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On a recent episode of the American Supply Association’s Town Hall Interview Series, ASA Vice President of Sales and Membership Mike Miazga interviewed Mechanical Contractors Association of America CEO Tim Brink. 

With a considerable volume of contradictory information in circulation regarding the application of different technologies for HVAC systems, this article seeks to explain some of the technical aspects of variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems, and offer comparisons on the basis of cost and performance to more standard hydronic systems. 

The decision to join a franchise is not an easy one for plumbing and heating contractors.

Since Bill Howe Plumbing’s inception in 1980, the family-owned and operated plumbing, heating and air conditioning, restoration and flood services company has focused on reliable service to its customers with an emphasis on safety. 

Popular high-efficiency boilers tend to be more expensive at installation, but lower utility bills pay customers back over time. 

While forklifts were cruising the aisles of a warehouse in Grantsville, Maryland, a crew from BYCO Enterprises had to carefully retrofit that same space with 1,340 feet of gas line. 

I am lucky enough to talk to contractors, both large and small, all across the U.S. Inevitably, when I ask them about their greatest challenge or greatest future challenge, the answer is always the same: The skilled trades labor shortage. 

In 2020, the coronavirus pandemic wreaked havoc on the small business landscape in the U.S., forcing businesses to adapt on a daily basis or face permanent closure. 

Recruiting skilled, reliable plumbing employees is getting more difficult by the day. I know all about this because I operate a technical trade school with locations in Las Vegas and Phoenix. 

So far, we have discussed why organizations need sourcing plans, and covered the planning and process of sourcing. This month we’ll continue the conversation and dive in deep into the interview process itself.