Plumbing & Mechanical Contractor - Articles

A commercial bathroom with several urinals.

Building Resilience: Why Pressure-Assisted Toilets are Critical for Emergency Preparedness

As water scarcity concerns grow, commercial facilities are increasingly adopting plumbing systems designed for efficiency and reliability.

Mike Gembarski

May 20, 2026

High-efficiency plumbing systems can help facilities conserve water, reduce operational costs, and improve long-term sustainability performance.

Plumber's hands with dirty sleeves, gripping pipes to turn it, a silver thermal material in the background.

10 Riskiest U.S. Cities for Plumbing Problems After Moving In

Roto-Rooter analyzed 46 cities across five weighted plumbing risk factors.

Plumbing & Mechanical Editorial Staff

May 19, 2026

A data-driven ranking of the cities most likely to hand new residents a plumbing emergency, and the ones that offer more peace of mind.

The ROI on Smart Water: Do Connected Systems Really Pay Off?

Smart water systems can save money, uncover hidden problems, and create new opportunities for contractors

Kristen R. Bayles

May 19, 2026

Insurance incentives, hidden leaks and operational gains are driving adoption, but the real return on smart water depends on who is measuring it and how.

Hydronics Workshop | John Siegenthaler

Diagnosing Pressure and Air Issues in Closed-Loop Systems

Simple checks, big insights

John Siegenthaler, P.E.

May 18, 2026

Think about the “long game” when designing or installing hydronic systems. Make the system’s as easy as possible to service. Those who follow will appreciate and respect you for doing so.

Stop Selling, Start Translating: A New Playbook for the Trades

Technology and AI will continue transforming the trades industry, from diagnostics to scheduling and predictive maintenance. However, technology will not replace the human side of the business.

Kevin Strandberg

May 16, 2026

The trades industry spends significant time training technicians on technical competencies like diagnostics, installation, and troubleshooting, but far less time teaching them how to communicate with homeowners. In today’s environment, that gap matters more than ever.

Heating Perceptions | Scott Secor

A Second Look at a Two-Pipe Steam System

A boiler room walkthrough uncovers high operating pressure, aging equipment and a misaligned replacement plan

Scott Secor

May 14, 2026

A service job for an apartment building still using its original heating system from the 1970-1980s has unique issues.

AO Smith Voltex 120V Heat Pump Water Heater

Case Study

Heat Pump Water Heater Brings Efficiency and Cost Savings to California Apartment Complex

A.O. Smith

May 14, 2026

Unlike traditional high efficiency models, the Voltex 120V HPWH is designed to plug into a standard electrical outlet–eliminating the need for adaptors or restructuring.

A young African-American woman working in a metal fabrication factory, wearing a hardhat, reflective vest, and safety glasses, using a digital tablet. She is standing next to a steel truss.

Breaking Barriers and Building Futures: Women in the Plumbing Industry

Whether you are a new professional considering a plumbing career or an industry leader looking to foster diversity, your efforts can make a difference.

Tom Roberts

May 13, 2026

Over the years, the industry has been evolving, with more women entering the field and bringing fresh perspectives and skills. To further this positive trend, it is essential to continue attracting and supporting women in plumbing.

How Installers Can Respond to Increasing Legionella Risk

It is more important than ever for installers to stay informed about the latest solutions that can help public buildings optimize infection control.

Greg Rankin

May 13, 2026

Installers can decrease the risk of Legionella by staying informed.

ASA and PHCC Members Bring Unified Industry Voice to Capitol Hill

Plumbing & Mechanical Editorial Staff

May 12, 2026

Among the primary topics discussed during congressional meetings was the need to strengthen workforce development initiatives and expand pathways into the skilled trades.