Terracon’s Nashville office opened in 1996 and employs more than 50 professionals who provide environmental, facilities, geotechnical, special inspections and construction materials engineering, and testing services for clients in Tennessee and the surrounding region.

Plumbing and HVAC contractors navigated a year of challenges and opportunities, with rising demand for energy-efficient systems amid labor shortages. As we look to 2025, growth is expected in commercial sectors like data centers and healthcare, alongside increased home repairs. The focus on sustainability and technology will drive innovation in the industry.

Volume 4 covers selection and sizing practices for various components and equipment, including fixtures, pipes, valves, pumps, insulation, hangers, supports, grease interceptors, and more.

Hydronically-heated concrete floor slabs offer comfort but can be slow to warm up. A proposed solution uses a heat pump and variable-speed circulators to provide rapid heating through air handlers, ensuring quick warmth during cool days while maintaining energy efficiency.

Guidance for techniques proven in pressure piping systems during decades of use.

A typical point-of-use RO system generates anywhere from five to 10 gallons of reject water for every gallon of treated water produced. A point-of-use RO system bearing the WaterSense label will send 2.3 gallons or less down the drain for every gallon of treated water it produces.

Plumbing systems are often overlooked until they fail. Educational institutions can attract new talent by showcasing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems with exposed piping and interactive elements. Features like color-coded pipes and transparent mechanical rooms can educate and inspire students about the vital role of plumbing in modern infrastructure.

Sustainability in commercial plumbing focuses on modern pipe sizing to reduce material use and Legionella risk. Efficient layouts and lower-carbon materials like PEX and recycled PVC can lower greenhouse gas emissions, while improved equipment efficiency and training help reduce operational and embodied carbon emissions.

Plumbing engineering is increasingly complex, facing challenges like water conservation and safety concerns, yet it remains underappreciated. A focused industry survey is essential to collect vital data on hiring practices and opportunities for plumbing professionals compared to HVAC. This will help elevate the field's recognition and address the risks of neglecting plumbing expertise.

After a car accident in 2022 left Jesse Faust partially paralyzed, he became an advocate for fire safety while building a new home in Wisconsin, emphasizing the importance of installing fire sprinklers. Fire safety experts like Bill Sullivan highlight that, unlike smoke alarms, sprinklers actively combat fires, making them crucial for protecting lives, especially for those who may struggle to escape.