• Sign In
  • Create Account
  • Sign Out
  • My Account
  • NEWS
  • PRODUCTS
  • CONTRACTORS
  • ENGINEERS
  • RADIANT & HYDRONICS
  • INSIGHTS
  • MEDIA
  • RESOURCES
  • EMAGAZINE
  • SIGN UP!
cart
facebook instagram twitter linkedin youtube
  • PRODUCTS
  • FEATURED PRODUCTS
  • CONTRACTORS
  • BATH & KITCHEN PRO
  • BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
  • HIGH EFFICIENCY HOMES
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • WATER TREATMENT
  • PMC COLUMNS
  • PMC COLUMNS
  • Dave Yates: Contractor’s Corner
  • John Siegenthaler: Hydronics Workshop
  • Kenny Chapman: The Blue Collar Coach
  • Matt Michel: Service Plumbing Pros
  • Scott Secor: Heating Perceptions
  • ENGINEERS
  • CONTINUING EDUCATION
  • DECARBONIZATION | ELECTRIFICATION
  • FIRE PROTECTION
  • GEOTHERMAL | SOLAR THERMAL
  • PIPING | PLUMBING | PVF
  • PME COLUMNS
  • PME COLUMNS
  • Christoph Lohr: Strategic Plumbing Insights
  • David Dexter: Plumbing Talking Points
  • James Dipping: Engineer Viewpoints
  • John Seigenthaler: Renewable Heating Design
  • Lowell Manalo: Plumbing Essentials
  • Misty Guard: Guard on Compliance
  • RADIANT & HYDRONICS
  • RADIANT COMFORT REPORT
  • THE GLITCH & THE FIX
  • INSIGHTS
  • CODES
  • GREEN PLUMBING & MECHANICAL
  • PROJECT PROFILES
  • COLUMNS
  • SPONSOR INSIGHTS
  • COLUMNS
  • Codes Corner
  • Natalie Forster: Editorial Opinion
  • Guest Editorial
  • MEDIA
  • EBOOKS
  • PODCASTS
  • VIDEOS
  • WEBINARS
  • RESOURCES
  • INDUSTRY CALENDAR
  • DIRECTORIES
  • PM BOOKSTORE
  • CE CENTER
  • MARKET RESEARCH
  • CLASSIFIEDS
  • EMAGAZINE
  • EMAGAZINE
  • ARCHIVE ISSUES
  • CONTACT
  • ADVERTISE
  • PME EMAGAZINE ARCHIVES
search
cart
facebook instagram twitter linkedin youtube
  • Sign In
  • Create Account
  • Sign Out
  • My Account
  • NEWS
  • PRODUCTS
    • FEATURED PRODUCTS
  • CONTRACTORS
    • BATH & KITCHEN PRO
    • BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
    • HIGH EFFICIENCY HOMES
    • TECHNOLOGY
    • WATER TREATMENT
    • PMC COLUMNS
      • Dave Yates: Contractor’s Corner
      • John Siegenthaler: Hydronics Workshop
      • Kenny Chapman: The Blue Collar Coach
      • Matt Michel: Service Plumbing Pros
      • Scott Secor: Heating Perceptions
  • ENGINEERS
    • CONTINUING EDUCATION
    • DECARBONIZATION | ELECTRIFICATION
    • FIRE PROTECTION
    • GEOTHERMAL | SOLAR THERMAL
    • PIPING | PLUMBING | PVF
    • PME COLUMNS
      • Christoph Lohr: Strategic Plumbing Insights
      • David Dexter: Plumbing Talking Points
      • James Dipping: Engineer Viewpoints
      • John Seigenthaler: Renewable Heating Design
      • Lowell Manalo: Plumbing Essentials
      • Misty Guard: Guard on Compliance
  • RADIANT & HYDRONICS
    • RADIANT COMFORT REPORT
    • THE GLITCH & THE FIX
  • INSIGHTS
    • CODES
    • GREEN PLUMBING & MECHANICAL
    • PROJECT PROFILES
    • COLUMNS
      • Codes Corner
      • Natalie Forster: Editorial Opinion
      • Guest Editorial
    • SPONSOR INSIGHTS
  • MEDIA
    • EBOOKS
    • PODCASTS
    • VIDEOS
    • WEBINARS
  • RESOURCES
    • INDUSTRY CALENDAR
    • DIRECTORIES
    • PM BOOKSTORE
    • CE CENTER
    • MARKET RESEARCH
    • CLASSIFIEDS
  • EMAGAZINE
    • EMAGAZINE
    • ARCHIVE ISSUES
    • CONTACT
    • ADVERTISE
    • PME EMAGAZINE ARCHIVES
  • SIGN UP!
Plumbing & Mechanical ContractorHigh Efficiency Homes

Top 10 of 2024: The most-read articles on Plumbing & Mechanical

GettyImages-1017667208-2-780.jpg

Image courtesy of Soifer / iStock / Getty Images Plus.

December 23, 2024

Readers flocked to Plumbing & Mechanical this year for the latest information on new products and technologies, industry news and market trends. Here’s a countdown of the top 10 articles you read the most in 2024 based on the number of unique pageviews on www.pmmag.com. 

10. Contractor finds success in simple, scalable hydronic designs

Like many immigrants who landed in the United States in the 1960s, Jim Harper Sr. brought a trans-Atlantic work ethic with him from Ireland, ultimately passing that discipline on to his son.

“I was born in Boston and attended the Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School in Franklin, Massachusetts, where I studied under master plumbers John Blaney and Joseph Conley,” says Jim Harper Jr. “For that, I’m forever grateful.”

11,000 square-foot modern chalet-style home  

Image courtesy of Dan Vastyan / Common Ground.

9. Plumbing & Mechanical 2024 Mechanical Contractor of the Year: JH Kelly

Longview, Washington-based JH Kelly is a large mechanical contracting firm with humble beginnings. The family-owned business celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2023. With five locations, JH Kelly provides industrial construction, commercial plumbing, HVAC and electrical and 24/7 mechanical services.

JH Kelly’s commitment to maintaining its family culture through decades of growth and expansion, as well as its dedication to employee safety, has earned the company the honors as Plumbing & Mechanical’s 2024 Mechanical Contractor of the Year.

JH Kelly sheet metal workers and a plumber work onsite at the Washington State Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Youth.undefinedImage courtesy of JH Kelly

8. The ‘ins’ and ‘outs’ of thermal storage

As electrification reshapes the HVAC market, hydronic-based heating and cooling systems stand ready to offer plenty of design and performance benefits. One of them is the potential for thermal storage. After all, water is one of the best materials on earth for storing sensible heat.

The goal of electrification is to shift most of the energy currently supplied by fossil fuels to electricity produced by renewable sources such as large scale solar photovoltaic systems and wind turbine “farms.” We’re moving in that direction, albeit at a slower pace than desired by some politicians and climate activists, and arguably at a faster pace than engineers responsible for stable electric grids are comfortable with. I expect this trend will continue, but I don’t expect that the utopian notion of eliminating all fossil fuels will occur in my lifetime.

Image courtesy of imaginima / iStock / Getty Images Plus PM Jan 2024 John Siegenthaler Column opening image of boiler room in basement.Image courtesy of imaginima / iStock / Getty Images Plus

7. Do you understand hydraulic separation?

Many technologies have their “glory days.” Times when technical improvements happen quickly, performance gains are impressive, and interest is strong.

In my opinion, the 1940s through the 1990s were the glory days of aviation. Huge progress was made, starting with the propeller-driven fighters that helped win World War 2 and extending through research jets that could fly six times the speed of sound just three decades later. A lot of kids — including me — wanted to be a pilot and strap themselves into one of those incredible machines.

Graphic of hydraulic separation with word cloud that says "MAGIC?" in the center.Image courtesy of John_Brueske / iStock / Getty Images Plus.

6.  The plumber’s guide to backwater valves

As plumbers, you understand the crucial role that backwater valves play in maintaining the integrity of plumbing systems. Sewage backup can wreak havoc on properties, leading to costly repairs and potential health risks. However, with the right solutions, you can provide your clients with reliable protection against this unfortunate scenario.

One key solution is a backwater valve — a specialized device that allows wastewater to flow in one direction while preventing it from flowing back upstream. It acts as a strong line of defense, ensuring that wastewater moves only in the intended direction.

Basement flooding through a door.Image courtesy of Oatey Co.

5. Radiant heating provides zoned comfort and efficiency to log cabin home

At 62 years old, Mike Guglielmo has been in the hydronics industry for 30 years. After graduating college with a degree in mechanical engineering, Guglielmo decided he’d rather design/build over sitting behind a desk. “I found the heating industry very interesting, in particular hot water heating, radiators, radiant floor and baseboard heat,” he says. “It caught my attention, and I ran with it.”

He started Fineline Plumbing & Heating in 1994, a primarily residential service and new construction company. About 80% of his business is radiant heating with the other 20% being plumbing. Most of Fineline’s business comes from word-of-mouth.

Radiant Heating System feature. A 9,200-square-foot luxury log cabin, located about 40 minutes outside of Easton, Pennsylvania, across the New Jersey border.Images courtesy of Priscilla Klenke / 59 Photography
 

4. 2024 Next Gen All Stars: Top 20 Under 40 Plumbing Professionals

The plumbing industry thrives on innovation, skill and a commitment to quality — all of which are embodied by the next generation of leaders. Today’s young plumbing professionals are not only masters of their craft but also pioneers in adopting new technologies, improving sustainability and enhancing customer satisfaction. Our Next Gen All Stars roster recognizes these rising stars — those under 40 who are shaping the future of the plumbing industry. These are driving the industry forward through their technical expertise and relentless pursuit of excellence.

As we spotlight these outstanding individuals, we recognize their contributions to the trade and their role in setting new standards for success. They are the innovators, leaders and visionaries who are paving the way for the future of plumbing. Join us in celebrating these Top 20 Under 40 plumbing professionals who are making a lasting impact on the industry.

Untitled-1.jpg


3. Celebrating 10 Influential Women in the Plumbing Industry

While stereotypes and traditional gender roles have long perpetuated the notion that plumbing is a man's job, women are challenging these norms and reshaping the landscape of the industry. As we celebrate Women’s History Month and Women in Construction Week, Plumbing & Mechanical is shining the spotlight on 10 influential women who are leading the plumbing industry to great success.

These women are challenging stereotypes and demonstrating that gender is not a determinant of skill or capability in this industry. Representation is more important than ever, and each of the women below shares the value of a career in the trades as well as ideas on how to attract more women into the plumbing industry.

Women-in-Plumbing.jpg


2. Air-to-water heat pumps — a game changer for the hydronics industry

As the demand for energy-efficient and sustainable heating solutions rises, air-to-water heat pumps are gaining significant traction in the hydronic heating industry. This innovative technology is not only helping reduce carbon footprints but also offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional heating systems.

Boulder, CO Job: Two Ambient Heat Pump InstallationImage courtesy of U.S. Boiler Co. 

1. Options for connecting heat pumps to existing boiler systems

Heat pumps, in all flavors, are continually gaining market share against all types of fossil fuel heating equipment. Regardless of how you view this trend, it’s happening, it’s not going to go away anytime soon — if ever, and it is going to reshape the hydronic heating and cooling markets in significant ways.

Like others who understand the difference between a kilowatt and a kilowatt•hour, I question the pace at which government-mandated electrification is happening. I’m skeptical that utility infrastructures are ready to handle the loads implied by the lofty electrification goals established by politicians.

Image courtesy of the John Siegenthaler 01 February 2024 PM John Siegenthaler column. A modern air heat pump installed in the home's boiler room, visible plastic pipes and valvesImage courtesy of the John Siegenthaler  
KEYWORDS: air-to-water heat pumps backwater valve boilers heat pump systems hydraulic separator mechanical contractors radiant and hydronics thermal storage Women in Plumbing Women in the Trades

Share This Story

Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!

Recommended Content

JOIN TODAY
to unlock your recommendations.

Already have an account? Sign In

  • Worker using the Milwaukee Tool SWITCH PACK drain cleaner

    Pipeline profits: Drain cleaning, pipe inspection create opportunities

    Drain cleaning and inspection services offer lucrative...
    Green Plumbing and Mechanical
    By: Nicole Krawcke
  • Uponor employee, Arturo Moreno

    The reinvestment in American manufacturing and training

    Plumbing & Mechanical Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke and...
    Plumbing News
    By: Nicole Krawcke and Natalie Forster
  • March 2024 Women in Plumbing hero image of woman engineer overlayed by circle of hexagon shapes with numbers from 1 to 10

    Celebrating 10 Influential Women in the Plumbing Industry

    Celebrating Women's History Month and Women in...
    Plumbing News
    By: Nicole Krawcke
close

1 COMPLIMENTARY ARTICLE(S) LEFT

Loader

Already a Registered User? Sign in now.

Manage My Account
  • eNewsletters
  • Online Registration
  • Subscription Customer Service
  • eMagazine
  • Manage My Preferences

IPEX celebrates grand opening of new Florida distribution center

IPEX celebrates grand opening of new Florida distribution center

NIBCO Press Solutions

NIBCO Press Solutions

AI can boost efficiency and profitability for plumbing, HVAC contractors

AI can boost efficiency and profitability for plumbing, HVAC contractors

Bell & Gossett Illustrates Path to Net-zero at AHR Expo

Bell & Gossett Illustrates Path to Net-zero at AHR Expo

More Videos

Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content is a special paid section where industry companies provide high quality, objective, non-commercial content around topics of interest to the Plumbing & Mechanical audience. All Sponsored Content is supplied by the advertising company and any opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily reflect the views of Plumbing & Mechanical or its parent company, BNP Media. Interested in participating in our Sponsored Content section? Contact your local rep!

close
  • J.J. Keller CMV vehicles on road
    Sponsored byJ. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.

    The dash cam game-changer for small business safety

Popular Stories

Integrate a heat pump with a boiler mounted on a brick wall.

How to integrate a heat pump with a boiler for dual temperature hydronic heating and cooling

Plumber using the DEWALT 20V MAX* Plastic Tubing Cutter to cut a white tube.

Making tough jobs easier: Most-used tools by plumbers in 2025

RCR Spring2025 Geothermal JHJ manifold-2

Geothermal and radiant: An energy-efficient powerhouse

Nominations for Plumbing & Mechanical's NextGen ALL-Stars are now open. Submit your nomination TODAY!

PM Aalberts August 14 Free Webinar: Precision Under Pressure: Optimizing System Performance Through Balancing and Air Removal

Events

November 13, 2024

Future Proofing MEP: Navigating the 2026 High Efficiency Water Heating Standards

Join our deep dive into DOE’s new standards so you can future-proof your MEP practice.

EARN: 0.1 ASPE CEU; 1 AIA LU/HSW; 0.1 IACET CEU*; 1 PDH

August 14, 2025

Precision Under Pressure: Optimizing System Performance Through Balancing and Air Removal

We’ll cover how proper air separation and hydronic balancing help maximize operational efficiency, reduce maintenance and minimize downtime.

View All Submit An Event

Poll

Will business be up or down in 2025?

Do you anticipate business in 2025 to be up or down in comparison to 2024?
View Results Poll Archive

Products

The Water Came To A Stop

The Water Came To A Stop

See More Products

2025 Bath & Kitchen Pro eBook

Related Articles

  • PM-TOP-10.gif

    Top 10 of 2021: The most-read articles on Plumbing & Mechanical

    See More
  • GettyImages-1017667208-2-780.jpg

    Top 10 of 2023: The most-read articles on Plumbing & Mechanical

    See More
  • topten.jpg

    Top 10 of 2022: The most-read articles on Plumbing & Mechanical

    See More
×

Keep your content unclogged with our newsletters!

Stay in the know on the latest plumbing & piping industry trends.

JOIN TODAY!
  • RESOURCES
    • Advertise
    • Contact Us
    • Directories
    • Store
    • Want More
    • Supply House Times
  • SIGN UP TODAY
    • Create Account
    • eMagazine
    • eNewsletter
    • Customer Service
    • Manage Preferences
  • SERVICES
    • Marketing Services
    • Reprints
    • Market Research
    • List Rental
    • Survey/Respondent Access
  • STAY CONNECTED
    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • YouTube
    • X (Twitter)
  • PRIVACY
    • PRIVACY POLICY
    • TERMS & CONDITIONS
    • DO NOT SELL MY PERSONAL INFORMATION
    • PRIVACY REQUEST
    • ACCESSIBILITY

Copyright ©2025. All Rights Reserved BNP Media.

Design, CMS, Hosting & Web Development :: ePublishing

search
cart
facebook instagram twitter linkedin youtube
  • Sign In
  • Create Account
  • Sign Out
  • My Account
  • NEWS
  • PRODUCTS
    • FEATURED PRODUCTS
  • CONTRACTORS
    • BATH & KITCHEN PRO
    • BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
    • HIGH EFFICIENCY HOMES
    • TECHNOLOGY
    • WATER TREATMENT
    • PMC COLUMNS
      • Dave Yates: Contractor’s Corner
      • John Siegenthaler: Hydronics Workshop
      • Kenny Chapman: The Blue Collar Coach
      • Matt Michel: Service Plumbing Pros
      • Scott Secor: Heating Perceptions
  • ENGINEERS
    • CONTINUING EDUCATION
    • DECARBONIZATION | ELECTRIFICATION
    • FIRE PROTECTION
    • GEOTHERMAL | SOLAR THERMAL
    • PIPING | PLUMBING | PVF
    • PME COLUMNS
      • Christoph Lohr: Strategic Plumbing Insights
      • David Dexter: Plumbing Talking Points
      • James Dipping: Engineer Viewpoints
      • John Seigenthaler: Renewable Heating Design
      • Lowell Manalo: Plumbing Essentials
      • Misty Guard: Guard on Compliance
  • RADIANT & HYDRONICS
    • RADIANT COMFORT REPORT
    • THE GLITCH & THE FIX
  • INSIGHTS
    • CODES
    • GREEN PLUMBING & MECHANICAL
    • PROJECT PROFILES
    • COLUMNS
      • Codes Corner
      • Natalie Forster: Editorial Opinion
      • Guest Editorial
    • SPONSOR INSIGHTS
  • MEDIA
    • EBOOKS
    • PODCASTS
    • VIDEOS
    • WEBINARS
  • RESOURCES
    • INDUSTRY CALENDAR
    • DIRECTORIES
    • PM BOOKSTORE
    • CE CENTER
    • MARKET RESEARCH
    • CLASSIFIEDS
  • EMAGAZINE
    • EMAGAZINE
    • ARCHIVE ISSUES
    • CONTACT
    • ADVERTISE
    • PME EMAGAZINE ARCHIVES
  • SIGN UP!