Plumbing & Mechanical Engineer

RSS

The second United States Trump administration embarked on a deregulatory agenda, particularly in the water, environmental, and products sectors. President Trump started the release of executive orders, memos, and presidential actions in many areas that may be of interest to contractors, engineers, and manufacturers.

Last month, we discussed direct-to-load hydronic heat pump systems. These systems use a variable-speed compressor and circulator to adjust heat output and flow, eliminating the need for a buffer tank or hydraulic separator.

GSHP systems have one primary significant difference: the outdoor refrigerant coil and fan are absent. Instead of these components, the functions of the outdoor condenser have been integrated into the indoor unit, resulting in a hybrid condenser and evaporator unit.

Industry representatives unite to advocate for policies to improve public health, water quality and economic sustainability.

IAPMO makes the 2025 Uniform Plumbing Code and Uniform Mechanical Code technical committee meeting monographs available online.

This article revisits smart plumbing systems and the need for our industry to adopt monitoring and automation strategies like those in HVAC for improved efficiency. At the recent ASPE Convention in Columbus, OH, I discussed how integrating intelligence into plumbing can significantly enhance building occupant safety.

Plumbers are vital for ensuring safe water for drinking and sanitation. Their role will become even more critical as we face new water-related challenges.

South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden signs into law Senate Bill 25, updating the state’s plumbing code to the 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code.

The heat pump water heater (HPWH) market is set to grow from nearly $100 billion in 2024 to $156.59 billion by 2030, fueled by energy efficiency regulations, rising energy costs, urbanization, and a demand for sustainable solutions.

Code changes approved at the hearing are set to appear in the 2027 NSPC.