AHR consistently impresses with innovative PHVAC technologies, educational seminars, engaging presentations, and impressive exhibits while emphasizing that hands-on skills in trades like PHVAC, electrical work, and carpentry cannot be replaced by artificial intelligence.
In February, three key PHVAC trade shows occurred: the AHR Expo in Orlando with over 51,000 attendees, the WWETT Show in Indianapolis focused on wastewater innovations, and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) in Las Vegas, held with the International Builders’ Show (IBS).
A few weeks back, I received a call from an acquaintance named Jack, whom I hadn't talked to in a while. He mentioned a job opportunity and mentioned the radiators in the house have burst. We discussed the details and arranged for me to visit the location.
Most heat pumps in North America extract heat from outside air to warm interiors, which is why we call them "air-to-air" heat pumps. However, this term is incomplete, as heat pumps can also provide comfort without relying on forced air delivery.
Mary-Anne Bowcott, owner of Westcom Plumbing and Gas Ltd. and known as "The Lady Plumber," defies gender norms in the plumbing industry, sharing her journey of resilience and becoming a mentor for aspiring tradespeople.
Plumber solves plumbing challenges at Revival Brewing & Lost Valley Pizza with Saniflo’s Sanicom 2 drain pump.
February 24, 2025
Revival Brewing and Lost Valley Pizza faced plumbing challenges at their new location. Walter F. Morris introduced Saniflo's solutions, recommending the Sanicom 2 for the bar area and the Sanicubic 2 for restrooms. They later dealt with additional issues when adding a sink near the pizza oven and during bar construction.
The plumbing industry faces a projected shortage of 550,000 plumbers by 2027, costing skilled trades $5.3 billion annually in hiring and training. However, a rising number of young adults are choosing trade school, which may introduce new talent and challenges for business owners.
The ultimate impact of California’s drive to replace gas water heaters with electric heat pumps will inevitably vary by state over the next decade. But will home and business owners — and the electric grid — be ready? Shouldn’t regulators — and professionals — pause to consider a more practical “hybrid” solution?
California's push to replace gas-fired water heaters with electric heat pumps marks a significant shift in the construction industry. This electrification trend, while still emerging, is prompting plumbing contractors to navigate the changes brought on by decarbonization, impacting HVAC technicians and the broader market.