Plumbing & Mechanical Top Stories

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Mechanical contractors are looking to improve operations by cutting costs and boosting efficiency while maintaining quality. A popular solution is the adoption of new technologies, specifically virtual inspection services, which have gained popularity since the pandemic.

This second edition of the Radiant & Hydronics All Stars eBook showcases the latest technology and design trends in the radiant and hydronic markets. It features insights from our All Star Roundtable on low-temperature systems and upcoming efficiency standards for circulator pumps by 2028, along with design trends for residential and commercial applications.

“American Plumber Stories,” a YouTube docuseries hosted by Craig Morgan, aims to promote plumbing as a career. Directed by Spencer Brown of Pfister, it has become a cultural symbol for the plumbing community, inspiring trade school teachers to incorporate it into their curriculum and receiving positive feedback for its impact.

Online reviews are essential for contractors, as low ratings can hinder local leads. To boost visibility, it's important not just to gather reviews but also to incorporate mini case studies into your marketing strategy.

NASCAR legend Ward Burton installed a Premier AL Smart Hybrid Electric Heat Pump Water Heater in his 1999 home, saving up to $300 monthly on electric bills. Homeowners can save 75% or more on energy costs with this unit.

Always assume the old boiler was installed wrong. This principle has served me well in my career by finding problems before we own the system.

Scott Steindler, CPD, LEED BD+C, ARCSA-AP(IS), GPD, GGP, FASPE, has over 31 years in the plumbing industry and is currently the national industrial manager for Watts Water Technologies. Known for his enthusiasm and service, he was inducted into the ASPE College of Fellows in 2020 and volunteers with the City of Phoenix's CERT. Steindler was named PM Engineer’s 2024 Plumbing Engineer of the Year.

The East Coast has suffered severe damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, leading to extensive destruction, fatalities, and power outages. These hurricanes highlight the impact of climate change on storm severity, driven by warmer Atlantic waters. This situation underscores the urgent need for the PHCP-PVF industry to adapt to the challenges of increasingly intense storms.

We all know about pricing, right? Hopefully, we know the difference between markup and margin. We know how to calculate break even. Here are eight things you should know about the psychology of pricing.

As design engineers, we frequently use systems requiring pressure regulation. A regulator, as defined by the ASPE Plumbing Dictionary, reduces variable inlet pressure to a stable outlet pressure under changing flow conditions. It maintains a uniform gas pressure lower than the supply pressure. Essentially, a regulator ensures consistent downstream pressure from a variable upstream pressure.