In the February 2022 issue of Plumbing & Mechanical KBIS returns with live show, advanced efficient boiler system helps revitalize century-old home, top 20 products of 2021, and much more.
The recent passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act represents a tremendous opportunity to modernize the nation’s decaying infrastructure and bring long-outdated systems into the 21st century.
The ongoing transformation of the plumbing industry has been driven in part by the evolving expectations and priorities of homeowners and consumers. The COVID-19 pandemic reinforced existing concerns about hygiene and public health, pushing the demand for hands-free technology and automated features that reduce contact with germs and bacteria.
On the older hydronic systems, replacing the existing boiler with a new one was pretty straightforward. The installer connected the new boiler to the existing flue, piping and electric. The newer high-efficiency boilers are much different and require some additional planning.
Last October, I was one of about 30 media professionals and social media influencers who got to take a top secret trip to Switzerland and Liechtenstein. No joke – I had to sign a nondisclosure agreement ensuring I wouldn’t say, write or post any content until after the embargo lifted last month.
We often get consumer needs and wants confused. When water’s flowing where it should not, when the shower is cold, when the toilet does not flush, the need is obvious. Solving needs brings relief, but it does not bring loyalty. Addressing consumer wants is what leads a consumer to proclaim, “So and so is my plumber.”
We may as well face reality: COVID-19 is here to stay. What a PITA this pandemic has been. As essential workers, you haven’t been given your due. Fearlessly, or not, you have endured two years of fluctuating — often conflicting — information regarding how to remain “safe” from the virus. What the hell?
As a driven leader in a blue-collar industry, I’m sure you’re no stranger to making mistakes. If you’re at all like me, you’ve made some big mistakes throughout your career. These are not just to be expected, but I’m here to help you remember that they are absolutely necessary for your continued growth and evolution as a driven leader.
A homeowner posted a question on The Wall at HeatingHelp.com about a drumroll sound that was coming from his brand-new steam boiler. What could it be? He included a video so all could hear, and sure enough, it sounded like a snare drum.
For many years, I’ve been offering a free demo version of the “Hydronics Design Studio” software that I co-developed with my long-time colleague, Mario Restive. It’s there for the taking at www.hydronicpros.com.
It’s been more than two years since kitchen and bath professionals, designers and builders have gathered for the industry’s largest trade show and conference — the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS), which is held annually in conjunction with the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA).
Founded in 1990, VEP provides a patented shield product designed for all types of piping, as well as seismic applications, and has built its reputation on providing responsive customer service and innovative product design.
Marcone, a distributor of home appliance, HVAC and plumbing repair parts and equipment across North America and current portfolio company of Genstar Capital announced it has acquired Munch’s Supply, a distributor of HVAC equipment, parts and supplies from Ridgemont Equity Partners. Ridgemont and the Munch’s management team will retain a meaningful minority stake in the combined entity.
Oatey Co. announced that Central Sales Inc. (CSI) is now Oatey’s manufacturer representative in Nebraska and Iowa. The change comes as a result of CSI’s recent acquisition of In Depth Marketing, which was effective January 3. All In Depth Marketing employees have joined the CSI team.
Rheem has acquired DEJONG, an independent manufacturer and supplier of stainless-steel hot water tanks, from Nordian Capital. Founded in 1859 and based in Gorredijk, the Netherlands, DEJONG produces hot water tanks for multiple applications including solar, heat pump and boiler configurations
See what tools and equipment caught readers’ attention throughout 2021 in our Top 20 Products list.
February 21, 2022
Each year, Plumbing & Mechanical editors receive thousands of product releases from industry manufacturers. The 20 products highlighted here have earned the distinction of being PM’s Top Products of 2021 based on the number of page views on pmmag.com. Congratulations to those products on this year’s list.
As natural gas rates increase and the push for more sustainable energy sources intensifies, heat pump water heaters appear poised for massive growth. States such as California and Massachusetts already have regulations prohibiting or disincentivizing gas water heaters in new construction, and New York City recently enacted similar restrictions for new construction. So, are heat pump water heaters the future of the water heating market? Maybe or maybe not — but some industry experts certainly think so.
Whether you’re a new pro entering the industry or a seasoned plumber in need of a quick refresher, this article covers best practices when installing or replacing a new toilet flange; best practices when repairing a broken flange; and finally, toilet flange types and options.
The owner of a 107-year-old home sought an advanced hydronic heating solution for a major basement finishing project and to alleviate his existing heating woes on the first and second floors of the residence. The installation of an innovative and highly efficient boiler from Weil-McLain helped make the basement remodel a success and the family’s home comfortably warm throughout.
The hand-held Power-Vee drain cleaner with automatic feed gives plumbing, drain cleaning, maintenance and rehab pros an “extra hand” in tight and awkward places.
Bradford White’s KwickShot is a reliable and easily installed tankless electric water heater available in thermostatic and non-thermostatic models to meet a range of water temperature needs in a variety of everyday applications, the company explains.
Advanced Drainage Systems’ Nyloplast 12" universal inline drain solution is designed for constructors seeking a durable and water-tight pipe fitting for stormwater inlets.
Dearborn’s True Blue bath waste kits are now available in a fashion-forward brushed gold finish, adding to its already robust line of designer finishes, the company explains.
Elkay’s Dart Canyon stainless steel farmhouse sink provides better everyday solutions for homeowners while saving space and keeping the kitchen organized, Elkay notes.
Infinity Drain introduces next-day custom linear drains. This first-of-its-kind program makes perfect linear drain wall-to-wall installation a reality, without the wait, the company points out.
QuickDrain decorative covers and finishes are compatible across its linear and square drain (or point drain) collection — offering more design versatility for homeowners, designers and installers with on-trend styles to suit every preference, the company notes.
The latest advancement in Moen’s whole-home Smart Water Network, the Smart Faucet with Motion Control, features new, touchless technology that allows the user to control temperature by using simple hand motions.
The 1916 collection is a part of L.R Brands, an Oatey Innovation. The 1916 collection universal freestanding tub drain works with freestanding and island center, and offset tubs.