2026 April

Plumbing and Mechanical

In the April 2026 issue of Plumbing & Mechanical we look at how “forever chemicals” are reshaping plumbing system design and installation. We review the advantages of ground-source heat pumps. We review upselling, what contractors get wrong about it and how to fix it. And we explore how manufacturers are managing risk and competitive strength. Also, our monthly columns, new products, and more.

Check back throughout the month for additional content.

PFAS and the plumbing contractor: what to know as regulations tighten

How "forever chemicals" are reshaping plumbing system design and installation.

Kristen R. Bayles

April 13, 2026

Water treatment is moving from an optional add-on to a core component of plumbing system design and installation.

Hydronics Workshop | John Siegenthaler

The air-to-water heat pump summit brought contractors, suppliers, and educators together for hydronic technology

Sold-out summit

John Siegenthaler, P.E.

April 3, 2026

The air-to-water heat pump summit was held on March 4th in Burlington, VT, and attended by over 120 people.

Renewable Heating Design | John Siegenthaler

How to change the staging status of two heat sources

Who's on first?

John Siegenthaler, P.E.

April 6, 2026

What if your boiler system could automatically switch between heat sources based on energy cost? A closer look at staging logic, relays and smarter system control.

Guard on Compliance | Misty Guard

New Mexico's PFAS regulations signal a new regulatory era

New Mexico's proposed 20.13.2 NMAC rule serves as a highly detailed prototype for how regulators plan to track and restrict PFAs.

Misty Guard

April 8, 2026

As the United States (U.S.) States pioneer regulations for trace chemicals, manufacturers, specifying engineers, and contractors must adapt to a new era.