walk away.” Eric Rowland, Supervisor

Waterworks Plumbing, Davis, CA

MORE CHOICES• Sizes ½"-1"• IPS, SWT, and Push Connections• Standard & High BTU PRV options• Complete Installation Kits

MORE SECURITY• IAPMO certifi ed to:

· cUPC, ICG 157 · NSF/ANSI 61-8 · AB 1953

• Longest History in the Field• Lifetime Warranty

THAN ANY OTHER OPTION. PERIOD.


6 Phc News — FEBRUARY 2010

WESTPORT, CONN. — Reflecting animproving economy, a total of 1,813companies showcased their latestproducts and technologies to morethan 35,000 HVAC/R professionals atthe 62nd AHR Expo, the world’slargest HVAC/R exclusive event, heldJan. 25-27 in Orlando.According to show management,

the number of exhibitors was only

slightly off from other recent AHRExpos. In addition, more than 200companies signed on to exhibit atthe Show for the first time. Morethan 375 companies came fromfrom outside the U.S. Before the event, Clay Stevens,

president of show organizer Interna-tional Exposition Company, said,“The timing of the 2010 AHR Expo isvery beneficial to the HVAC/R industryand the overall economy. We expectthat there is already some pent updemand for new products and tech-nologies and that thousands of buy-

ers from around the world will becoming to the Show to make pur-chasing decisions.”Stevens added that government

incentives are helping to fuel a grow-ing demand for energy-efficient/green products and many of thesetechnologies were on display for thefirst time at the event. Also, dozensof educational sessions were dedi-cated to energy related topics.The International Energy Agency

sponsored for the first time at AHRExpo a workshop “Solar Air-Condi-tioning and Refrigeration.” Nearly 60companies showed solar productsand several hundred exhibited en-ergy-efficient and IAQ products.Industry experts provided educa-

tional perspectives on such topics asenergy efficiency; energy saving andreclaiming; building control and au-tomation; green building initiatives/sustainability; mold and moisture; al-ternative energy sources and more.The show also included special fea-

tures that offered practical informa-tion, certification and in many cases,continuing education credits in build-ing automation and control; software;certification testing sessions; and ed-ucational sessions and workshopspresented by AHR Expo and its en-dorsing associations. ASHRAE pre-sented 19 short courses.For information, log on to www

.ahrexpo.com.

ONTARIO, CALIF. — IAPMO R&T hascompleted electrical and plumbingcertifications for Sparks, Nev.-basedHaws Corporation, manufacturer ofdrinking fountains, eyewash stationsand emergency equipment. In all, four products have been for-

mally certified to U.S. and Canadianelectrical/plumbing standards forsale in North America: Both theModel 2000 and 2000SM HydrationStations, the Model 7500EB HeatedEyewash Station and the ModelTWBS.EW.H Tempered Water Blend-ing System. All of these products in-clude plumbing and electric

components and have been compre-hensively certified as compliant tothe standards governing both as-pects of their use. In addition to these new certifica-

tions, Haws has certified all of itsdrinking fountain models to the Uni-form Plumbing Code® and Section116875 of the California Health andSafety Code, the state’s recently-en-acted low-lead plumbing law. Hawsentrusts its certification needs toIAPMO R&T due to the certificationbody’s long-standing reputation inthe industry and support of sustain-ability and emerging technology.

1,800 companies at AHR Expo,including 200 new exhibitors

Industry news

Burj Khalifa uses Charlotte Pipe’s cast iron CHARLOTTE, N.C. — When an architectural wonder chooses Charlotte Pipe’s cast ironsoil pipe and fittings, that says something — especially when that structure isthe Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. The tower is impressive; at morethan 2,700 feet high, it can be seen from 60 miles away. It’s more than twicethe size of the Empire State Building. The top of the Burj Khalifa has a publicobservation deck and shop, and there is a 160-room hotel that will occupy thelower part of the tower. There also are more than 1,000 apartments, 49 floors ofoffice space and 58 elevators that can travel 33 feet per second.Charlotte’s pro-motional material (right) uses stacked cast-iron pipe to mimic the tower itself.

BLÜCHER now part ofWatts Water TechnologiesSPINDALE, N.C. — BLÜCHER NorthAmerica announced that it is nowpart of the Watts Water Technolo-gies family. Formerly sold under the

BLÜCHER-Josam name, BLÜCHERNorth America will continue tooffer its large line of stainless steeldrain, shower, channel and pipeproducts. The BLÜCHER productoffering will compliment the exten-sive line of drainage products cur-

rently offered by Watts.BLÜCHER is a worldwide manu-

facturer of stainless steel drainage &pipe solutions with 45 years experi-

ence. Core products includepush-fit pipe and fittings,shower/bath drains for pre-mium commercial and resi-dential applications, anddrain and channel productsfor a wide range of commer-cial and industrial applica-tions such as food service,industrial manufacturingand processing, brewery,laboratory, pharmaceutical,

and marine specifications.BLÜCHER North America will be

based in here and Burlington, On-tario. For more information, log onto www.BLUCHERdrains.com in theU.S. or www.BLUCHERdrains.ca inCanada.

“The timing of the 2010AHR Expo is very beneficialto the HVAC/R industry and

the overall economy. We expectthat there is already somepent up demand for new

products and technologies.”

Haws gains electrical, plumbingcertification from IAPMO R&T

MOUNT PROSPECT, ILL.— HVAC Excel-lence announced that the HomeDepot is pledging more than$1,000,000 in scholarships to supportHVACR and construction programs.This year’s program will not only

support individual students, butalso the schools they attend. Specif-ically, $1,000 scholarships will beavailable to 500 trade school stu-dents to help them offset the cost oftuition, books and tools for theirchosen trade. In addition, theschools of the scholarship recipi-ents will receive matching funds of

$1,000 for classroom tools from TheHome Depot Foundation.Scholarship applications will be

accepted through April 30, 2010.The scholarship program is open toall students nationwide who are cur-rently enrolled in a building andconstruction trade school programat a vocational/technical school, col-lege, or university. Winners will beselected based on a combination ofacademic performance, leadershipand work experience. For additional information visit

www.hvacexcellence.org.

Home Depot pledges $1 million forstudent scholarships in construction trades

Showing our true colors.

Brewster NY P: 800-431-2082 F: 800-640-2252 Houston TX P: 800-935-5456 F: 800-683-4247P: 866-532-8306 F: 866-532-8307 P: 800-433-7526 F: 800-533-5134

Starting January 1, 2010, California’s new law, CA AB1953, prohibits the “use of any pipe, pipe �tting or plumbing �xture, solder, or �ux that is not lead-free” in public water systems. We’re not waiting around; we will have all the lead-free* product you would expect us to have, in advance of this date, and will work with you on this worthwhile e�ort. No wonder we’re the leading supplier of globally sourced, code compliant plumbing and PVF products. Look for the Matco-Norca Lead Free logo and buy with con�dence.

* Lead-free products contain less than .25% weighted average lead content on wetted surfaces.

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ELKHART, IND. — Elkhart Brass Man-ufacturing Co., Inc. announced thatElkhart’s 2010 product pricing willremain at the 2009level. The 2009price list will beupdated to reflectnew product offer-ings, but will notcontain any priceincreases.

“We listen to ourcustomers when developing newproducts, and this situation is no dif-ferent. We heard how our friendsand colleagues were sufferingthrough this economic downturnand are doing what we can to standwith them,” notes Scott Warbritton,Director of Sales – U.S. Municipal

Market. “I’m proud that ElkhartBrass, as a company, can be a goodcorporate citizen to the U.S. econ-

omy and partnerwith our dealersand customers inthese tough times.”

Updates to the2010 price list willinclude: the newSidewinder EXMproduct line, sev-

eral new Unibody actuators and ac-cessories, the oscillating 3890nozzle, plus several other productadditions. Elkhart’s most recentprice list and catalog are alwaysavailable electronically through theElkhart Brass website, www.elkhartbrass.com.

Barnett named asauthorized Kohler distributor

JACKSONVILLE, FLA. — Barnett, a leading national supplier of plumbing, elec-trical, and HVAC products, announced today that it has added Kohlerplumbing products to its expansive plumbing offering.

Barnett now stocks over 100 mod-els of Kohler faucets, toilets, urinals,and lavatories in its distribution cen-ters across the country. In additionto the stocked products, Barnett cansupply its customers with all otherKohler plumbing products throughBarnett’s factory-direct department.

ority Access Passes to the SecondAnnual Fenway Yard Sale on Decem-ber 12th. We were thrilled that ourcustomers embraced this special op-portunity, as this is what our part-nership with the Boston Red Sox isall about.”

Online registration took placestarting at 9 a.m. on Dec. 4th andwithin a few hours all 150 author-ized spots were taken. After FenwayYard Sale registration was closed,visitors were invited to register towin two free tickets for Opening Dayat Fenway Park on April 5th, whenthe Red Sox will host the Yankees.

One week after the Fenway YardSale, a random drawing was held andAH Thermo Heating & Cooling ofExeter, N.H. won the two OpeningDay tickets. Mike O’Shea, generalmanager of F.W. Webb’s Dover, N.H.branch, had the pleasure of deliver-ing the news.

According to the Red Sox organi-zation, F.W. Webb contractors pur-chased more than $10 thousand inRed Sox memorabilia and souvenirsat The Fenway Yard Sale, where theselection of items included some ofthe last remaining seats in FenwayPark from the .406 Club, LogeSeats, Roof Seats, game-worn jer-seys, Fenway Park bricks, signedmemorabilia, baseballs, bats, art-work and other miscellaneousitems.

The Fenway Yard Sale is not opento the public. A select group of fansis randomly chosen to attend thesale and pre-registered Webb Con-tractors were given priority accessthis year on the day before itopened.

Elkhart Brass to hold pricing

Industry news

ORLANDO, FLA. – RIDGID®, a manu-facturer of hand and power tools in-cluding multiple digital inspectionproducts, announced the launch ofRIDGIDConnect™ — a subscrip-tion-based, online business tool de-signed for service professionals andcontractors who create or use digi-

tal information. A first-of-its-kindplatform, RIDGIDConnect providesthe ability to share and store digitalassets such as diagnostic job sitephotos and videos, job reports andhistories, maintenance records,customer lists and other businessfiles, which in turn simplifies exter-nal and internal communication, as

well as the recordkeeping process.“While developing RIDGIDCon-

nect, we conducted hundreds ofhours of research with professionalsto identify their needs and makesure the tool could easily andquickly be adopted to help managetheir digital assets,” said Jay Gatz,

vice president of strategicplanning, RIDGID. “Based onour research, we were able todevelop an online businesssolution so professionals likeplumbers, HVAC techniciansand facility managers, have

the opportunity to consolidate andaccess items associated with a par-ticular job in one location, thencommunicate this information withpertinent parties, thus increasingtheir effectiveness and efficiency.We like to say it’s an electronicmedical record for each of theircustomers.”

Fenway Yard Sale a hit with F.W. Webb contractorsBEDFORD, MASS. — Friday, Decem-ber 4th saw more visitors onfwwebb.com, the website for NewEngland’s largest plumbing/heat-ing/cooling and industrial productsdistributor, F.W. Webb Company,than any single day since its launchseveral years ago.

“We had more than 2200 visits onthat one weekday,” said Jeff Pope,president of the family-owned com-pany. “The visitors came largelyfrom our promotion to register for achance to gain one of 150 Webb Pri-

RIDGID® Launches RIDGIDConnect™


The

Pulse

A more mobile torch system traordinaire. Every month, HACKMAN

shares insight from his 25+ years inthe tool industry.

Soldering and brazing in tightspaces is sure to be a source of frus-tration for many. Trying to fit thesomewhat bulky handheld 14.1 oz.or 16.92 oz. gas cylinders into smallspaces can be impossible at times.The torch fits, but the cylinder in-hibits range of motion. If you can’tget close, it’s difficult to getthe flame close enough toheat the piece which canadd time to an al-ready challengingjob.

The LENOX Mo-bile TorchSystemII (MTSII) mightbe the an-swer toyour frustrations. Among its manyfeatures, the 12½' hose extends yourreach and access in any job situation— crawl space, attic, under cabinets,on ladders and more; making thereach to the heat surface much lessof a strain.

The MTS II carrying case holds ei-

tool tips

with Hackman


Tool Tips feature trade tips from Lee “HACKMAN”Breton, marketing services manager for LENOX,team hackman event manager and car cutter ex-

U.S. average 2.705

East Coast 2.723

New England 2.752

Central Atlantic 2.749

Lower Atlantic 2.696

Midwest 2.624

Gulf Coast 2.587

Rocky Mountain 2.622

West Coast 2.940

California 3.008

Fue

Meta

*Copper $3.10/lb.

fifi

fifi

fifi

fifi

fifi

Gasoline

Area $/gal. Change

fi

Prices valid as of 1/25/10. Fuel information courtesy http://tonto.eia.doe.gov/oog/info/gdu/gasdiesel.asp. Ar * Copper & Aluminum prices according to metalpric

ther two 16.92 oz. Fat Boy™ MxPower Propylene/Propane or two 14.1oz. gas cylinders, or one of each. Andthe expanded accessory storage hasenough room to securely hold yourtubing cutter, solder, flux, brushesand more — eliminating the need tocarry multiple bags on the job.

Another great feature is the pro-tection of all your torch and solder-ing accessories. The tip holderprotects and cools tips after use andthe MTS II case protects the gascylinders, tools and other solderingaccessories which allow for a quickpack up and move onto the next job.

The LENOX Mobile Torch Systemadds tons of convenience to yourday, but it is always important tokeep these safety tips in mind whentransporting gas:

Transportation and proper use of gas

• When transporting a gas cylin-der, there are many things to keep inmind in order to maintain a saferworkplace.

• When cylinders are hoisted,they should be secured on a cradle,sling board or pallet.

• Cylinder valves should alwaysbe in the off position and all gas

bleed from the hoses tips, regulatorand handle before transporting.

• Cylinders moved in a truck, van,car or other powered vehicle shouldalways be transported in the uprightposition. Always secure gas cylinders

to the vehicle so they do not moveor tip over during transport.

• Always close cylinder and regu-lator valves when transporting, whenthe cylinder is empty and when thework is complete.

When transporting cylinders withregulator, it is also important to se-cure other tools to prevent the pos-sibility of falling and breaking off theregulator. �


Phc News — FEBRUARY 2010 11

The

Pulse

uels

etals

*Aluminum $.93/lb.

diesel

$

U.S. average 2.833

East Coast 2.883

New England 3.055

Central Atlantic 2.986

Lower Atlantic 2.823

Midwest 2.790

Gulf Coast 2.800

Rocky Mountain 2.817

West Coast 2.915

California 2.987

fifi

fifi

fifi

fifi

fifi

Area $/gal. Change

fi

ourtesy of the U.S. Department of Energyasp. Arrows indicate change from previous issue.

talprices.com.

Jay R. Smith Mfg. Co.® offers a variety of

Green Building Products, Webinars, CaseStudies and Specification Guidelinesto help make it easier to be green.The green movement is redefining everything we believe about building products, transportinggoods, conserving resources and in constructing buildings. It is not just a good idea, it is the right idea. It was conceived with the notion that wecan build a healthier environment around us,where we work and live.

It shows us that we can build buildings,manufacture products and move peopleand goods in a way that is good for us all.

On-Line Training and Continuing Education(CEU/LU) for the Design ProfessionalA wide range of webinars, educationsessions and presentations areavailable at www.jrsmith.com.

To learn more about these greenproducts visit the Green Building Products section of www.jrsmith.com


CRANSTON, R.I. — Taco’s FloPro Fac-tory Training offers a broad range ofprofessional development opportu-

nities for plumbing and heating con-tractors in 2010. Participants learnto grow their hydronic expertise andboost profitability. All classes offeruseful information and hands-on ex-perience.

In addition to the ‘Compleat’Boiler Room, and Hydronic HeatLoss 7 Design, the company hasadded a new course, “Hydronic Con-trol Strategies”, all of which nowhappen at five locations nationwide.All classes are NATE-Recognized andNORA Approved.

Tuition for all Taco FloPro Factory

Training course is $289 and includestwo days of training, hotel accom-modations for two nights, groundtransport, meals and extras (thoughairfare to the host city is not in-cluded).

Course scheduleLocation: Taco, Inc., Cranston, RI

• Feb. 11-12: The ‘Compleat’Boiler Room

• Feb. 25-26: Hydronic Heat Lossand Design

• March 11-1: The ‘Compleat’Boiler Room

• March 25-26: Hydronic ControlStrategies

• April 8-9: The ‘Compleat’ BoilerRoom

• April 22-23: Hydronic ControlStrategies

• June 24-25: The ‘Compleat’Boiler Room

• July 8-9: Hydronic Heat Lossand Design

• Sept 23-24: Hydronic ControlStrategies

• Oct. 21-22: The ‘Compleat’Boiler Room

‘Factory’ training on the roadMinneapolis(location to be announced)

• April 15-16: The ‘Compleat’Boiler Room

• May 13-14: Hydronic ControlStrategies

• May 20-21: Hydronic Heat Lossand Design

• June 17-18: The ‘Compleat’Boiler Room Denver (location to be announced)

• June 10-11: The ‘Compleat’

Boiler Room • August 5-6: Hydronic Control

Strategies • Sept 9-10: Hydronic Heat Loss

and Design New Jersey(location to be announced)

• July 29-30: The ‘Compleat’Boiler Room

• August 19-20: Hydronic ControlStrategies Philadelphia (location to be announced)

• Oct. 7-8: The ‘Compleat’ BoilerRoom

Taco’s Factory Training is avail-able only to members of Taco’s Flo-Pro Team, the free contractortraining and development program.If you aren’t already a member of theFloPro Team, learn more about theprogram and register at www.flopro-team.com.

Taco expands 2010 FloPro factory trainingtraInInG and seMInars


Kohler seminars to helpcontractors profit in 2010FALLS CHURCH, VA. — Kohler Co. an-nounced that a $25,000 contributionhas been made to the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (PHCC)Educational Foundation in supportof the 2010 Kohler/Foundation Sem-inar Series. The Seminar Series pro-gram delivers high qualityeducational sessions to contractorson the local level via live seminarevents and online webinars.

“We are proud to have Kohler’ssupport of the Seminar Series,” saidFoundation Chairperson Bill Jones.“Contractors are looking for everytool they can find to help them sur-

vive this ride through uncertaintimes. Thanks to Kohler, the Foun-dation will continue to provide sem-inars and training that helpcontractors identify new businessopportunities and keep them pro-ductive and profitable.”

Kohler has been a major supporterof the PHCC Educational Foundationfor more than 20 years and is aCharter Founder level donor to theFoundation’s Endowment Fund.Combined past and present contri-butions from Kohler total more than$1.2 million in support of industryeducation.

Mestek Institute announces2010 training scheduleWESTFIELD, MASS. — The Mestek In-stitute announced the 2010 BoilerPerformance Optimization Seminarschedule. These free training semi-nars provide three days of trainingwith some of the industry’s mostknowledgeable instructors. Topicscovered include system design andmaintenance, venting, controls,combustion and start-up proce-dures. Attendees will leave the sem-inar with the knowledge to ensurehigher system efficiency and loweroperating costs. Additionally, atten-dees will earn up to 16 continuingeducation hours.

Seminars will be held in one oftwo Mestek Institute sites located inBoyertown, Pa. and Mississauga, On-tario, Canada. Classes for 2010 are

being offered on the following dates:• February 23 - 25 (Pa.)• March 9 - 11 (Ontario) • March 23 - 25 (Pa.)• April 20 - 22 (Ontario) • May 4 - 6 (Pa.)• May 18 - 20 (Ontario)• June 22 - 24 (Pa.)• July 20 – 24 (Ontario)• Aug 17 – 19 (Pa.)• Sept 14 – 16 (Ontario)• Sept 28 -30 (Ontario)• Oct 12 -14 (Ontario)• Oct 26 – 28 (Pa.)For more information, log on to

www.MestekInstitute.com

14 Phc News — FEBRUARY 2010Industry

news


ROMEOVILLE, ILL. — The 2009 GreenTechnology Expo held at Metropoli-tan Industries, and co-sponsored byGrundfos Pump Corporation in Sep-tember attracted more than 200people interested in such technolo-gies and variable speed circulators,solar technology, rainwater harvest-ing and more.

The focus of the event was to ed-ucate and inform decision makersregarding “Green” pumping tech-nologies through displays demon-strating wind and solar power, graywater recycling, rainwater harvest-

ing, eco-friendly waste treatment,variable speed pumping technologyand other energy conservationtechniques.

“Preserving our natural resourcesis the responsibility of every individ-ual and it is great to see our localbusinesses partner to provide infor-mation on advanced green technolo-gies as displayed at the expo,” saidRomeoville Mayor John Noak whoattended the event.

“We commend Metropolitan In-dustries and the other businesses onthis successful event,” said MayorNoak.

Featured during the event wasGrundfos Pump Corporation’s 1500sq. ft. tractor trailer display that trav-els the country educating customersabout the world’s only variable speedcirculator pump known as Alpha.The Alpha incorporates a permanentmagnet motor design that reducespower consumption by 50%.

Another event highlight includedtouring Metropolitan’s 800-sq.-ft.Metro Green Display demonstrat-ing almost every advance in greentechnology all under one roof. This

display is off the city’s electric andwater grids and allows visitors tosee exactly what it takes to becomeenergy and water independent.Features include a wind and solarwater well, on-site wastewatertreatment, solar domestic hotwater and radiant floor heating,rain water harvesting for irrigationand laundry, gray water recyclingfor use in the lavatories, a wholehouse inverter and more.

Throughout the day seminarswere conducted on various greentopics such as, “Energy Savings

through Air Elimination,” “Advancesin Chemical Dosing,” “Energy Con-servation related to Pumping Appli-cations” and the most popular of theday, “Water Harvesting and Recy-cling Design,” which attracted morethan 115 attendees.

As a system supplier of wind,solar, rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems, Metropol-itan Industries has taken a leader-ship role by educating decisionmakers through public and privatespecial events to help contractors,plumbers, engineers and inspectorsnavigate their way through thisnew frontier of opportunity.

This proactive stance allows as-sociation groups, universities, gov-ernment leaders, decision makersand others the chance to witness allgreen technologies on the marketand take theory to a new level byactually applying it in the field forall to see.

Metropolitan Industries will con-tinue to be an advocate for educa-tion and awareness and encouragesall who are interested to visitwww.MetroGreen.US.

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LAS VEGAS — American ExpressOPEN®, a leading issuer of paymentcard products for small businessowners, and Lowe’s Companies,Inc., a leading home improvementretailer, announced the launch of anew credit card for business owners. The Lowe’s Business Rewards

Card — http://www201.americanex-p r e s s . c om /bus ine s s - c r ed i t -cards/business-card-details/lowes-business-rewards-credit-card — fromAmerican Express is a new businesscredit card that enables businessowners to earn points on virtually allcard purchases. This is the first re-wards program offered to Lowe’ssmall business credit customers. “Every month, we provide billions

of dollars in working capital to smallbusiness owners who use our pay-in-full charge cards and our credit

cards,” said Richard Flynn, seniorvice president, product management,American Express OPEN. “Throughthe Lowe’s Business Rewards Card<http://www201.americanexpress.com/business-credit-cards/business-card-details/lowes-business-rewards-credit-card> program, we will helpbusiness owners manage their spend-ing and provide credit that they canuse to run and grow their companieswhile earning rewards they can rein-vest in their businesses.”The new card provides a tiered

structure for earning rewards points.Cardmembers earn: • One reward point for every eli-

gible dollar spent on the Card; • Double rewards points on every

eligible dollar spent at Lowe’s; and • Triple rewards points on every

eligible dollar spent on restaurant

purchases, office supplies and wire-less bills. Card members can redeem points

for a variety of valuable businesscredit card rewards, including Lowe’sor American Express Gift Cards.There is no cap on the amount ofbusiness rewards a Card membercan earn, and there is no expirationdate to redeem the points. “The Lowe’s Business Rewards

Card is the latest way our companyis adding value for our commercialcustomers through a unique blend ofbenefits and rewards,” said Larry D.Stone, president and chief operatingofficer of Lowe’s. “Lowe’s has alwaysbeen committed to providing thebest customer experience and thisnew product offers convenience andrewards at a time when businessowners need it most.”

Additional benefits include: • No annual fee; • Automatic enrollment in OPEN

Savings, a program that gives smallbusiness owners automatic savingsvirtually every time they use anAmerican Express Business Card tomake purchases at any OPEN Sav-ings partner; and • Retail and business-related ben-

efits and protections such as Pur-chase Protection, ExtendedWarranty, Online Fraud Protection,Emergency Card Replacement, Iden-tity Theft Assistance, EmergencyCheck Cashing, Online AccountManagement and Reporting tools.American Express OPEN is dedi-

cated exclusively to the success ofsmall business owners and theircompanies. OPEN supports businessowners with exceptional service.With products and services tailoredto small businesses, the team deliv-ers purchasing power, flexibility, con-trol and rewards to help customersrun their businesses.

American Express OPEN® and Lowe’s launch newcredit card for small businesss owners

Industry news

SmartPlate Water Heaters are designedto work with condensing boilers in low-temp systems.

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+5ºF Approach TemperatureThe plate heat exchanger design is so efficient that the boiler water only has to be 5°F warmer than the desired DHW temperature:• Maximizes boiler efficiency• Reduces radiation losses• Reduces energy costs• Reduces scale build-up

Precise Temperature Control Precise temperature control in an instantaneous heater without relying onblending/mixing valves or storage tanks.• ±2ºF under steady state• ±4ºF under normal load changes• ±10ºF no load to full load

Fully-packaged SolutionsEach unit ships fully assembled.This includes: control panel and sensors,potable water side circulator with clean outconnections, DHW drain valve, as well asshut-off valves and inlet strainers on boththe boiler water and DHW sides.

Stop overpaying to overheat your boiler water!


FALLS CHURCH, VA. — Because minorwater leaks account for more thanone trillion gallons of water wastedeach year in U.S. homes, the Plumb-ing-Heating-Cooling Contractors —National Association (PHCC) is pro-moting “Fix a Leak Week,” March15-21, 2010. Fix a Leak Week is

sponsored by the U.S. Environmen-tal Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) Wa-terSense® program as an annualreminder to Americans to checkhousehold plumbing fixtures and ir-rigation systems for leaks. “Leaks can add up to more than

10,000 gallons of water wasted at

home every year — that’s enough tofill a backyard swimming pool,” saidPHCC president Skip Pfeffer. “Astrained professionals, PHCC is partic-ipating in Fix a Leak Week to advisehomeowners on how to save moneyon their utility bills and to help con-serve water in our community andfor future generations.” WaterSense-labeled toilets,

faucets, and showerheads have beenindependently tested and certified tosave water and perform as well as orbetter than standard models. Forinfo, visit www.epa.gov/watersense. For more information on Fix a

Leak Week, visit www.epa.gov/watersense/fixaleak.For more info, www.phccweb.org.

PHCC promotes EPA’s ‘Fix a Leak Week’

Industry news


New speakers added for MCAA 2010

KC1000 Gas-Fired Water Heaters• Market Proven for 22 Years• 1 Million BTU/hr.• 20:1 Turndown• 93%-99% Efficiency• ±4°F Temperature Control• 78"H x 22"W x 57"D• Natural Gas or Propane• Optional Low NOx Burner• 6" Vent Size

WaterWizard Helitherm Heaters• Self-Descaling Hx Design • ±4°F Temperature Control• 90-99% Thermal Efficiency• Impervious to Thermal Shock• No Traps or Tanks Required• <4 ft2 Footprint• Pneumatic or Electronic Controls• Family of Steam-to-Water &Water-to-Water Units

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U-Tube Double Wall Heaters• UL Listed Steam-to-Water& Water-to-Water Heaters

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ROCKVILLE, MD. — The MechanicalContractors Association of America,Inc. (MCAA) has added several newspeakers to the program for its upcom-ing annual convention, MCAA 2010 —Your Bridge to Success. The conven-tion will take place March 28–April 1in San Francisco.New speakers who will provide the

tools contractors need in order to meetthe challenges of these tough eco-nomic times include:• John Koontz, director of MCAA’s

National Education Initiative, on the

Upside of the Downturn;• ENR’s Stephen Jones on Lessons

Learned: The Keys to Building YourBridge to Success; and• Attorney Michael Duffee on Un-

funded Pension Liability: Everything aContractor Should Know.Previously announced speakers

Economist Brian Beaulieu and FMI’sLee Smither will also help contractorsnavigate through this difficult eco-nomic period.Lawrence P. Carr, Ph.D. will help

contractors with day-to-day business

challenges. His session on DeliveringResults: Managing What Matters joinsthose by featured presenters KeithFerrazzi (Who’s Got Your Back?), TomFlick (Ready for What’s Next) and Dr.Paul Stoltz (AQ — Building Excep-tional Resilience).Two new sessions will help contrac-

tors who are seeking or want to renewtheir LEED® credentials. New Technolo-gies, Lessons and Market Opportunitiesin Water Conservation, Reuse and Re-cycling with Jerry Yudelson, LEED AP, willdiscuss the findings of a 2009 researchproject funded by MCAA’s MechanicalContracting Education & Research

Foundation.In Opportunities in Net Zero Energy

Buildings, Tim Wentz, P.E., LEED AP andother industry professionals will explainthis potential business opportunity.Additional industry insiders added to

the schedule to assist contractors inplotting their course to business growth:• Kevin Armistead, Don Brown, Jr.

and Ken Durr, on How to Set Up a PeerGroup• Robert Lake and Richard Starr on

Best Practices for Success in the Serv-ice Industry• Members of MCAA’s Manufac-

(Turn to MCAA, page 18.)


SARASOTA, FLA. — Clockwork HomeServices is excited to announce thatits three franchising brands — Ben-jamin Franklin Plumbing®, MisterSparky®, One Hour Air Conditioning& Heating will appear in an upcom-ing episode of the series of NBC’sCelebrity Apprentice, debuting onMarch 14. “In this season of Celebrity Ap-

prentice, we challenge the celebri-ties to raise the creative bar forthree familiar home service brands:Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, OneHour Heating Air Conditioning andMister Sparky, ” said John Young,CMO of Clockwork Home Services.“This was a huge Apprentice first,in that it not only features a homeservice brand, but encompasses allthree of our franchises together.The celebrity contestants wereasked to create a catchy commer-

cial highlighting the punctualityand dependability of our brands,and we were really impressed withthe quality of their work.”The project of each celebrity team

was to create a commercial for thebrands, with the winning team’scommercial airing at the end of theprogram.

Clockwork gets rankingClockwork Home Services also an-

nounced that its companies: OneHour Air Conditioning & Heating®

Franchising, Benjamin FranklinPlumbing® Franchising, and MisterSparky® Franchising are currentlyrecognized in the January 2010 issueof Entrepreneurmagazine’s 31st An-nual Franchise 500 ranking.Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

Franchising is ranked #143; while,One Hour Air Conditioning & Heat-

ing and Mister Sparky® Franchisingranked #171 and #398 respectivelyin this prestigious listing. One HourHeating and Air Conditioning tookthe #1 spot in the HVAC category.“We’re thrilled to be recognized

on the Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500list, which is considered the world’sbest and most comprehensive fran-chise ranking,” said Denise Swaf-ford, vice president of innovation forClockwork Home Services, Inc.“We take great pride in our pur-

suit of excellence. This is a signifi-cant recognition that will helppropel us forward while improvingthe value we deliver to contractorsin the home services industry,”Swafford said.

Enterpeneur magazine compilesits list based on companies’ financialstrength and stability, growth rateand size of the franchise system.

Clockwork Home Services to appear on ‘Celebrity Apprentice’; achieves Entrepreneur magazine’s top 500 ranking

Industry news

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New speakers addedfor MCAA 2010

(Continued from page 17.)turer/Supplier Council on Tips for“Buying American”• Walter Sperko on Welding and

Braz ing – Are You Managing Your Risks?• John Yale on Standard for Excel-

lence—Taking the Next StepsThese speakers join previously an-

nounced industry insiders Lee andTerry Resnick and William Waters.These business-oriented sessions

will join presentations by these majorsession speakers who will inform andinspire:• Former Secretary of State Con-

doleezza Rice will be the Opening Ses-sion speaker, will offer important.• San Francisco 49ers Head Coach

Mike Singletary is the featured speakerfor the Annual Awards Breakfast.• U.S. Airways Captain Chesley

“Sully” Sullenberger.To learn more about MCAA 2010,

visit www.mcaa.org/mcaa2010.

Chicago Faucets Expands Electronic Lavatory Faucet OfferingChicago Faucets most recent efforts to unite reliability and durability with electronic

faucet convenience has resulted in the E-Tronic™ 40. The new line features above-deck

electronics for easy maintenance, long-term reliability, and offers a choice of a CRP2

battery or AC adaptor. Uncomplicated installation, easy maintenance and reliability,

combined with the water conservation and added hygiene offered with hands-free

faucets, make the E-Tronic™ 40 an attractive choice for public lavatories.

Antimicrobial Handles fromChicago FaucetsWhen you install antimicrobial handlesfrom Chicago Faucets, you benefit fromSureshield® Antimicrobial Technology; a process that provides a consistentrelease of antimicrobial compoundsregardless of the amount of moisturepresent. An easy retrofit for existingproducts, and a versatile option for new installations, Chicago Faucets antimicrobial handles are designed forprevention and provide an easy way toadd a new level of protection to a facility.

A New, Economical Option for Lavatory InstallationsThe new 420-CP Single Control Lavatory Faucet from Chicago Faucets combines

the durability of solid brass body construction with the dependability of a

time-tested ceramic mixing valve. Other features include a polished chrome

plated finish, metal lever handle, temperature limit stop, volume control and a

1.5 GPM laminar flow outlet. Easy to install and easy to maintain, the ADA

compliant Chicago Faucets 420-CP is a great option for any commercial project.

Chicago Faucets &The Buy American ActThe American Recovery and ReinvestmentAct recently signed into law includes aBuy American provision favoring domesticsources. Selecting products that meetthe requirements of this Act can helpsupport jobs across the USA and assistin our economic recovery. Over 95% ofChicago Faucets products, more than1,700 items, meet these requirements.Chicago Faucets... unwavering commitmentto quality, backed by know-how anddetermination that is uniquely American.






20 Phc News — FEBRUARY 2010talkIn’ radIant

Invention

BY DAN HOLOHANcontributing writer

Iwas thinking about how the things we take for grantedcame to be and what life would have been like hadthey not appeared when they did.Take the lowly relief valve, for instance. I know it’s

something you’d rather not touch when you’re on a jobbecause, as with everything else, once you touch it, youown it. Unless you’re feeling adventurous, you’ll look atthat lowly valve and hope that it does its job when and ifthe boiler ever goes berserk.I was reading a magazine that is more than 100 years

old the other day and came across this little story, whichI found delightful. Listen:“The first safety valve was invented in 1681 by Denis

Papin, a Frenchman, who was born at Blois, France in1647. He commenced his experiments on the phenom-ena of steam in July 1676, at London under Robert Boyle,the distinguished Irishman who founded the Royal Soci-ety of London. About 1780, Papin brought out a littlesteam apparatus called, “Papin’s Bone Digester,” for soft-ening animal bones for ‘cookery, voyages at sea, confec-tionary, chemistry, and dyeing.’ “England’s Charles II ordered Papin to make a digester

for his laboratory at Whitehall, and the invention excitedmuch interest. By means of this steam-pressure cookingmachine, delicious jellies were made from beef, muttonand other bones. Enormous strength was needed in themachine to stand the high pressure generated, and Papinfound that he could only make his machine successful bycontriving a mechanical device that would release pres-sure at a certain point and thus prevent explosion.“This he finally worked out during 1681 in the first

steam-pressure safety valve; then his machine could beutilized without fear. A hundred years later, James Wattand others made use of his invention in connection witha steam-powered engine, and later in the 18th Century,Watt and other inventors made use of a similar apparatusutilized for heating purposes.“Papin was one of the great benefactors of the human

race. Living in the age of Pascal, Newton, Boyle, and Leib-nitz, he partook liberally of the spirit of progress, whichwas a work in those days to free the human race of itsshackles imposed by ignorance of natural laws, and maywell be said that Papin ‘builded better than he knew.’ Hewas both a prophet and executor of mechanical progress,and his memory is one of the sacred treasures of thepower- and low-pressure, steam-heating industries.”So, because the King of England liked jelly, we now have

relief valves. Isn’t that wonderful? There’s a sketch of thedevice in that old, yellowed magazine. The relief valve sitsatop a big, closed kettle. The relief valve is a long lever at-tached to a pivot point. There’s a plug connected to thelever, very close to the pivot point, and this sits in a holein the boiler. The lever reaches out several feet and had amovable weight near its end. You could move the weightthis way and that to adjust the relief pressure. And all for the sake of jelly.

It all started in Washington’s timeIn my files, I have a sketch of the first hot-water heating

system, which also has a neat connection to food. Theman who first came up with the idea of central, hot-waterheating was Jean Simon Bonnemain. The sketch I haveis from 1777 and it shows a big, enclosed kettle sittingatop a fire. This was the boiler. Coming out of the top ofthe boiler there is a large pipe. It goes all the way up tothe top of the building and then laces its way back and

forth across each floor of the building and all the way backto the top of the kettle. There are no radiators. The bigpipe enters the top of the boiler through a dip tube, muchlike the dip tube that cold water uses to enter a waterheater. There’s a second pipe that runs from the kettle tothe top of the building, and at the top of this pipe there isa funnel. This is how you fill the system. Go get yourselfa bucket and start climbing stairs. Oh, and one morething, connected to the top of the main heating pipe,there’s a second pipe that rises up and then loops overinto the top of an open tank. This tank gives the heatedwater a place to go, should it expand too much. This wasthe world’s first gravity system and Jean Simon Bon-nemain used it to warm chickens for the Paris poultrymarket. How about that?Bonnemain’s open tank got me thinking about how far

we’ve come. Today, we have these wonderful, pressurizedtanks that take up so little space in a boiler room, but aswith relief valves, most of us take those tanks for granted.We see them on just about every job and don’t give themmuch thought.

Dealing with airI was doing some research for a book I’m thinking about

writing. This one’s about the air that comes out of waterwhen we heat it and gets stuck in radiators. There’s a lotto this subject and I’m having fun thinking about it. Iwrote to the good folks at Amtrol® in Rhode Island andasked if they had anything of a historical nature that theywould like to share with me about the company. I alreadyknew that the first diaphragm compression tanks (theones we take for granted) came from Amtrol, but I wascurious about how that came to be. A few days later, I gota note from Ken Cerpovicz, Amtrol’s director of market-ing. Ken told me that he was going to send me a package.He did, and it was a very big box.I opened it and found a couple of things that delighted

me. First, there was a disassembled version of Amtrol’spopular Extrol® compression tank. I had seen these parts

at their factory years ago when I paid a visit, but it wasgreat to have my own because I have to explain thesethings to others from time to time. The other thing in the box looked like a small barbeque

grill. I e-mailed Ken and asked him what the heck it was.He told me that it was one of the first prototypes of today’smodern compression tank. They used it to prove the con-cept of a diaphragm compression tank. They had made ityears ago by bolting together two streetlight blanks (imag-ine that). There is a sheet of rubber between the twohalves, a pressure gauge on one side of the rubber, and athreaded female connection on the other side for thewater. It’s sitting on the floor in my office right now andit’s making me smile.Ken wrote, “The first commercially available version of

Because theKing of Englandliked jelly, we

now have reliefvalves. Isn’t

that wonderful?“Our first cylindrical Extrols were manufacturedusing an overstock of baby carriage rims. Whenthe competition arrived, we found small holesdrilled into their steel hoops, mimicking what

they must have thought was a necessary feature.”

(Turn to If you need it... page 26.)

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22 Phc News — FEBRUARY 2010Bare Bones BIz

Living a lie

BY ELLEN ROHRcontributing writer

I’m a big reader. Fiction, non-fiction, as long as thewriting is good and/or the message is compelling. Ilove to learn from smart, successful people, and many

of them are gracious enough to write books telling youhow they became smart and successful. There are a lot ofinsights to be gained from non-fiction, too. Sometimes,the beauty of the language and the art of the story inspireme. (Read Steinbeck or Hemmingway or Isabel Allendeor Rick Bragg or Daniel Mason…) I also like Stephen King.While not fine literature, he puts out darn good writingand often flirts with astounding truths. In his new bestseller Under the Dome, King’s character

Andrea discusses her withdrawal from painkillers withher friend Julia, who asks: “What about your back?”Andrea smiled. It was an oddly knowing smile, without

much humor in it. “My back isn’t bad at all. Hardly atwinge, even when I bend over. Do you know what Ithink?”Julia shook her head.“I think that when it comes to drugs, the body and the

mind are co-conspirators. If the brain wants drugs, thebody helps out. It says, ‘Don’t worry, don’t feel guilty, it’sokay, I really hurt.’” Your brain, your body; they may lie to you. This got me thinking. So often, I encounter resistance

as I support people who want to create better business,more money, greater success in their lives. I throw up re-sistance myself. So often, it’s a lie. And so often, someoneelse who has dealt with that lie has written a book worthreading about their experience laying claim to their truth.Here are a few of my latest favorites:

Lie: I just don’t have enough time.”Alternate versions of this lie include, “I’m too old,” and,

“I’m too young.” How about the truth: You won the lotteryof time. You have all there is! Lucky you. The point ofpower is right now, the present moment. And it’s how youchoose to spend that moment that can make all the dif-ference to your success. Author Dan Kennedy explores“No BS” ways to take charge of your time and shares asimple, sound, break-even discussion of what time isworth. You have plenty of time. You may choose to use itdifferently. Try noticing what you spend time on thatdoesn’t move you in the direction of what you want. Yes,it’s scary. Sure, inertia has its hooks in you. Still, claimingthat you don’t have enough time is just, well, a lie.

Lie: Success is a result of working really, really hard. There is evidence of the opposite all around you. Do

you know someone who has a rockin’ relationship withtheir significant other and doesn’t seem to be trying allthat hard? Do you know someone who inherited mega-wealth or won big in the lottery? The problem with thislie (and the others, too!) is that they are effective — for awhile. Hard work can reap results. However, if you believethat to be twice as successful, you have to work twice ashard, it’s going to knock the wind out of you. I’ve struggledwith this one. And I am recovering! Now, I am looking forthings that make me feel good. I aim to do things that de-light and inspire me. Interestingly, my relationships andmy business benefit as a result. Gay Hendrix addressesthis lie in his lovely and supportive book, The Big Leap.What if the truth were you could take a quantum leap inyour success, your relationships and your financial situ-ation; and still have the energy for golf? Why not give thatbelief a shot? The alternative is compromising your hap-piness and your health.

Lie: Doing what I do better than anyone else will makeme successful.

Author (and one of my bffs) Simon Sinek maintains thatWHY you do what you do is vastly more important thatwhat you do. If the why, the mission, the point, is greatenough, you will figure out extraordinary ways to deliverwhat you do. Without a compelling why, it can be tough toget out of bed to respond to an emergency call or to pickup the phone when that troublesome customer is on theline. Your life is about more than turning wrenches. Whydo you do what you do? Simon takes you through aprocess, exploring the moments were you were most alive,and helps you get clear on your passion and purpose.

Lie: Achieving ___________ will make me happy andfeel successful. Everything you want and don’t have (fill in the blank);

you want it because you think it will make you happier.So, what if you work from the other direction? My friendMarlene Chism has written a terrific book about acceptinghappiness, and success, now. With practical tips for re-ducing drama and stress, she helps you discover thatthere are signs all around you of how your life is workingand working well! The more you recognize and appreciatethat, the easier it is to be happy in this moment. Doesn’tthat sound better? Righter? The lie is that you should bemiserable on your path to happiness.

Lie: If it weren’t for bad luck, I’d have no luck at all. You can continue to lie to yourself with this one, or

some other clever way you describe your lack of successthus far. Or you could drop it. Out of the most horriblesituations, the most amazing things can happen. And sooften do! Wherever you are in your life, no matter whathas happened to this point, you can use your tragedy tospringboard you to wild success. Mountain climber GregMortenson lost his sister to cancer. He set out to climbK2, as a way to honor her and help himself heal. He didn’tmake it to the top. He got lost on the way down and al-most died from exposure. Short of dying, this is as big aloss as you can get in mountain climbing. He was saved by a local man who took him to his vil-

lage, located in the highest peaks of Afghanistan. There,he got to know the local people. He devoted himself tobuilding schools, particularly for girls, to help combatpoverty and expand opportunities. Greg still works there,erecting schools out of bombed building rubble. An in-spiring read — and a reminder that defeat is often the be-ginning of a miraculous comeback.

Lie: There’s no better teacher than real world experi-ence, the school of hard knocks. This takes us back to the world of non-fiction. Perhaps

the greatest leadership lessons can be found in classic fan-tasy novels. Have your read The Chronicles of Narnia se-ries by C.S. Lewis? Have you read The Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R.

Tolkien? Certainly you have heard of these books. Perhaps it’s

time to reread them — and introduce your Harry Potter-loving kids to these amazing stories of courage and honorand adventure. (The language, the writing; it’s so muchbetter than Harry P!) And, put this lesser known but bril-liantly written series on your must-read list, too. The Mer-lin Trilogy by Mary StewartThis is the tale of King Arthur and Merlin and the mag-

ical world of Camelot, told in a beautiful, achingly humanway. Explore the myth and explode the lies. Happy reading to you and your family! �

The most common question I get: How do I get the phone toring NOW? Al Levi and I launching the “Get More Calls Telesem-inar” program to help you do just that. We’ll share 3 super sim-ple Marketing Drivers that always work (and we money-backguarantee it!) Ready? Reach me at [email protected], check out www.getmorecallsnow.com.

The more you recognizeand appreciate that your

life is working and workingwell, the easier it is to be

happy in this moment.Doesn’t that sound better?Righter? The lie is that you

should be miserable onyour path to happiness.

24 Phc News — FEBRUARY 2010Solar SolutionS

Warm-floor solar heating for concrete pools

BY BRISTOL STICKNEYcontributing writer

Solar pool heating is already a much larger industryin the United States than solar home heating.Swimming pools can require a tremendous amount

of heat depending upon the climate, and so pool ownersalways seem to be receptive to the solar heating option,since a swimming pool can often double or triple theirhome heating bill.The most common solar pool heating systems use

unglazed plastic solar heat collectors, where water fromthe pool itself is circulated through the plastic collectorswhen it is sunny, using the filter pump as the solar col-lector circulator. This type system (unglazed direct) canbe seen on the plastic collector web sites, such as Fafco,Heliocol, Technosolis and others. (For a complete list ofunglazed pool collectors certified in the United States, seethe SRCC Web pages.)Unglazed direct solar pool collectors are appropriate

only for climates that do not freeze or for seasonal appli-cations where water is drained from the collectors duringtimes of freezing weather. In our climate (Santa Fe, NewMexico), they are considered seasonal systems, intendedto extend the outdoor swimming season by providingsolar heat only throughout the spring, summer and fall.The second most common solar heated pool system ap-

plications use glazed flat plate collectors that heat the poolindirectly through an external heat exchanger. This allowsthe solar collector system to remain in operation all yearround, even during freezing weather. In our region, the col-lectors are typically filled with a pressurized propylene gly-col mixture that feeds the hot side of the pool heatexchanger, and pool water is circulated on the cool side ofthe heat exchanger most often pumped by the pool filterpump. This type of system (glazed indirect) is popular withsolar heating indoor pools that are used year round.A third way of solar pool heating has emerged over the

past decade that few people have ever heard of, but hasbecome my preferred solar heating system for pools. Thatis the “warm-floor” solar pool heating system. Concretepools and hot tubs that are constructed on-site are madeof the same elements as a slab-on-grade “radiant heatedfloor”; concrete, remesh and rebar in contact with theearth. Sometimes, with a little collaboration with the poolbuilder, some insulating material can be added around orbeneath the concrete shell. When PEX hydronic heat tub-ing is tied to the remesh and embedded in concrete shellof the pool, you then have a direct solar heat exchangeras shown for a hot tub under construction in Figure 1.This type of system is a simplified version of the glazedindirect approach, but because the concrete shell of thepool is heated directly by solar hydronic fluid, I think itqualifies as a glazed direct solar heating system.

Electrical power advantage of pool floor heatI designed my first warm floor pool more than 10 years

ago for a custom home project near Santa Fe that pre-sented many solar heating challenges. It was an off-grid-enabled home that required extreme electrical efficiency.When grid power was not available, all electrical systemstransferred automatically to Photovoltaic (PV, solar elec-tric) battery power. The house was large (over 8000square feet) and so required a large array of solar heat col-lectors just for space heating.The remote location required propane deliveries as the

only conventional backup heating fuel. Because of asprawling site layout, the heat collectors had to bemounted more than 200 feet from the house, and the out-door lap pool was another 100 feet or so from the house.There was also an outdoor hot tub that required solar heat

located about 100 feet in a different direction.To save on electricity, I designed the entire hydronic

heating system, including the pool and hot tub solarheat, around DC circulators that use a fraction of thepumping power of typical pumping systems available atthat time. All the supply and return tubing diameters (aswell as most of the embedded floor tubing) were up-sizedto reduce the pumping power required to deliver hy-dronic heat. The solar collector circulators were directlypowered by PV panels, so that solar heat collection didnot require any grid power or any battery power. The200 foot run out to the collectors (18 panels, 4'x10'), re-quired two solar circulator pumps each powered by itsown 150 watt PV panels. The ground mounted collectorscan be seen in Figure 2.By putting 3/4" PEX (instead of the typical 1/2") into the

concrete shell of the pool, I calculated that the daily solarheat provided to the pool could be delivered to the floorof the pool using a DC circulator rated just under 20 watts.

The solar collectorcirculators were directlypowered by PV panels,

so that solar heatcollection did not

require any grid poweror any battery power.

Bristol’s Six Principles forGood Solar Hydronic Design

In this series of articles, I have been making the casethat the key ingredients for solar/hydronic design andinstallation can be divided into six categories, listedbelow, roughly in order of their importance. • RELIABLE • EFFECTIVE• COMPATIBLE • ELEGANT• SERVICEABLE • EFFICIENTThe success of any solar hydronic home heating in-

stallation depends on the often-conflicting balance be-tween any of these six principles. Finding the balancebetween them defines the art of solar heating design.

(Turn to Solar pool heating... page 26.)

Figure 1. A direct solar heat exchanger for a hot tub.

Figure 2: Solar collectors and PV panels provide all the heatand power necessary to operate a pool heating system in aNew Mexico off-grid-enabled home.


essary feature.”I think that’s as delicious as Denis

Papin’s jelly.“Finally, in the 1960s,” Ken con-

tinued, “we developed the familiardeep-drawn version you knowtoday, including the hoop-ring at-tachment method. When a flat discof steel is drawn under hundreds oftons of pressure into the domes yousee in the samples, the strengthdoubles as a result of cold working.This results in a lighter andstronger tank.”I get to ask a lot of questions in my

work, and the thing that struck meabout Amtrol’s Ken Cerpovicz washow generous he was with engineer-ing information, company lore, andhow he answered every single ques-tion I asked, no matter how tough.He told me straight up, without hes-itating, and then he asked how elsehe could help me.I admire this guy and this com-

pany. I admire his generosity, hishonesty, his enthusiasm, and thepride he has in what his company ismaking. Here’s to the inventors. �

I’ve created a page on our Web site forthose drawings. If you’d like to see them,go to www.heatinghelp.com/invention.

means of conduction, convectionand radiation from within the con-crete shell of the pool which drasti-cally reduces the electricalconsumption while heating the pool.

Other useful advantagesBy using warm floor solar pool

heating we gain a number of addi-tional benefits. The solar heatingequipment becomes completely sep-arated from the conventional poolmechanical equipment. There doesnot need to be any plumbing or elec-trical connections between the solarequipment and the pool mechanicalsystems. The conventional gasbackup boiler can be set to provide aminimum water comfort temperaturefor the pool user, and the solar heatboosts that temperature whenever itcan, within a reasonable comfortrange under its own separate temper-ature control. Whenever the solarheat provides a temperature higherthan the boiler set-point the boilerwill respond normally by turning off

the gas. In this way, the pool guy hashis own domain and the solar guy hashis. There is no question about whois responsible for what equipmentand what warranty belongs to whom.A cool solar collector is a happy

solar collector. You can see this inthe collector efficiency graphs in-cluded in some of my earlier arti-cles. When circulating warmhydronic fluid through the shell of apool, is tends to cool off much morethan when running through the hotside of an external indirect heat ex-changer. This cooler fluid, when re-turning to the solar collectors,results in higher solar thermal effi-ciency for the collectors, whichtranslates to more solar heat per daydelivered to the pool.The home heating system de-

scribed above was one of the mostcomplex solar combi-systems I everdesigned. (A combi-system com-bines solar heat collectors, DHW,space heat and other multiple heatsources and multiple heat loads intoone system.) As I have mentionedbefore, solar heat dissipation is al-

ways a concern with these systems.There is always a possibility that, atsome time during the year, the largesolar heat collectors will providemore heat than is needed by theheating loads. A swimming pool pro-vides an ideal place to dissipate extrasolar heat, since free heat for thepool is almost always welcome.When heating a pool through the

floor, the heat source is at the bot-tom of the pool where you might ex-pect the coldest water to settle.When the filter pump is not running,the water temperature in the poolwill tend to stratify: hot water risesupward and cool water settles to thebottom. In a pool with a warm floor,water temperature tends to de-strat-ify even without the filter pump mix-ing it. A pool filter pump is generallyan energy hog, requiring hundredsand often thousands of watts to op-erate. If it is required to run duringsolar pool heating, the parasitic effi-ciency loss can be substantial.

Final notesDuring the past 10 years I have

been involved with about a dozensite-built concrete pools and hottubs that are solar heated. Some areindoors, some are outdoors. Abouthalf have employed external indirectheat exchangers and the others havebeen “warm floor” pools and tubs. Iprefer the performance and simplic-ity of the warm floor systems. Build-ing them successfully takescooperation and collaboration withthe pool builder. When it comes tostructural concerns and functionaldetails, the pool guy has the finalword on the pool construction. The DC hydronic control system

briefly described above was Patentedby myself and Allan Sindelar, of Pos-itive Energy in Santa Fe and origi-nally called the SETH (solar electricthermal hydronic) control system.Brand names, organizations andmanufacturers are mentioned inthese articles only to provide exam-ples for illustration and discussionand do not constitute any recom-mendation or endorsement. �

Bristol Stickney, partner and technicaldirector at Cedar Mountain Solar Sys-tems in Santa Fe, N.M., has been de-signing, manufacturing, engineering,repairing and installing solar hydronicheating systems for more than 30years. He holds a Bachelor of Sciencein Mechanical Engineering and is a li-censed Mechanical Contractor in NewMexico. He is the chief technical officerfor SolarLogic LLC and is involved intraining programs for solar heating pro-fessionals (visit www.cedarmountainsolar.com for more information.)

(Continued from page 24.)

Solar SolutionS

(Continued from page 20.)the tank was the flying-saucer shapeyou see in the photos (he had sentthose as well). This had a formedrubber diaphragm trapped betweentwo halves that we crimped to lockthe tank together. This tank had legswelded to it so the Dead Men couldscrew it to the floor joists in place ofthe plain steel tank it replaced. Asyou know, our industry is slow tobreak tradition.”For sure.He then told me that the early Ex-

trol tanks didn’t use an air valve be-cause they wanted to minimize thepotential leak paths and speed pro-duction. So how did they chargethose tanks? They took a measuredchunk of dry ice and put it insideeach tank prior to assembly. Oncethe tank reached room temperature,the ice evaporated, releasing its gasand putting a 12-psi charge behindthe diaphragm. I wouldn’t have thought of that.

Would you?Here’s Ken again: “Our first cylin-

drical Extrols were manufacturedusing an overstock of baby carriagerims. When the competition arrived,we found small holes drilled intotheir steel hoops, mimicking whatthey must have thought was a nec-

If you need it, it will happen

I used the same approach for the re-mote hot tub and each floor heatingzone in the house. The electricalcontrols for each circulator were de-signed so that DC power was con-sumed only when hydronic heat wasbeing delivered. No wasted electric-ity was consumed by zone valves

and transformers, since these wereeliminated by using the DC equip-ment powered by the solar electricbatteries. Since the inside surface ofthe pool shell serves as the waterside of the solar heat exchanger, thefilter pump is not required when de-livering solar heat to the pool water.Heat delivery happens by natural

Solar pool heating slashes energy costs

A solar-heated pool under construction. Its warm-floor system is separate from thepool’s filter/circulator system so contractors know who is responsible for what. Thepool serves as a huge heat sink to absorb “overflow” solar heat from collectors.

Heat delivery happens by...conduction, convection andradiation from within theconcrete shell of the pool

which drastically reduces theelectrical consumption while

heating the pool.

28 Phc News — FEBRUARY 2010Your BuSineSS

PHC is a commodity... NOT

BY JOHN BARBAguest writer

What is a commodity? My favorite author, Dr.Larry Steinmetz, defines a commodity as aproduct or a service that is widely and readily

available, with no discernable difference. Not bad. If something is a commodity, no one, not even

you, can tell the difference between your product/widgetor service, or your competitor’s. And the only way you’regoing to sell it is if it’s at the lowest price out there. Right?Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s look at some things

that might be considered commodities.Fruit and vegetables are traded and sold as commodi-

ties, but are they purchased on the consumer level ascommodities? Well, maybe. Most supermarkets sell oranges in a two- or three-

pound bag at one price, and then have oranges stackedso shoppers can pick the ones they like and bag themthemselves. These oranges are more expensive. They’realso bigger, fresher and tastier. And isn’t there a difference between grocery stores as

to the quality and freshness of their produce? The betterproduce is usually found at the so-called “designer” gro-cery store such as Byerly’s or Trader Joe’s. It’s also a tadmore expensive. Yet they sell stuff.What about milk? Plain, white milk. Whole milk, skim

milk, 2%, 1%. Milk’s milk, right? Can’t sell that at a pre-mium price, can you? But yet some stores sell designermilk, or hormone-free, additive-free milk, milked fromhormone-free, additive-free cows. And bacteria-enrichedacidophilus milk; egad! They sell it for more money, andpeople buy it. For more money. You can buy different sizes of milk, too. Pints, quarts,

half gallons, gallons. The larger size is a way better deal,but not if you don’t want or need that much. Four quartscost lots more than one gallon.Are you old enough to remember “generic” food? Back

when I was in college, the local A&P sold generic food. Itcame packed in plain, white containers marked“spaghetti,” or “corn.” It was cheaper than even the storebrand, never mind the “name” brands. My favorite was thesix pack of white cans labeled “beer.” This stuff wascheaper than Iron City! A couple of cases of “beer” later,however, my friends and I decided the “King of Beers” wasa better value than the no-name stuff, which tasted like itcame out of a Clydesdale. An unhealthy Clydesdale. So is processed, canned or frozen food a commodity?

It’s all the same, right? No difference at all and it can’t besold at a premium price, right? If that’s true, the folks atBirdseye, Campbell’s and Green Giant better get ready tolock up the doors because the end is most certainly near. Is anything in our business a commodity? Circulators?

Relays? Faucets? PEX? Toilets? When I think of commodities, I think of stuff that’s

traded on commodities markets by commodities brokers,like Billy Ray and Louis and the frozen concentrated or-ange juice in “Trading Places.” Grain. Pork bellies. Copper(the metal, not the pipe). A commodity is the stuff some-one uses to manufacture other stuff, and is bought andsold on the commodities market. Service doesn’t matter. Technical support doesn’t mat-

ter. Delivery doesn’t matter. As soon as an enterprisewants to buy it and use it, however, it ceases to be a com-modity because at that point, service, technical supportand delivery do matter. Any manufacturing concern will tell you that while

price is an obvious concern, it’s only one of many. Anypurchasing agent will have his hind-quarters chewed offand handed back to him baked, sautéed and carved into

small bite-sized pieces with an appropriate garnish if thestuff he bought so cheap doesn’t show up on time. Or isn’tany good. Or doesn’t meet specification. Or is the wrongsize. Or is the wrong color. Or the supplier can’t or won’tsupport it. You get the picture. I have a friend who’s a purchasing agent at a major HVAC

manufacturer. I asked her once about the suppliers sheno longer does business with, and how many werebounced because of price. She could think of several shedidn’t do business with anymore, but she couldn’t thinkof any that lost her business strictly on price. She could think of several that couldn’t deliver what

they promised in the quantities they promised when theypromised. She could think of several more whose qualitywasn’t as advertised, and wouldn’t help solve the field is-sues their poor quality produced. But she couldn’t thinkof any that were bounced simply because their price wastoo high. So, is plumbing, heating and A/C service and installation

a commodity? Are the products you buy at your whole-salers commodities? No and no. If there’s a difference between what you do and what

anyone else does, then plumbing, heating and A/C serviceand installation are not commodities. That means thereare factors, other than price, that are important to thecustomer. Your customers want you to believe in the commodity

mentality, however. They want you to believe that theskill set you possess, the products you sell and the heatingsystem you’re offering aren’t much different from anyoneelse’s. They do this partly because they may not knowany better, but also because it’s to their advantage. If you believe that they believe there’s no difference,

then the pressure’s on you to get your price low. It’s thehammer the customer holds. They want you to believe inthe myth that says if all things are equal, people will buyon price. They’ll do their best to denigrate, trivialize orignore whatever unique value-added propositions you’vedeveloped. Why do they do this? Do they really not care that you have a live person an-

swering your phone? That you have 24-hour service?That you’ve been installing radiant heat since 1987? Thatyou have a proven track record of on time arrival and ontime/on budget performance? That you’ve been in busi-ness in their town since 1938?They’ll tell you all that stuff doesn’t matter, but don’t

believe them. It matters, often more than you’ll everknow. But they’re drop-kicking all that stuff into the riverand telling you it doesn’t matter for one reason and onereason only.They want you to drop your price. Why do they do this?Because they can. And not only do we allow this to hap-

pen, we’ve more than likely trained our customers to doit to us. �

John Barba is Contractor Training and Trade Program managerfor Taco, Inc, and has been in the trades since he could walk,carrying wrenches for his dad in the family’s plumbing andheating business outside of Boston. John’s practical experi-ence includes everything from ditch digging and drain clean-ing to boiler piping and PEX installing, as well as businessmanagement and contractor sales. Since 1995, John hastrained more than 12,000 contractors in hydronic heating de-sign and installation.

If there’s a differencebetween what you do andwhat anyone else does,then plumbing, heatingand A/C service andinstallation are not

commodities. That meansthere are factors,

other than price, thatare important tothe customer.

30 Phc News — FEBRUARY 2010PlumBing BuSineSS

Hire good technicians and empower them

BY RICHARD DiTOMAL.M.P.

All professional sport franchises start their seasonswith hopes of winning the championship of theirrespective sport by season’s end. All franchises

have an owner or owners. And each owner needs a totalteam consisting of players to put on the field; a coach-ing/managerial staff to train the team’s players; and ad-ministrative personnel to tend to the clerical needs of thesporting business. But those requirements alone do notguarantee any team a championship. Victory requireseach person involved to perform at the highest level pos-sible. It also requires the owners to give the team thatwhich it needs to perform excellently.No major league baseball team ever won a World Series

by fielding eight players. Baseball requires nine playerson the field. If, for instance, they were missing a first base-man, the short stop would have no one to whom he couldthrow the ball in order to get the batter out at first basewhen the ball was hit toward the short stop. In football, a team that consistently fields only 10

poorly equipped players would be at a great disadvantage.When their opponents were properly equipped with 11players on the field, they would not be able to win a game,let alone a championship. But fielding the proper numberof appropriately equipped players alone does not guaran-tee success. A total suitably equipped team puts you onthe road to victory. Excellent execution leads you downthat road to the championship. This also holds true for sports like single’s tennis. Pro-

fessional tennis players are usually their own owners andplayers. But, they too employ coaches and administrativepersonnel.Your business is no different. You need a top quality

team that can perform in sync with each other to giveyour business the chance to win the championship. Thefirst step regarding your business team is to hire person-nel with the following traits: integrity; loyalty; aptitude fortheir position on your team; great mental attitude; self-motivation; intent and ability to be excellent, intent andability to follow legal and ethical orders; responsibility;and dependability. In your business you are the owner. Regardless of the

size of your business, you have responsibilities that re-quire a total business team even if you are the only personon the team, in which case you are the team. PHC servicebusiness owners must train and field one or more techni-cians and also tend to administrative responsibilities.Therefore, in order to give yourself an opportunity to suc-ceed in your business, each of the members of your teammust have the intent and ability to perform the duties ofeach team position in an excellent manner. If you, as theowner, do not properly equip your business team person-nel they cannot perform in an excellent manner. In turn,your business will be at a disadvantage. In the PHC service business many contractors do not

properly equip their technicians — who are often theonly people from their businesses with whom their clien-tele will ever have contact. In your business if your tech-nician doesn’t have the proper tools and material toperform a technical task for your clientele, you haveplaced your business in jeopardy regarding your cus-tomer’s perception of your business. In that instance,from your technician’s perspective, you have sent a detri-mental message to your team. That is, if the boss doesn’tcare, why should I?Since consumers want to know the price they must

pay for any service before they authorize that service tobe performed, one of the primary tools PHC service tech-nicians need is the ability to rapidly quote proper, prof-

itable selling prices for services that will deliver excel-lence to the client and reward to the business enterprise.Stammering or stumbling before quoting a price makesthe price dubious in the eye of the consumer. It sends amessage to the consumer that this technician isn’t fullyqualified at his/her job. In turn, the consumer may, intheir mind, question the diagnosis of the tech regardingthe task he/she recommended to resolve that client’sproblem. If your tech must call you for every price, in addition

to still giving a flawed perception to the consumer, youwill be kept from performing your other business duties.

As the number of techs in your employ increase so willthe valuable time you spend giving them prices. That timecould have been spent guiding and growing your business. When a consumer goes into a store and asks the sales-

person for the price of an item, a good and well-trainedsalesperson is able to answer the question rapidly andconfidently rather than trying to locate the owner for theprice. Since your techs are usually the only people withwhom your clientele comes in contact, they are also yoursales personnel. Rapid, confident price quotes allow yourtech to make more sales in the most efficient manner.Therefore, common sense dictates that you empower

your PHC service technicians with the ability to quote sell-ing prices. After all, your techs are the only representa-tives from your business who have actually seen thecircumstances about the task for which the price per-tains. This practice will give consumers more confidencein the tech’s diagnosis and the price. Your technicians should have an updated written price

guide that allows them to see common typical jobs andtheir variables dependent upon circumstances of any con-sumer’s situation. For tasks which are not typically com-mon, the tech should be given 1) cost factoringinformation such as the properly calculated cost of laborand overhead for one tech hour; 2) the ability to find ma-terial costs; 3) the profit margin divisor that must be ap-plied to each task; and 4) any discount percentages whichmay apply to any of your contract clientele or specialsyou may have at the time of that price quote.You can make your own price guide. But, keep in mind

that this is a very time consuming task, especially, keep-ing up with the ever changing costs you incur. Or, you cansubscribe to price guides which are printed by others. MyReadily Available Pricing Information Digest© for thePlumbing Heating Cooling Contractor is a price guide Icustomize to your business factors and should take careof your price guide needs. It will empower your tech toanswer the price question rapidly.With regards to having your tech calculate prices on

the job, Figure 1 is an E.A.S.I.E (Efficient Accurate SalesItemized Estimate©) sheet (an excerpt from my book So-lutions Management Theories and Methods for the Con-tracting Business©). I created it to help techniciansdevelop proper profitable selling prices. The top of the

Since consumers wantto know the price they

must pay for any servicebefore they authorize thatservice to be performed,one of the primary toolsPHC service techniciansneed is the ability torapidly quote proper,

profitable selling prices.

Common sense dictates that you empoweryour PHC service technicians with the abilityto quote selling prices. After all, your techs

are the only representatives from your businesswho have actually seen the circumstancesabout the task for which the price pertains.

(Turn to Your techs... page 34.)

32 Phc News — FEBRUARY 2010Beschloss Beat

Is commercial/industrialconstruction dodging a bullet this year?

BY MORRIS R. BESCHLOSSPVF & economic analyst emeritus

With Arab Emirate Dubai opening the highestbuilding in the world in January, thereby incur-ring multi-billion dollars of debt, which it was

in danger of defaulting, the Arabian Peninsula’s GoldenCity was lucky in being temporarily bailed out by theSheikdom of Abu Dhabi, swimming in oil.

This playground of the universe could well becomethe paragon of the massive commercial overbuildingwhich saw gleaming edifices spring up in such disparatelocations as Macao, Malaysia, Las Vegas, Singapore, andTaiwan.

Although these massive construction jewels repre-sented symbols of national hubris, they also deflected thegigantic spurt of commercial and industrial overbuildingthat typified the highly leveraged outburst of building, un-equaled in world history.

This manifested itself in such aforementioned gleamingnational symbols. Such opulence also found its expendi-tures in office buildings, hotels, motels, medical structuressuch as mega-hospitals, and assisted living super struc-tures. Also significant were shopping malls and strips andexpanded power generating facilities, as well as the ex-pansion of refineries. The boom also saw the incipient de-velopment of such renewable energies as solar andgeothermal power, as well as wind farms and an expan-sion of natural gas extraction.

As long as these unprecedented expenditures could tapinto the practically unlimited financing offered by largeand regional banks and other financial institutions, theunlimited expansion of the past decade did not presentthe possibility of financial collapse.

But the near financial meltdown of September, 2008sent danger signals flashing all over the financial world.Unlike the residential construction disaster, which culmi-nated in foreclosures, and millions of underwater mort-gages, the commercial/industrial fiasco still hasn’t cometo full fruition. Since the firewall of such a looming night-mare is being held by the Federal Reserve Board’s recordbalance sheets, the showdown will be in the Fed’s abilityto support the banking systems’ capability to support themultiplicity of huge as well as mid-sized developers, whohave initiated these impressive developments. Withoutthe Fed’s record low interest rates and unlimited funds,the scope of such a commercial/industrial debacle couldgreatly overshadow the residential breakdown in size andtotal cost.

With the Fed continuing to use its financial versatilityand independence to hold the potential breakdown of thissector together, it’s likely that a potential break down willbe prevented, as the economic recovery absorbs themulti-billions that could come crashing down under a lessprotective support base than that offered by the FederalReserve Board.

High-tech employment is America'sroad to future development

It’s widely recognized today that double digit unem-ployment is the major obstacle standing in the way of asolid economic recovery.

When recognizing those working part-time, giving uplooking for work, or flooding into the workforce after highschool and/or college graduation, plus immigrants, almost20% of America's employable workforce of near 160 mil-lion is now outside those capable of full-time jobs.

According to employment expert Ed Gordon, who re-cently addressed Federal Reserve Board executives at

the Chicago Federal Reserve Board district headquar-ters on this subject, the answer lies in upgrading the ca-pability of those job seekers, whose previous work spotno longer exists.

“When considering the implosion of the automotiveand housing sectors, as well as steel and metal fabricationindustries, new jobs must be created to lower the unac-ceptable double digit unemployment rate that the U.S.

may be facing permanently if such remedial upgradingisn't actively pursued by a combined government/busi-ness alliance,” asserts Gordon.

Ironically, thousands of businesses in this country haveaggressively opted for automation, mechanization, andthe latest high tech capability in order to maintain prof-itability, or even downright survival.

This has resulted in shedding many thousands of per-sonnel, adding to the swelling unemployment rolls. Gor-don believes that the Administration is naive in believingthat the economic recovery alone will absorb those nowunemployed. “Only exports offer substantial growth op-portunities at this time,” the acknowledged personnel ex-pert concludes.

He further states that two million jobs in the U.S. aloneare available for those with the necessary skills. “Only amajor effort to upgrade the skills of those available forsuch training will put a dent in the employment crisis thenation is now facing,” warns Gordon.

It seems obvious that the Administration is tone-deafto this advice, even with the knowledge that maintenanceof current unemployment levels could prove disastrousto the party in power.

Still, the December Institute of Supply Managementcame in at a 55.9 index, higher than expected from lastperiod’s 53.6. This continued growth reaffirms expansionin the industrial sector, which has snapped out of its dol-drums in the last three months.

BRIC countries due for world-leading growthThe world’s BRIC nations (Brazil, Russia, India and

China) are well on the way to world exceptionalism inthis decade. With a combined global population of almostthree billion (more than 40% of the world’s total), thesefour international giants also contain vast natural re-sources and are strategically located to influence most oftoday’s teeming masses in the world’s largest populationcenters.

Brazil dominates two-thirds of South America’s land-mass, and much of its population. In addition, Brazil hasan abundance of oil and agricultural products such as cof-fee, sugar cane, and cotton. Although maintaining a LatinAmerican version of democracy, Brazil has shed its de-pendence on Washington’s political leadership, and is as-suming the mantle of an overriding political power as well.

Its chumminess with Iran’s rampaging dictator Mah-

“Only a major effortto upgrade the skillsof those available for[high-tech] trainingwill put a dent in theemployment crisis thenation is now facing.”

(Turn to Brazil, Russia.... page 34.)

With a combined global population of almostthree billion, these four international giantsalso contain vast natural resources and arestrategically located to influence most of

today’s teeming masses in theworld’s largest population centers.


(Continued from page 30.)form provides space for the date ofthe calculation; client name and ad-dress information; and, descriptionof the task being calculated.

The next section is for identify-ing the time needed to perform thetask. It takes into consideration thetime to travel to the work site; tospeak with the client regarding di-agnosis and explanation; to per-form the task; to pick up material,if any; to test the work done; to dothe paperwork; and a space for anyother time needed to perform thetask at hand.

After adding up the time to per-form the task, there is a space tomultiply that total time by thehourly cost of technician labor andoverhead. Next in line comes spacefor calculating material costs andapplicable taxes, if any.

By adding the total labor, over-head and material costs, your techcan arrive at the cost to you to per-form the task. By dividing that break-even cost by the percentage differ-ence between 100% and your de-sired profit (e.g. to reach a 25%profit you would divide by 75%),your tech will be able to quote aprice rapidly and profitably. In con-junction, these tools will empoweryour technicians to better serve

your business and your clientele.When your tech brings back the in-

voice with the monies paid, the techshould give you information that willindicate whether he/she arrived ateach selling price from your priceguide or by calculation. If he/she cal-culated, the form used should beturned in to your office. Those formsshould be attached to the invoice foryour records. If the tech quotedprices from the form calculation forjobs which were not done, you canfile them in the client’s file so youhave them for future reference. Theclient may decide to do that job at alater date. If you have the informationyou can just update the costs and

selling prices.If you need my assistance em-

powering your techs; or, for myconsultation services, “how to”book Solutions Management Theo-ries and Methods for the Contract-

ing Business©, customized priceguide, workshops, customized in-voices, brochures and/or businessforms, give me a call at 845/639-5050. I can show you how yourbusiness team can give have an op-portunity to win your champi-onship so that you, your techs, andyour clientele will be much moresatisfied. As always best wishes foryour health and prosperity. �

Nexstar Network and ACE DuraFlo®announce strategic partnership

moud Ahmadinejad and Venezuela’sHugo Chavez is an example of Pres-ident Lula Da Silva’s declaration ofindependence from the U.S. Withthe world’s fifth-largest population,Brazil has finally arrived economi-cally, and is a dominant force to bereckoned with, in ethanol convertedfrom sugar cane.

Russia may not be the militarypower it was in the Soviet days, butmost European nations are predom-inately dependent on Moscow’s nat-ural gas and oil, especially theformer satellite states of Eastern Eu-rope. Its military arms production isamong the top three in the world,providing support to any nation, in-cluding Iran, who can pay their bills.Global morality has never been Rus-sia’s strong suit; a worldwide ap-proach that has not basicallychanged in the past two decades. De-spite a shrinking population, Russiastill represents close to 150 million,which makes it one of the world’s

top six populated areas. Its landmass is the world’s largest, covering10 time zones.

China and India (with respectivepopulations of 1.4 and 1.1 billion) arealso the world’s fastest-growing

economies. China is setting new in-dustrial production records everymonth, while India, concentrating onhigh technology, is not far behind.

Both nations are experiencing amassive gross domestic product ex-pansion this year which adds im-mensely to their national influenceand status as major powers. It’spractically a given that China, es-pecially, is successful by integratingits economy into a modern jugger-naut that will make that nation theworld’s dominant economic powerby 2050. �

Industry news

Your techs are your public face. Howwell do they represent your business?


Brazil, Russia, India, Chinaup-and-coming world powers

Figure 1. The E.A.S.I.E. form helps technicians develop proper selling prices.

LITTLE CANADA, MINN. & IRVINE, CALIF.— ACE DuraFlo® Systems (ePIPE)and Nexstar® Inc. have entered intoa strategic partner relationship. TheNexstar ePIPE program permitsNexstar members to add ACE Du-

raFlo’s miniE epoxy pipe restorationtechnology to their existing line ofservices. Nexstar is a member-owned international group of inde-pendent service providers in thefields of plumbing, HVAC and electri-cal services. Nexstar members getrapid results, guided by experiencedcoaches, surefire systems and in-credible peer connections.

“We are excited about the

prospect of expanding our installernetwork in North America by intro-ducing the miniE System to theNexstar membership,” explained BillCooper, president of ACE DuraFloSystems. “The miniE System is aturning point for the pipe restorationindustry and we are happy to be ableto offer it through the Nexstar Net-work of independent serviceproviders.”

“In our continuing scrutiny of theservice plumbing industry, we keepour Nexstar eyes peeled for changesin the marketplace, and uniquegrowth technologies like the ACEDuraFlo ePIPE,” said Susan Tigner,strategic partner manager withNexstar. “Our goal is to provide ourmembers with quality growth and di-versification opportunities.”

Most European nations arepredominately dependent onMoscow’s natural gas and oil...


Phc News is proud to introduceits “Lead-free leaders” page —a bi-monthly page dedicated to

the lead-free movement. Every othermonth this page will feature the latestlead-free news, products and happen-ings within the PHC industry.In September 2006, California be-

came the first state in the nation topass a “lead-free” plumbing law, fol-lowed by Vermont in 2008. Severalother states are considering similarlegislation. Enacted as an amendmentto the state’s Health and Safety Code,

California’s Assembly Bill 1953 stipu-lated that as of Jan. 1, 2010, “any pipeor plumbing fitting, or fixture in-tended to convey or dispense waterfor human consumption” introducedinto commerce within Californiawould be limited to a “weighted aver-age lead content of the wetted surface… of not more than 0.25 percent.” Many companies had already

started selling products manufac-tured using a proprietary “lead free”alloy, or more commonly, by licens-ing an existing alloy such as Eco

Brass, which was developed in re-sponse to a tightening of the drink-ing water lead leach restriction inJapan that took effect in 1993.Section 116875 of California’s

Health and Safety Code is now in ef-fect, with manufacturers still en-countering considerable uncertaintyin terms of how the law will be inter-preted and enforced. They are undera great deal of pressure to get the an-swers and information they need toget products to market while protect-ing themselves from exposure to

penalties and/or litigation.A sticky issue as third-party certifi-

cation bodies jockey for the manufac-turers’ business. Some claim thatcertification to Annex G of NSF/ANSIStandard 61, which regulates theamount of lead in products that comeinto contact with drinking water, sat-isfies the requirement. Others pointto language differences between thenew law and Annex G and contendthat certification to one does not en-sure certification to the other. Formore information, www.iapmo.org.

Lead-free leaders

Lead-free brass fittings available from Matco-NorcaBREWSTER, N.Y.— Lead-free brass fittings are part of Matco-Norca’s new leadfree product offering, which in addition to these fittings include valves,faucets and plumbing specialty items. All Matco-Norca lead-free products are compliant with the new California

Health and Safety Code 116875-116880, as well as Vermont’s lead-free law,both now in effect. Lead-free brass fittings from Matco-Norca are certifiedto contain less than .25% weighted average lead content over wetted sur-faces. All Matco-Norca brass fittings are UL and ANSI approved.

Lead-free brass fittings from Matco-Norca include elbows, unions, caps,crosses, couplings, bushings, locknuts,plugs, adapters and flanges. Matco-Norca carries a full line of lead-freebrass nipples to accompany the fittings.Matco-Norca has a lead-free prod-

ucts-dedicated catalog available fordownload at www.matco-norca.com/lead-free.

WASHINGTON— According to the lead-free resource site, www.weareleadfree.net, two District of Columbiacouncil members have introduced anamendment to the D.C. PlumbingCode requiring pipes, pipe fittings,plumbing fittings and fixtures containno more than a weighted average of.25% lead with respect to wetted sur-face areas. The Safe Plumbing Act of2009 also defines “lead-free” as notcontaining more than 0.2% lead withrespect to solder and flux. This mir-rors legislationfound in Cali-fornia and Ver-mont, whichgoes into affectin less than afew shortmonths on Jan-uary 1, 2010.Bill No. DCB18-452 isplanned to gointo affect one year later on Jan-uary 1, 2011.Considering the ongoing

water quality issues Washington hasfaced in recent years, it’s likely on-going pressure from the communitymotivated politicians to move to-wards lead free legislation. The Feb-ruary 2009 posting, Did ChloramineAdditives put 42,000 Children inD.C. at Risk? Itr was reported thatelevated levels of lead were discov-ered in children's blood following theaddition of a chloramine disinfectantto the water supply to kill bacteria.Chloramine treatment significantlyincreases the leaching of lead fromsupply pipes.It’s looking more and more like

AB 1953 will be the legislation tem-plate for the balance of the country.The new bill is clearly a step in theright direction for D.C. residents,ensuring safer water and bringing

D.C. follows California, Vermont on lead freepeace of mind to the parents ofyoung children. Check back period-ically for updates on D.C and otherstate initiatives.

Lead Laws update: For lead lawsupdates for the District of Columbia,visit www.weareleadfree.net/DC.

Lead Free* Program Update NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. — WattsWater Technologies, Inc., and its as-sociated brands are in the forefrontof the lead-free movement and has

announcedthe avail-ability of itsex t ens i veline of lead-free* prod-ucts that arecompliantwith Califor-nia and Ver-m o n tlegislation.

Watts Water Technologies’www.WeAreLeadFree.netwebsite provides frequent

updates on what is happeningaround the country with lead-freelegislation and requirements. Thiswebsite provides an interactive mapshowing the status of lead-free initia-tives nationwide, downloadable cat-alogs and educational material. Visitthe website to see the overviewvideo.Watts Water Technologies, Inc.

with worldwide sales over $1 billion,designs, manufactures and sells anextensive line of valves and relatedflow control products to the plumb-ing and heating and water qualitymarkets. For more information,www.weareleadfree.net.*The wetted surface of this prod-

uct contacted by consumable watercontains less than one quarter of onepercent (0.25%) of lead by weight.

EASTON, PA. — Harvel Plastics, Inc.,has received certification by NSF Inter-national as being in compliance withnew “lead-free” standards regardingdrinking water plumbing compo-nents. Standards will be adopted Jan-uary 1, 2010, in California.Known as AB 1953, the new Cal-

ifornia law mandates that any pipe,pipe fittings, and plumbing fittingsand fixtures used to convey or dis-pense water for human consumptionhave no more than 0.25 percent lead

Sponsored by Watts Water Technologies

Harvel’s PVC and CPVC piping products amongfirst to meet California ‘Lead-Free’ Code

in wetted surfaces as determined bya weighted average. Furthermore,the law requires certification by anindependent American NationalStandards Institute (ANSI) accreditedthird party, such as NSF Interna-tional. The California Department ofPublic Health is developing stan-dards for building officials to imple-ment and enforce compliance withthe new regulation. Vermont is alsoadopting similar “lead-free” stan-dards as of the beginning of the year.

NORTHBROOK, ILL. — UnderwritersLaboratories (UL), a global leader indrinking water quality and safety,announced today a new certificationprogram to help manufacturers ofcooking and plumbing related prod-ucts demonstrate compliance withnew, stricter low lead requirementsthat will be mandatory in Californiaand Vermont starting Jan. 1, 2010.UL’s new certification program will

test materials to demonstrate com-pliance to both the California Healthand Safety Code and similar legisla-tion in Vermont. It will allow manu-facturers that are required todemonstrate compliance with theCalifornia Health and Safety Code,but are not covered by or specificallyincluded in Annex G of ANSI/NSF 61,to obtain the proper product safetycertification.

UL announces alternative certification programfor lead-free verification of cooking & plumbing products

It is the dawning of a new day for our Industry.

We are the brands of Watts Water Technologies.

In California and Vermont, after months of discussion, preparation and hard work the world has changed and Plumbing Professionals, Engineers and Do-It-Yourselfers are waking up to the new standard

of Lead Free plumbing.

Today, we are Lead Free.

For more information or product ordering visit WeAreLeadFree.net or contact your local authorized representative.



BY JOEL WILLIAMS

Today, some form of comfortsystem automation is avail-able in most new homes. But

more than programmable thermo-stats and outdoor temperature sen-sors, the future of home automationis found in so-called “smart con-trols.” By “smart,” we mean the abil-

ity to manage all of a building’sheating, ventilation and air-condi-tioning (HVAC) systems — radiant,forced air, domestic hot water, snow-melt, etc. — through a single net-work control system.

“Smart controllers are perhaps thesingle biggest opportunity for plumb-ing and heating contractors going

forward,” opines Ted Lowe, execu-tive director of the Radiant Panel As-sociation. “The new technologyoffers self-configuring networks thatrequire no programming, software orweb knowledge, which gives the av-erage heating contractor unprece-dented access to this market.”

Most HVAC and hydronic heatingmanufacturers already equip indi-

vidual components with varying lev-els of “stand-alone”-type controls.These controls are intended to mod-erate a specific application or pur-pose (e.g., resetting a boiler,controlling a mixing device, etc.)

But while a boiler, pump or fur-nace might contain individual effi-ciencies, there are even greater

system synergies to be gained whenHVAC and related climate control sys-tems are centralized, argued RobertBean, a registered engineering tech-nologist and the editor of the Jour-nal of Indoor EnvironmentalQuality.

To illustrate the focus toward inte-grated systems, Bean asks rhetori-cally: “Should there be an air trafficcontrol tower operating in isolationfor each plane? Or is it better tohave several controllers inside onetower, together integrating the man-agement of air traffic?”

Indeed, Lowe says that systemsusing centralized, smart controltechnology are able to reduce energyconsumption by 15% to 30% in mostapplications. When you consider thecurrent and future cost of energy,this level of savings is a pow-erful investment for home-owners and building ownersto consider.

And yet, given the multi-tude of equipment manufac-turers and proprietarycommunication protocols,this concept of a universal,all-knowing control has beenelusive until recently — es-pecially for smaller, non-commercial applications.

The Holy Grail:Intelligent integrationThe ability to communi-

cate or “network” amongcontrollers, sensors andcomponents is a key difference be-tween past and future generations ofHVAC controls, according to JeffWiedemann, product manager, ap-plication controls for Uponor, Inc.,

whose company markets one such“smart” controller.

“In the past, contractors mighthave had one control box for boil-ers, one for mixing, one forsnowmelt — all built by the samemanufacturer — and all unable totalk to one another,” said Wiede-mann. “Our Climate Control Net-work™ System changes thatscenario and links a variety of dif-

ferent systems and dissimilar equip-ment under one central control,using intuitive graphical configura-tion tools that replace complex andtime-consuming programming.”

Imagine, he said, the ability to au-tomate intelligent, energy-efficientchoices without intervention fromhome or building owners. “It wouldbe a nightmare, using conventionalcontrols, to choose the heating de-vice with the lowest operating costfrom among a multiple-stage geot-hermal unit, solar collectors and a

high-efficiency condensing boiler,”admitted Wiedemann. But thatsame task becomes much easier,yet more costly, using direct digital

(Turn to Smart... page 42.)

Hydronic heating gets ‘smart’Technology Talk

New generation of centralized, smart controlsmaximizes the efficiency of multiple hydronic and

forced-air components through a single network system

An optional high-definition touch panel interface is available with the ClimateControl Network System.

“Installers will appreciate the uncomplicated wiringmethods of the Climate Control Network System," saysJeff Wiedemann, product manager, application con-trols for Uponor. "End users can benefit from the sys-tem’s modular approach, making it compatible withany budget, as well as flexible for future changes.”

“Far and away, the biggest sell-ing point for contractors is

its flexibility,” said former heatingcontractor Alen Frandsen of theUponor Climate Control Network™System, an integrated computerhardware and software packagethat connects all of a building’sheating, ventilation and air-condi-tioning systems to a single networkcontrol system.

The Utah native, who spent thepast 13 years working as a hydron-ics installer, recently joined Uponoras a controls specialist, helpingusers leverage all of the smart con-troller’s available efficiencies.

“I’ve had great success with othercontrollers, but the Climate Con-trol Network is easily the most con-venient and flexible controller I’vefound,” Frandsen remarked. “Mostmanufacturers prescribe how tobuild a mechanical system to oper-ate within the parameters of theircontrollers. Uponor has built a con-troller flexible enough to accommo-date any application parameters.”

According to Frandsen, taskssuch as wiring can handled betwice as fast with the Climate Con-trol Network. “Take the example ofan incorrectly labeled thermostat,”he commented. “With a standardcontroller, you’d have to physicallyrewire it; with a smart controller,you’d make the change via softwarefrom your office.”

Energy-efficient applications alsobenefit significantly from intelligentcontrol technology. Frandsen pointsto a solar thermal storage tankwhose contents may not be quitewarm enough to heat a particularzone.

“Today’s smart controls wouldmaximize the ‘free’ warm waterfrom the solar storage tank byadding heat from the boiler to reachthe desired temperature,” he ex-plained. “Traditional controls wouldcompletely discount the heat valuein the storage tank water. Instead,they would rely exclusively on thesystem’s (much more expensive)boiler to heat the zone.”

The Uponor Climate Control Network™ System:A former contractor offers his point of view

“A service tech could conceivably know about a serviceissue — via cell phone or e-mail alert — beforethe occupants do. This, in turn, eliminates the

inconvenience and hassle of having to make a separateservice call and greatly boosts customer satisfaction levels.”


controls (DDC). “The clear choice,” Wiedemann

continued, “is the new generation ofHVAC controls that can detect all theavailable heating devices in a home

and automatically select the

one with the lowest possible energyconsumption.”

That’s not to say that smart con-trollers solve all HVAC problems.

“Contractors still need to under-stand the mechanics behind smartcontrol technology,” said Dave Yates,president of York, Pa.-based F.W.Behler, Inc. “For example, an apart-ment complex I visited last week hadtwo efficient boilers, but the contrac-tors didn’t install an outdoor temper-ature sensor to allow the boilers’internal diagnostics to operate effi-ciently. As a result, the system wasrunning at only 87% efficiency in-stead of 95%. We must not miss thelow-hanging fruit in our attempt toreach the top of the tree.”

Manage energy — automaticallyEnergy efficiency is achieved

through both electromechanical so-lutions (e.g., valves, dampers,pumps), as well as power and fuelconservation, said engineering tech-nologist Bean. “Working alongside aradiant-based HVAC system, smart

controls can maximize efficiency byintuitively managing the varioustemperatures in the space and in thesystems, as well as managing thepower and fuel consumption.”

Consider a mixing function forwhich the controller must determinethe optimal water temperature. In-stead of basing this decision solelyon one input (e.g., the outdoor airtemperature), today’s newer con-trols leverage multiple data points(outdoor temperature, supply watertemperature, valve position, pumpspeed, etc.) in order to supply thelowest — that is, the most efficient— water temperature necessary.

In addition to conserving powerand leveraging data to make in-formed decisions, today’s sophisti-cated HVAC controllers are able tomaximize the energy savings asso-ciated with variable speed outputs,

or ECMs (Elec-tronically Com-m u t a t e dMotors). Inother words,

why op-erate ap umpat fullpower,

if a task can be achieved with just30% of full capacity?

Noted Yates: “My home’s hy-dronic variable speed circulatorsutilize ECM motors with invertervariable-speed technology that,combined with my three-watt zonevalves, have slashed my thermal-transfer power consumption bymore than 90%.”

And today’s smart controllers dojust that, right out of the box. Fromone central control, contractors areable to control two stages of heating,two stages of cooling and supple-mental heating, as well as allowchanges to room set-point tempera-tures and humidity set points, whilealso controlling the fan and heat re-covery ventilator (HRV).

The control technology is sobroad, in fact, that contractors anddesign engineers are now able toconsider total system efficiency, in-stead of focusing on individual con-tributors, said the RPA’s Lowe.

“It’s like saying that a home iswell insulated, but has poor-quality

windows,” said Lowe. “You can’tseparate the two, because they bothcontribute to energy usage andhomeowner comfort. Moreover,from an energy standpoint, systemsare only as efficient as the controls,and poor controls waste energy, in-crease life cycle costs and reduceoccupant comfort.”

Always watchingBean noted that smart controls

can serve as the contractor’s perma-nent on-site manager. “When prop-erly applied, these controls canreduce the field technician’s on-sitetime in commissioning, operationand maintenance,” said Bean. “Theycan also serve as an early warningsystem for component failures or tohelp optimize energy use.”

Uponor’s Wiedemann agreed andpointed to a popular feature on hiscompany’s Climate Control Networkthat permits a service con-tractor to monitor a cus-tomer’s network online,while making rapid-re-sponse changes to meetcomfort needs.

“A service tech couldconceivably know about aservice issue — via cellphone or e-mail alert — be-fore the occupants do,”Wiedemann remarked.“This, in turn, eliminatesthe inconvenience and has-sle of having to make a sep-arate service call andgreatly boosts customer sat-isfaction levels.”

This new generation of smartHVAC controls simplifies integration,monitoring and maintenance of dif-ferent systems, while yielding betterenergy efficiency and, ultimately,better occupant comfort and con-venience.

Some additional “smart control”features include:

• Scalability: The flexibility ofthese modular control systems en-ables plumbing and heating contrac-tors to accommodate any size HVAC

system and to incorporate additionalelements down the road.

• Accessibility: To view or changesystem status remotely, users canaccess their centralized controllervia laptop or smart phone.

• Trends-monitoring: The abilityto sample, store and read trends en-ables users to fine-tune system effi-ciency, as well as troubleshootpotential problem areas.

• Master-passing: Smart controlsoffer the ability to transfer systemcommand to any thermostat withina system.

While most HVAC systems are de-

signed prior to construction, the scal-able nature of smart controls makethem ideally suited for new work, ex-pansion projects, or to incorporate agreater level of control over existingmechanical systems. The modularnature of most smart control tech-nology make these systems compat-

ible with most budgets, as well asamenable to future changes.

Finally, contractors can leverageclassroom and on-site training to getthe most performance from theirchosen control system. �

Joel Williams has been a freelancewriter for 18 years and has written ex-tensively on new technologies, trendsand product innovations for the homebuilding and DIY marketplace. Joel canbe reached at [email protected].


Smart controls+hydronics =energy saving comfort

Technology Talk

Uponor’s Climate Control Network System is an integrated computer hardware andsoftware package that connects all of a home's or building’s HVAC systems to asingle network control system.

“I’ve had greatsuccess with othercontrollers, but theClimate ControlNetwork is easilythe most conven-ient and flexible

controller I’ve found,” said AlenFrandsen, who recently joined Uponoras a controls specialist after spendingthe past 13 years working as a hy-dronics installer.

The Climate Control™ Network System integrateswith Uponor’s proPANEL® pumping and mixing unitsto provide precise temperature control and energyefficiency for radiant heating and cooling systems.

The simple, plug-and-play wiring designin the Uponor Climate Control™ NetworkSystem allows contractors to simplypress and click to install various compo-nents, such as these pump relays.

A Watts Water Technologies Company

Series RBFF, Designed for the Heating Professional

Save time by eliminating up to 11 threaded joints with our new RBFF service valve. The RBFF features a 3-port ball valve design to make servicing system

expansion tanks and fi ll valves a snap. A conveniently positioned pressure gauge is also included for easy fi ll valve adjustment. The integral drain port is used for relieving pres-sure from the expansion tank for accurate pre-charge measurement and can also be used for a variety of system draining and fi lling functions.

For more information, visit our website www.watts.com/rbff

Introducing the Residential Boiler Fill Fitting from Watts



BY MARTY SILVERMAN

You are a professional plumb-ing contractor. You know thatthe best tool to clear a clogged

kitchen sink is very different thanthe right tool to clear a main drain.But did you know that though onetool could be used to clear a sink,bathtub, and toilet, the best tool isdifferent in each case?

And while many contractors usethe same drain cleaning tool toclear a line clogged by debris andby grease, they really should beusing two different tools. If you areusing the same tool for both jobs,read on, and find out why using thebest tool for each job will save youtime and money.

Ask the right questions firstThere are two primary ways to se-

lect the right tool for the job:• Asking what type of drain it is• Asking what type of clog it is To determine the proper drain

cleaning tool for your application,you must first locate the source ofthe problem. If the clog is in a smalldrain line, like the sink, basin, orlaundry tub, then a hand-held ma-chine or small floor model draincleaner is the appropriate tool touse. If several drains are affected, theblockage is probably in the larger

line common to those drains. If thisis the case, a larger floor model draincleaning machine is the right tool forthe job.

What type of drain is it?Sinks, laundry tubs, roof ventsIf you are clearing small diameter

drain lines (11/4" to 3") you can usemachines that use smaller diametercables. Hand-held models that carry1/4", 5/16" or 3/8" cables are bestsuited for this application. (SeeCable Application Chart) The smalldiameter cables are flexible enoughto get around the tight bends. It iseasier on the cables if you removethe P-trap under the sink rather thanwrestle your way past it with asnake.

Bathtubs and showersThe best tool for clearing a clogged

or slow-draining tub is a Water Ram.Tubs often drain through drum trapsthat are very difficult to get throughwith a cable. The Water Ram uses aburst of compressed air to create ashock wave that follows the path ofthe water and isn’t affected by tightbends and narrow lines. It travelsdown the line and knocks out thestoppage without harming the pipes.The Water Ram also works well ontrailer homes that can be difficult toclear using cables because they havenarrow drain lines with tight bends.

Toilets and urinalsThe best tool for clearing a clogged

toilet is the closet auger. No othertool in your arsenal will go throughthe bowl as quickly and easily. The

spring is flexible enough to getthrough the tight bends in the bowl.Some come with a down head thathelps guide the cable around tightbends in older bowls. Most low-flowbowls are easier to get through witha regular spring head.

Consider a telescoping auger. If

you’ve ever had to remove a bowl be-cause the stoppage was just beyondit, you’ll know why. The telescopingaugers hide an extra 3 feet of cablein the handle. When you need it, justpush a button and it slides right out.

The tight bends of a urinal are par-ticularly vexing. Getting a urinalauger just for this propose will makeyour life much easier. But remem-ber, the more flexible the snake, theless durable it usually is. Small floor drains and clean-outsFor clearing 2" to 4" drain lines

(but not tree roots) you can use a3/8"” or 1/2" cable. There are manymachines available in this range.Some feature variable speed powercable feeds to make the job faster.Others offer wheels and folding han-

(Turn to Choosing... page 46.)

A contractor’s guide toselecting drain cleaning tools

Drain cleaning

Cable machines are the ideal tools to cut and clear tree roots and other difficultobstructions. Heavy duty machines with large diameter, durable cables are just thetool to clear tough stoppages.

Hand-held models are best for clearing small diameter drain lines.

Water jets vs.cable machines

Smaller electric water jets typi-cally offer a maximum of 1500 psiat about 2 gpm. Trying to get morepressure from an electric motorruns the risk of pulling too manyamps and popping circuit break-ers. It is better to use a gas-pow-ered jet. You get twice the pressureand twice the flow rate of electricjets. This gives you the thrust topull the hose down long runs, thepressure to break up stubbornstoppages, and the water flow toflush them away. Gas-powered jetscan clear indoor 2" to 4" drain linesby using the portable reels that de-tach from the machine.

However, portable water jets arenot effective for clearing tree rootsor retrieving objects from a line.Stay with cable machines whenthe job calls for cutting roots or re-trieving debris.

In order to choose the right toolfor the job, it is important to

know what stoppage you are upagainst. Both cable machinesand high-pressure water jetsprovide the power needed to

clear a stoppage, whether it isgrease, sand, ice, or heavystoppages like tree roots.


dles to get to and from the job easier.Choose one that has enough cablecapacity for most of the jobs you’llencounter.

Floor drains and main linesHeavy duty machines with large

diameter, durable cables are neededto clear tough stoppages and treeroots. A smaller diameter cable doesnot have the torque needed to cut

through roots. Two types of ma-chines are available — drum-typeand sectional. Each has advantages.

Advantages of drum-typedrain cleaning machines

Drum-type machines have the ad-vantage of being self-contained, fast,and easy to operate. The entirelength of cable is contained in onedrum and can be transported in asingle trip to the job site. Most ma-chines come with large wheels, stairclimbers and a truck loading wheelto make getting the machine to andfrom the job easier. A variable speedautomatic feed, feeding at a rate ofup to 20 ft/min, makes it easier forthe operator to get the cable to theclog quickly. It also helps to retractthe cable more easily. A 100 footcable can weight 100 lbs.

Advantages of sectionaldrain cleaning machines

Sectional drain cleaners have the

advantage of being lightweight. Thecables are carried separately fromthe machine as 7.5, 8, 10, or 15 ft.sections. No need to carry theweight of 100 feet of cable when thejob only calls for 50 feet. Once onthe job, the cables are feed into theline one section at a time and cou-pled together as needed. The opencoil design of the sectional cablehelps corkscrew the cable down the

line, making it easier to clear longerruns. And if a sectional cable is everdamaged, it can easily be uncou-pled and replaced.

What type of stoppage is it?In order to choose the right tool

for the job, it is important to knowwhat stoppage you are up against.Both cable machines and high-pres-sure water jets provide the powerneeded to clear a stoppage, whetherit is grease, sand, ice, or heavy stop-pages like tree roots.

Tree rootsCable machines, both drum-type

and sectional, are the ideal tools tocut and clear tree roots and otherdifficult obstructions. Use a larger di-ameter cable that has the torque tocut tree roots. (See Cable Applica-tion Chart)

GreaseFor restaurants, factories and in-

stitutions where grease clogs are aconstant problem, water jets are thetool to use.

They are ideal for clearing grease,sand, ice, and other soft stoppagesfrom drain lines that cable ma-chines have a hard time clearing.Jets use a stream of high-pressurewater that hits the stoppage andflushes it away. The thrust of thenozzle drives the hose down the

line and gives you wall-to-wallcleaning action. (See water jets vs.cable machines)

Foreign objectsTo retrieve objects, rags, chil-

dren’s toys, broken cables, etc, cablemachines are the best tool to use.Begin by choosing the size of yourdrain line to find the right cable ma-chine for your application. (SeeCable Application Chart) Closetaugers work well retrieving diapersfrom the toilet. In other lines, thereare a variety of retrieving tools avail-able to attach to the end of the cablefor this purpose.

Sand, mudWater jets are ideal for clearing

sand, mud, and debris-choked lines,as well as grease, ice, and other softstoppages from drain lines.

DebrisDebris blockages can range from

hair, soap, and scale in smaller lines,to tree roots, clippings and gravel inlarger drain lines. Cable drain clean-

ers are required to clear debrischoked lines. Two types of machinesare available — drum-type and sec-tional. (See Drum vs. SectionalComparison chart)

IceWater jets are a great tool for

clearing lines clogged with ice. Theywork well in both plastic and metalpipe. The larger gasoline-poweredjets can clear a foot of ice per minutein a 4" line.

Choosing the right toolmakes you money

Asking the right questions willhelp you chose the right tool. Choos-ing the right tool for the job will clearthe line faster. It will also reduceyour maintenance expenses fromusing the wrong tool at the wrongtime, make your job easier, andmake you more money. �

Marty Silverman is VP of marketing forGeneral Pipe Cleaners.


Choosing the right drain cleaning equipmentDrain cleaning

A water ram quickly clears clogged or slow-draining lavs and tubs, which oftendrain through drum traps that resist cable cleaners.

Drum-type machines [are] self-contained, fast, andeasy to operate. The entire length of cable is contained in one drum

and can be transported in a single trip to the job site. Mostmachines come with large wheels, stair climbers and a truck loading

wheel to make getting the machine to and from the job easier.

If the clog is in a small drainline...a hand-held machine or

small floor model drain cleaneris the appropriate tool. If severaldrains are affected, the blockage

is probably in the largercommon line. A larger floor

model drain cleaning machine isthe right tool for the job.

Tune up your business with FloPro® Factory Training. Even the most experienced contractors tell us that Taco FloPro Factory Training helps them work smarter. And with today’s economy, working smarter isn’t an option – it’s essential for pro�tability. You’re sure to bene�t from the expertise and insights only to be found in a small, personal classroom setting.

www.taco-hvac.com

To grow, you have to know.Our 2-day factory training programs are taught by Taco’s own John Barba. Together, you’ll focus on one topic and learn it cold. It’s work, but it doesn’t feel like it.

Sign up now!Classes are small, and available to FloPro team members only. Visit www.taco-hvac.com/�opro for all the course information and details.

Date Course Description

FEB 11-12 “Compleat” Boiler Room(CBR)

Learn to design – and sell – the ultimate boiler room using all Taco products. Lots of hands-on, including wiring and programming Taco controls.

FEB 25-26 Hydronic Heat Loss and Design (HHD)

Learn simple strategies to improve any system by adding reset controls to existing cast iron boilers, adding motorized reset valves to mod-con boilers PLUS a whole lot more! Includes an introduction to Taco’s new iWorx web-based system controls for residential applications. (CBR is a prerequisite)

MAR 11-12 “Compleat” Boiler Room(CBR)

See above

MAR 25-26 Hydronic Control Strategies (HCS)

Learn to conduct an accurate heat loss analysis with pencil, paper, and calculator. Learn how to use our state of the art FloPro Design software. Plenty of hands-on. Sure to benefit any experienced hydronics designer. Basic computer skills required.

APR 8-9 “Compleat” Boiler Room(CBR)

See above

APR 22-23 Hydronic Control Strategies (HCS)

See above

JUNE 24-25 “Compleat” Boiler Room(CBR)

See above

JUL 8-9 Hydronic Heat Loss and Design (HHD)

See above

SEPT 23-24 Hydronic Control Strategies (HCS)

See above

OCT 21-22 “Compleat” Boiler Room(CBR)

See above

Factory Tune ups.

New this year are several “Off-Campus” locations:Minneapolis: Denver:April 15-16 CBR June 10-11 CBRMay 13-14 HCS August 5-6 HCSMay 20-21 HHD Sept 9-10 HHDJune 17-18 CBR

New Jersey: Philadelphia:July 29-30 CBR Oct 7-8 CBRAugust 19-20 HCS



BY TOMMY OLSEN

Over the past 10 years, thewater heater industry hasseen many advances in

technology, delivering higher per-formance and greater efficiencies:flammable vapor ignition resistance(FVIR), tankless gas, high-efficiencygas units, power direct vent, and en-hanced solar products — just toname a few of the innovations.

However, outside of the perform-ance requirements of NAECA II (Na-tional Appliance EnergyConservation Act of 2004), little haschanged with regard to electricwater heaters — until now. Energy-saving, fully integrated, heat pumpwater heater (HPWH) technology isnow readily available, offering morethan twice the efficiency of a con-ventional electric water heater.

While the heat pump concept it-self is far from new, the integrationof a heat pump, a hot-water storagetank and backup electric elementsinto the same appliance package is asignificant step forward. A new gen-eration of HPWH products incorpo-rates features that boostperformance to Energy Star® levels,reducing energy costs and dramati-cally shrinking a household’s carbonfootprint.

But it may surprise you that, evenwith these advances, the operationof an HPWH is not all that compli-

cated, as compared with that of aconventional unit.

How an integrated HPWH worksBased on the simple principle that

cold absorbs heat, an integratedHPWH operates follows a four-stepprocess:

1. Refrigerant, such as R410A, cir-culates through an evaporator coiland absorbs heat from the atmos-phere.

2. The refrigerant is compressedto increase its heat content…

3. … and circulated through aheat-exchange process, where ittransfers its heat to the cooler waterin the storage tank.

4. Having shed its heat, the coolerrefrigerant starts the process all overagain.

HPWH design has more in commonwith your refrigerator than yourHVAC (heating, ventilation and airconditioning) system. But to under-stand the concept of heat pumps,imagine a refrigerator working in re-verse:

• A refrigerator removes heat froman enclosed box and expels it to thesurrounding air.

• An HPWH takes heat from the sur-rounding air and transfers it to waterin an enclosed tank. Cool air is ex-pelled into the atmosphere.

Myths vs. factsHeat pump water heating technol-

ogy remains relatively new and un-familiar to most contractors andtheir customers, so misinformationand misperceptions are inevitable.With time and usage, these mistakenideas will fade. But let’s acceleratethe education process by using therest of this article to take a closerlook at 10 of the most prevalentmisconceptions:Myth: A heat pump water heater

will replace a home/light residen-tial heat pump air handler. Fact: A HPWH is designed

as a standalone water-heating product. It doesnot replace your heatpump HVAC system. Thetwo are separate piecesof equipment andserve two distinctfunctions.Myth: I’ll have to

wait longer for hotwater with an HPWH. Fact: An HPWH per-

forms in the samemanner as your cur-rent 50-gallon electricwater heater, but atless than half the op-erating cost. For ex-ample, with its firsthour rating of 67 gal-lons and a recovery rateof 21 gallons per hour@ 90°F rise in tempera-ture, the Rheem HP-50Heat Pump WaterHeater, for example, re-quires no lifestylechanges for the con-sumer. As an added fea-ture, the unit can be setto deliver the same per-formance as a 65-gallonelectric water heater.Myth:A HPWH is more

complicated to install.Fact: HPWHs require

virtually the same in-stallation procedures

as any other tank-type electric waterheater. The only additional item is acondensate drain connection. That’sbecause, as an HPWH removes heatfrom the atmosphere, it generatesmoisture — or condensate — thatmust be collected and sent to adrain. This condensate is much likethe water droplets that form on acold drinking glass on a warm day.

(Turn to Heat Pumps, page 50.)

Integrated heat pump water heatersFast-emerging technology offers double the energy efficiency with no tradeoffs in consumer comfort

EfficiEnt watEr hEating

How the Rheem Heat Pump Water Heater Works

In “Energy Saver” mode, this water heater’s high-effi-ciency heat pump operates automatically for hot water stor-age in this sequence:

1. A fan pulls air through the top air filter.2. Heat in the air is absorbed by eco-friendly refrigerant

inside the evaporator coil and cool (dehumidified) air is ex-hausted.

3. Refrigerant is pumped through a compressor, which in-creases the temperature.

4. Simultaneously, the cooler water from the bottom of thetank is pumped to the top of the appliance, where it circu-lates through a patented condenser coil.

5. Hot refrigerant transfers its heat to the water inside thecondenser coil.

6. Heated water is returned back to the top of the tank.7. All functions are controlled simultaneously by an ad-

vanced circuit board located behind the user touchpad.8. Condensate drain connection.9. Backup electric heating elements.

Myth: If the HPWH draws moisturefrom the atmosphere, I don’t need adehumidifier any more. Fact: Since an HPWH operates only

when there is a demand for domes-tic hot water — operating no morethan four hours daily in a typical

home — long-term humidity controlis best served by products specifi-cally designed to control humidity.Myth: HPWHs require specialized

maintenance.Fact: Basic water heater mainte-

nance is pretty much all that is nec-essary: annual flushing of the tank,

periodic inspection of the T&P valve,water and electric connections. Thelone additional servicing step in-volves periodic inspection of areusable air filter in the heat pumpsection of the unit. To remove dustand lint buildup, simply wash the fil-ter with a little soap and water.

Myth: A HPWH can be installed in acloset. Fact: Probably not — unless that

closet is a very large, walk-in type.HPWHs require approximately 1,000cubic feet of ambient (uncondi-tioned air) to operate properly. Thisis an area measuring roughly 10-foot5 10-foot 5 10-foot. Ideal installationlocations are attics, garages andbasements.Myth: I’ll need to hire an HVAC

technician to install and service thewater heater.Fact: HPWHs are delivered as fully

charged, sealed systems — just likerefrigerators and room air condition-ers. As a result, an HVAC technicianis not needed in the installationprocess.Myth: If it gets too cold, my HPWH

won’t have enough warm air to operate.Fact: Not so. For example, the

Rheem HP-50 will continue to drawwarmth from the air when the in-door, ambient temperature falls aslow as 40°F. Should the indoor tem-perature at the installed locationdrop below that level, the HP-50 willcontinue to supply hot water usingtwo conventional electric elements.Once the ambient temperature risesabove 40°F again, heat pump opera-tion will resume.Myth: I can use my HPWH to cool

my attic, garage or basement. Fact: While operating, a HPWH will

emit cool air from the heat exchangeprocess; however, just as your refrig-erator will not generate enough heatto warm your kitchen on a cold day,an integrated HPWH will not operateenough hours in a day for long-termcooling benefitsMyth: Heat pumps water heaters

are loud.Fact: The Rheem HP-50 with its

whisper-quiet fan operates at lessthan 49 decibels. Normal conversa-tion is 65 decibels.

Improvements to comeCurrent HPWH technology is just

the beginning, as manufacturerswork to maximize water heater per-formance, energy efficiency and cus-tomer payback. As improvementscome on stream, you can expect tosee units with higher storage capac-ities, higher kilowatt-hour inputsand even faster first-hour recoveries.

In short, heat pump water heatingis a technology whose time has defi-nitely come. �

Tommy Olsen is a product man-ager at Rheem Water Heating inMontgomery, Alabama. Email himat: [email protected].


Heat pump water heaters offer efficiency

50 Phc News — FEBRUARY 2010EfficiEnt watEr hEating

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AMBLER, PA. — Bradford White WaterHeaters recently introduced theirnew Bradford White ICON System™Accessory Packages. The new acces-sory packages work in conjunctionwith the company’s recently intro-duced ICON System gas control toprovide homeowners with additionalbenefits such as comprehensive leakprotection and better, more energyefficient performance including up to36% savings on energy usage and anincrease in usable hot water by as

much as 50% or more. The packages include a fully pro-

grammable 7-day, 4-period/day LCD

digital control that can be attachedto the water heater or mounted re-motely throughout the house, leak

detection that in-cludes an audiblealarm and op-tional automaticcold water shutoff valve, and an

enhanced integrated mix-ing device with multipleoptional water connec-tions that is quick andeasy to install.

For more details and towatch a video about thenew Bradford White ICONSystem™ AccessoryPackages, please visitwww.bradfordwhite.com.

Bradford White ICON System™ introduces accessory packages


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Providence, Rhode IslandTrade Show Days Tuesday & Wednesday

ALL FUELSALL FUELS REPRESENTEDREPRESENTED


industry nEws

ATLANTA — Now in its 47th year asthe world’s largest internationaltrade show event dedicated to its in-dustry, the Kitchen & Bath IndustryShow (KBIS) will be held at Mc-Cormick Place in Chicago on April16-18, 2010. Owned by the NationalKitchen and Bath Association(NKBA), sponsored by Kitchen andBath Business (K+BB) magazine,the show is expected to draw morethan 30,000 attendees, along withnearly 700 exhibitors made up ofthe largest kitchen and bath manu-facturers in the world.

The must-attend event brings to-gether the industry’s top dealers,designers, builders, remodelers, re-tailers, and other professionals di-rectly involved in the design andremodel of residential kitchens andbathrooms. The nearly 350,000-square-foot expo space at KBIS iscomplemented by a full conferenceprogram.

Among the nearly 30 educationalprograms, some key topics and pre-senters include: “The Green Com-petitive Edge” led by JackThomasson, host of HGTV’s DreamHome and Green Home, who de-mystifies the green trend andshares tips for incorporating eco-friendly components into greathome designs; the Builders/Remod-elers Seminar led by Bill Rancic, thefirst winner of NBC’s The Apprentice,who will use his entrepreneurial in-sight to discuss how builders andremodelers can succeed in businessand life; and David Kohler, presi-dent and chief operating officer ofKohler Co., who will provide theState of the Industry Address andan overview of product design, tech-nology, and sustainable design inhis presentation titled, “The RoadAhead for the Industry.”

K•BIS features innovativeproducts, educational sessions& networking opportunities


In the hotel business the mostcommon guest complaint is overroom comfort, specifically air

conditioning. Described as being a“killer” in customer satisfaction in-dexes, this is exactly what happenedwhen the Renaissance ProvidenceHotel, an upscale brand of the Mar-riott family of properties, opened itsdoors in the summer of 2007. Devel-oped and operated by Sage Hospital-ity of Denver, the hotel has an HVAC

system based on the Taco Load-Match®-IEC fan-coil single pipe sys-tem. With two Taco circulators perfan coil, there are 544 installedLoadMatch circulators for the hotel’s272 rooms.

Affected rooms, normally cooledto 72ºF dry bulb and 58ºF in sum-

mer, were stuck at 75ºF dry bulb anda humid 64º wet bulb, and guests,making their first stays in the reno-vated property, were not happy. Inorder to restore comfort for theguests, the hotel’s engineering de-partment faced the daunting task ofcleaning and/or replacing a highnumber of system components.

The underlying problem was air inthe hydronic piping system and,more specifically, the developmentof corrosive iron oxide created bythe oxygen present. (The hotel’s do-mestic water was never affected.) Indraining system water in weeklycleanings, a high degree of sedimentwas found to be present. The bigquestion then was how to get rid ofthe air and the associated gunk bypurging the system, and how to dothat without shutting down the hotelin the process. According to Steve

Beretta, the hotel’s director of engi-neering, it was a “challenging situa-tion” for a brand new hotel.

Having been called in on theproblem, Taco LoadMatch expertsled by Greg Cunniff, P.E., Taco’s ap-plications engineering manager, hada solution in mind. Greg felt thatthe common standard type air sep-arators installed in both the coolingand heating mechanical roomswere inadequate for a problem ofthis magnitude. Initial tests on sys-tem water indicated that the gunkcould be micro-biological inducedcorrosion (MIC) that was causing agalvanic corrosion process in thehotel’s piping system. It was neces-sary to purge the system of the oxy-gen that the microbes were living

off and creating the iron oxide cor-rosion problem.

Draining the entire system andthen flushing it with an acid solutionwould require shutting down thehotel for the duration of the work, acostly proposition and a potentiallydamaging one to the property’s rep-utation. Cunniff suggested a differentapproach: Taco would replace thehotel’s two air separators in separateoff-season actions, starting with thechilled side. That way there wouldbe limited complications and theleast amount of affect on guests.What was needed was a more pow-erful separator, one with air and dirtelimination capabilities — Taco’s4900 Series, specifically the 4900-AD (Air & Dirt) model separator.

Introduced in 2005, the 4900 Se-ries was designed for the completeelimination of air from closed loop

systems. The key to the 4900 Series’effectiveness is its use of patentedstainless steel PALL rings. Pall ringtechnology is widely used in the pro-cessing industry to mix or separategases from liquids. Using PALL rings inhydronic air separation allows re-moval of microbubbles, sand, dirt andrust. Air bubbles are separated by thePALL rings through a process knownas coalescence; dirt particles arecaught and sifted to the bottom of thetank, where they can be removedthrough a blowdown valve.

So convinced of their efficacywhen it came to the RenaissanceProvidence Hotel problem, Taco do-nated two 4900-AD separators andhelped install them in separate mid-dle-of-the-night operations (again tominimize disruptions to hotel oper-ations) in the spring of 2008 (for thechilled side) and then again in the

fall for the heating side. Once opera-tional, the system water, now beingstarved of oxygen, began to show im-provement right away, according toSteve Beretta. In four months’ timethe problem was gone and heatingand chilled system water had turnedclear and sediment free.

Having been in hundreds of me-chanical rooms over a 40-year ca-reer in the hydronics industry,Taco’s Greg Cunniff has only en-countered about a dozen MIC-typesituations. “It’s a bit more com-mon in fire protection systemsthan hydronic systems,” he says.In any event, Taco’s 4900 SeriesAir & Dirt Separator demonstratedthat it’s up to the toughest air anddirt problems. �

Information submitted by Taco, Inc.www.taco-hvac.com.

Air & dirt separator up tochallenge of hotel’s iron oxide problem

fiEld rEport

The renovated, 277-room Renaissance Providence Hotel suffered from air in thehydronic piping system, which led to micro-biological induced corrosion that wascausing a galvanic corrosion process in the piping.

Steve Beretta, the hotel’s Director of Engineering, holds a beaker full of the crud andgunk that collected in the new hotel’s hydronic piping, and compares it to the clean,oxygen-starved water from the system after installing Taco’s 4900-AD separators.

Taco’s Greg Cunniff (left) explains to Steve Beretta the PALL ring technology thatseparates microbubbles, sand, dirt and rust from the water in the hydronic system,thereby preventing the growth of damaging microbes.

Shower drainThe low profile linear shower drainis clean and non-intrusive — the

outdated round center shower drainis no longer needed. Quick Drain isthe lowest-profile bathroom andshower linear drain in the world. Itis easy to clean and has a very highflow rate. Ease of installation keepsthis shower drain in demand byhome builders and contractors, aswell as by discerning homeowners.Quick Drain USA.

Circle 102 on Reader Reply CardCorrugated SS water heater connectors

New Series FFSS stainless steel corru-gated water heater connectors aremore flexible than comparable cop-per corrugated products and providean easy, kink free installa-tion every time.These newconnectorsprovide abuilt in di-e l e c t r i csleeve to

ne g a t ethe need for a separate dielectricunion and are available with stan-dard 3/4" pipe thread connections inthe popular lengths of 12", 15", 18"and 24". Max pressure: 125psi/8.62bar, max temperature: 180°F/82° C.NSF and IAPMO listed. Watts.


Push Tite™ redesignNew version of the Push Tite™closet flange features a one-piecemolded flange and a newly designed,

three-fin elastomer gasket. Workswith and install easily into any 4"pipe, including small I.D. cast iron.The gasket helps provide a positiveseal on corroded or uneven pipe.Maintains a full 3" flow — unique inthe industry. Sioux Chief Mfg.


Plumber’s padTake the physical pain out of jobswith the award-winning Plumber’sPad. This ergonomically designedsupport pad and more on-the-jobproducts for plumbers and HVAC pro-fessionals can be found on www.ergopads.com. The Plumber’s Pad pro-vides knee, back and head support toreduce strain and injuries. ThePlumber’s Pad is actually two pads: a6-inch thick base pad for body sup-port, and a foldable head pad that ad-justs to cabinet openings anddifferent spaces. Ergopads.com.


Preassembled sump pump systemThe Pro Pak 53 is a preassembledsump pump system complete withcompany’s Model 53 primary pumpand Model 507 backup pump. Offersextra protection when the primarypump fails due to power outageswith 71/2 hours of continuous pump-ing on a fully charged battery. ThePro Pak 49 also is available, featuringa Model 49 primary pump. A three-year warranty is included on bothsystems. Zoeller Pump Co.


Novel potable circulatorThe ecocirc® energy-efficientpotable water recirculator pumpsuse unique technology to achievesignificant energy savings while de-livering instant hot water to everyfaucet. Electronically commutatedmotor (ECM) technology and spheri-cal motor design eliminates the con-ventional shaft, seal and bearingassembly. The rotor/impeller is theonly moving part and is magnetically

balanced on a stationeryceramic bearing inside

the housingfor silent,long-lastingoperation.

No seals toleak. Avail-able plug-intimer mod-

ule adapts easily toall ecocirc circulators to convert thepump to a timer-controlled unit foreven greater energy savings. ITT Bell& Gossett.


Ceramic tubsThe Zen bathtubs and lavatories arehand crafted in the Shigaraki region

of Japan, near Kyoto and will be soldsemi-exclusively and exclusively toselect showrooms in the U.S. Shi-garaki dates to the medieval periodand is one of the six ancient kilns ofJapan. Aquapal USA.


Flowban stops bathroom floodsUnlike other flood prevention de-vices, Flowban™ uses no electricalconnections or batteries. Entirelymechanical operation; only threemoving parts. Prevents floods byturning off the inlet so there is nowastage of water. Automatically re-sets when the faucets are turned off.Concealed behind bath panels;needs no service or maintenance.IAPMO approved. Great for commer-cial hotel and high-rise condo-minium projects where waterdamage can be costly. Flowban.


54 Phc News — FEBRUARY 2010product nEws

Solar X-Pump Block incorporates functionsThe Solar SXPB combines a variable speed solar differential temperature con-trol, bronze heat source and heat sink circulators, and a stainless steel flatplate heat exchanger into one compact package. Variable speed controlsmatch solar collector output, a feature that increases system performance by20%. With just four pipe connections, the installation is complete. Can be setup to maintain a temperature differential between the solar collector(s) andup to two primary and optional auxiliary storage tanks. The unit can supporta booster pump as part of a drain-back system, comes with a heat dump optionand freeze protection. A large LCD screen conveniently displays the amountof thermal energy harvested by the collector. Taco.


� Phc News product of the month �

Lightweight corded drillRugged 1/2" drill weighs just 5.1 lbs,yet provides up to 248 in-lbs oftorque. Ergonomicd e s i g na n deasily accessible trig-ger button. Has a 2-speed gearbox.Remove the chuck toaccess the drill’s spin-dle with a hexagon recess that ac-cepts screwdriver bits up to 1/4" fordriving applications. Electronicspeed control holds proper speed forconditions; available drill stand con-verts tool to portable drill press.Metabo Corp.


Video inspection systemsSeeker™ video inspection systemscome equipped with a high-strength,“obedient,” 39.4" camera-tipped

probe with built-in, adjustable LED

lighting; a mirror, magnet and pick-up hook that can mount on the endof the probe; batteries; instructionmanual and an impact-resistant car-rying case. Probes start from 9.5 mmin diameter, and are water, oil anddust-proof. Users can record andtransfer still images and video. Gen-eral Tools & Instruments.


Detachable monitor borescopeThe affordable BR200 and BR250wireless video inspection borescopecameras access tight spots and can

record two GB of video or capturejpeg images. A detachable, wireless3.5" color display allows users to po-sition the borescope in a difficult lo-cation without losing sight of thedisplay. The monitor can be hand-held up to 30 ft. away or affixed toany metallic surface using its mag-net mount. Has a 39" flexible cable.Extech Instruments.


Van lock protectorLock Guard protects your external“hockey puck” padlocks from snow,ice, salt and road grime to preventfreezing, rusting and jamming up.Slips over the lock and attaches itselfwith five strong rare-earth magnets.To access the lock, simply pull it offand let it hang by its attached cableor stick it to the van door. Fits allround “hockey puck” locks on themarket; made of high impact plasticand top quality materials for longservice. Reda Innovations.


Rotary hammerThe DH38YE2, 11/2" spline shank ro-tary hammer features more power,lighter weight, less vibration, lowernoise than its predecessor. Compact,ergonomically designed to hammeror hammer/drill holes with 5.9 ft/lbsof im-p a c tenergyfor fast drillingand chiseling.Full load speed of510 rpm and im-pact rate of 2,800bpm. Two modesof operation; has safety clutch. Softelastomer handle provides a securegrip, absorbs vibration. Just over 16"in length, weighs only 14.1 lbs. Hi-tachi Power Tools.


Inspection systemThe Gen-Eye Spectra™ video in-spection system troubleshoots 2"through 10" lines and features a 15"

LCD monitor and self-leveling colorcamera. Record video to the harddrive, then copy to the DVD-R. Built-in AC/DC converter, digital locator, ti-tler, tough keyboard, etc. Standardreels hold 200-, 300-, or 400-ft. rods.Mini Reels hold 100- or 200-ft. rods.General Pipe Cleaners, a division ofGeneral Wire Spring Co.


Cordless grease gunCompany expands its LITHIUM-ION

system with the new M12™ cordlessgrease gun. With up to 25% morepressure and run-time than thecompetition, the 2446-21XC is capa-ble of delivering over 8,000 PSI maxoperating pressure for heavy dutyapplications and dispenses up toseven grease cartridges per batterycharge. Milwaukee Electric ToolCorp.


55 Phc News — FEBRUARY 2010tool crib

SeeSnake® microDrain™ inspection systemThe RIDGID SeeSnake® microDrain™ inspection system allows for quick in-spection in places previously difficult to inspect, providing accessibility, effi-ciency and reduced job time. The compact microDrain inspection systemfeatures a 30-foot flexible cable and a small 22-millimeter diameter camerahead that allows for access through many toilet traps and small P-traps with-out the need to disassemble or dismantle plumbing fixtures. RIDGID.


� Phc News tool of the month �

Sponsored by

Electric and gas jettersEel Jet EJ1500 electric and EJ3000gas jetters clean 11/2" to 8" drainlines with a fast blast through clogs.The 1.5 hp electric jetter cleans 11/2"

to 4" dia. with 1500 psi/1.7 gpm; du-plex pump w/pulsation; reel capacity150 ft. of 1/4" hose. The 13 hp gas jet-ter cleans 2" to 8" dia. lines up to 300ft. with 3,000 psi/4.7 gpm; smooth,quiet running with pulsation. Auto-matic throttle; electric start avail-able. Electric Eel Mfg. Co., Inc.



Sloan names executivedirector of marketingfor Sloan ValveFRANKLIN PARK,ILL. — SherryDavenport hasbeen appointedexecutive direc-tor of marketingfor Sloan ValveCompany. Theannouncementwas made byJohn Aykroyd,vice president ofbusiness development.

Munters namesindustry sector mgr,North AmericaGLENDALE HEIGHTS, ILL. — GarrettFreeman has been named industrysector manager, North America forMoisture Control Services (MCS), adivision of Munters AB. MCS’ global

division offerstemporary cli-mate control so-lut ions forconstruction, in-dustrial, surfacepreparation andc o a t i n g , a n dpreservation ap-plications as wellcomplete servicesfor water and firedamage restoration and remediation.

MTI WhirlpoolsappointspresidentATLANTA — MTIWhirlpools an-nounced it hasappointed RussellAdams as presi-dent. Adams iscurrently vicepresident/busi-ness development

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of MTI and will take over all day-to-day responsibilities of the com-pany. Kathy Adams, who has ledthe company since 1998 will tran-sition to CEO.

Watts promotes LaCroix NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. — WattsWater Technolo-gies, Inc., an-nounced thatChad LaCroixhas been ap-pointed to serveas the nationalmarket managerfor its Wattsbrand brass & tu-bular products.

HTP names vicepresident, engineeringEAST FREETOWN, MASS. — Heat Trans-fer Products (HTP) president DaveMartin announced the appointmentof Phillip W.Stephens to thenewly created po-sition of vice pres-ident, engineering.A licensed profes-sional engineer,Stephens willoversee all re-search, design, de-velopment andtesting activitiesfor HTP products, reporting directlyto Martin.

Industry

news

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Delmar, DEWALT® release complete construction estimating handbookCLIFTON PARK, N.Y. — Delmar, part ofCengage Learning and provider oflearning solutions for ongoing careerdevelopment and education, has re-leased the DEWALT® ConstructionEstimating Complete Handbook forcontracting professionals.The comprehensive, concise

handbook covers key factors includ-ing bid planning, scope review,quantity take-off for all trades anddivisions, cost analysis, value engi-neering, Excel spreadsheet estimat-

ing tutorials and much more. Idealfor general contractors or construc-tion managers who need knowledgeof every trade involved on a jobsite.The book focuses on straightfor-

ward, direct answers to on-the-jobproblems. Loaded with tips, check-lists, worksheets and data tables, itprovides readers with the tools theyneed to effectively navigate throughevery step of the estimating process.Log on to: www.informationdesti

nation.cengage.com.

Grundfos Pumps and Water Missions International collaborateBJERRINGBRO, DENMARK — GeorgeGreen III, Chairman and CEO ofWater Missions International (WMI)and his son George Green IV, vicepresident, recently met with Grund-fos leadership at the world head-quarters of Grundfos Pumps, Corp.to explore new ideas to continue

bringing clean drinking water to im-poverished peoples throughout theworld. The two companies share acommon vision in their humanitar-ian efforts to provide safe drinkingwater to poor villages. For info on Grundfos Pumps,

Corp., visit www.grundfos.us.

Let me just saythat I am a bigproponent of in-

dustry trade shows. Everyone needs to circle theircalendars and attend at least one to two this year. Ijust returned from the AHR Show in Orlando and Ithought it was a better-than-expected show in termsof networking, new product roll-outs and overalltraffic numbers based on a comparison from lastyear’s show. Still, the show looked down a bit fromyears past. Nonetheless, being at this latest tradeshow got me thinking: Does better trade show atten-dance reflect a rise in the economy? “We believethere is a direct correlation between the overall at-tendance at the show and the state of the economy.Larger cities like Chicago, for instance, are moreconducive for international visitors,” said Dennis F.Kloster, executive vice president and general man-ager, International Environmental Corporation. At my many booth visits throughout the show,

it was unanimous that this year’s AHR Show wasbetter than last and it was better than anyone hadexpected. And those who made the trip to the In-ternational Builders Show the week before were ofthe same mindset. “Perhaps this is a good indica-tor of things to come and attendance is represen-tative of an uptick in the economy,” I heard overand over again. According to PR released from the AHR show,

“Signs of a recovering economy was a key view from

many interviewed as to the main reason for therecord-breaking number of attendees at the 2010AHR Expo. Nearly 45,000 attendees and exhibitorsfilled the aisles during the three-day AHR Expo. Therecord-breaking attendance figures brought atremendous crowd of contractors, engineers andother industry professionals to the show to see thenewest and most innovative HVAC/R products.”John Barba, residential training/trade program

manager, Taco, Inc., said, “Overall, the AHR wasbetter than last year, when no one knew what tomake of the economic crisis. With 2009 over, I no-ticed more traffic, and the heating customers whocame all the way to Orlando were serious cus-tomers. Last year’s show seemed ‘light,’ in termsof traffic, but the economic crisis was still new andfolks may have been wary of spending money toattend a trade show. This year was noticeably bet-ter because we’ve been living with the economyfor a year and have adjusted to it.”

Some didn’t see it quite the same way, how-ever. According to Thomas C.E. Gervais, interna-tional sales manager for LAARS Heating SystemsCo., “Booth traffic was lighter than in previousyears, as I recall, but there was a steady presenceof attendees at the booth. My view is that therewere not many consulting engineers, at least notmany that I talked to in comparison to previousyears. Contractors mostly seemed to be from theSoutheast, but there was varied attendance fromwholesalers in terms of their geographic home

base. I think it was clear that attendance was lowerdue to challenging sales/mood from 2009.”As far as the trade show/economy debate, per-

haps a more in-depth comparative analysis isneeded. But let’s face it, we are not out of thewoods yet. “The state of our industry for 2010should be flat to slightly better than it was in 2009.We are largely dependent on the aggressiveness ofinstitutional lending as there are a large number ofprojects just waiting on funding,” said Kloster. �

BY JOHN MESENBRINK,editor

Can you really gauge an economy on the mend by trade show attendance?

next issue...

• MCAA Convention Issue

• PVF Report

• Commercial Restrooms

58 Phc News — FEBRUARY 2010In Our OpInIOn

Phc News (USPS number 022-074) is published 12 times yearly by TMB Publishing Inc., 1838 Techny Ct. Northbrook, IL 60062; tel. 847/564-1127; fax 847/564-1264. No part of this publicationmay be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, photocopying, electronic recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of TMB Publishing Inc.Phc News is delivered free of charge to qualified subscribers in the U.S. and Canada. Others: U.S., U.S. Poss. and Canada, $100/yr.; two-year annual subscription rate U.S. and Canada, $155; othercountries, $200/yr. or $300 for two year (U.S. funds) plus $20 surface postage. Single copies, $15.Application to mail at Periodicals Postage Rates is pending at Northbrook, IL and additional mailing offices.POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Plumbing & Hydronic Contractor News, Creative Data Services, 519 E. Briarcliff Road, Bolingbrook, IL 60440. [email protected] mail agreement No. 41499518: Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to PO Box 503, RPO West Beaver Creek, Richmond Hill ON L4B 4R6

Aerco ...............................16-17www.aerco.com

Apollo Valves ...................36-37www.apollovalves.com

Bavco ......................................8www.bavco.com

Bell & Gossett.....................IBCwww.bellgossett.com

Bradford White .....................53www.bradfordwhite.com

Burnham.............................IFCwww.burnham.com

Caroma .................................23www.caromausa.com

Chicago Faucets ...................19www.chicagofaucets.com

Danfoss .................................35www.flomatic.com

Dunkirk.................................21www.dunkirk.com

General Pipe Cleaners,a div. of GeneralWire Spring..................31, 56www.drainbrain.com

Heat Transfer Products ........13www.htproducts.com

HeatingHelp.com..................11www.heatinghelp.com

John Guest............................50www.johnguest.com

Liberty Pumps ......................49www.libertypumps.com

Link-tech ..............................10www.linktechtj.com

Matco-Norca ...........................7www.matco-norca.com

NAOHSM...............................51www.naohsm.org

Navien.............................29, 45www.navienamerica.com

Red White Valve ...................33www.redwhitevalvecorp.com

RIDGID .................................15www.ridgid.com

Slant/Fin ...............................27www.slantfin.com

A.O. Smith............................25www.hotwater.com

Smith Mfg. Co., Jay R. ..........12www.jrsmith.com

Stiebel Eltron........................18www.stiebel-eltron-usa.com

Taco.......................................47www.taco-hvac.com

Takagi....................................14www.takagi.com

Ward Mfg. Inc..........................3www.wardmfg.com

Watts ...............................39, 43www.watts.com

Webstone ............................4, 5www.webstonevalves.com

Weil-McLain............................9www.weil-mclain.com

Wilkins ...................Back Coverwww.zurn.com

Zoeller...................................41www.zoeller.com

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