Articles by Kristen R. Bayles

The facility is poised to strengthen both the local community, and the broader industry. It is a centralized hub for production, and for Viega customers to learn and train. 

After ten years in the culinary industry, Lucas DePerry decided to switch things up and pursue a career in plumbing. 

It’s about clarity and consistency. Are your techs empowered to say no to unreasonable requests? Do they feel supported when a client pushes back? Do your customers understand the value behind your pricing, and the fact that your team isn’t just delivering a service, they’re delivering their skill, time and care?

Slip-and-fall accidents are among the most common liability claims in winter, according to AAA. Winter storms have cost billions of dollars in insured losses, just in the past few years. For businesses, that’s a major issue. In healthcare facilities where patient safety and uninterrupted access are non-negotiable, the stakes are even higher. Radiant snow melt systems can eliminate surface ice before it becomes a hazard, dramatically reducing legal exposure.

Hybrid systems offer a critical bridge in the transition from fossil fuel reliance to full electrification. For contractors working in colder climates or retrofitting older homes, all-electric heat pump systems can be a tough sell. Hybrid units, however, deliver measurable emission reductions while preserving consistent output and adaptability.

Plumbing and mechanical professionals bear more responsibility than often recognized. They ensure building safety, function, and peace of mind for occupants. Every installation, service, or check involves managing expectations, reducing risks, and building trust.

The pandemic's slowdowns are over, but new challenges have emerged, including geopolitical tensions, trade disputes, and fluctuating tariffs, highlighting the risks of relying on offshore manufacturing.

Allow your young workers time to learn. Mistakes will happen; turn them into learning opportunities. Do your best to create an environment where questions are encouraged! We all start somewhere, after all. And, most importantly, recognize growth when you see it. Gen-Z workers seem to thrive off of praise, so don’t be shy with it!

Celebrating over 50 years of service, Harry Warren, Inc. has been named Plumbing & Mechanical’s 2025 Rep of the Year. Over the years, this family-run agency has grown from a one-man operation into a leading manufacturers’ rep by staying true to its core values: integrity, service and people-first leadership.

Water conservation has become a critical issue, with over 4 billion people living in water-stressed areas. Effective water management is vital for both commercial and residential businesses to address consumer concerns and comply with regulations.