Contractor - February 2026

$46M Wastewater Upgrade

OSHA Rule Changes 2026: What It Means for Contractors

BY SLAWOMIR PLATTA SPECIAL TO CONTRACTOR

OXNARD, CA — The City of Oxnard has selected Carollo Engineers to provide construction management and inspection services for the Primary Clarifiers and Activated Sludge Tank Improvement Project at the City’s Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF). The $46 million project represents

➤ Turn to Oxnard, page 10

Construction Input Prices Rise in Nov. Amid Market Uncertainty

WASHINGTON, DC — Construction input prices rose 0.6% in November—matching the monthly increase for nonresidential construction inputs—according to an Associated Builders and Contractors analysis of newly released US Bureau of Labor Statistics Producer Price Index data.

➤ Turn to Construction, page 32

For construction contractors, OSHA rule changes anticipated for 2026 represent more than a regulatory update. They point to a broader shift in how jobsite risk must be identified, managed, and financed. With proposed standards addressing heat illness, continued emphasis on crystalline silica exposure, and evolving enforcement priorities, contractors face new operational and financial considerations. While some of these rules remain in

Turn to New, page 12

Upgrade your inspection camera to General Pipe Cleaners’ new Gen-Eye Fusion™ video pipe inspection system.

• High-definition camera

• Advanced video recorder with full HD 1080p capability

• Three ways to record – USB to Flash Drive, Internal memory recorder, or live Wi-Fi streaming

• Touch screen keyboard for titling

• Gen-Pack™ battery adapter for remote operation

• Compatible with all of General’s camera systems

Get the full picture. Call the Drain Brains at General at 800-245-6200, or visit www.drainbrain.com/fusion

KBIS 2026 Spotlights Wellness, Personalization and Innovation

ORLANDO, FL — As the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) approaches, Platinum Sponsors Brio Water Technology, Midea, and ZLINE are offering an early look at the product trends expected to shape the industry at KBIS 2026. The show, the largest kitchen and bath trade event in ➤ Turn to KBIS, page 34

Bring Back the Trades Announces Spring 2026 Skills Expos in NH, ME

RYE, NH — Bring Back the Trades (BBTT), a nonprofit focused on building awareness and access to skilled trades careers, announced its Spring 2026 Skills Expos, returning to New Hampshire and expanding into Maine for the first time.

The hands-on events are designed to connect students, families, educators, employers and ➤ Turn to Bring, page 36

IWSH 2025 Impact Report Highlights the Power of Skilled Plumbing

WASHINGTON, DC — The International Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Foundation (IWSH®), the public charity of IAPMO, has released its 2025 Impact Report, detailing how targeted plumbing projects improved health, safety, and daily living conditions for more than 5,000 individuals across five countries.

The report outlines plumbing upgrades, sanitation improvements, workforce development initiatives, and edu➤ Turn to IWSH, page 38

EDITORIAL STAFF

VP/Market Leader-Buildings & Construction

Mike Hellmann, mhellmann@endeavorb2b.com

Editor-In-Chief

Steve Spaulding, sspaulding@endeavorb2b.com

Editor-At-Large

John Mesenbrink, jmesenbrink@endeavorb2b.com

Contributing Writer Kelly Faloon

COLUMNISTS

Al Schwartz, Management

Pat Linhardt, Hydronics & Radiant

Patti Feldman, Technology

Matt Michel, Marketing

Art Director, David Eckhart

Ad Services Manager, Deanna O’Byrne

Production Manager, Sam Schulenberg

Audience Development Manager, James Marinaccio

Endeavor Business Media, LLC CEO, Chris Ferrell COO, Patrick Rains CRO, Paul Andrews CDO, Jacquie Niemiec CALO, Tracy Kane CMO, Amanda Landsaw

Endeavor Business Intelligence, Paul Mattioli

Building & Construction Group, Chris Perrino VP of Content Strategy, Mike Eby

Orlando, Florida, downtown city skyline on Eola Lake.

In Brief

SB 222, the Heat Pump Access Act authored by Senator Scott Wiener, advanced through first committees, marking an important step toward modernizing California’s outdated heat pump permitting system. Streamlining permitting will support Los Angeles as it rebuilds by making the process faster, easier, and more affordable.

NEFCO has announced a strategic partnership with Leonard Green & Partners, L.P., a private equity firm known for partnering with experienced management teams to grow market-leading businesses. The partnership supports NEFCO’s longterm growth strategy and builds on the company’s strong momentum driven by organic growth and disciplined acquisition approach.

Big-D Companies has announced the promotion of Josh Lockhart to Vice President of Human Resources. Lockhart has been a key member of the company since joining as Director of Human Resources in 2024, where he quickly became a trusted partner to leaders and associates across all offices.

Angi has announced a new partnership with Amazon’s Alexa+, expanding how homeowners will soon be able to find, compare, and book home services through voice. The partnership brings Angi’s 30 years of home services expertise and its nationwide network of home services pros into the Alexa+ ecosystem, laying the groundwork for a more streamlined, conversational way for homeowners to tackle their home to-do lists.

mSupply, a leading North American distributor of appliance, HVAC and plumbing parts and equipment, has promoted Jason Scott to Northeast Regional Vice President. In this role, Scott will oversee operations for more than 40 locations, representing four HVAC business units: API of NH/ Delta T, BellSimons, SASCO CASCO and Total Air Supply.

The American Society of Safety Professionals Foundation has announced a commitment of $254,000 in scholarships and grants for 2025. This investment supports the next generation of environmental health and safety professionals and aids seasoned practitioners in advancing their expertise through further education.

Videos & Media Galleries

Noritz

Digital Progress, Digital Risk: Cybersecurity Challenges Facing Contractors

As construction companies modernize their technology, experts warn that inconsistent systems and aging infrastructure are leaving firms vulnerable to attack.

BY STEVE SPAULDING OF CONTRACTOR’S STAFF

As the construction industry invests more heavily in digital technology, cybersecurity has become a growing concern. Cybercriminals are drawn to construction’s large budgets and sometimes lax security.

The tight timelines typically associated with construction projects make them prime targets for ransomware attacks, where even a day lost can cost thousands of dollars. Notable recent ransomware attacks include Bouygues Construction in France (where 200 gigabytes of data were locked according to Le Monde Informatique) and Canada’s Bird Construction h (where, according to CBC News, 60 gigabytes were frozen).

The complexity of construction projects can add to their vulnerability. The multiple parties involved (including architects, contractors, subcontractors and specialists) all require specific levels of data access and permission, and all personnel involved may require training in data hygiene and cybersecurity best practices.

With more than 15 years of experience in Information Technology—including the past eight years dedicated to Cybersecurity—Matthew Butler, CISSP, CISM, CRISC, is a cybersecurity professional specializing in protecting organizations from evolving digital threats. In his current role as Director, Cyber Risk Services for Travelers Insurance, he consults with policyholders to help strengthen their cyber teams and programs, leveraging Travelers’ suite of cyber risk management services to enhance cyber programs and reduce exposures to cyber incidents. Butler spoke with CONTRACTOR about the emerging cybersecurity landscape, specifically as it pertains to the construction industry.

CONTRACTOR: The construction industry was, up until recently, slow to embrace digital trans -

formation. Now that contractors are beginning to embrace it, are they similarly slow to invest in cybersecurity?

Matthew Butler: According to the 2025 Travelers Risk Index, 76% of construction leaders now agree that having proper cybersecurity controls in place is critical to their company’s well-being, and 75% say cybersecurity is championed by senior management, up eight points from 2024. This is indicative of the growing awareness and maturity across the sector. Moreover, 66% feel confident their company has implemented best practices to prevent or mitigate cyber events, a notable improvement from the prior year.

Contractors are recognizing that their reputations and operations depend on digital reliability. Reports of ransomware and vendor breaches in the industry have further motivated companies to be proactive and invest in stronger controls and cyber insurance.

CONTRACTOR: The big topic in construction tech these days is the “tech stack” —getting the right software components all working together at maximum efficiency. Are there inherent security vul-

nerabilities in adopting a haphazard or patchwork set of solutions?

Butler: So many software companies try to sell a stack of technology to fit everyone’s needs. Unfortunately, this is not always the most cost-effective method of securing an organization and some technologies inherently don’t work with others. When companies combine incompatible or poorly integrated solutions, they expose themselves to significant cybersecurity risks.

costs and lead to technical oversights. For example, using both Mac and Windows systems without sufficient expertise and support for both systems can result in unforeseen and unrealized vulnerabilities.

CONTRACTOR: A great number of construction companies are dependent on legacy systems. Do these systems present their own sets of vulnerabilities, and if so, how can they best be addressed?

Butler: Legacy systems pose a major risk for construction companies. Many rely on outdated project management or control systems that may no longer receive security updates or vendor support, leaving organizations exposed.

A fragmented system increases the likelihood of misconfigurations, inconsistent patching and user access issues— all of which create vulnerabilities. The 2025 Travelers Risk Index revealed that roughly 30% of construction firms face heightened exposure to risk as a result of outdated software.

Poorly integrated systems also require broader IT expertise that can increase

This is a widespread issue across the industry. As noted above, approximately 30% of construction firms are using out-ofdate software, and only 35% are using endpoint detection and response, an essential tool for protecting legacy and current systems alike. For instance, we’ve seen companies still operating firewalls or network devices from defunct vendors. One company was using a firewall from an organization that went out of business in 2018. Needless to say, that left the company’s network in a position to be compromised.

To address these risks, firms should phase out unsupported technologies, segment legacy systems from critical networks and ensure robust compensating controls like multifactor authentication, monitoring and frequent data backups.

Matthew Butler, CISSP, CISM, CRISC.

» Simple, stylish single-module units from 6 – 20 T and dual-modules up to 40 T

» Space-saving 16 – 20 T single module units provide up to 34% footprint and up to 500 lbs./ unit weight reduction*

» High energy efficiency with IEERs up to 30.0 delivers up to 30% efficiency increase*

» Year-round comfort and energy savings with Daikin’s Variable Refrigerant Temperature Technology (VRT)

* Model specific: Check product specifications for details.

Additional Information

» Heating down to -13°F as standard and high heating capacities at 17°F make it an ideal choice for all- electric heat pump solutions

» Dual-fuel ready with connectivity to Daikin communicating gas furnace or all-electric heat pump heating for optimized operational costs based on utility rates

» 208 / 230 or 460V

From the world’s #1 air conditioning company, discover the cloud connected benefits of VRV EMERION provided by Daikin’s HERO Cloud Services

Before purchasing this appliance, read important information about its estimated annual energy consumption, yearly operating cost, or energy efficiency rating that is available from your retailer.

Taco Hydroflo Achieves ISO 9001-2015

LUBBOCK, TX — Taco Hydroflo Pump Solutions, a manufacturer of large vertical and submersible pumps and skid packages, announced that its Lubbock, Texas, facility has achieved ISO 90012015 certification.

“Achieving ISO certification is a significant milestone for our organization,” said Larry Jones , Vice President of Taco Hydroflo Pump Solutions. “It reflects the dedication of our entire team and our ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality products and services.”

Validation of Manufacturing Processes and Controls

The certification process involved a detailed third-party evaluation of Taco Hydroflo’s documented procedures, quality controls, and performance metrics. These assessments are intended to ensure repeatable processes, disciplined documentation, and consistent execution throughout manufacturing and assembly operations.

For contractors and specifying engineers, ISO 9001-2015 certification provides independent confirmation that

products are built under controlled processes designed to reduce variability, improve traceability, and support longterm system reliability.

Supporting Expectations and Regulatory Requirements

By meeting ISO standards, Taco Hydroflo strengthens its ability to consistently meet customer specifications, comply with applicable regulatory requirements, and maintain operational accountability across projects. The certification also reinforces the company’s focus on identifying opportunities for improvement throughout its manufacturing lifecycle.

For customers and partners, ISO certification offers added confidence that Taco Hydroflo operates with structured governance, documented quality practices, and a long-term commitment to performance.

“This certification is not the end of the journey,” added John Hazen White, Jr., Executive Chairman of the Board and Owner, “It’s a foundation that supports our continued investment in people, processes, and technology to better serve our customers today and into the future.”

For more information, visit www.tacocomfort.com

The Taco Hydroflo Lubbock facility.

HVAC THE NEXT WAVE OF COMFORT

systems

Navien introduces its full line of HVAC products, featuring new NAZ Heat Pumps, NAS Air Handlers, NAM Cased Coils, and other forced-air components. Deliver a whole-home AHRI matched Navien comfort system when pairing with the NPF Hydro-furnace, including a powerful dual-fuel system with gas-powered NPF and the NAZ Heat Pump. To learn more about Navien HVAC comfort, visit us at navieninc.com.

Oxnard Advances $46M Wastewater Treatment Upgrade with Carollo Eng.

➤ Continued from page 1

a major investment in modernizing wastewater treatment infrastructure while maintaining full facility operations and meeting regulatory requirements in a cost-effective manner.

The Oxnard WRRF serves a growing population of approximately 210,000 residents and is a critical component of the City’s wastewater system. That system includes more than 400 miles of sewer lines, 15 lift stations, and a treatment plant with a capacity of 31.8 million gallons per day. The planned upgrades are designed to strengthen process reliability and support long-term operational performance across the facility.

Capital Investment Targets Reliability and Efficiency

The improvement project was identified as part of Oxnard’s 2025–2029 Capital Improvement Program, reflecting the City’s commitment to reinvesting in essential water and wastewater assets. The scope focuses on modernizing aging process infrastructure to improve treatment consistency, operational efficiency, and environmental protection.

Carollo was selected following its successful delivery of construction

Construction is anticipated to begin in the first quarter of 2026 and continue for approximately 2.5 years.

management services on the City’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure Project, which replaced more than 41,000 water meters citywide. That project established a working relationship between the City and Carollo’s construction management team that will carry forward into this major treatment facility upgrade.

“The success of our Advanced Meter Infrastructure Project was in large part due to the dedication and expertise of the Carollo construction management team,” said Tim Beaman , Assistant Public Works Director for the City of Oxnard Public Works Department, Water & Wastewater. “We look forward to continuing our partnership with a $46M upgrade of Oxnard’s primary clarifiers and activated sludge tanks.”

Primary Clarifier and Odor Control Upgrades

Work on the primary clarifiers will

include basin improvements, installation of a new odor control system, and replacement of all mechanical equipment. Upgrades to the primary sedimentation building are also planned to support improved performance and maintainability.

The new odor control system is intended to improve air quality for both facility operators and the surrounding community, while updated mechanical systems will support more reliable solids separation and overall treatment efficiency.

Activated Sludge Tank Improvements and Seismic Retrofits

Improvements to the activated sludge process include seismic retrofitting of existing basins and complete replacement of the aeration system. New submersible mixers will be installed, along with upgraded

instrumentation and enhanced control systems.

These improvements are designed to optimize biological treatment performance while reducing energy consumption. The modernized aeration system is expected to play a key role in lowering overall power demand, supporting the City’s sustainability and carbon reduction goals.

Construction Phasing Keeps Facility Online

Construction is anticipated to begin in the first quarter of 2026 and continue for approximately 2.5 years, with the WRRF remaining fully operational throughout the upgrade process. The project is scheduled for completion and closeout in the third quarter of 2028.

“We are honored that the City of Oxnard has again entrusted Carollo to oversee critical infrastructure improvements for the community,” said Rodolfo Garcia , Carollo Construction Manager. “This project represents a significant milestone in modernizing the Water Resource Recovery Facility, and our team is committed to working as an extension of City staff to deliver these essential upgrades.”

Zekelman Names Meredith Peck

CHICAGO,

IL — Zekelman Industries has announced that Meredith Peck has been named Chief Financial Officer. Peck will succeed Mike Graham, who will retire on May 15, 2026, following a planned transition period.

Peck brings more than 20 years of financial leadership experience, with a background spanning manufacturing, banking, and public accounting. Most recently, she served as CFO of COTSWORKS, Inc., after progressing through roles as Controller and VP of finance and administration.

In her new role, Peck will oversee Zekelman Industries’ financial strategy as the company continues investing in its

operations, workforce, and long-term growth initiatives.

“Meredith is a proven financial leader with deep expertise in the manufacturing industry,” said Mickey McNamara , President, Zekelman Industries. “Her experience will be a tremendous asset as we continue to invest in our people, operations, and longterm strategy.”

Finance, Leadership, and Operational Discipline

Peck holds an MBA in finance from Case Western Reserve University and a bachelor’s degree from the United States Coast Guard Academy. She is

also a former US Coast Guard officer, where she directed Great Lakes search and rescue operations, overseeing 40 stations, two air stations, 10 marine safety offices, and 10 cutters.

Recognizing a Decade of Financial Leadership

Graham’s retirement concludes more than a decade of service with Zekelman Industries. He joined the company in September 2012 and served as CFO during a period marked by significant growth.

“Mike has been a trusted leader and advisor whose leadership and financial discipline helped position Zekelman Industries for long-term success,” McNamara said. “We are grateful for his contributions and appreciate his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition.” Meredith Peck.

Compact. The Model 406 Drain Pump

. Small compact size

. Fits in tight areas

. Quiet performance

. Upper and lower inlets

. Attractive appliance-style design

New OSHA Rule Changes for 2026: What It Means for Construction Risk

➤ Continued from page 1

proposal or review stages, waiting for final language before acting is risky. Historically, OSHA enforcement accelerates once standards are finalized, and insurance carriers, owners, and sureties often adjust expectations even sooner. Contractors who begin preparing now are better positioned to control costs and reduce long-term exposure.

OSHA’s Direction Heading Into 2026

Several OSHA initiatives are shaping the regulatory environment contractors should be planning for:

· A proposed federal heat-illness prevention standard, which could require written plans, hydration and shade protocols, acclimatization procedures, and expanded supervisor oversight on outdoor and high-temperature jobsites.

· Continued enforcement emphasis on crystalline silica exposure, including expectations around engineering controls, task-level hazard assessments, and respiratory protection for concrete, demolition, and stone-related work.

· Increased focus on repeat violations and employer knowledge of hazards, particularly where similar conditions appear across multiple jobsites.

For many contractors, these changes will require adjustments to field operations, supervision, and safety planning—especially for roofing, paving, concrete, utility, and site-work activities.

Why These Changes Matter to Contractors

For contractors, OSHA compliance is inseparable from overall risk management. New rules can influence work sequencing, crew scheduling, equipment selection, and supervision requirements. These changes may increase shortterm costs. However, the greater financial risk often comes from failing to adapt. Citations, stop-work orders, and repeat violations can delay projects, strain owner relationships, and negatively affect future bid opportunities. More importantly, injuries and illnesses tied to OSHA-regulated hazards

Subcontractor performance plays a significant role in risk management.

often drive workers’ compensation claims, which affect a contractor’s financial performance long after a project is complete.

Workers’ Compensation and Financial Exposure

Workers’ compensation is one of the clearest financial links between OSHA compliance and contractor risk.

Claims associated with heat illness or silica exposure can raise Experience Modification Rates (EMRs), resulting in higher premiums for multiple policy years.

Heat-related incidents frequently result in lost-time claims, which carry a disproportionate impact on EMR calculations. Even a modest increase in lost-time frequency can materially raise workers’ compensation costs. Silica-related claims pose a different but equally serious risk. Occupational disease claims tend to be expensive, complex, and long-tailed. They may surface years after exposure, creating liabilities that extend well beyond project completion.

Insurance carriers increasingly review OSHA citation history, safety programs, and hazard controls when

underwriting construction accounts. Contractors with weak compliance records may face higher premiums, restrictive terms, or limited access to preferred insurance markets.

Preparing Now Instead of Reacting Later

Contractors should begin with a targeted compliance gap review focused on hazards most likely to be emphasized in 2026, allowing resources to be prioritized efficiently.

Key preparation steps include:

1. Evaluating heat exposure risks by reviewing work schedules, access to shade and hydration, and supervisor training.

2. Assessing silica-generating tasks and confirming that engineering controls, tools, and respiratory protection are appropriate and maintained.

3. Updating written safety programs and training so they reflect actual field conditions rather than theoretical policies.

Consistent implementation across all projects is critical, as insurers and regulators increasingly look for alignment between safety practices and claim outcomes.

Subcontractors and Shared Risk

Subcontractor performance plays a significant role in construction risk management under evolving OSHA standards. General contractors may face exposure to citations and claims arising from subcontractor activities.

Contracts should clearly define safety responsibilities, require proof of workers’ compensation coverage, and allow enforcement when standards are not met. Prequalification processes should consider safety performance alongside cost and schedule.

Poor subcontractor controls can negatively affect a contractor’s EMR, OSHA history, and reputation with owners.

Claims Management and Return-to-Work

Injury response procedures should be reviewed with heat illness and other emerging risks in mind. Prompt reporting, appropriate medical triage, and coordinated return-to-work practices can reduce claim severity and help prevent injuries from becoming lost-time events that negatively affect EMR ratings.

Turning Compliance Into a Competitive Advantage

While OSHA rule changes can feel burdensome, contractors who respond strategically often gain an advantage. Strong safety programs improve insurance outcomes, support bonding capacity, and strengthen prequalification scores.

Public agencies and large private owners increasingly evaluate contractors based on safety performance and risk controls. Firms that demonstrate readiness for evolving OSHA standards position themselves as lower-risk, more reliable partners.

As 2026 approaches, the contractors most likely to succeed will be those who view OSHA rule changes not as last-minute compliance hurdles, but as opportunities to strengthen risk management, stabilize workers’ compensation costs, and protect long-term profitability.

INTRODUCING AEROTHERM® SERIES G2 HYBRID ELECTRIC HEAT PUMP WATER HEATER

SAVINGS

INNOVATIVE ENGINEERING:

• Up to 4.20 UEF** – ENERGY STAR® Certified

• Built-in Bradford White WaveTM Connectivity for easy diagnostics and remote-control access via mobile app

• Zero clearance requirements on sides & rear

• English, Spanish, and French languages

• Exclusive Vitraglas® tank lining with Microban® antimicrobial technology

Microban® antimicrobial product protection helps prevent the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew that may affect the product. The built-in antimicrobial properties do not protect users or others from disease-causing organisms. Microban® is a registered trademark of Microban Products Company. ©2026, Bradford White Corporation. All rights reserved. BWCONT0226

by Al Schwartz

Keeping Your Focus: Communication

So, have you worked on that inventory control? Know what you have and where it goes? Feels good to have that information at the tip of your fingers, doesn’t it? I am willing to say that those readers who spent the time to get a handle on their inventory have a little bit better understanding of their businesses today than they did before. Focusing on one thing, and getting it in order, can set the stage for further improvements ahead in the coming year.

As mentioned in the previous column, focusing on the things that you know need improvement in your business pays big dividends. Another area that can always use improvement is communications. Whether it is between you and your field people, your office staff, subcontractors or clients, good communications is a key component of keeping your business profitable.

KISS: Keep It Simple Stupid!

That old acronym, as crude as it is, hasn’t lost its meaning. How often have you conveyed a request, or an idea, to someone thinking you were perfectly clear, only to find that they either completely misunderstood you or got it only half right? Probably more often than you would like to think is my guess.

Verbal communications are fraught with the danger of misinterpretation and misunderstanding even in the best of circumstances. Add to that the intricacies of working in the trades and it compounds the problem. Are you clear when transmitting your wishes to your field people? You should be. Vague and open-ended statements are a sure way to get your wires crossed.

A simple example of this is:

“Send the backhoe over to XYZ project,” can be misconstrued as open-ended. I can almost hear the foreman saying, “I didn’t know you needed it now!”

Rather, saying “send the backhoe over to XYZ project as soon as you are finished with it,” is more specific, but even that statement might not give a complete picture of what you want. The statement “send the backhoe over to XYZ project

Are you clear when transmitting your wishes? You should be. Vague and open-ended statements are a sure way to get your wires crossed.

on Thursday, we are digging first thing Friday morning,” is much clearer as to your meaning and requirements.

Being clear in your communication means providing essential information in your message in such a way that misunderstandings are minimized. At best you will get the desired results, at worst you will get questions to clarify what you mean. The statement, “you know what I mean,” should have no place in your work day correspondence or communications.

Talk to, Not at

When speaking to a person face-to-face make eye contact with them. You will be able to read their reactions to what is being said much better than merely talking to the area at large. This is especially essential when asking for, or giving,

specific instructions. You can tell if your audience understands what you are saying much better if you can see their eyes and take note of their body language. In the case of your employees, your direct attention means that both you and they know precisely what you are asking or telling them. It is much harder for your people to misconstrue, or disregard, a directive from you if you and they had made direct eye contact when the information was delivered. Further, making and holding eye contact conveys to the other person that you are interested in them and their understanding of what you are saying and will make them pay closer attention to the conversation.

Fewer Misunderstandings

When communicating with your cli -

ents, being perfectly clear is the Holy Grail. The number of angry exchanges and hurt feelings caused by miscommunication between you and your clients is reason enough for you to pay close attention to what, and how, you communicate. Telling a client that you will be at their job at a certain time on a certain day is preferable to vaguely saying that you will be there “sometime this week.” In service work, this is not so much an issue as it is in subcontracting.

In a well-run service shop, properly scheduled service calls are an absolute must, but what happens if your service people run into a problem on a job and you can’t fulfill your promises to the other customers who are expecting you? Does your dispatcher immediately call the other clients to advise them of the possible delay, or does he wait, hoping that the “plumbing fairy” will magically provide him relief?

Having angry customers is a part of service work. Most people, however, understand when a situation arises and causes delays. Keeping an open line of timely, accurate and honest communications is the key to keeping your clients coming back. The customer might still be upset, but at least they will be informed.

In subcontracting making the hard phone call to the GC, when you can’t get people to their project as agreed, is something that you must do and you must do it both clearly and timely. Sure, you are going to get an earful. You might even get threatened with any number of sanctions, but making that call is your responsibility. Communicating clearly, timely and honestly is always your best option.

The Brooklyn, N.Y.-born author is a retired third generation master plumber. He founded Sunflower Plumbing & Heating in Shirley, N.Y., in 1975 and A Professional Commercial Plumbing Inc. in Phoenix in 1980. He holds residential, commercial, industrial and solar plumbing licenses and is certified in welding, clean rooms, polypropylene gas fusion and medical gas piping. He can be reached at omeletman01@gmail.com.

ID 63484008 © Kozzi2 | Dreamstime.com

BOOST RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION WITH CARHARTT®

An Apparel+ workwear program gives your business an edge in attracting and keeping top talent with quality Carhartt® gear that makes your team feel valued. Plus world class service at a convenience you never knew existed.

Weekly laundry, repairs and delivery included

No upfront cost required

The Power of AI Comes to Commissioning Mechanical Systems

CxPlanner offers software that keeps the user in control—and results verifiable—while automating tasks that can slow the commissioning process down.

BY STEVE SPAULDING OF CONTRACTOR’S STAFF

The commissioning process is a perfect example of why so many mechanical contractors are at once drawn to the potential efficiencies to be gained through adopting AI, and at the same time wary of embracing it.

Commissioning involves repetitive tasks—checklist verification, punch list management, report generation—that seem ripe for automation. At the same time, it rests at one of the most critical phases of the construction process: the handover from designer/builder to owner/ manager. It’s the point when everything has to be right or to be made right—how do you trust that to a machine?

Danish Twist

This was the problem confronting Thomas Jarloev when he was Strategic Commissioning Manager for Copenhagen Airports. Jarloev started his career on the electrical side, later working with building management systems and doing some design-engineering. Along the way he became fascinated by the commissioning process, so much

so that he travelled to the US where he worked to become first a Qualified Commissioning Process Provider (QCxP), then an Accredited Commissioning Process Manager (CxMSM) and an Accredited Commissioning Process Authority Professional (CxAPSM). Jarloev would eventually go on to co-author the Danish commissioning standard.

While working for the airport he found himself spending hours custom-building macros in excel spreadsheets to help him in his work. When he hit the limit with what those were able to do, Jarloev went looking for a solution. When none of the software he sampled were able to fit the bill, he decided to develop his own, and that was the start of CxPlanner.

“CxPlanner started out as my own tool to help me navigate those kinds of projects,” Jarloev says. “After some time, I carried it to the team and they started using it and then it just started to dribble around in the industry and eventually it went global. Now we have a presence all over the US, Europe, Australia, Asia—everywhere.”

A New Approach

Too often, Jarloev says, the commissioning process works something like parking enforcement: a traffic officer driving around, handing out tickets and making a lot of hassle and paperwork for everyone involved.

Instead, he feels commissioning should be about making the work of everyone involved on the project easier, from the designers to the contractors to the maintenance team that will finally take the project over. Commissioning, he firmly believes, should be fun.

“I don’t like to make reports,” Jarloev says. “I don’t like to take a picture and import it into a Word document—I want to do the actual commissioning. I like to twist and turn the knobs and check the valves and measure and see if everything works as it should. That is what I think is the fun part.”

CxPlanner works on a mobile device. Pictures from the site can be uploaded to the cloud and are automatically entered into reports with all the correct formatting. Team members running checklists

or site inspections don’t need to go back to the office and spend hours on paperwork—the report practically writes itself. And since the entire project lives in the cloud, it updates in real-time for any team member who needs access and Thomas Jarloev.

➤ Turn to The Power, page 30

The planning and overview dashboard from CxPlanner.

The system and test view in CxPlanner.

CxPlanner

THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN MECHANICAL CONTRACTING

Which jobs can AI be trusted with? Which jobs should it not? How to get your teams using it, without abusing it? If 2025 was the year AI arrived, 2026 will be the year mechanical contractors put it to work.

By Steve Spaulding, Editor-in-Chief

The future is here—so what are we supposed to do with it?

According to the Service Titan 2026 State of AI in the Trades report (conducted from Oct. 23 to Nov. 12, 2025) incorporating data from 1,032 responding contractors—including 234 plumbing contractors—60% are familiar with AI, and 72% believe AI is relevant to the industry. At the same time, only 12% of businesses have embedded AI in their processes, and 35% haven’t yet used AI in their business at all. Other results from the survey show that AI is

making its way into contracting via the back office, with administration leading usage at 59%. Like so many businesses, contractors are leveraging AI for billing, reporting, data analysis, and compliance tracking. Marketing & sales follows at 51%, using AI mainly for lead generation, personalization, and ad optimization.

Next comes customer service and field operations— both at 39%—utilizing tools for chatbots and call routing, alongside scheduling and predictive maintenance. Design & planning remains a niche use case at 19%,

primarily used for commercial or larger projects involving AI-assisted modeling and drone-based monitoring.

Only the First Phase

“As AI augments human productivity and fills capacity gaps, the immediate impact is on operational efficiency,” says Vincent Payen, Senior Vice President of Product at ServiceTitan, “but this is only the first phase of a much deeper AI business optimization motion that will ultimately drive both top line and profitability transformation.”

The next phase will involve a wider adoption of AI and AI-enhanced platforms, software and tools. Most of the barriers to adoption are, surprisingly, not technological or even financial, but human. The top barriers cited by survey respondents are:

• Lack of training — 44%

• Integration complexity — 44%

tractors will stick with what they know works. In that respect, AI is just like any other innovation to come along, be it smart thermostats, self-balancing circulators or drones.

And yet, due to its utility, its versatility, and the speed with which it is reshaping the face of the industry, AI is like almost nothing we have seen before. As

Use AI to assist, not replace, your judgment. AI can draft, summarize, and suggest, but it doesn’t know your clients, your suppliers, or the nuances of your local market.

— Melvin Newman

for mechanical contractors. Expanded articles from each of them can be found on contractormag.com

Melvin Newman, CEO of PataBid, is a mechanical estimator turned entrepreneur. Newman worked extensively in the field before founding a technology company serving the mechanical/electrical contracting industry.

Since ChatGPT burst onto the scene in late 2022, AI has gone from tech industry novelty to everyday business tool.

• Difficulty understanding how to use AI tools — 38%

• Unclear ROI — 37%

Interestingly, only 18% of respondents cited employee resistance as a barrier.

The Potential to Reshape the Industry

The reluctance to embrace AI reflects a common attitude among the trades: until something has proven itself to be reliably, consistently better, most con -

Thomas Jarloev, Founder/CEO of CxPlanner says in this month’s Forum (pg. 16), “We’re looking into a future where AI is just something that the generations coming into the market, all the ones that we’re educating, they will come in and they will expect AI to be there as a utility for them.”

Here are three voices from around the mechanical contracting industry discussing different aspects of the Artificial Intelligence Revolution, and what it means

Mechanical and plumbing contractors are no exception—AI is showing up in everything from project communication to marketing.

But not every task should be automated, and some carry real risks if you get it wrong.

Where AI does excel is in the tedious, time-consuming work that bogs down your preconstruction processes. Think automated takeoffs, extracting quantities from drawings, or organizing specification data. The

Melvin Newman.

sweet spot is using AI to handle the grunt work faster. This frees up your estimators to focus on what demands human judgment: pricing strategy, risk assessment, and building the relationships that win work.

The key to getting useful results from any AI tool is writing a good prompt. A prompt is simply the instruction you give the AI. Vague prompts get vague results. Specific prompts get specific, usable outputs.

The more detail you provide, the better your output. Instead of asking for “a scope letter,” tell the AI the project type, square footage, scope inclusions, exclusions, and the tone you want. Think of it like briefing a new employee. The clearer your instructions, the less back and forth you’ll need.

Your first AI prompt won’t always give you exactly what you need. That’s normal. Treat AI as a collaborative tool. Review the output, tell it what to fix or adjust, and refine from there. Most people give up after one mediocre result. The real value comes when you learn how to guide the AI toward what you actually want.

Use AI to assist, not replace, your judgment. AI can draft, summarize, and suggest, but it doesn’t know your clients, your suppliers, or the nuances of your local market. Always review outputs before sending them out. The goal is to save time on the first draft, not to hand over decision-making.

Michael Kanaby, Managing Partner at Profitability Works Inc., has over 30 years’ experience in the construction industry and is the co-author of Building Excellence: Implementing Standard Processes for Construction Trade Contractors.

Here is the uncomfortable truth: most contractors are not ready to benefit from AI. The problem is not that contractors are resistant to technology; it is that most businesses lack the necessary data structures and processes for AI to work effectively.

Let us examine a familiar process, change orders, and explore its progression across three stages of readiness: centralized data, process, and automation.

The first step is to centralize and standardize the data. Every change order should reside in a single platform, whether that is an ERP, a Project Management tool, or a Smartsheet on a SharePoint site. The inputs should have uniform fields, such as project number, client name, scope, price, status, date, and approvals, as examples. Once that consistency is in place, leadership can begin to trust the information.

Next, companies should establish a process to manage the identification, validation, and authorization of changes. Every project team and office should handle change orders in the same manner. This way, there is no confusion about which change orders are approved, what is pending, or what has been billed. Standardizing the process is not about adding red tape or slowing people down; it is about bringing clarity to the work, accountability to the numbers, and consistency that can enable the adoption of AI.

Once the data is clean and the process is consistent, automation can take over repetitive tasks. Imagine a system that captures every change order as soon as it is submitted, uses OCR (optical character recognition) to read attached documents, automatically routes it for approval, and updates project costs in real time. That is not science fiction; it is available now.

AI is not a replacement for human expertise; it is an amplifier for it. The construction contractors that

changes are most likely, flag unusual cost patterns, or even recommend negotiation points with specific clients based on historical behavior. What was once reactive and tedious becomes proactive and strategic.

Chaitanya Naredla Krishna is Co-Founder & CEO of Track 3D, a “reality intelligence” platform turning complex site data into actionable insights.

Think of Reality Intelligence as a “capture–compare–act” loop that runs continuously. It starts with structured site capture—drones, 360° walks, mobile LiDAR—so conditions are timestamped and comparable over time.

Next, AI does the heavy lifting that humans shouldn’t have to: segmenting point clouds and images, recog-

Construction will always be physical, local, and complex, but it doesn’t have to be opaque.

— Chaitanya Naredha Krishna

nizing building elements like duct runs, drywall, or structural members, and extracting geometric facts such as lengths, areas, volumes, and positions. Those measurements are then aligned to design and schedule to quantify progress, detect deviations, and recognize out-of-sequence work. The insights are accessible to various project stakeholders, they’re organized and surfaced in a way that lets the right people act on them

First, progress becomes defensible, not anecdotal. When progress is measured with real data instead of guesswork, teams can prove exactly how much work is complete. This makes project tracking more accurate, protects schedules from slipping, and helps owners quickly verify what’s been done and paid for.

AI is not a replacement for human expertise; it is an amplifier for it. — Michael Kanaby

succeed in the coming years will be those that are ready for modern technology and can integrate and operate in their customers’ technological environment.

AI then adds another layer of value. It can analyze hundreds of past projects to predict which types of

Second, deviations surface early. Geometric misalignments and tolerance breaches are identified before drywall is closed or rebar is poured, transforming quality control from after-the-fact reporting to proactive prevention.

Third, schedules reflect reality. As-built measures feed automated schedule updates, so the plan stops drifting on assumptions.

Fourth, resources are allocated with intent. With granular progress and look-ahead deltas, teams tune crew assignments and time deliveries just-in-time, trimming idle time and waste.

Construction will always be physical, local, and complex, but it doesn’t have to be opaque. Reality Intelligence shortens the gap between plan and truth, turning photos and point clouds into verified progress, earlier conflict detection, and faster, better decisions.

Michael Kanaby.

Chaitanya Naredla Krishna.

Presented

by Patrick Linhardt

HYDRONICS MANAGER

AT CORKEN STEEL PRODUCTS CO.

Blow Down Your Boilers and Save Your Controls

Atroubled system leads to a malfunctioning float-type low water cutoff, and illustrates the imporance of basic system maintenance.

One of the old timers of the industry in our area asked me to help him with a steam boiler. It was a competitor’s boiler, and I had no dog in the hunt, but I said yes to help out a fellow old timer. I also get the satisfaction of knowing that the competitor doesn’t have anybody to go out and help customers in the field, the original purpose of the “heating guy” at the wholesaler.

This supply house has morphed into more of an on-line presence than a local presence (fair enough and to each their own). But this is now the second time that I’m going to look at a boiler I’m not that familiar with. The first time I didn’t have enough time to get the boiler running right and we agreed that I would come back. The house can heat with a furnace on every floor, so no real priority.

It sits right on the Ohio River on the Kentucky side across from downtown Cincinnati with a million dollar view next to the suspension bridge that you see whenever the big TV networks are in town for a Bengals football game. It is also so close to the river that it occasionally floods; the waterlines are easy to see on the basement columns. The old timer thought that problem started after the last flood. The electric feeder won’t work, and he thinks it’s a wiring issue.

Maybe the Wiring?

Since I’m not an electrical genius I decided to ask a favor of the guy that wires up this brand boiler all the time. So, the second time there, it was the old timer and his sidekick, me and the expert. We go right to re-wiring the whole limit/safety portion because the expert didn’t like what was there.

The old timer doesn’t have a problem with that and says to just leave everything hanging out until the boiler works fine, then he and his sidekick will make it all look neat and tidy. Of course, there isn’t any paperwork for the boiler or feeder. These are the times I like the internet, since both wiring diagrams were available on the company’s websites—just in a tiny format—on my phone. Not to complain, it beats making a third trip after going back to the office to find the diagrams in the product literature file cabinets like we had to do 30 years ago. One of my first responsibilities in the industry was keeping those file cabinets up to date with printed literature. Now current technical info just a click and/or swipe away.

Maybe the Low Water Cut-Off?

The process took a bit longer than expected, but sometimes it is harder to re-work something than to start at

The junk visible in the float chamber was just enough and in just the right place to keep the float in the control from dropping. Without that movement, the switches don’t switch.

A troubled system leads the author to a malfunctioning float-type low water cutoff, and illustrates the imporance of basic system maintenance.

the beginning. Once we were satisfied, we tried to fire it up only to be disappointed. Thinking it might be the low water cut-off, the expert said that he had a new one in his truck. This didn’t surprise me since he works with them a lot. The old timer sent the sidekick to fetch it. We took the switch off the new control to put on the old control since the problem seemed to be a “fried” contact on the old control. At that point the expert and I both had the light bulb go off in our head. Let’s not switch the switches. Let’s open up the control to make sure the float inside can move freely. The photo of the float chamber reveals the cause of the problem.

The control is a float-type low water cutoff, which means a float mounted outside the boiler heat exchanger senses how much water is in the boiler, while a switch attached to the end makes and breaks contacts as the water level changes. Modern residential boilers now use a probe inserted directly into the heat exchanger to sense water level changes.

The switch on the old school float-type control can be used to act as a safety in case of a low water condition in the boiler, opening the circuit to the burner to prevent a dry fire. The switch can also be used to activate an electrical feeder to refill the boiler before it gets to a low water condition. That was the problem we were having. The switch wasn’t making to energize the feeder as we opened the boiler drain to lower the water level.

Blow Down the Right Way

It wasn’t the switch’s fault, it was the junk you see in the float chamber. It was just enough and in just the right place to keep the float in the control from dropping. Without that movement, the switches don’t switch. The control that is supposed to be shutting the burner off and/or activating a feeder is keeping the burner on during the call for heat.

This is why it is so important to “blow down” a steam boiler with float-type controls. It is also important to teach the homeowner/super the proper way to do this. Recently I was told of a job with a steel tube boiler where the property owner would open the “blow down” valve for fifteen minutes, every day during the heating season. If you aren’t familiar with this, that is ridiculous.

A “blow down” should be done with the valve on the bottom of the control while the burner is activated and only last until the burner cuts off when the water level in the heat exchanger drops. On a residential boiler, that might be seconds. On a commercial boiler, it might be up to a minute. The quick opening of the blow down valve clears the junk out of the float chamber. This doesn’t have to be done every day. I recommend once every two weeks for a well-maintained system.

More often might seem safer, but every time you blow down the boiler, you add fresh water. Fresh water is the enemy of cast iron steam boilers. Fresh water adds things like chlorine and sediment that ruins a cast iron boiler over time. The more fresh water, the less years the boiler will survive.

Patrick Linhardt is a forty-one-year veteran of the wholesale side of the hydronic industry who has been designing and troubleshooting steam and hot water heating systems, pumps and controls on an almost daily basis.

A. O. Smith Acquires Leonard Valve to Expand Integrated Product Offering

Deal strengthens A. O. Smith’s position in water management, digital mixing systems, and institutional hydronic applications.

MILWAUKEE, WI — A. O. Smith Corporation (NYSE: AOS) announced it has completed the acquisition of LVC Holdco LLC, the parent company of Leonard Valve, in a transaction valued at $470 million, subject to customary adjustments. The all-cash deal is valued at approximately $412 million after adjusting for estimated tax benefits and was funded through borrowings under a new credit agreement.

Expanding Commercial Water Management and Hydronic Expertise

The acquisition expands A. O. Smith’s footprint in the commercial and institutional water management market, adding specialized expertise in water temperature control, digital mixing systems, and hydronic boiler controls. Leonard Valve’s product portfolio supports critical applications where precise temperature control, code compliance, and system reliability are essential.

“This acquisition expands our presence in the water management market, enhances our digital expertise and broadens our integrated product offering with commercial and institutional customers,” said Steve Shafer, Chief Executive Officer of A. O. Smith. “We are

proud to welcome the Leonard Valve team into the A. O. Smith family. Both companies share a commitment to innovation, integrity and exceptional customer service.”

Leonard Valve Portfolio Targets Demanding Applications

Founded in 1911 and headquartered in Cranston, Rhode Island, Leonard Valve designs and manufactures water temperature control valves, digital and thermostatic mixing systems, and related monitoring devices. These solutions are widely used in hospitals, schools, universities, industrial facilities, and other institutional and commercial environments where safety and performance are non-negotiable.

Through its Heat-Timer brand, Leonard Valve also provides advanced boiler control systems that help facility owners and contractors optimize hydronic heating performance while improving energy efficiency and operational consistency.

Broader Integrated Solutions for Contractors and Facility Owners

By combining Leonard Valve’s mixing valve and control technologies with A. O. Smith’s existing commercial water heating and water treatment portfolio, the company aims to deliver more integrated, system-level solutions for large facilities. The expanded offering is expected to support contractors with tighter system integration, improved digital monitoring capabilities, and streamlined specification for complex projects.

“We are excited to join A. O. Smith,” said David Brakenwagen, President of Leonard Valve. “Together, we can continue to further invest in our people and technology, enhance our digital and thermostatic mixing solutions, expand our boiler control offerings, and deliver even more integrated solutions to our customers.”

BofA Securities served as exclusive financial advisor to A. O. Smith Corporation, with Foley & Lardner LLP acting as legal advisor.

Note: this release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

ASSE Launches Working Group for New Qualification Standard

Proposed ASSE 18000 standard would define minimum competency requirements for professionals installing and repairing fuel gas systems.

MOKENA, IL — ASSE International is forming a working group to develop a proposed new professional qualification standard for fuel gas systems installers and repairers and is seeking subject matter experts and industry stakeholders to participate.

The proposed standard, ASSE 18000, Professional Qualifications Standard for Fuel Gas Systems and Equipment Installers and Repairers, is intended to establish minimum competency requirements for individuals who install and repair fuel gas systems—work that carries significant safety risks if performed incorrectly.

The working group will support ASSE’s Professional Qualifications Standards Committee (PQSC) and will operate under ASSE’s accredited, open-consensus standards development process.

Establishing Baseline Qualifications

ASSE 18000 is designed to create a consistent, industry-recognized benchmark for professionals working with natural gas fuel piping in residential, light commercial, and light industrial buildings.

By defining minimum qualifications and competency requirements, ASSE aims to improve jobsite safety, reduce hazards tied to improper installation or repair, and promote consistent workmanship across fuel gas system applications.

The proposed standard will serve a wide range of industry segments, including plumbing and mechanical contractors, maintenance personnel, pipefitters, stationary engineers, appliance installers, repair technicians, service professionals, and the general public.

ASSE is seeking participation from installers and contractors, inspectors, trainers, safety professionals, utilities, manufacturers, regulatory authorities, and consumer advocates.

Schedule and Application Deadline

The first working group meeting will be held in person during the ASSE Mid-Year Meeting in St. Louis on Tuesday, April 15. All subsequent meetings will be conducted virtually.

Interested parties who wish to serve on the ASSE 18000 working group must complete an online application by March 1.

Contact Terry Burger at 909/519-0740 or by email at terry.burger@asse-plumbing.org with any questions.

Hydronics & R adiant

Presented in partnership with Radiant Professionals Alliance

‘Magnificently Efficient’

A Virginia retrofit pairs propane and electric to eliminate resistance heat, cut energy costs, and deliver consistent comfort in winter conditions.

BY JOHN MESENBRINK EDITOR-AT-LARGE

AFTON, VA — Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a collaborative effort among highly intelligent tradespeople transformed an inefficient home by utilizing innovative hydronic and HVAC equipment. Traditionally, electric heat pumps struggle to deliver comfort and efficiency in cold temperatures. When they fail to meet heating needs, resistance heating kicks in, increasing electric demand by three to four times without providing consistent warmth.

In 2024, four pilot homes—the Afton home being one of them—installed hydronic heat pump solutions to tackle specific challenges, optimize energy usage and deliver consistent home-heating comfort. By using the

preconfigured components to seamlessly integrate propane into their existing electric heat pump systems, these homes reduced energy consumption, eliminated the need for costly electric heat strips and extended the life span of their HVAC systems.

These installations demonstrated the versatility and advantages of propane, delivering improved comfort while helping homeowners manage energy usage and costs more effectively.

Manager, Mauck Solutions, an independent energy consulting firm specializing in hybrid heating, dual-fuel HVAC systems and applied building science. The firm works with propane marketers, HVAC contractors, OEMs and industry organizations to develop practical solutions that improve comfort, reduce operating costs and maintain resilience as electrification increases.

Design, Coordination & Configuration

Mauck

, Project

“The objective was to maintain the efficiency benefits of the heat pump during mild conditions while eliminating electric resistance heat during cold weather, improving comfort, lowering peak electrical demand and reducing overall operating costs,” says Armistead

The homeowner faced a $6,000 electrical service upgrade to accommodate an expanded living area and future plans to finish a large unconditioned basement. The primary challenge was integrating new hybrid components into an existing

home without major structural changes. This was addressed through careful system design, contractor coordination and proper control configuration to ensure seamless transitions between heat sources. Commissioning and installer training were critical to ensuring the system performed exactly as intended. Seeking a more cost-effective option, the homeowner chose to install a hydronic heat pump solution and replace their electric tank water heater with a propane-powered tankless model. This decision both avoided the expensive electrical upgrade and also reduced electricity usage, freeing up more than 50% of their electrical service. To accommodate additional propane upgrades—including a clothes dryer, range, and outdoor

An exterior view of the Afton, VA home.

fire pit—the homeowner moved from a 120-gallon tank to a 500-gallon tank. But the key to this transformation was the addition of the Heat Pump Helper®, a trademark of North Carolina-based Bindus Manufacturing, which develops the hydronic heating coil—called the AQUECOIL® Hydronic Heating unit— used in the system.

The Heat Pump Helper allows the conversion of homes with new or existing electric heat pumps to dual-fuel space heating systems by installing a gas-fired water heater or boiler or using one already on-site. In this case, a Rinnai RX tankless unit was used for its high flow rates. The Heat Pump Helper comes with a kit—when paired with a tankless unit that includes a Taco Hydro Air Fan Controller and a Taco 0011 circ pump.

The Heat Pump Helper uses any available gas-fired hot water source—including boilers, combi boilers, tankless water heaters, or high input tank water heaters—combined with a water-to-air heat exchanger to insert the required BTUs of heat into the ducted air stream generated by the heat pump air handler. This design concept, known as “hydroheat,” enables the use of a single gas-

fired burner package to accomplish the dual functions of domestic hot water and space heating, instead of installing two separate gas-fired appliances.

Comfort, Cost Control, Reliability

Tiger Fuel, whose service techs provided most of the plumbing on the project, installed the Rinnai tankless water heater and made the connections to the hydronic coil. They worked with Kennedy HVAC, the company that installed the hydronic coil on the air handler.

According to Taylor Sutton, CoOwner and Chief Operating Officer, Tiger Fuel, the Heat Pump Helper replaces the auxiliary heating coil, usually powered by electricity, with a hot water coil that is connected to a loop fed by a water circulation pump connected to a traditional tankless water heater—in this case, the Rinnai RX tankless water heater.

Bindus supplied the hot water coil and the electronics that communicated with the thermostat and water pump, as well as the plumbing kit that tied into the residential hot water system.

“This essentially turned the traditional tankless hot water heater into a boiler that could produce heat for the home

in addition to domestic hot water. The hot water coil sat on top of the air handler in between the fan and the supply lines to the various rooms of the house,” says Sutton.

The Heat Pump Helper with the AQUECOIL system provides three significant attributes to the overall hydronic equation, “It improves comfort, reduces operating costs and it reduces winter peak demand on the national electric grid,” says John Borzoni, Bindus Manufacturing. The end result is “a magnificently efficient home,” says Borzoni.

Borzoni says that the Heat Pump Helper, combined with the AQUECOIL, accomplishes these three objectives by upgrading any conventional heat pump heating system to a dual fuel heating system; switching from all-electric heating to gas-fired/electric heating and eliminating the electric resistance heat strips customarily installed with residential heat pumps. The switchover decision is driven by dropping outdoor temperature and/or declining heat pump performance concurrent with the increasing residential heat load demand. “The heat pump heat strips are usually the largest single component of

residential winter peak electric demand on the grid,” says Borzoni.

And because the main drivers for the upgrade were comfort, cost control and reliability, in colder conditions, the existing electric heat pump relied heavily on resistance heat, leading to high utility bills and less consistent comfort. “Propane provided a high-output, responsive heat source that eliminated electric resistance backup while maintaining a balanced energy approach. The solution also reduced strain on the existing heat pump as well as the home’s electrical system and improved resilience during extreme weather events,” says Mauck.

The homeowner has reported immediate improvements in comfort, particularly during colder weather, along with noticeably lower winter utility costs. “They also expressed appreciation for the system’s quiet operation, consistent indoor temperatures, and the peace of mind that comes from having a reliable backup heat source not dependent solely on electricity,” says Mauck.

To learn more about propane in hydronic heating applications, visit the Propane Education & Research Council website at propane.com

A before shot of the mechanical room.

An after shot of the mechanical room.

by Patti Feldman

Quoting, Commerce & Invoicing

Eden Instant Quote for Residential HVAC Contractors (www.e-denhomes.com, 888/8178896) is a platform configured to guide users efficiently through the process of selecting the number and particulars of new HVAC systems for their homes. It features 24/7 online estimates with integrated heat load calculations, customized rebates and incentives, and the ability to prequalify leads with online pricing. According to Eden, clients find the Instant Quote within ~ 5% accuracy, with setup for onboarding typically taking two to three hours.

Contractors can use Instant Quote to show split heat pumps, AC, and furnaces as well as single-zone mini-splits and multizone mini-splits and can show up to four options (e.g. good, better, best, fantastic). (Instant Quote uses a disclaimer to state that the final price is subject to a site visit.)

Instant Quote utilizes a proprietary database of rebates (1000+ Federal, state, local, utility programs) mapped by zip code and takes into account a home’s profile and equipment ratings to determine appropriate incentives for each home and system recommendation. It can load into the database anything with an AHRI number.

Contractors can update pricing by emailing Instant Quote, with the pricing engine flexible for handling seasonal discounts or other considerations.

The software tracks how many people have clicked the Instant Quote link and shares that data at regular intervals. The platform will provide coaching on best practices to maximize effectiveness. Contractors can set up integration with Service Titan through Zapier.

Pricing: monthly or annual subscription plan, with a one-time onboarding fee.

Contractor Commerce

Contractor Commerce ( www.contractorcommerce.com, 513/875-7622 ) is an HVAC ecommerce solution that you install on your website as a customized platform for plug-and play e-commerce built specifically for HVAC, plumbing, and home service contractors.

How Contractor Commerce works: it plugs into your own site, enabling capturing and qualifying new sales leads on your website, acting as an efficient lead gener-

Reviews of Eden Instant Quote, the Contractor Commerce customized platform, the FreshBooks small business platform, and updates on Simpro AI.

ation funnel. In addition, you can add a store to your website, enabling Contractor Commerce to deliver air filters, directly to your customer with your company name on the packing slip. In addition, you can automate monthly payments and reports.

Features include Instant online quoting for systems, services, and installs; Online checkout capabilities so customers can browse, price, and purchase directly on the contractor’s website; and Maintenance plan and membership sales through automated online signup and recurring billing. AI-enhanced tools help in selling smarter, improving customer experience, and staying visible to AI-driven search.

FreshBooks

FreshBooks (www.freshbooks.com) is a small business platform designed to simplify the financial complexity of running a business.

Taking advantage of recent updating that incorporates usage of AI, the latest offering features streamlined invoicing with professional invoices and online payment via credit card and bank transfers, along with new features that reduce manual financial administration.

Capabilities include: AI-powered invoice reminders to customers; automatic expense categorization that eliminates manual data entry; AI-driven cash flow forecasting to enable insights, without spreadsheets; and behind-the-scenes AI-enhanced fraud detection.

Accounting and reporting features include General Ledger, Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet, and Revenue by Client reports with various layouts, filters, collapsible headers, drill-downs, and comparative periods.

Bank Reconciliation includes manual accounts, “last imported” transaction indicators, secure bank connections via Yodlee, bulk transaction actions, and a dashboard widget that offers at-a-glance reconciliation status.

Online payment widget options include future payouts and payouts in transit.

Finance integrations with several partners, including the Stripe payment platform for accepting payments online, Instant Payouts (powered by Stripe) which allows eligible users to access funds from paid invoices in as little as 30 minutes, rather than waiting their standard payout schedule), Wagepoint (Canadian

payroll software), PayPal, and Affirm, a financial technology platform allowing flexible consumer payment plans. FreshBooks also offers fast payroll, with 2-day direct deposit.

The platform delivers configurable accounting reports with customizable layouts, filters, and drill-downs.

Update

Simpro (www.simpro.ai) an AI-first operating field service platform for residential and commercial trades (covered in our February 2025 column) recently introduced a hybrid approach that, in a purposeful integration into trusted workflows, blends software reliability with intelligent, high impact modular AI enhancements tailored to the trades industry that, aligning with real-world field workflows, are aimed at increasing customer productivity while reducing the burden of repetitive tasks. The hybrid AI will, says Simpro, enhance—not replace—the core software for field service businesses

The platform, which already included AI-aided scheduling and forecasting, now embeds domain-specific purposeful AI-assisted tools to handle everyday tasks such as generating quotes, invoices, and job documentation. It also leverages historical data for predictive models that forecast asset lifecycles, job risks, and financial performance.

For example, WorkNotes AI, designed for use by field technicians to aid in their documenting their craft, automatically generates detailed notes, reducing typing and manual administration. In addition, it includes intelligent spelling and grammar corrections to help ensure clear, high-quality documentation presented to customers.

Overall, according to Simpro, the AI-first platform is designed to simplify complex workflows and turn that simplicity into profit. By providing advanced automation across scheduling, workforce management, and asset tracking, Simpro helps eliminate inefficiency, save time, and help trade businesses scale stronger for the future.

Patti Feldman writes articles and web content for trade magazines and manufacturers of building products.

by Robert Zellmer

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT, BAKER TILLY

Navigating Contracts and Controls in the Changing Construction Landscape

The construction industry is facing a plethora of changes and obstacles including labor constraints, rising material and labor costs and data security concerns. These consistent challenges have left general contractors, and trade and craft contractors in the housing industry with elevated levels of concern and uncertainty.

In an industry that values project plans, timelines and tight cost controls, contractors at all tiers are in a precarious position as they look to the future. While there is no exact science for navigating general uncertainty, contractors can still plan for the unknown by implementing contracts and controls that provide more certainty and protection for stakeholders at all levels.

Persistent Labor Shortage

The skilled labor shortage is not a new challenge in the construction landscape. As the current workforce ages and fewer people join the trades, skilled labor is harder to come by. This labor shortage was amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic, as a mass exodus occurred during that time. Recently, 92% of hiring construction companies have reported that they are having a difficult time finding qualified workers.

This labor shortage and competition is forcing firms to look for fresh and innovative hiring tactics, including partnerships with trade schools, high schools and apprenticeship opportunities to attract young talent.

Tariffs, Price Escalations and Supply Chain Disruptions

Almost all industries are feeling the impacts of consistent tariff changes and market uncertainty, but the construction industry might get hit the hardest. Fluctuating prices and trade agreements are consistently intersecting with project estimates and timelines, requiring contractors at all tiers to increase communication with all parties, enhance transparency and enact tighter controls over materials purchases.

Tariffs on steel, aluminum, lumber and electrical components have all greatly

Contractors can plan for the unknown by implementing contracts and controls that provide more certainty and protection for stakeholders at all levels.

impacted trade and craft contractors, as they are the ones submitting pricing, purchasing materials and driving project timelines. Increased prices, as a result of tariffs, require communication and agreement on who will absorb the costs.

The answer to navigating price escalations is not avoidance but rather being prepared for them. In the current state of the construction industry, it’s not “if” price escalations will occur during a project, it’s “when.” There are a few practices that contractors at all tiers can implement to better maneuver price escalations, change requests and supply chain challenges.

When entering a project, contractors should look to ensure a clear line of communication exists between themselves and the developers, builders and their suppliers, to discuss and address potential impacts of materials and labor price escalation. These lines of communication can help everyone understand price escalation terms, and define which

sensitive information and ensure the integrity of AI systems.

When beginning a new project, contractors should outline how and when AI will be used, disclose the AI tools that they plan to use and include a place for human oversight and verification in their contracts. Ensuring that all AI-generated outputs are reviewed and approved before they are used for implementation can be especially important as AI is still a new technology that requires another step of validation.

The increase of AI and technology in the construction industry also raises concern around data security and potential breaches. Using open-source AI programs has a higher possibility of exposing sensitive information. As such, if either party is using an open-source AI program, that should be disclosed in the contract.

party, or parties, will be responsible for additional costs.

When assessing cost control mechanisms within the contract, all parties should ensure that the agreement is transparent, fair and balanced. Contractors should also consider including cost control guidelines to their contracts with project owners, as that information can help make those important cost-escalation decisions on a timely basis. Establishing proper controls and lines of communication can add some peace of mind for contractors and help ease any cost-related tension.

The New World of AI and Data Security

Technology and AI are rapidly evolving in the construction industry, leaving room for gray areas and unwritten rules. Adopting these advanced technologies to enhance efficiency, productivity and safety comes with significant risks that must be carefully managed to protect

With the implementation of these new AI tools and software, it’s important to remember that a significant amount of personal and proprietary information, data and designs are stored within these programs. In standard contracts, data ownership is not typically addressed, as it was not previously considered a significant risk, but now, contractors need to consider how much access they would like the other parties to have to their data and information.

Looking Ahead

As contractors look at the state of the construction industry, price escalations, AI and technology changes and labor shortages can feel daunting. However, by proactively addressing contract risks and mitigating controls, contractors and subcontractors can set themselves up for success. Balanced contract terms and strong project controls do not just mitigate risk; they enable smart and more objective construction decisions that will pay their dividends in the long term.

Robert Zellmer is Director of Development and Community Advisory Practice for Baker Tilly, an advisory tax and assurance firm dedicated to customized business solutions that generate and sustain growth.

ID 41088460 © La Fabrika Pixel S.l. | Dreamstime.com

by Lynn Karam CEO OF LEK MANAGEMENT

How Does a Contractor Build a Resilient Tax Foundation?

One of the most common questions I am asked by clients, and especially contractors, is “How do you take advantage of the opportunities that exist in the tax code to pay as little tax as possible?”

Taxes are an ongoing obligation that must be addressed by every business, and contractors are no exception. As revenue increases the tax exposure to contractors can increase at a rate that greatly affects their cash flow. While many have argued regarding the legitimacy and purpose of taxes, it is important to recognize that the tax code is intentionally structured to provide opportunities for those who are ready to take advantage of them. The tax code contains provisions that, when understood and properly applied, can allow taxpayers to legally minimize their tax liability.

Yes, there are legitimate ways for taxpayers to reduce what they owe, but preparation is essential—and these opportunities are accessible only to those who are adequately prepared to act on them. Without careful planning and a thorough understanding of the tax code, these benefits may be overlooked. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals and businesses to be proactive and informed in their approach to taxes, ensuring they are positioned to benefit from the options available within the law.

Contractors are cautioned not to practice “Monday-Morning Quarterbacking” when it comes to their taxes, as the risk of not paying what is owed in a timely way can be detrimental on both a business and a personal level.

Begin with the Accounting System

Any business’s approach to taxes must begin with their accounting system. Having the right accountant can greatly improve the chances of reducing one’s tax liability. What can be challenging is that some contractors are of the opinion that all accountants are the same. They are not. Just as contractors have different areas of specialization—carpentry, plumbing, electrical, etc.—so

The tax code is intentionally structured to provide opportunities for those who are ready to take advantage of them.

do accountants who specialize in different industries.

Accountants who specialize in the construction industry understand the industry and create an accounting system that reflects the nature of the contractor’s operations. This allows the reports generated to serve to inform how the business performed in the past.

This information is reported in the form of financial statements such as cash flow statements, debt schedules, accounts receivable aging reports, profit and loss statements and balance sheets. The information acquired in the reports can then serve a variety of purposes such as measuring operational efficiency, cost control, cash flow management, tax planning, tax reporting, and perhaps most significantly, tax compliance, including audits.

Example: Single-Member LLC

At a basic level, consider a contractor who initially incorporated as a single-member LLC in order to test the market in the area and evaluate their ability to successfully operate the business. (As a single

member LLC, the owner can take withdrawals from the business, and cannot be on payroll.)

When a contractor withdraws money from the business account for personal use, this money is not taxed. The contractor determines $15,000 is needed for monthly personal expenses and decides to take withdrawals in that amount. Over 12 months, this totaled $225,000. This amount is reported on the contractors tax return for which it now has to be taxed.

In addition to the federal income taxes, the contractor is now responsible for the entire amount of the self-employment taxes which consists of both the employer and employee FICA contributions. The self-employment taxes in this instance are estimated to be approximately $26,000 and federal income taxes

$43,000, totaling $69,000. This amount does not even include any state income taxes, and obviously would be a hard hit on a contractor’s finances.

Not surprisingly, in this situation, a contractor might want to dispute this amount when presented with the total at the end of the year.

So...how can an outcome like this be avoided? Actively engaging in tax planning can effectively reduce this tax liability. Tax planning is organizing one’s financial affairs is a way that allows them to legally minimize their tax liability.

Experienced contractors recognize that inadequate tax planning can lead to increased tax liability.

Trust the Professionals

A crucial point to be aware of when engaging in tax planning is to seek professional assistance. Each contractor’s situation is unique and what may be beneficial to one contractor can be detrimental to another. A tax planner will assist in identifying the areas in the tax code contractors can benefit from. Once this information is obtained, explained, and understood, contractors can adjust their finances to achieve the most favorable legal tax outcome.

Contractors know the state of their business can change quickly; materials and labor costs vary throughout the year and can contribute to cost overruns. Interest rate changes and bank underwriting guidelines affect their ability to obtain financing. Owner financing and willingness to pay invoices affects accounts receivable, and unexpected delays can greatly affect the overall job cost.

For that reason, accounting systems should be updated in a timely way to provide guidance on the financial effect of these changes, which will almost certainly impact the outcome of the tax plan created earlier in the year. This is why I consistently stress to my clients the importance of maintaining ongoing, transparent communication with your accountant and tax preparer all year ‘round.

Founder and CEO of LEK Management Inc., Lynn Karam has two decades of experience in finance, operations, and strategic planning. Karam is an Enrolled Agent authorized by the United States Department of the Treasury to represent clients who are undergoing an audit and to negotiate with the IRS on her clients’ behalf.

ID 75509004 © Anamaria Mejia | Dreamstime.com

by Steven Onofua TECHNICAL WRITER AND RESEARCHER

The Green Stagnation Paradox: When Efficiency Breeds Pathogens

On paper, the modern LEED-certified commercial building is an engineering marvel. It uses lowflow fixtures, high-efficiency heaters, and sensor-activated valves to reduce water use by up to 40 percent in comparison to conventional structures. It is a victory for conservation and an extremely huge selling point for developers.

However, on the inside of the piping, there is another and more dangerous story unfolding.

By pursuing efficiency so relentlessly with little to no regard to anything else, the construction industry has inadvertently opened up a conflict between the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and basic hydraulic hygiene. The decrease in flow rates, combined with complex plumbing architectures, has created a sharp increase in “Water Age”— the amount of time spent stagnant in premise plumbing before the water is actually used.

For the plumbing and hydronic professional, this creates an ever-important pivot point. The days of “install it and forget it” are over. As can be seen from new research from Purdue University’s Center for Plumbing Safety and the EPA, the modern plumbing system is becoming a biological incubator. The solution is not only in a better installation but also in a fundamental shift in the role that the contractor plays: from pipe fitter to microbiome manager.

The Physics of Stagnation

To be able to understand the problem, contractors have to take a look at the disconnect between pipe sizing codes and the reality of modern fixtures. While the plumbing codes have changed, many of the pipe sizing methodologies still use Hunter’s Curve; a model created in the 1940s at a time when the fixture flow rates were much greater and toilets consumed five to seven gallons per flush. In a “green” building, engineers specify low-flow toilets, faucets, and showers to meet efficiency standards. However, if the supply lines—especially the risers and mains—are not made smaller in propor-

As energy codes cause water usage to go down, “Water Age” is going up. For the mechanical contractor, the unintended impact of conservation is a new battleground in the fight against building pathogens.

tion, the velocity of the water traveling through the system drops precipitously.

This phenomenon has been highlighted by research as the main driver of the degradation of water quality. When water is flowing too slowly, the amount of time it spends in the pipe is increased. This allows leftover disinfectant (chlorine or chloramine provided by the municipality) to dissipate before it is ever able to reach the tap. With no such chemical barrier, the inside walls of the piping become a breeding ground for biofilm. Biofilm is a glue-like material of bacteria that sticks to the walls of pipes. It is notoriously hard to remove and thus becomes a safe haven for pathogens. While the industry is up-to-speed on the dangers of Legionella pneumophila, the stagnancy found in green buildings fosters the growth of a broader range of Opportunistic Premise Plumbing Pathogens (OPPPs), such as Pseudomonas

aeruginosa and Mycobacterium avium. According to a landmark study in Environmental Science: Water Research & Technology, the environment in which these organisms thrive in particular is the low-velocity environment that is created in modern efficiency standards by accident. The notable finding of the study was that the rate of disinfectant residuals decay in green buildings is up to 144 times higher than in conventional systems because of such stagnation.

The Thermal Conflict

The issue of flow is complicated by the issue of temperature. A lot of energy efficiency protocols actually recommend lower water heater setpoints in order to cut fuel usage. At the same time, complex mixing valves are installed so that scalding is prevented.

While these measures save energy and enhance safety, they reduce the window

of thermal control. Legionella and other OPPPs thrive in temperatures that range from 77°F to 108°F. In a traditional system, hot water is stored at 140°F and circulated at a high enough temperature to inhibit growth. In high-efficiency systems, where storage temperatures may be decreased to minimize standby loss, in many cases the water enters the “Goldilocks zone” for bacterial growth. Furthermore, the complexity of modern hydronic and domestic water systems is part of the problem. Extensive looping, dead legs that are created by future-proofing for “potential” expansion, and complicated balancing valves provide a greater surface area in which biofilm can colonize. Every linear foot of pipe with stagnant, room-temperature water in it is a potential liability.

Why ‘Just Flushing’ Fails

Historically, the contractor’s recommendation for stagnant water remediation was a simple one: flush the lines. In the case of a modern, complex facility, this approach is increasingly insufficient. Biofilm is resilient. Once established in a low-flow system, the sheer shear force that would be needed to scour it off the pipe walls is often greater than what low-flow fixtures can achieve. Opening a 0.5 GPM faucet is not likely to generate sufficient turbulence to dislodge a mature biofilm matrix in the branch line. The water just flows over the layer of slime, and the pathogens are left undisturbed.

Additionally, it has been suggested that manual flushing programs tend to be executed poorly. Maintenance people in large facilities such as hospitals or hotels may flush the toilets but forget about the showers or rarely used sink faucets in the mechanical rooms. This produces “dead legs,” which re-seed the rest of the system with bacteria despite a main flush.

The New Revenue Model: Water Management Plans

For the plumbing and mechanical contractor, this challenge is a major business opportunity. The liability for water qual-

Stellar Industries Donates $34,561 to United Way of North Central Iowa

GARNER, IA — Stellar Industries, a 100% employee-owned manufacturer of work trucks, trailers, and service truck and van accessories, donated a combined $34,561 to United Way of North Central Iowa through its annual employee-driven fundraising campaign.

The contribution reflects funds raised by Stellar employees during the holiday season, matched dollar-for-dollar by the company. The annual effort supports United Way programs that serve families, education initiatives, and essential social services across North Central Iowa.

Employee Ownership Drives Community Investment

As an employee-owned organization, Stellar’s workforce plays a direct role in deciding how and where charitable dollars are invested. Employees contribute throughout the year, with the company matching donations as part of a structured giving program focused on local impact.

“It’s inspiring to see our team come together each year to give back to such

Stellar’s support for United Way is part of the company’s broader corporate giving program.

a meaningful organization,” said David Zrostlik , President of Stellar.

“Supporting United Way is truly an

honor, and we’re grateful to play a small part in making a positive difference in our local communities.”

Giving Back Where Employees Live and Work

Stellar’s support of United Way is part of a broader corporate giving program that prioritizes local organizations, education, and social services in the communities where the company operates. The program reinforces Stellar’s commitment to being a long-term partner in the regions that support its manufacturing workforce.

Rather than one-time donations, Stellar’s giving strategy emphasizes sustained community involvement and measurable local benefit.

Donation Requests Reviewed Monthly

Organizations seeking support through Stellar’s corporate giving program can submit an online donation request. Applications are reviewed monthly by a Stellar team, with eligibility criteria and submission details available through the company’s website.

For more information, visit stellarindustries.com

The Power of AI Comes to Commissioning Mechanical Systems

➤ Continued from page 16

can automatically alert any administrator who requires sign-off.

AI as Assistant

Jarloev stresses that for all its utility, AI will never—should never—be more than an assistant (albeit a tireless, incredibly knowledgeable assistant). “AI is the tool. You are the operator,” Jarloev says, “that’s a core part for me. I will never let it loose and just do the job. You will always be the one who’s going to verify or validate the output that it has given you before you’re going to use it.”

AI, he says, is just one more tool in the toolkit, and it may not always be

the right one. For some jobs an excel spreadsheet could be the smarter, faster way to go.

Jarloev likens AI to some of the other advances he’s seen in the industry such as dataloggers, IR cameras and drones, all of which used to be cutting-edge innovations, but are now commonplace.

“Now, we’re looking into a future where AI is just something that the generations coming into the market, all the ones that we’re educating, they will come in and they will expect AI to be there as a utility for them.”

What Cx Planner Can Do

Cx Planner’s Commissioning AI Agent has a wide and growing range of capa-

bilities. It can scan manufacturer documentation and extract attributes like model, serial number, voltage, and warranty info—automatically.

The AI can read SOOs or specs and generate detailed checklists/test procedures (a major time-saver). It can locate unresolved items and draft follow-up messages. It can provide contextual image descriptions, suggesting text to accompany site photos, tailored to checklist line items.

An “AI-suggested replies” feature allows the Agent to generate context-aware responses for reviews and coordination threads. And—like other AIs users may be more familiar with—it excels at creating summaries and reports.

Jarloev believes that as CxPlanner evolves there are even more efficiencies to uncover.

“That means for everyone who’s joining in, we gain a benefit,” he says.

“Because if we can get the electrical contractor or mechanical contractor to come in and think, okay, it’s nice to do commissioning here because we don’t have to do extra paperwork, then we have a platform that that will help us to do a quicker handover. We’re reaching the goal if we can get to that spot—removing the paper workflows, the extra workflows. If we can manage that, then we’re moving in the right direction.”

To learn more about CxPlanner or to see a demo visit cxplanner.com

Multi-Port Configuration

Easier to Install. Easier to Maintain.

Patented Top Cap with 2.5x larger filter* for quieter operation and easier maintenance. Dual anode performance: powered anode maintains itself and allows longer tank life, even after traditional anode is depleted.

Tech that Puts Control Right into Your Customers’ Hands Wi-Fi enables smartphone control, while i-Memory proprietary algorithm learns usage patterns for smarter energy efficiency.

Construction Input Prices Rise in November Amid Market Uncertainty

Continued from page 1

Compared to November 2024, overall construction input prices are up 3.4%, with nonresidential construction inputs rising 3.8% year over year. Energy costs were mixed during the month, as natural gas prices jumped 10.8% and unprocessed energy materials increased 1.4%, while crude petroleum prices declined 1.1%.

Difficult to Predict Where Prices Will Go

“Construction input prices surged in November and are now up 3.4% on a yearover-year basis,” said ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu . “While that’s a relatively modest annual increase, it’s also the largest since January 2023 and the trend offers plenty of cause for concern. Many tariff-affected materials, like derivative metal products and switchgear equipment, have experienced consider-

able price escalation in 2025. Prices for aluminum mill shapes and primary and secondary nonferrous metals are both up more than 25% over the past year.

“Unfortunately, it is impossible to know exactly how the cost of tariffs will be distributed throughout the supply chain, and that makes it exceptionally difficult to know how construction input prices will behave in 2026,” said Basu.

“Despite this uncertainty, contractors are on net optimistic that their profit margins will expand during the first half of the year, according to ABC’s Construction Confidence Index, albeit slightly less optimistic than they were at the same time last year.”

Visit abc.org/economics for the Construction Backlog Indicator and Construction Confidence Index, plus analysis of spending, employment, job openings and the Producer Price Index.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Associated Builders and Contractors

WaveCrest, the newest line of aesthetic sensor faucets from T&S, blends a sleek design, hands-free elegance, and rugged reliability. With multiple finishes to choose from and hidden sensors, the WaveCrest line is perfect for any modern facility that needs proven reliability. tsbrass.com/wavecrest

KBIS 2026 Spotlights Wellness, Personalization, and Smarter Innovation

North America, is set to highlight wellness-centered products, personalized design solutions, and customizable style options as key drivers for the year ahead.

KBIS continues to serve as a central meeting point for brands, designers, architects, builders, and specifiers— bringing together product innovation and real-world application across residential projects.

Wellness Products Gain Momentum Across the Show Floor

“Wellness” remains one of the fastest-growing categories at KBIS, with products designed to support healthier, more functional living environments. Brio Water Technology (Booth #S21005) will showcase its home hydration solutions, reflecting the expanding role of water quality and access in residential wellness.

“KBIS is a tremendous opportunity for us to connect one-on-one with top designers, architects, and builders,” shared Arman Melkonian, President, Brio Water Technology. “These are professionals who not only make key decisions on behalf of their clients but can speak with authority about overall customer needs and cutting-edge market trends. Being part of KBIS is as much about gaining crucial insights as it is about introducing the kitchen and bath industry to our innovative hydration product line.”

Additional exhibitors reinforcing the wellness trend include MAGPPIE (Booth #W174), making its KBIS debut with fully stone “wellness kitchens” designed for safety, durability, and performance, and Induction Hardware (Booth #S28143), which will present all-electric induction cooking upgrades aimed at safer and more efficient kitchens. KBIS Gold Sponsor TOTO (Booth #W901) also returns with advanced bath fixtures focused on health, cleanliness, and hygiene.

Personalization Drives Kitchen and Laundry Innovation

Beyond wellness, KBIS 2026 is expected to emphasize products that allow deeper personalization—giving homeowners and designers flexibility beyond a single aesthetic. Midea (Booth #W500) will present an expanded lineup of kitchen and laundry appliances designed to balance accessibility, performance, and style.

“This year, we’re bringing an expanded kitchen and laundry lineup to the show, including one of the broadest refrigeration portfolios,” said John Herrington, President, Midea America. “From flexible refrigeration to thoughtfully designed laundry solutions, our focus is on delivering innovations that make everyday tasks easier—and create those unexpected ‘wow’ moments.”

First-time exhibitor Motawi Tileworks (Booth #W901) will introduce handcrafted ceramic tiles that

double as functional art, while Cava Surfaces (Booth #W291) will feature curated natural stone slabs aimed at transforming kitchens and baths through distinctive surfacing.

Finishes and Fixtures

Reflect a Shift Toward “Better Innovation”

Lighting, plumbing fixtures, and finishes continue to play a growing role in personalization. KBIS Gold Sponsor Kichler (Booth #W673) will present an extensive lighting lineup that blends aesthetics with performance, while Acquaco (Booth #S16194) will showcase bath fixtures designed to challenge conventional plumbing standards through materials and form.

Custom Materials Push Design Flexibility Further

ZLINE (Booth #S19045) will highlight fingerprint-resistant stainless steel and customizable finish options, including coordinated components in tones ranging from champagne bronze to polished gold.

“What I’m seeing for 2026 is the industry shifting from ‘more innovation’ to ‘better innovation,’” said Mason Watkins, Senior Director of Marketing, ZLINE. “Consumers are looking for choice: sizes, layouts, and pricing that fit real kitchens. Where we see the largest opportunity is offering more design options than before, but with a clear point of view—finish families, coordinated hardware, and integrated styling that allow personalization at scale.”

Rounding out the trend toward customization are EcoDomo (Booth #W173) and Worthen Custom Iron + Brass (Booth #W180). EcoDomo will feature its recycled leather veneer, while Worthen will showcase bespoke metal shelving, frames, furniture, and architectural elements.

The full list of KBIS 2026 exhibitors and attendee resources is available at kbis.com/show/floor-plan-exhibitor-list, providing additional opportunities for professionals to explore trend-setting products and connect with industry leaders shaping the future of kitchen and bath design.

For even more of what to expect at this year’s show, turn to pg. 40 for our KBIS Products Roundup

➤ Continued from page 3

Attendees walk the hall at KBIS 2025, held in Las Vegas.

Attendees pack the ballroom at the kick-off show for Design & Construction Week (DCW), the umbrella name for the combined KBIS and International Builders Shows.

EndeavorB2B

EndeavorB2B

The Green Stagnation Paradox: When Efficiency Breeds Pathogens

Continued from page 29

ity is moving from the municipality to the building owner. Once water passes the meter, it is up to the building owner.

Contractors are in a unique position to provide solutions that go beyond emergency remediation. This includes the operationalization of ASHRAE Standard 188 that defines the requirements for Legionellosis risk management.

Instead of competing on installation bids only, forward-thinking contracting firms are providing Water Management Plans (WMP) as a service. This takes the relationship from transactional to recurring. A strong WMP for a green building consists of a number of technical interventions that can only be performed by a licensed professional:

1. Commissioning for Flow, Not Just Pressure Standard commissioning checks are checking for leaks and pressure. A biological commissioning process involves checking for the turnover rates of water to conform to design intent. Contractors can provide flow verification services so that the “as-built” conditions match the hydraulic modeling.

2.

Recirculation Loop Balancing

In many green buildings, undersized or out-of-balance recirculation pumps are used to save on energy, leaving distal loops to stagnate. Contractors can offer rebalancing services, which can ensure that return velocities are high enough to maintain temperature and turbulence throughout the system.

Sources

• Study: “Survey of green building water systems reveals elevated water age and water quality concerns” by Rhoads, Pruden, and Edwards (2016).

Relevance: This is the specific study that identified the “144 times faster decay” of disinfectant in green buildings.

Link: https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2016/ew/c5ew00221d

• Primary Source EPA Control Technologies

Document: “Technologies for Legionella Control in Premise Plumbing Systems: Scientific Literature Review” (EPA 810-R-16-001).

Relevance: Authoritative government review of biofilm, stagnation, and remediation technologies.

Link: https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-anddrinking-water/technologies-legionella-control-premise-plumbing-systems

• Scientific Context Purdue University

3. Strategic Remediation

When compromise occurs on a system, thermal shock or chemical hyper-chlorination can be used by contractors. However, unlike the general maintenance personnel, the mechanical contractor understands the compatibility issues of the materials. High levels of chlorine can corrode some valve seals or degrade PEX piping if the process is not done properly. Providing a safe and material-conscious sanitization is a high-value service.

4.

Design-Assist Consulting

For firms engaged in new construction or retrofit works, there is potential for advocating for “right-sizing” plumbing. This means going against the urge to install oversized pipes “just in case.” By promoting smaller diameters with maintenance levels that ensure scouring velocities, contractors can assist engineers in designing systems that are both efficient and hygienic.

The Liability Shift

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are paying a lot of attention to premise plumbing as a vector for disease. With regulations becoming more stringent, building owners will seek out professionals who are aware of the nexus between biology and mechanics. The industry cannot afford to not take notice of the data. The EPA’s technical review on Legionella Control in Premise Plumbing shows that most, if not all, of the waterborne disease outbreaks are now coming from prem ise plumbing, not the main of the public water supply.

Reference: Purdue Center for Plumbing Safety.

Relevance: Establishes the concept of “Water Age” and the link between green buildings and water quality degradation.

Link: engineering.purdue.edu/PlumbingSafety

• Industry Standard ASHRAE

Reference: ASHRAE Standard 188.

Relevance: The industry standard for Legionellosis: Risk Management for Building Water Systems.

Link: https://www.ashrae.org/technical-resources/ bookstore/ansi-ashrae-standard-188-2021-legionellosis-risk-management-for-building-water-systems

• Code Reference IECC

Reference: International Energy Conservation Code. Relevance: The code body driving the efficiency standards discussed in the article.

Link: https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IECC2021P1

For the plumbing professional, the implication is obvious: the definition of a “working system” has changed. A no-leak system but with pathogen-laden water is a failed system.

Conclusion

The conflict between energy conservation and water safety is the defining technical challenge of the next decade. It is not a problem that is going to be solved by taking away low-flow fixtures, which are here to stay. It will be solved when a higher caliber of system management is in place.

Mechanical contractors and hydronic professionals are the only people who possess the technical skillset to fill this gap. By understanding the physics of water age, as well as the biology of biofilm, contractors can protect their clients not just from mechanical failure but also from biological risk. The green building of the future needs more than a certificate of sustainability; it requires a water management strategy with plumbing considered to be a living system.

Steven Onofua is a mechanical and construction trades technical writer and researcher. With an emphasis on the intersection of building codes, public safety, and business strategy, he turns complex regulatory data into actionable insights for contractors. For over three years he has been covering the industrial sector. Contact him at mktg1875@gmail.com.

Bring Back the Trades Announces Spring Skills Expos in New Hampshire, Maine

➤ Continued from page 3

community members with real-world opportunities in construction, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, welding, automotive, cosmetology and other in-demand trades. Both events are presented by title sponsor F.W. Webb Company.

Spring 2026 events include a return to Londonderry High School in New Hampshire on Saturday, April 18, 2026, and BBTT’s first-ever Maine Skills Expo at Southern Maine Community College in South Portland on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.

“These expos are about opening doors,” said Steve Turner, Founder and CEO of Bring Back the Trades. “We’re excited to return to Londonderry and to bring this experience to Maine for the first time, giving more students and families the chance to get hands-on, ask questions, and start imagining what the trades can offer.”

Hands-On Exposure to Skilled Trades Careers

Both Skills Expos will feature interactive demonstrations, equipment displays and direct conversations with local tradespeople, contractors, unions, employers and educators. Attendees will be able to explore a wide range of career and education pathways while gaining a clearer understanding of what working in the trades looks like day to day.

“The trades are the backbone of our communities,” said Sean Davis, Vice President of Marketing at F.W. Webb Company. “Partnering with Bring Back the Trades allows us to help spark curiosity and show students that these careers offer pride, purpose and longterm opportunity.”

The Londonderry event will be free and open to the public. The Maine event will be ticketed due to the inclusion of a BBQ lunch.

Londonderry Skills Expo

The Londonderry Skills Expo returns to Londonderry High School after a successful inaugural event that drew strong participation from students, families and local businesses. The event is again co-hosted by the Rotary Club of Londonderry and the Londonderry Police Department and is expected to attract more than 1,000 attendees.

New this year, the event will include food trucks, adding to the community-focused atmosphere.

“Rotary is about service above self, and this event is a powerful example of that spirit in action,” said Michael Lucci of the Rotary Club of Londonderry. “Bringing together schools, businesses and volunteers to support the next generation of tradespeople strengthens our community and helps open doors for local students.”

BBTT Expands Into Maine

BBTT’s Maine Skills Expo marks the organization’s first event in the state and will be held on the campus of Southern Maine Community College in South Portland. The college setting is designed to highlight both workforce entry and postsecondary education pathways available to students pursuing careers in the trades.

The ticketed event will connect students from across southern Maine with regional employers, unions, trade schools and workforce partners.

“We are excited to welcome Bring Back the Trades to Southern Maine Community College for their first Maine Skills Expo,” said Kristen Miller, President of SMCC. “This event aligns with our mission to provide accessible, hands-on education and strong career pathways for students. It’s a meaningful opportunity for young people to explore the trades and meet industry leaders.”

Promo code MEDIA can be used for free individual tickets to the Maine event, and schools or organizations purchasing tickets in bulk can use promo code SCHOOL. Ticket sales close two weeks prior to the event.

What Attendees Can Expect

Attendees will have opportunities to:

• Meet local trades organizations,

Sarah Brown Named President of BrassCraft Manufacturing

NOVI, MI — BrassCraft Manufacturing Company, a leading supplier of branded rough plumbing products for new construction and repair and remodel applications, has appointed Sarah Brown as its new President. Brown succeeds Vishal Singh, who is departing the organization to pursue a new opportunity.BrassCraft is a subsidiary of Masco Corporation and serves plumbing professionals across residential and commercial markets with valves, connectors, water supply products, and specialty fittings.

Focused on Continuity

“I want to take this opportunity to thank Vishal for his contributions and commitment to our organization and wish him the best in his future endeavors. I’m excited to entrust BrassCraft leadership to Sarah, a growthdriven leader with a strong understanding of its culture and customers,” said Jai Shah, Group President for Masco.

The transition is intended to maintain operational stability while supporting BrassCraft’s long-term growth strategy.

Deep Financial and Operational Experience

employers, unions and educators

• Participate in hands-on demonstrations and equipment displays

• Learn about education, apprenticeship and career pathways

• Explore BBTT scholarship opportunities supporting students pursuing skilled trades careers

Learn more about attending, exhibiting, sponsoring or volunteering at BBTT.org

Event Details

Londonderry Skills Expo

Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Location: Londonderry High School |

295 Mammoth Rd., Londonderry, NH

Admission: Free | Open to all ages (recommended for ages 10+)

Southern Maine Skills Expo at SMCC

Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2026

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Location: Southern Maine Community College | 200 Fort Road, South Portland, ME

Admission: Advance ticket purchase required | Open to all ages (recommended for ages 10+)

Promo Codes: MEDIA (individual tickets, up to 10) | SCHOOL (bulk tickets)

Brown most recently served as Vice President of Finance and IT for BrassCraft. She brings 20 years of executive experience spanning finance, commercial and operational leadership, revenue management, and strategic planning.

As President, Brown will oversee BrassCraft’s operations, product portfolio, and strategic initiatives supporting plumbers, wholesalers, and distribution partners.

To learn more visit www.brasscraft.com.

Sarah Brown.

IWSH 2025 Impact Report Highlights the Power of Skilled Plumbing Work

➤ Continued from page 3

cation programs completed in partnership with local communities throughout North America, Europe, Australia, and Africa. Collectively, the projects underscore how properly designed and installed plumbing systems—combined with trained local labor—deliver measurable, long-term public health benefits.

Plumbing Upgrades Supporting Essential Community Facilities

In 2025, IWSH-supported projects focused on improving water and sanitation infrastructure at community facilities serving vulnerable populations, including Indigenous communities in North America. Work included plumbing repairs, system upgrades, and hygiene improvements designed to improve reliability, safety, and daily usability in high-need environments.

By addressing foundational plumbing needs, the projects helped essential facilities better serve their communities while reducing ongoing maintenance challenges.

Building Local Plumbing Skills and Workforce Capacity

In addition to infrastructure improvements, the report highlights workforce development and capacity-building efforts aimed at strengthening the next generation of plumbing professionals. These initiatives supported local training, hands-on experience, and career pathways tied directly to community needs.

“Plumbing changes lives when it’s done right,” IWSH Managing Director Seán Kearney said. “In 2025, IWSH and our partners helped essential facilities serve their communities, while also building local capacity and career pathways.”

Sanitation and Hygiene Improvements Through Industry Volunteerism

The 2025 Impact Report also documents sanitation and hygiene improvements delivered through industry volunteer efforts across the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Africa. These projects combined professional plumbing expertise with community

collaboration to deliver practical, durable solutions tailored to local conditions.

By emphasizing quality workmanship and appropriate materials, the projects were designed to be replicable and sustainable long after installation.

Education and Engagement Advancing Future Industry Leaders

Education and engagement programs were another key focus in 2025, elevating future leaders in water, sanitation, hygiene, and plumbing. These efforts reinforced the role of plumbing professionals in protecting public health and supporting resilient communities.

IWSH directs 100% of donor contributions each year to its project portfolio, prioritizing solutions that are community-centered, durable, and scalable.

“IWSH projects demonstrate the real-world value of plumbing expertise,” IAPMO CEO Dave Viola said. “When applied thoughtfully and in partnership with communities, it creates impact that lasts.”

The full 2025 Impact Report is available for download at: iwsh.org/iwsh-news/iwsh-2025-impact-report.

Viega Appoints Dave DeLater COO

BROOMFIELD, CO — Viega North America has appointed Dave DeLater as Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective immediately. In this role, DeLater will oversee operations initiatives across all North American manufacturing and logistics locations as the company continues to expand capacity, strengthen reliability and support long-term growth.DeLater brings extensive global operations experience, including leadership of manufacturing sites across Europe, Asia and the United States. His background includes a strong focus on Lean initiatives, technology-driven efficiency and operational excellence—capabilities that align closely with Viega’s emphasis on consistent quality and dependable delivery for contractors and partners.

Global Operations Experience Supporting Regional Growth

Prior to joining Viega, DeLater served as Vice President of Global Operations at Thermo Fisher Scientific, where he led operations across multiple sites and regions worldwide. His responsibilities included improving operational performance, driving efficiency initiatives and supporting complex, multi-site manufacturing environments.

At Viega North America, DeLater will serve as a member of the North American Board and will report directly to Marki Huston, Chief Executive Officer. Huston

was promoted to CEO in early 2025 after previously serving as COO.

Focus on Reliability, Scale and Customer Support

“I’m pleased to welcome Dave DeLater as our Chief Operating Officer and member of the North American Board,” said Marki Huston, CEO, Viega North America. “Dave brings deep global operations experience and a strong track record of operational excellence that directly

supports customer success. His leadership will be critical as we continue to scale our operations, strengthen reliability and service for our customers and support Viega’s continued growth across North America.”

DeLater’s appointment follows a major milestone for Viega North America: the September 2025 launch of its new manufacturing, distribution and training facility in Mantua, Ohio. The site reflects Viega’s ongoing investment in regional manufacturing, workforce development and supply chain resilience.

Leadership Aligned With Viega’s Operational Culture

“I couldn’t be more honored to join the Viega team,” said DeLater. “I was drawn to the company for its world-class culture, focus on operational excellence and deep commitment to customer success. I look forward to supporting that legacy as we continue to strengthen our operations and deliver for our customers well into the future.”

With DeLater’s addition to the leadership team, Viega reinforces its focus on operational excellence, manufacturing consistency and dependable service for plumbing and mechanical professionals throughout North America.

For more information, visit www.viega.us

Dave DeLater.

Viega

WHERE FACILITY CHALLENGES FIND SOLUTIONS

CENTRAL VALLEY

March 18-19, 2026

Lodi, CA

RENO

August 19-20, 2026

Reno, NV

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

April 8-9, 2026

Anaheim, CA

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

September 2026

Santa Clara, CA

NORTHWEST

April 29-30, 2026

Portland, OR

NORTH TEXAS

October 14-15, 2026

Irving, TX

KBIS 2026

THE 2026 KITCHEN & BATH

INDUSTRY

ID 42920537 © Zimmytws | Dreamstime.com

SHOW will take place February 17-19 in Orlando, FL. The immersive event brings together 650 exhibitors showcasing the latest products, trends, and technologies in nearly 500,000 square feet of exhibit space. The the show includes interactive programming, award presentations, networking opportunities and CEU-accredited educational sessions. Here are just a few of the new products that will be on display.

WWW.KBIS.COM

▲ THE LIMA KITCHEN COLLECTION FAUCET from Pfister features the AutoDock self-retracting spray head with smooth operation that secures back into the spout; the concealed spray retracts into the spout tube for a seamless design; the Pforever Seal advanced ceramic disc valve technology with a never-leak guarantee; and a pull-out or pull-down spray head with toggle button to select spray or stream modes.

Pfister Faucets

WWW.PFISTERFAUCETS.COM

▲ THE PALOMBA FREESTANDING

BATHTUB from Laufen is made of Sentec solid-surface material, with a hidden integrated overflow and matte satin finish. The design recalls small inlets or pebbles shaped by the eternal movement of the sea, transformed into ceramic. Dimensions are 70 14/16" (length) x 35 1/16" (width) x 21 4/16" (height).

Laufen

WWW.US.LAUFEN.COM

THE SCOTTSDALE SINGLEHANDLE PULL-DOWN KITCHEN

▲ THE QUATRUS R15 ERGON

KITCHEN SINK is a farm sink designed with an innovative ledge and rail system. The built-in ledge accommodates a variety of accessories. German-engineered with 304-series, 18-gauge stainless steel, it offers practical 15 mm-radius corners for easy cleaning, and X-pattern drain grooves. The 18/10 chrome-nickel content provides excellent durability and corrosion resistance.

Blanco

WWW.BLANCO.COM

▲ THE WHITEHAVEN APRONFRONT KITCHEN SINK from Kohler features a streamlined and versatile farmhouse style to complement any decor. Perfect for remodeling projects, it has a shortened apron that allows for installation on most new or existing 36" standard cabinetry. The Self-Trimming design requires only a simple rough cut, overlapping the cabinet face for easy installation. Crafted from enameled cast iron, this sink resists chipping, cracking or burning for reliable performance.

Kohler

FAUCET is crafted from lead-free brass with commercial-grade engineering. Features of this residential faucet include the REVOLVE mini aerator to stream, spray and power spray in one compact head; the Sedal Black Cartridge with three times the industry standard for long-lasting performance; the Swivel Sprayer Connector for full-range motion with reduced hose strain; and Quick-Connect Weight for smooth pull-down retraction every time.

Karran

WWW.KARRAN.COM

▲ THE ECO-PERFORMANCE

WWW.KOHLER.COM

THE WOODBURY WIDESPREAD LAVATORY FAUCET features cross and lever handles, a high arc curved spout, a high-efficiency removable recessed aerator for easy cleaning, 90º easy-to-turn sculptured lever handles, replaceable ceramic disc cartridges and a push-style pop-up drain assembly. Huntington Brass

WWW.HUNTINGTONBRASS.COM

WALL-MOUNTED

BATH

THE CAPELLA REVERSE OSMOSIS UNDERSINK WATER FILTRATION SYSTEM is certified by the Water Quality Association to reduce more than 86 contaminants, such as microplastics, DEET, flame retardants, prescription drugs, PFAS and more, with three-stage filtration. It features a 1:1 ratio of wastewater to filtered water for greater wastewater efficiency. The reverse osmosis membrane filter allows for a high clean water recovery rate. Brondell WWW.BRONDELL.COM

RAINSHOWER from Moen features advanced, self-pressurizing Moen Immersion rainshower technology that channels water through the showerhead with three times more spray power than most rainshowers for a more thorough rinse. The onefunction 6¾" diameter spray head conserves water without sacrificing performance. The chrome finish is highly reflective for a mirror-like look that works with any decorating style. The showerhead meets EPA WaterSense criteria.

Moen

WWW.MOEN.COM

▲ THE FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT BATH COLLECTION features this widespread lav faucet with an arc spout. The laminar flow stream straightener provides a clear, nonaerated stream. It uses reliable ceramic disc valve cartridges.

Brizo

WWW.BRIZO.COM

FAUCETS from Sonoma Forge free up valuable countertop space and make vanity tops effortless to keep clean. The flexibility to customize height enables personalized ergonomics and a perfectly balanced aesthetic. They serve as architectural focal points, elevating the design of rustic and industrial baths. Styles are available across signature collections, including WaterBridge, WherEver, CiXX and STRAP.

Sonoma Forge

WWW.SONOMAFORGE.COM

editor’s choice

EWX SERIES ELECTRIC HOT WATER BOILERS from Sussman Electric Boilers now includes models ranging from 30 kW to 240 kW. They retain the same modular design and digital feed-forward control architecture as the larger units already in the field. Their smaller footprint makes them well-suited for mechanical and utility rooms with limited space. All EWx models are available in right-hand and lefthand configurations, allowing zero side clearance and tight, multiunit installations. The advanced control system includes a 7-inch touchscreen with PID control logic, feed-forward algorithms and open-protocol BAS integration via BACnet and Modbus.

Sussman Electric Boilers

WWW.SUSSMANBOILERS.COM

SUREPRESS FITTINGS from

QuickFitting feature 360º indication windows that confirm a proper press from any angle. Green indication fills windows once pressed, confirming a successful seal.

Installers and inspectors can immediately determine whether a fitting has been pressed, eliminating uncertainty before pressure testing begins. compatible with V-profile jaws from leading hydraulic press tool brands, and require no flame, solder or glue. Now available nationwide through HD Supply; 71 SurePress SKUs, with full 143-SKU assortment available via drop ship.

QuickFitting

WWW.QUICKFITTING.COM

▲ THE GHOST MINI PUMPS series from RectorSeal is the next generation of mini-split condensate management. Variable-speed control optimizes flow, the rotary diaphragm design delivers reliable, efficient movement, and the capacitive sensor ensures accurate water level measurement. All these features are complemented by an overflow switch for added reliability.

Rector Seal

WWW.RECTORSEAL.COM

THE FROSTFLEX HEATED

▲ THE 4-PIECE CARBIDE-TIPPED

HOLE SAW KIT is engineered for fast, clean cuts through steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and more. Carbidetipped bits stay sharper, cut cleaner and last longer. The pilot drill with ejector spring keeps cutting centered and automatically ejects the cut slug to reduce downtime. Includes 7/8", 1-1/8" and 1-3/8" hole saw bits, extra pilot bit and hard case.

Jonard Tools

WWW.JONARD.COM

VPCI CHAMELEON CORROSION

INHIBITOR simplifies and improves the wet layup process for boilers where the steam may come into contact with edible products in and around food processing areas. Unlike traditional wet layup strategies, VpCI® Chameleon™ does not require frequent monitoring or reapplication. It contains contact and Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibitors for comprehensive protection.

Cortec

CORTECWATERTREATMENT.COM

VEST from RefrigiWear provides up to 8 hours of battery-powered heat with three adjustable settings. Its 80g insulation, breathable stretch-blend shell and water-repellent finish keep you warm, dry and mobile without bulk. Zippered hand-warmer, chest and inside pockets add function, while the full-zip front and stand-up collar seal in heat. With extra batteries available for long shifts. Can be worn on its own or zipped into the FrostFlex insulated jacket.

RefrigiWear

WWW.REFRIGIWEAR.COM

▲ THE FLITE-DEC INTEGRATED SINK SYSTEM from Sloan is made for high-traffic spaces. Faucet, soap dispenser and hand dryer are mounted directly into the basin itself. Available in solid surface or quartz, it delivers both strength and style for transportation, entertainment and hospitality spaces. Designed around durability but crafted with architectural appeal. Available in five finishes, with a variety of materials and colors for the sink deck and enclosure. Sloan

WWW.SLOAN.COM

▲

READ PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR

LEVELSAFE PRO from Werner Co. automatically ajusts the user’s ladder on uneven terrain up to 8½". It is equipped with micro-adjust technology, which provides hands-on precision adjustments—no need to pick up the ladder to adjust level. It comes factory-installed on select Werner extension ladder models. Werner Co.

WWW.WERNERCO.COM

are less bulky and more comfortable than over-the-glasses (OTG) protective eyewear, with a durable polycarbonate frame that provides extra side protection. Brass Knuckle Read offers super-light protection in five diopter strengths: 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0. The clear lenses are ANSI-rated hardcoated polycarbonate with BK-AntiFOG, which lasts a full two minutes and is permanently bonded to the lens. Brass Knuckle BRASSKNUCKLEPROTECTION.COM

▲ THE ALLWEILER

AE-RG HOPPER

PUMPS SERIES from Circor are engineered for superior performance in demanding environments. This Series is engineered for efficient and reliable transfer of highly viscous, abrasive, or solids-laden materials, making it ideal for wastewater treatment applications, especially dry sludge handling, biogas and various other processing applications. The AE-RG Hopper Pump Series features an optimized hopper design that provides smooth and efficient transfer of materials, including substances with up to 45% dry solids content.

Circor

PUMPS.CIRCOR.COM

VERTA SERIES AIR-TO-WATER HEAT PUMPS provides an alternate solution for hydronic heating and cooling as well as domestic hot water. The touchscreen control system enables users to effortlessly connect and manage external products such as boilers and electric heaters, ensuring seamless integration of hybrid applications. Automatically adjust outlet water temperature based on ambient temperature.

NTI

WWW.NTIBOILERS.COM

by Steve Spaulding

All I’m Sure I Know About AI

Welcome to our February issue, or (as I like to call it in editorial meetings) our Big Tech issue. While the physics of plumbing will never change (water wants to flow downhill, steam wants to condense), the technology surrounding the heating, delivery and treatment of water is constantly evolving. We have seen some amazing innovations sweep the industry. BIM and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) have changed all phases of construction. Robotic automation and prefabrication techniques have realized incredible efficiencies. Connected “smart” devices have revolutionized how mechanical systems are controlled, commissioned and maintained.

But the big story these days is Artificial Intelligence—and not just for the mechanical contracting industry, but for practically every industry. In my work as a writer and editor I have never had to set up a smart circulator (well, maybe once at a product demo), but I’m now working with AI almost every day. (Our feature this month is on AI and its role in contracting—it starts on pg. 18.)

I’m old enough to remember the early days of the Internet—when going online

involved a dial-up modem—and now feels a lot like then. There’s the same excitement over the possibilities, the same trepidation over the pitfalls. It seems like for every story about AI making a miracle diagnosis to save a patient’s life there’s another one where AI-generated advice causes a person to nearly poison themself.

Between

or learning in the way that human minds are. ChatGPT isn’t thinking any more than a calculator is when you input a problem—it’s just a machine obeying a set of instructions (albeit a very long, complicated set of instructions).

There are a few things this implies. First, that we won’t be facing a Wargames or

and our fears and our greed there’s a lot of conflicting information.

Between our hopes and our fears and our greed (because let’s face it, there’s a lot of people making a lot of money with and off of AI) there’s a lot of conflicting information. Here’s all I know for sure. Artificial Intelligence isn’t really “intelligent.” True AI (what the researchers refer to as Artificial General Intelligence) is still the stuff of speculation and science fiction. The Large Language Models most of us are calling AIs aren’t capable of reasoning, complex problem solving,

Terminator style robot takeover anytime soon. These are, however, very powerful, easily accessible tools, and not everybody using them has the purest intentions. Instead of a nuclear apocalypse, some have speculated how bad actors could use AI to create an “infopocalypse,” where a constant stream of AI-generated articles, images and videos leave the public without any reliable sources of news.

Second, just as with any computer program you might be using, remem -

ber GIGO: Garbage In = Garbage Out. Since AI can’t think for itself, it relies on the data it’s given (or can find) and the instructions it’s given for using that data—the prompt. (Melvin Newman, writing in this month’s feature, gives some advice for creating better AI prompts.) Bad data and/or bad prompts will lead to bad results.

Third, AIs can mess up. Their fallibility might be the most human thing about them. These machines are so eager to please their users that they will invent facts, quotes, entire reference libraries out of thin air. Always check your outputs before sending them to co-workers, clients or customers. AI is for the first draft, not the finished product.

And lastly, AI is here to stay. For good and bad, there is no putting the genie back in the bottle. So get some experience using these powerful tools. If you’re unsure where to start you can describe your business and its current pain points to an AI and ask for suggestions, advice and training. There is no question you can ask it won’t try its best to answer—just review those answers with a little human common sense.

Quality heating, cooling and power solutions are critical for your business. Whether it’s a planned event or unexpected outage, count on our experts to proactively prepare engineered solutions and deliver rapid emergency response, no matter the size of your project or facility. From a sensitive single room to a warehouse stocked with perishables or an entire medical center, count on United Rentals for your tailored, rental-ready emergency response solutions.

Call 877.767.6797 or visit UnitedRentals.com/PHVAC

HIGH

WALL HUNG CONDENSING GAS FIRED BOILERS

CH & CO

8 Residential Models: 80 - 200 MBH (Combi mod ls also off r DHW)

3 Commercial Models: 299 - 470 MBH

■ Up to 95.2% AFUE ffici ncy

■ Up to 10:1 turndown ratio

■ Stainl ss st l wat r-tub HX

■ Cascad up to 16 boil rs

■ 18 languag s availabl for display

■ Modbus conn ction

■ Optional floor stand availabl