HPAC November/December 2012

HVAC IN COLD CLIMATES

SOLVING SMOKY BURNER ISSUES

2013 FORECAST

PARTICULATE PROFILING

time HEALS ALL But has it curbed the tendency to over design?

The Loo

Goes Digital november/december 2012 | $5.00

www.hpacmag.com

PM 40069240

Energy Saving Pressure Control Pump Systems

Getting Better all the time

Taco electronic controls have raised the bar yet again.

Behind the sleek new composite cover you’ll find a whole new generation of advanced technology - now made even simpler.

Taco’s new contractor-friendly electronic controls feature reliable premium factory sealed relays, low voltage circuits, plus a host of other smart refinements to simply make them better.

We’ve designed the interior to speak your language with industry standard nomenclature clearly marked out. Plus we’ve placed the LED lights right out front for quicker, easier diagnostics.

Visit www.floproteam.com to discover all the unique products and contractor advantages we offer.

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eLearning

Air Eliminators

Hot Water on D’MAND®

Circulators

Electronic Controls

Radiant Mixing Blocks

iSeries Mixing Valves

ProFit Parts

Software

FloPro Tutorials

november/december 2012

Vol. 86 No. 7

tents

30 CHES 2012: Toward World Class Health care

By Luc Boily

31 Where there is smoke‌

there is a maintenance issue Pointers to eliminate a potentially serious issue.

42 Luxury Baths

Paradise for your bottom line.

By Andrew Snook

Cover image: Thinkstock

14 14 Years of Hydronics

By JOHN SIEGENTHALER

18 Making the case for VFD

The benefits of packaged pump systems and variable flow pressure boosting.

By Brian James and Roger Weldon

22 Cold Climate HVAC:

Challenges and Solutions

By Robert Bean

24 Building Science

54 Wholesaler numbers up at CIPHEX West Vancouver venue gets positive feedback.

57 Beyond the Tap

Conservation program expands to include mechanical systems.

By Andrew Snook

58 IAQ

Growing your business: Particulate profiling

By Colin Plastow

62 2013 FORECAST

Optimistic Outlook For 2013

Guaranteeing Energy Performance: Mission Impossible?

PRODUCTS

26 Management

34 GIZMOS & GADGETS 37 PLUMBING 40 HYDRONIC 42 BATHROOM SHOWCASE 52 HVAC/R

Crossing the Divide

By Andrew Snook

28 Refrigeration

ASHRAE and UNEP Join Forces Guide for sustainable refrigerated facilities and systems in the works.

hpacmag.com

DEPARTMENTS 6 Industry News 46 Mechanical Supply News 50 People

60 Calendar 61 Training 61 The Source

november/december 2012 | HPAC

3

< UPFRONT

Warming Up To Giving

Given the season I thought it would be interesting to

check out “giving” in the mechanical industry. From the government programs, to partnerships, to individual efforts, there is no shortage of generosity and creativity when it comes to assisting others.

In Nova Scotia, low-income seniors and families will get the help they need to heat their homes this winter through the Salvation Army's Good Neighbour Energy Fund. The fund, which helps with all forms of home heating, was started 15 years ago by Nova Scotia Power employees. As an FYI for the general public, the province has also removed the provincial portion of the HST from home heating bills.

From a scary haunted yard at his home in North Vancouver, BC, Jim Myers turned what is obviously a personal affection for Halloween into a fundraising opportunity. The owner and manager of Jeda Mechanical Ltd. has been growing his haunted attraction for the past seven years, and in 2012 raised over $4000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada. Corporately, Myers selects a charity each year to support. “I think it is important. Everyone in the industry should give back,” said Myers.

In Ontario, Union Gas Ltd. will continue to deliver the Winter Warmth program year round. Enbridge Gas Distribution Inc. offers the Winter Warmth program for the 2012 heating season and will use LEAP EFA funding to offer emergency financial assistance for the remainder of the year. LEAP Emergency Financial Assistance (EFA) is a comprehensive, year-round emergency financial assistance program developed by the Ontario Energy Board to assist lowincome energy customers better manage their bill payments and energy costs. The program is intended to supplement existing government initiatives.

Financial assistance is funded through the distribution rates of distributors.

For over a decade ClearView Plumbing in Calgary, AB, has been selecting its Charity of the Month by random draw from a group of organizations nominated by members of the community through its web site or by mail.

Alberta’s Remote Area Heating Allowance Program provides direct rebates of up to 25 per cent of the cost of fuel for those Albertans who did not have access to natural gas service. The program has been extended several times, the last being March 2011. It is currently scheduled to expire March 31, 2013.

Lorraine Waller, president of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Hamilton (MCAH), reported that “as a representation of goodwill towards the community in which we live, work and play, MCAH and UA Local 67 have collaborated to make a multi-year gift of $275 000 to the Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation to support patient care initiatives in the region.”

These, together with the industry’s well known commitment to Habitat for Humanity and The Ride to Conquer Cancer, are just a sampling of good works by the heating, plumbing and air conditioning industry and its stakeholders.

Do you have fundraising initiative you would like to share? E-mail me at kturner@hpacmag.com.

The HPAC team wishes all of our readers a happy, safe and healthy holiday season.

HPAC Magazine 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, ON M3B 2S9 TEL: 416.442.5600 FAX: 416.510.5140 www.hpacmag.com

Editor Kerry Turner (416) 510-5218 KTurner@hpacmag.com Assistant Editor Andrew Snook (416) 442-5600, ext. 3524 ASnook@hpacmag.com Sales & Marketing Kim Rossiter (ON LEAVE) Coordinator ACCOUNT John Chiasson (416) 510-6791 MANAGER JChiasson@hpacmag.com Associate David Skene (416) 510-6884 publisher DSkene@hpacmag.com Art Director Sandy MacIsaac (416) 442-5600, ext. 3242 SMacisaac@hpacmag.com Market Production Barb Vowles (416) 510-5103 Manager 800-268-7742, ext. 5103 BVowles@bizinfogroup.ca Circulation Manager Selina Rahaman (416) 442-5600, ext. 3528 SRahaman@bizinfogroup.ca PUBLISHER Peter Leonard (416) 510-6847 PLeonard@hpacmag.com

BIG Magazines LP Corinne Lynds, Editorial Director Tim Dimopoulos, Executive publisher Alex Papanou, Vice-president of canadian publishing Bruce Creighton, President of Business Information Group

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40069240, Registration No. 10815 Heating Plumbing Air Conditioning (established 1925) is published 7 times per year

by BIG Magazines LP, a division of Glacier BIG Holdings Company Ltd. HPAC Magazine is the leading Canadian business publication for the owner/manager of mechanical contracting businesses and their supply partners.

ISSN: 0017-9418 Contents Copyright © 2012 by BIG Magazines LP, a division of Glacier BIG Holdings Company Ltd., may not be reprinted without permission.

Subscriber Services: To subscribe, renew your subscription or to change your address or information please visit us at www.hpacmag.com.

Subscription Price per year: $40.00 CDN; Outside Canada per year: $80.00 US; Single copy Canada: $5.00 CDN. Heating Plumbing Air Conditioning is published 7 times per year except for occasional combined, expanded or premium issues, which count as two subscription issues.

Mail Preferences: From time to time we make our subscription list available to select companies and organizations whose product or service may interest you. If you do not wish your contact information to be made available, please contact us via one of the following methods: Tel: 800.387.0273, Fax: 416.442.2191; E-mail: jhunter@ businessinformationgroup.ca; or by mail: Privacy Office, 80 Valleybrook Dr., Toronto, ON M3B 2S9.

HPAC Magazine receives unsolicited materials (including letters to the editor, press releases, promotional items and images) from time to time. HPAC Magazine, its affiliates and assignees may use, reproduce, publish, re-publish, distribute, store and archive such unsolicited submissions in whole or in part in any form or medium whatsoever, without compensation of any sort.

Notice: HPAC Magazine, BIG Magazines LP, a division of Glacier BIG Holdings Company Ltd., their staff, officers, directors and shareholders (hence known as the “Publisher”) assume no liability, obligations, or responsibility for claims arising from advertised products. The Publisher also reserves the right to limit liability for editorial errors, omissions and oversights to a printed correction in a subsequent issue. HPAC Magazine’s editorial is written for management level mechanical industry personnel who have documented training in the mechanical fields in which they work. Manufacturers’ printed instructions, datasheets and notices always take precedence to published editorial statements.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.

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Editor 4

HPAC | november/december 2012

hpacmag.com

© 2012 Masco Canada Limited

READY WHEN YOU ARE. We’re committed to providing innovative solutions that can help you get the job done.

That’s why Delta allows you to order and install a variety of electronic faucet roughs and trims separately.

Our pre-assembled roughs are pre-plumbed and factorytested to ensure quality and help save you installation time and hassle. And the trims can be ordered when you’re ready for them – no more worrying about storing or misplacing them during the project.

For more information, visit deltacommercialfaucets.ca or specselect.com.

590T1150

Pre-Plumbed Control Box Sensor, controller, power supply and solenoid shown are sold separately as part of trim kits.

Industry News

SEE THE LATEST HPAC e-newsletter @ hpacmag.com

Halifax's Solar City to see the light of day The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) recently approved a grant of $545â&#x20AC;&#x2020;000 and a low-interest loan of $5.4 million for the Halifax Regional Municipality's (HRM) Solar City project through the FCM Green Fund. The project was in jeopardy of being scrapped after the FCM turned down the HRM's first application for funding. The Solar City program is designed to encourage home owners to install one or two solar panels for heating domestic hot water. The cost of the panels and installation would be financed through the homeowners' property tax bills. The pilot project will equip approximately 1000 homes with residential soar thermal water heating systems. www.halifax.ca/solarcity

Source of Quebec City's legionnaires' disease outbreak discovered Quebec City public health officials stated they have found the source of the outbreak of legionnaires' disease responsible for the deaths of 13 people and 180 reported cases of the disease since July. The source was identified as a rooftop cooling tower on an office building on Rue SaintJoseph in Quebec City. Officials said the disease is under control and they have disinfected the cooling systems of more than 100 buildings in the area. The end of the outbreak was officially declared on October 10, 2012. ***At press time, Quebec's public health department said it will issue a report in mid-December. It is expected to include recommendations for rigorous monitoring.

COHA launches public education campaign The Canadian Oil Heat Association (COHA) recently launched a public education campaign called "Best practices. Best solutions for safe oil storage." COHA has created a fact sheet, which it has circulated to its members so they may offer a consistent message among homeowners and the public. It has also published two consumer brochures that focus on loss prevention, "The Best Practices - Best Solutions for safe oil storage" (Tank Matrix) and "Top 10 Recommendations on Today's Oilheat Storage Solutions."

The brochures outline the importance of upgrading singlewall, steel oil tanks. For more information, contact: COHA National at tel. 800.257.1593 or e-mail admin@coha.ca. www.coha.ca

apprenticeships and certifications key to higher wages A recent study published by Statistics Canada states that there is a positive correlation between tradespeople who complete their apprenticeships and higher wages. The study concludes that individuals who finish their apprenticeships make approximately 21 per cent higher hourly wages than individuals who discontinue their programs.

The report also states that apprentices who complete their programs and obtain certification have statistically higher hourly wages than those who obtain neither (approximately 25 per cent higher) and those who complete their apprenticeship programs but do not get certified (approximately 12 per cent higher). To view the study, visit: www.statcan. gc.ca/pub/11f0019m/2012345/part-partie1-eng.htm

Canadian chapters awarded at ASPE 2012 William Hughes (l), president of the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE), presents a Chapter Award of Merit to Daniel Marchand, Montreal chapter president, during the 2012 ASPE Convention and Exposition, held from October 25-31, 2012 in Charlotte, N.C. The Montreal and British Columbia chapters of ASPE also received Membership Retention Awards for retaining at least 90 per cent of their membership from the previous year.

The convention and expo attracted thousands of professionals from the plumbing industry and featured 30 professional development sessions and more than 300 exhibitors.

The 2014 ASPE Convention and Exposition will take place in Chicago, IL, from September 19-24, 2014. www.aspe.org

6

HPAC | november/december 2012

AtlasCare names new president Cooksville, ON-based AtlasCare has appointed Michael Grochmal as its new president, effective November 1, 2012. Roger Grochmal, the company's former president, will be responsible for the company's strategic growth initiatives as its chairman and CEO. Michael has held a variety of positions at AtlasCare, with progressive responsibilities for sales, installations, customer service, marketing and operations. His primary role is to oversee all aspects of the company's business operations. www.atlascare.ca

Share your smarts A request for abstracts from professionals working in the field of water efficiency has been issued for the 6th Annual WaterSmart Innovations (WSI) Conference and Exposition, which will take place from October 2-4, 2013 in Las Vegas, hpacmag.com

2" PVC Venting

From left, Dina Dwyer Owens, CEO of the Dwyer Group, Curtis McGrath, Jody McGrath, Tina McGrath, Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Ottawa general manager Peter McGrath, co-worker David Seaman and Mr. Rooter president Mary Thompson.

Ottawa franchise roots out awards in Texas Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Ottawa was named Franchisee of the Year by the Mr. Rooter Corporation during its 2012 International Convention, which took place in Grapevine, TX, from September 23-26, 2012. The award is given to a franchise owner to honour "a career of unprecedented growth and success, achieved through continuous training and a commitment to exceeding quality standards for both their customer and their company."

The owners of the Ottawa-based franchise, Peter and Tina McGrath, were also awarded the Top Gun award, handed out to the top 10 per cent of the Mr. Rooter Plumbing owners across North America. www.mrrooter.ca

1 /2" Gas Line

Tankless so advanced it’s simple.

(Isn’t it amazing what technology can do for you?)

NV. WSI is also seeking papers on the topic, "Water/Energy Production Nexus," which will debut in 2013.

Other potential topics related to innovations in water conservation include: drought management, alternate sources, rainwater/greywater/storm water harvesting, sustainable construction and development, high efficiency fixtures and appliances, policy development/public outreach, landscapes and outdoor water use, marketing, education, conservation and incentives, and water loss management.

The deadline for submissions is January 18, 2013. A list of topics and the submission guidelines form are available online. www.WaterSmartInnovations.com

WSIB premiums increasing in 2013 The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board is increasing premiums by 2.5 per cent across the board in 2013. The decision to boost premiums was made to help the organization manage $14.2 billion in unfunded liability and help create stable and competitive premium rates for the future.

The WSIB also stated that increasing premiums would "ensure a sustainable workplace safety and insurance system for workers and employers." www.wsib.on.ca

The new Navien NPE condensing series is so advanced retrofits have finally become simple. Now the existing

1/2" gas line can be used and in many cases our 2" PVC venting can be run through the existing chase. All of which allow for a tankless installation in about the same amount of time and cost as a traditional tank install.

Learn more at TanklessMadeSimple.com

• Utilizes existing 1/2" gas line

• Field gas convertible

• 2" PVC venting

• Ultra condensing efficiency

•

• Dual stainless steel heat exchangers

Buffer tank and recirculation • Three models: 150k Btu's, pump included 180k Btu's and 199k Btu's

The Leader in Condensing Tankless Technology

800.519.8794 NavienAmerica.com

continued on page 8 hpacmag.com

november/december 2012 | HPAC

7

< Industry News

continued from page 7

Aerial view of the Earth Rangers Centre.

Earth Rangers has been awarded LEED Platinum certification for Existing Buildings by the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) for its Earth Rangers Centre in Woodbridge, ON. The centre had previously obtained LEED Gold for New Construction certification from the CaGBC in 2004. The building's features include: solar photovoltaic generation, on-site wastewater treatment, earth tubes, solar hot water, stormwater control, geothermal heating and cooling and vegetated green roofs. www.earthrangers.com

New Canadian website for promoting skilled trades

Financing biggest barrier to renewable energy development

The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum and Skills Canada have partnered to revamp the Careers in Trades website. The website will feature step-by-step information on how to obtain an apprenticeship, list the advantages of a career in the trades, and provide youth, educators and parents stories from apprentices across the country. Additional resources for educators and students will also be added in the upcoming months. www.careersintrades.ca

According to an analysis of two reports by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's (NREL) Renewable Energy Finance Tracking Initiative (REFTI), finance-related challenges are still the main hurdles related to renewable energy development, despite healthy expected returns. The reports state that solar and geothermal technologies show greater than 10 per cent expected returns for both developers and tax equity investors; however, approximately half of the geothermal and solar respondents (350 in total) reported financial issues (project economics, PPAs, creditworthiness, and raising capital) as the largest barriers to development. Despite this, only 11 to 13 per cent of respondents reported abandoning their projects. Geothermal projects reported the highest returns among all technologies with both developer and tax equity returns estimated to exceed 15 per cent. https://financere.nrel.gov/finance

Geothermal heat pump technology conference springs up in BC The Canadian GeoExchange Coalition has signed a memorandum of understanding with GeoExchange BC for the co-organization of a national conference on geothermal heat pump technology, applications and policies, which will take place in the spring of 2013 in British Columbia. The joint conference is designed to offer increased participant value to the industry and stakeholders while lowering overhead costs. www.geo-exchange.ca

Call for papers for IEA Heat Pump Conference A call for abstracts has been issued for the 11th Annual International Energy Agency Heat Pump Conference, which will take place from May 13-15, 2014 at Fairmont - The Queen Elizabeth in Montreal, QC. The international organizing committee is looking for abstracts on various topics within the heat pump industry, including: research and development activities, policies and environmental issues. Abstracts must be submitted through the conference website by April 15, 2013. Authors of accepted submissions will be notified by August 31, 2013. The 11th IEA Heat Pump Conference is hosted by the Canadian GeoExchange Coalition (CGC). www.iea-hpc2014.org 8

HPAC | november/december 2012

U of Guelph student awarded CMCEF scholarship The Canadian Mechanical Contracting Education Foundation (CMCEF) and Federated Insurance awarded their 2012 scholarship award of $1000 to Scott Dunbar of Linwood, ON. Dunbar is a second-year mechanical engineering student at the University of Guelph. www.cmcef.org

Rick Weiland leaves ICC The International Codes Council (ICC) is searching for a new CEO. The ICC's former CEO Rick Weiland, who held the position since 2006, left the association to pursue other opportunities. Weiland also held the role of chief operating officer at the ICC from 2003-06. ICC executive vice president and director of operations Dominic Sims is serving as the acting CEO until a replacement for Weiland is found. www.iccsafe.org continued on page 10 hpacmag.com

Photo: Earth Rangers

Earth Rangers Centre obtains LEED Platinum

< Industry News

continued from page 8

directive issued for propane requirements and venting The British Columbia Safety Authority has issued a directive stating that the operational and installation requirements of regulators used on propane installations must be in compliance with the current edition of CAN/CSA B149.1 Installation Code. The directive does not apply to systems installed under the CSA Z240.4.2 RV Standard. The BC Safety Authority has also released an information bulletin regarding the Gas Venting Certificate (GVCQ) scope of authorized work. www.safetyauthority.ca

straight talk on the College of Trades The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) recently hosted several information sessions about the Ontario College of Trades, with representatives from the college providing information on the regulatory body. When it officially opens in 2013, all apprentices and journeypersons in the 22 compulsory trades will be required to pay annual fees to the college. Apprentices will be required to pay $60/year, while journeypersons will be required to pay $120/year. The membership fees are the lone source of funding for the OCOT, which will have an operating budget of approximately $22 million for 2013. www.collegeoftrades.ca

Surrey, North Vancouver and Nakusp recognized for climate and energy action The cities of North Vancouver and Surrey and the Village of Nakusp were named the winners of the 2012 Climate & Energy Action Awards. The City of Surrey won the Community Planning and Development category for its planning and development of the Surrey City Centre. Nakusp was awarded the Corporate Operations category winner for its renewable energy retrofit projects, reduced GHG emissions and reduced energy costs. The village's projects include: the installation of 6500W of solar power and the completion of a micro hydro project. The City of North Vancouver was named the winner of the Pubic Sector Collaboration category for the Lonsdale Energy Corporation and School District 44 Education Service Centre/Arts for Kids project, which allows the school district to save money by recycling surplus heat through a geothermal heat pump system. www.communityenergy.bc.ca

10

HPAC | november/december 2012

Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) president Warren Heeley, manufacturers division chair Jim Flowers and Caroline Czajko, manager of divisional programs (manufacturers and wholesalers), pose for a photo together with members of the International Council of Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Heating Manufacturer’s Association (ICARHMA).

HRAI represents members in Japan The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada represented its members at the annual meeting of the International Council of Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Heating Manufacturer's Association (ICARHMA) on October 24 in Kyoto, Japan. The meeting covered topics such as: non-tariff trade barriers; future trends that will impact the industry; emissions trading schemes; research programs evaluating alternative refrigerants and regulatory trends, including environmental stewardship, energy efficiency and climate change. HRAI also received a report regarding the ICARHMA's involvement at the International Symposium on Energy Conservation and Emissions Reduction, which took place in Beijing during the 2012 China Refrigeration Show this past fall. www.icarhma.org www.hrai.ca

quebec Heating oil industry launches no tax event Quebec's heating oil industry has launched a tax-free program to support the replacement of aged residential tanks.

It will cover the equivalent of the QST and GST on a double bottom, double walled or fibreglass residential heating oil tank. Participating distributors must be members of the Association québécoise du chauffage au mazout (AQCM) or the Association Québécoise des Indépendants du Pétrole (AQUIP), and tank installation must be carried out by a licensed member of Corporation des maîtres mécaniciens en tuyauterie du Québec (CMMTQ). The program runs to June 30, 2013. www.lemazout.org/pdf/promo_en.pdf

hpacmag.com

UA Canada signs multi-year sponsorship The United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry (UA Canada) have agreed to become a presenting sponsor for the next three Skills Canada National Competitions. UA Canada was a premier sponsor for the 2012 Skills Canada National Competition, held from May 13-16, 2012 in Edmonton, AB. The 2013 Skills Canada National Competition will take place from June 5-8, 2013 in Vancouver, BC. www.skillscanada.com

building energy efficiency fact sheets offered on OEE Website Natural Resources Canada's ecoENERGY Efficiency for Buildings has provided a new series of fact sheets related to building energy efficiency in general, and benchmarking, which are available at the website of the Office of Energy Efficiency. These include: ecoENERGY Efficiency for Buildings - Overview (an overview of the energy- and moneysaving initiatives offered by this program); Federal Buildings Initiative (a fact sheet that provides an overview of the initiative); ecoENERGY Efficiency for Buildings - Benchmarking Tools (highlights the importance of benchmarking and how this process will be simplified and enhanced by using the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Portfolio Manager benchmarking tool - an adaptation of this tool, customized for Canadian users, will be officially launched in June 2013); Building Commissioning and Recommissioning (a primer on the concepts of commissioning (Cx) and recommissioning (RCx)); and 2011 National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (an overview of the importance and benefits of following the 2011 NECB). http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca

Members of the 2012-13 Refrigerant Management Canada board of directors pose for a photo after the RMC's annual general meeting.

From left to right: Stuart Smith (DuPont), Corey Soulis (WWG/ Totaline), Greg Gamble (Wolseley Canada), Marie Li-Ying (Honeywell Fluorine), Jim Flowers (Linde Canada), Dennis Larson (Refrigerative Supply), Warren Heeley (HRAI), Ron Robinson (AtlasCare), Rob Flipse (Gordon Latham), and Melissa Peneycad (BOMA). Absentees: Beatrice Olivastri, Domenic Loconte, Joseph Simon.

RMC talks funding at agm Refrigerant Management Canada (RMC) recently held its annual general meeting on November 7, 2012 at the Delta Toronto Airport West Hotel in Mississauga, ON. The AGM offered members highlights from the past year, including introducing a disposal fee for CFC-11 refrigerant, which collected $842â&#x20AC;&#x2020;000 in fees in 201112 and the RMC's first sale of verified carbon credits, which generated $330â&#x20AC;&#x2020;000 in added revenue for the organization. Future challenges for the organization were also discussed, such as the declining consumption allowances for HCFCs; moving towards a regulatory environment that permits HFCs to be levied and accepted; and raising industry awareness of the need to support RMC wholesalers. www.refrigerantmanagement.ca

continued on page 12

Fits all of your spaces.

Foremost

www.contrac.ca hpacmag.com

november/december 2012 | HPAC

11

< Industry News

continued from page 11

CIPEC looking for leaders The 2013 CIPEC Leadership Awards nominations are now open to industrial companies, students and graduates that have completed an energy efficiency project between June 1, 2011 and June 1, 2013. The awards are designed to showcase the outstanding achievements of CIPEC companies for their work in improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gases. The six different award categories are: corporate stewardship, process and technology improvement, energy performance management, employee awareness and training, integrated energy efficiency strategy and future leaders. The deadline for submitting nominations is June 7, 2013. For submission guidelines and criteria, send an e-mail to: info.ind@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

BC builds first home to 2012 R-2000 standard The first home built to the 2012 R-2000 standard in the province of British Columbia was officially completed on October 30, 2012. The event was marked by a visit from Minister of Natural Resources Joe Oliver, who called the 2012 R-2000 standard "an important milestone that will keep the Canadian home building industry at the forefront of building homes that are better for the environment, better for our communities and better for the people who live in them." Homes built to the 2012 R-2000 standard are designed to be 50 per cent more energy efficient than homes built to the 2005 R-2000 standard. www.nrcan.gc.ca

IAPMO names new president The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) elected Gary Hile, chief plumbing/mechanical inspector for the city of Anchorage, AK, as its new president during the IAPMO's 83rd Annual Education and Business Conference. Also elected during the conference were: Bruce Pfeiffer (vice-president); and three new board members: David Gans, Martin Cooper and Jim Humphrey. www.iapmo.org

CAN/BNQ 1784-000/2007 Canadian Hydrogen Installation Code with Ontario Amendments, and TSSA-DLB-2012 Digester, Landfill and Biogas Approval Code. www.tssa.org

talk about tough The second annual Cintas & Carhartt Cold Crew Contest is accepting nominations recognizing workers within the U.S. and Canada who deal with the toughest winter weather conditions.

The grand prize winner will receive a trip for two to the 2013 CMA Music Festival. Entries will be accepted until February 28, 2013. www.cintas.com/customer_applications/carharttcoldcrew

Biodôme wins ASHRAE Technology Award The Montreal Biodôme, part of Montreal Space for Life, also comprised of Insectarium, Botan­ ical Garden and Planet­­ arium, has been named the recipient of the 2013 ASHRAE Technology Award for the public assembly building category.

The Biodôme received the award for its $8.1 million deep energy retrofit, which was designed by Ecosystem in partnership with Montreal Space for Life. The retrofit, which comprised upgrades in heating, cooling and lighting equipment, resulted in the reduction of the Biodôme's energy costs by 52 per cent and GHG emissions by 80 per cent.

The costs for the project are being repaid through energy savings and $1.6 million in government and utility incentives. Innovative measures used in the retrofit project include: recycling energy from one ecosystem to another (e.g.: heat from the Sub-Polar Regions ecosystems being used to warm the Tropical Rainforest); and ground water being integrated into an open-loop geothermal system to heat and cool the building. www.ville.montreal.qc.ca/biodome

a prescription for energy efficiency Amendments made to Gaseous Fuels Code Adoption Document The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) Fuels Safety Division issued the Gaseous Fuels Code Adoption Document Amendment, which went into effect on December 1, 2012. The document replaces all sections of the previous Gaseous Fuels Code Adoption Document and adopts the following codes: Canadian Standards Associations (CSA) B149.1-10 Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code with Ontario amendments; SSA-FA-2012 Field Approval Code; 12

HPAC | november/december 2012

The ENERGY STAR Health Care Energy Leadership Program (HELP) was established to assist hospitals and long-term care facilities reduce energy costs and become more energy efficient. The program is a joint initiative of My Sustainable Canada and the Canadian Coalition for Green Health Care.

It provides participating institutions with: educational webinars; on-site ENERGY STAR training and Spot the ENERGY STAR Opportunities; walkthroughs at host sites of green health care training; sample ENERGY STAR procurement language to incorporate into requests for proposals; trainhpacmag.com

CLIPS >> The Technical Standards and Safety Authority has revised its fee schedules, effective May 1, 2013. To learn about the revised fee changes for fuels, boiler and pressure vessels, natural gas and other categories, visit: www.tssa.org/corporate/feeschedules2013.asp. >> CSA Group has created B128.3-12, a new standard for performance of non-potable water reuse systems. www.shopcsa.ca >> The Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) recently conducted an inquiry into the dumping and subsidizing of certain types of stainless steel sinks, originating in or exported from the People's Republic of China. The CITT concluded that the dumping of these sinks, pursuant to subsection 43(1) of the Special Import Measures Act, caused injury to the domestic industry. To read the full report, visit: www.citt-tcce.gc.ca/dumping/inquirie/findings/ nq2l002_e.asp

ing on the ENERGY STAR Savings Calculators to help you build the business case for ENERGY STAR upgrades; access to a national peer-to-peer network of other energy efficiency leaders in the health care sector; and assistance with the ENERGY STAR Participant application. As part of the program, participating institutions will provide input for NRCan's Annual ENERGY STAR Survey and educate their staff on using the ENERGY STAR symbol with training materials supplied by NRCan. For more on energy efficiency in health care facilities, see page 30. http://energystar.greenhealthcare.ca/help

Alternative solutions for reclaimed water reuse The Government of Alberta recently published a fact sheet titled, Alternative Solutions Guide for Reclaimed Water Reuse. The guide is designed to offer adequate information to stakeholders preparing proposals for alternative solutions related to the reuse of reclaimed water for toilet or urinal flushing and irrigation. http://municipalaffairs.alberta.ca/1171.cfm < >

The Perfect Choice for Today’s Demanding Homeowners Laars boilers are everything a modern boiler should be easy to use, easy on the environment, powerful and compact. Laars has a solution for any home’s space & domestic water heating needs with boiler sizes from 50 to 285 MBH and efficiencies of 85 to 95%.

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Built to be the Best™ ©2012, Bradford White Corporation. All rights reserved.

november/december 2012 | HPAC

13

< hydronics

14 years of hydronics

A comparison of the hot topics of the past, the present and, most importantly, the future.

BY John Siegenthaler

I

started writing for HPAC almost 14 years ago. Back then, each column was typed up on a boxy little Macintosh computer with a nine-inch monochrome screen, printed on a dot matrix printer, and saved on a 3.5-inch floppy disc.

Each month, a printed copy of the column, along with the floppy disc, were mailed to HPAC’s editor. After working some magic, the editor would fax me a copy of the completed layout. We then discussed any final changes over the phone.

At the time, hydronic heating was enjoying a resurgence of interest driven by the red-hot topic of radiant floor heating. In the years that followed, radiant floor heating continued to be the tail wagging the hydronics dog. In the late nineties, many of us became accustomed to radiant heating market growth rates of 25-plus per cent per year. Many newbies were drawn into hydronics through a growing interest in radiant heating.

Other hydronic-related topics that generated strong interest back then included: • Mixing strategies and devices • Protecting boilers against flue gas condensation • Primary/secondary piping • Differential pressure bypass valves • Outdoor reset control • Radiant specific thermostats • Customized controls using ladder diagrams and programmable logic controllers • Oxygen barrier tubing versus non-barrier tubing • The energy savings of radiantly heated buildings versus those heated by other means

• How comfort was attained at lower air temperatures in radiantly heated buildings • High capacity domestic water heating • Snowmelting - steps, patios, walkways, driveways, and entire parking lots.

Conventional fuel was relatively cheap during these times, and the economy was growing at a healthy rate. These circumstances, in combination with advancing building technology, set the stage for a boom in large homes that needed very customized hydronic heating systems.

The North American hydronics industry benefited from this trend. A growing number of hydronic “artisans” acquired the skills needed to assemble complex hydronic systems that often contained thousands of dollars worth of electronic controls, walls full of circulators, and miles of PEX tubing. Many of these residential systems were arguably more complex than systems in much larger commercial buildings. The market was awash with devices that allowed the hydronic artisans to sculpt increasingly complex and intricate designs. I know, because I was one of them.

Most of these high-end systems worked, but many required several hours of “tweaking” to weed out unexpected control, pumping, or balancing issues. I recall one installer telling me how he “camped out” overnight in a certain mechanical room trying to tame the beast he had created.

Some of this is still happening today. Mansions are still being constructed, although in lower numbers due to a struggling economy. Those that are being built often aspire to be

Hours of adjusting to weed out unexpected control, pumping, or balancing issues often came along with the complex piping seen in some older systems.

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HPAC | november/december 2012

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“green” by including renewable energy heat sources (i.e., eight heat pumps instead of four boilers) along with thousands of other components assembled on site by those accomplished artisans who live and breathe hydronics.

FORCED CHANGE The entire HVAC market got a slap in the face when the bottom fell out of the real estate market in 2007. Double digit growth gave way to trying to limit losses. Marketing terms like green, sustainable, renewable, and LEED became the industry’s new vocabulary, and inevitably set the trend that has brought us to the present. Today, the topics that consistently generate strong interest in the hydronics industry include: • Solar thermal combisystems • Ground source heat pumps systems • Use of intelligent ECM-based circulators • Using methods other than primary/secondary piping to achieve hydraulic separation in multiple circulator systems • Dealing with short cycling of mod con boilers • Post PVC boiler venting systems Lets take a brief look at each of them.

Interest in both solar thermal systems and ground source heat pump systems is currently quite strong throughout North America. It is the result of saturation level eco-marketing combined with government subsidies that reward those who use these heat sources.

Appropriate use of renewable energy heat sources is something I strongly support. The fact that hydronics enables the operation of nearly all thermally-based renewable energy technologies could be a tremendous stimulus for the North American hydronics industry. However, building a business model based on the currently available government subsidies really worries me.

I worked in the solar thermal industry during the early 1980s when the U.S. government pulled the plug on renewable energy. I was one of the first to be laid off when it became clear that the ride provided by the tax credits was over. This experience convinced me that renewable energy systems will only gain “mainstream” acceptance when deployed in configurations that are reliable, easily repeatable, and can create immediate monthly savings without government subsidies.

Those who have read my HPAC articles over the last few years know that I am a big proponent of ECM-based intelligent circulators. I think they represent the single biggest advancement in hydronics technology over the last two decades. I encourage people to think of these circulators as the compact fluorescent light bulbs of our industry.

When they are eventually implemented by the millions, these circulators will have a profound positive effect on the industry, further widening the gap between what is possible hpacmag.com

Unfortunately, installations such as this will remain an issue for the industry.

using water-based rather than air-based distribution systems. Given that European legislation will be mandating use of ECM-based circulators in new installations as of January 1, 2013, it seems inevitable that they will soon become the norm in North America.

Primary/secondary piping remains as a viable design technique. However, more designers are learning how to use the broader concept of hydraulic separation to provide the benefits of primary/secondary piping without the need of constructing primary loops, or incurring the installation and operating cost of primary loop circulators. Retaining the benefits while using simpler and less expensive approaches is value engineering at its best. Look for this trend to continue.

Shift in zoning Zoning has been and continues to be a major benefit of using hydronic heating and cooling. However, zoning is slowly shifting from the extensive use of small wet rotor circulators, to valve-based techniques (e.g. either zone valve or “wireless” thermostatic radiator valves). There are strong economic arguments for this evolution. This trend will also continue as energy costs increase, and more heating professionals learn to market the advantages of these devices.

The use of PVC venting for mod/con boilers is at a crossroads. While PVC remains acceptable to some boiler manufacturers, other manufacturers have specifically banned it from use with their products. The issues in question include long term integrity of the pipe and its joining methods at higher than expected flue gas temperatures, leaching of potentially corrosive chlorides from the pipe, and the lack of specific approvals from some PVC pipe manufacturers regarding use of their pipe for venting heat sources. I think it’s inevitable that polypropylene and AL29-4C stainless steel will take over as the preferred venting materials for all condensing heat sources. continued on page 16 november/december 2012 | HPAC

15

< hydronics

continued from page 15

Snowmelting continues to be an option the hydronics industry offers. However, increasing energy prices, growing altruism about reducing energy use, and increasingly restrictive energy codes will inevitably restrict when and where snowmelting is deployed. And, just in case you’re wondering, solar powered snowmelting systems are NOT a good idea.

The issue of short-cycling has become an Achilles Heel to those who work with low mass mod/con boilers. I often ask contractors at seminars about this issue, and find it to be a pervasive problem. It stems from the fact that it is easy to “microzone” hydronic systems. The ability to create a six- or 12-zone system, in combination with low thermal mass boilers that can only reduce their firing rate to about 20 per cent of rated output, is the underlying cause of short cycling. This situation was not very common when residential boilers contained 400+ pounds of cast-iron, 10 or more gallons of water, and served one to three zone distribution systems.

We did not appreciate the “self buffering” characteristics of these older boilers, at least not until we began using low mass boilers with ever-increasing numbers of zones. I think the solution lies in restoring thermal mass to the heat source, preferably as site-added water rather than manufacturer-added metal. I predict that future combustion-based hydronic heat sources will rely on increased water mass as their stabilizing element.

• Homes requiring heat generation capacities no higher than 30 000 Btuh, along with heat sources that can remain in stable operation while delivering five per cent or less of this capacity.

• Appropriate integration of renewable energy heat sources where they can deliver positive monthly cash flows, from the day they are first turned on.

• Increased demand for very low mass heat emitters that can quickly respond to changing loads due to internal and solar heat gains.

• The advantages of central heat generation along with heat metering in multiple occupancy buildings (condos, apartments, and leased office space).

• Increasing awareness that the distribution system, and not just the heat source, plays a significant role in determining system operating cost.

• Smart grid technology, and time-of-use electrical rates that need on-site thermal energy storage. Water is the best stuff on earth for storing sensible heat.

• Net zero buildings with solar photovoltaic arrays, and therefore a strong preference for electrically-driven high efficiency heat sources (e.g. heat pumps), along with low energy use distribution systems (e.g. hydronics).

• Gas-fired absorption heat pumps that can supply heating water at temperatures up to 140F, equivalent combustion efficiencies up to 140 per cent, and chilled water for cooling.

THE WATCH LIST

Tightly designed, low temp systems are the key to growth in the hydronics industry.

HYDRONICS 2.0 In the months ahead, I will be writing more about these trends. I will do so on an iMac with a 27-inch LED display, email them to Kerry Turner at HPAC, and very seldom print anything to paper.

The computer that I used to write my first HPAC article has long since evolved into a device that is now indispensable to my business, and has undoubtedly improved the quality of my life. This happened because a certain computer manufacturer recognized the need to provide solutions rather than boxes classified by megahertz and gigabytes.

Hydronics technology, working behind the scenes, and without the glory of eco acentuated headlines, holds the potential to improve the quality of our lives, and reduce both Canadian and global energy demand. This potential teeters on the ability of our industry to deliver solutions rather than hardware. I think it can be done. <> John Siegenthaler, P.E. is the author of Modern Hydronic Heating (the third edition of this book is now available).

For reference information and software to assist in hydronic system design visit www.hydronicpros.com.

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HPAC | november/december 2012

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Photo: Harvey Youker

There are several developing situations that could significantly impact the future growth of our industry - IF we recognize the need, and respond with appropriate solutions.

These include: • Ultra-low energy use buildings that need “drop in” heating and cooling solutions.

A Perfect Combination...

Radiant Heating & Cooling

Together in One System • Advanced comfort control for zones with hydronic & air heating & cooling • Humidity sensing with dew point calculation allows for safe operation of radiant floor cooling • Ideal for use in systems with air or water source heat pumps

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HVAC Systems

Multi-Staging

Alternative Energy

Zoning

Snow Melting

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< plumbing

Making A Case For VFD

The benefits of packaged pump systems and variable flow pressure boosting.

BY Brian James and Roger Weldon

P

less than 50 per cent of peak flow. In this example, a pump system with two 50 per cent pumps would match the flow profile compared to a single 100 per cent pump, and would ensure that the system operates near peak efficiency. One 100% pump would run near peak efficiency for less than half of the time. This example shows relatively small flow requirements, but the same holds true for larger flows where even more energy can be saved.

ackaged pump systems can be defined as a complete assembly of pumping components needed for a system that is wired, piped, and mounted on a base.

This compact, space-saving configuration offers easy installation, single source responsibility, and advanced control options with communication ability.

VARIABLE FLOW REQUIREMENTS Domestic water supply systems have variable flow demands and can save energy with variable frequency drive (VFD) controlled pumps. There is an opportunity with existing pump installations to discover the true state of the system by performing a pump audit. A pump audit determines the consumption flow profile and energy usage that the installation experiences during normal operation. Acquiring a flow profile for an existing system provides the precise data required to design the optimum system for the application. A system designed with pump audit data will lead to a highly efficient design; hence lower, cost of ownership. New installations typically use plumbing fixture counts and the Hunterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Curve for sizing the pump system, as recommended or required by inspectors or local codes. This method can lead to oversized pumps or pump systems, and does not address the variable flow requirement for the domestic water supply. The flow profile in Figure 1 indicates that the demand increases in the morning and in the afternoon to the maximum flow, and gradually drops off and stops in the night hours. Peak flow is required for three hours of the day. Most of the time the flow is Figure 1 Typical domestic water consumption flow profile for a small commercial building

VFD-CONTROLLED PUMPS The Affinity Laws state how a pumpâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance changes with changing pump speed (RPM).

Small reductions in pump speed can create large reductions in brake horsepower (BHP). The BHP changes by factor of the cube of80the speed change ratio. Figures 2-4 show an example

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Pump selection for variable flow versus single duty point 1 3 5 7 9 has different requirements.

A11single duty point requires 13 Hour o f the D 15 17 ay 19 the selection of a pump at the best efficiency point (BEP), 21 23 where pumps have the highest life expectancy. Variable Figure 3 CR 32-2 (eta) (%)

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0 PROPORTIONAL 40 60 PRESSURE 100 120 CONTROL 20 80 140 0 P2 (HP)

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Municipal domestic water pump systems have a high head requirement dedicated to pipe friction loss. Pipe friction loss 6 6 compensation via proportional pressure control provides sig- 4 4 nificant savings and reduces problems associated with high 2 2 = 7.47 HP 0 pressure, which can occur when flow rates P2 are low compared 0 continued on page 20

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flow applications require multiple duty points. For variable flow service, consider the following: • NPSH available • Possibility of over or undersized system • Pump type – single or multiple impeller 80 The rule of thumb for selecting pumps for variable flow ser70 vice 60 is to select a pump at the right of BEP. Selecting a pump to the right of BEP will allow the pump(s) to stay in the best 50 efficiency range at lower flow demands. The down side for se40 lecting a pump to the right of BEP is increased NPSH require30 ment. In some cases, due to NPSH available, a pump 20 selection at the right of BEP may not be suitable. Pump type 10 is another consideration. Single impeller pumps typically have 0a flatter curve compared to multiple impeller pumps, 4 8 situations 12 16 20 24 and are0 less forgiving in where conditions change Time and the pumps are undersized. An oversized pump with VFD control can be electronically “trimmed” by speed reduction.

The steeper curve of a multiple impeller pump allows forH H CR 32-2 (eta) 100% (%) (ft) more speed reduction ratio at lower Q=180flows, US GPM increases the(ft) H= 116 ft 160 160 pump’s flexibility to meet a changing design pressure ren= 100%/60Hz 140 140 quirement, and allows higher energy savings. Multistage 120 120 pumps, by design, are more service-friendly than single im100 100 peller end suction pumps. The multistage pump, together 80 80 80 70 VFD control, is an ideal choice for variable flow pressure Minwith 60 60 60 50 Aveboosting.

40 40 40 Q [qpm]

of a constant pressure application with two different flow rates, comparing a VFD-controlled pump to a fixed speed pump with a pressure regulating valve. In this application, 116 ft. constant pressure is required at 180 GPM and 90 GPM. Figure 3 demonstrates that the pump requires 3.77 HP at 85 per cent speed using VFD control to achieve 90 GPM. Figure 4 illustrates a curve for a constant speed pump and a pressure regulating valve (PRV) to maintain the required pressure (116 ft.).

This system builds 167 ft. of pressure at 90 GPM and uses 5.7 BHP. The extra pressure is reduced by the PRV. However, the PRV wastes energy and requires periodic maintenance.

This can be eliminated with VFD-controlled pumps.

Based on the flow profile in Figure 1, a VFD system saves $750 in energy cost compared to a PRV system. The calculation is based on 24/7 operation with a $0.10 KWh energy cost and 85 per cent VFD and motor efficiency. A system with relatively low speed reduction (15 per cent) saves significant energy.

VFD-controlled systems allow precise control of the discharge pressure. Other advantages include: 100 • F lexibility to electronically “trim” (no oversize/undersize 90 concerns) 80 • Soft starting of motors (no motor cycling issues) 70 • Smooth, controlled performance ramp up/down (less 60 mechanical problems/maintenance) 50 • System 40 turns itself off at low or no flow (additional energy savings) 30

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november/december 2012 | HPAC

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< Plumbing 0

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e Day 17 19 are overto the design conditions. Pump systems typically 21 23 sized due to a conservative head loss calculation and additional safety margins. Municipal pump systems with large pipe networks are often oversized intentionally to prepare for (eta) inH CR 32-2 future growth. The head required for the pump system 100% (%) (ft) Q=90.2 US GPM cludes the pipe friction head based H=on116future high flow deft 160 n= 85%/51Hz sign conditions. This can result in a large pump system that 140 has the possibility of using more energy than it should.

120 Figure 5 shows a four-pump system with a maximum design 100 80 condition of 2200 gpm at 266 ft. If the design pipe 80 friction 70 60 of the system is 20 per cent of the total required 60 boost loss 50 40 Reduced Operating Point 40 pressure (266 ft.), the actual pressure boost requirement at 30 Q = 90.3 US GPM 20 20 H - 116 is ft 212 ft. Proportional pressure control decreases 400 GPM 10 Eta pump = 70.5% 0 0 60 100 120 20 80 140 160 180 Q (US GPM) 0 pressure at40lower flows and increases it at higher flows to P2 (HP) compensate for pipe friction loss. If the pump system oper6 24/7 at 400 GPM for 50 per cent of the time, at $0.10 ates 4 KWh, an annual savings of $2592 results, based on an overall 2motor/VFD efficiency of 88 per cent. In addition to energy P2 = 3.77 HP 0 savings, proportional pressure control reduces leaks and saves water at low flow periods by reducing the system pressure.

CASE IN POINT Owners of a 14-storey commercial office building were having problems with their potable water booster pumps. The system was in poor condition and did not provide adequate water pressure on the upper floors of the building.

The capacity of the system was not known because the nameplates had been removed and the original engineering documents were not available. The triplex system included one 5 HP pump and two 10 HP pumps (25 HP connected). Each pump was equipped with a pressure regulating valve (PRV) and the system controls were inefficient. Based on the data found in the pump audit, an optimized system with the lowest possible life cycle cost was selected and submitted with the complete audit report.

• Flow readings logged every 60 seconds • Peak flows created by cooling tower demands lasting 1-2 minutes/hour • Workday: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. (37 per cent of annual hours) • Non-workday flows are much lower – averaging approximately 5-8 GPM Load profile of total flow for 1 week: Time Per cent Flow 12 per cent 0-9 GPM 70 per cent 10-19 GPM 10 per cent 0-29 GPM 8 per cent 30-100 GPM

Figure 5

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The four-pump replacement booster system (three HP each pump – 12 HP connected) is equipped with a variable speed frequency drive (VFD). The maximum flow can be handled by three pumps, with the fourth pump serving as an “online backup”. The annual cost of energy to operate the old system was $10 000, with an additional $2000 in annual maintenance and repair costs. The annual cost of energy to operate the replacement system is approximately $1800, a savings of an estimated $8200. Additionally, the retrofit offers eligibility for a rebate.

200 400 GPM at 266 ft compared to 400 GPM at 212 ft

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VFD-controlled pump systems offer pressure control with energy savings80and the ability to match the flow consumption profile without waste.

Systems with multiple pumps deliver variable 70 flow requirements at BEP range. It is important to identify the 60 flow consumption profile of the installation. If the flow rate is 50 constant, a40single service duty pump might be the solution.

Even for these 30 applications, VFD-controlled pump systems may be justified with reduced maintenance costs. <> 20

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HPAC | november/december 2012 H

CR 32-2 (eta)

H

CR 32-2 (eta)

ONE PIPE CAN DO SO MUCH “We’ve been using Aquatherm for 4 years and are very satisfied with our results and the of work we can achieve with it. Aquatherm’s advantages are: speed of installation, labor savings, and not having to worry about jobsite theft or damage.”

quality

“The quietness of the pipe is a big benefit for this large commercial and residential project – with water flowing through it you don’t even hear it. And the ease of installation and how and clean it is to work with are also major benefits.”

John Price, President, Price Plumbing Ltd., Riverview, NB

quick

Rick Dearing, Owner/President, Red Deer Plumbing, Red Deer, AB

“Aquatherm has so many good characteristics. It will last the of a building. It is much lighter than other metals, and isn’t going to get stolen like copper. Its flow rates are far better, and it has a natural insulation value.”

lifetime

Jim Myers, Owner/Manager, Jeda Mechanical, North Vancouver, BC

“We were introduced to Aquatherm when it became available in our area and have enjoyed great success using it. When compared to copper piping there is also a in material costs and the product is far less likely to be stolen.”

savings

Glen Gardiner, Estimator, Mr. Plumber, Blair LaPierre Inc., Charlottetown, PEI

“We’ve worked with Aquatherm for the last four years, and have done several projects in Vancouver and Saskatchewan. The benefits of the Aquatherm system were . It was easier to work with since it is lighter than steel or ductile iron.”

superior

Hermann Koechl, Project Manager, GML Mechanical Ltd., Delta, BC

change what’s possible

www.aquatherm.com 403-809-8707

aquatherm

< conference report

Cold Climate HVAC: Challenges and Solutions

T

he 7th International Cold Climate HVAC Conferencei, which was held recently in Calgary, AB, was nothing short of impressive with representatives from over 15 countries in attendance. This conference was an opportunity for researchers and design practitioners to share what they have been learning in restoring and retrofitting old buildings, as well as the design and construction of new buildings, in some of the harshest climates on the planet.

The conference spanned three full days with over 60 technical workshops and keynote presentations.

As noted by Stuart Dalgleish, City of Calgary’s director of development and building approvals, “The objective of the Cold Climate Conference is to provide key elements of a strategy for scientists, designers, engineers, manufacturers and other decision makers in cold climate regions so they can achieve good indoor environmental quality (IEQ), with a minimum use of resources and energy.”ii It was the first time the conference was held in North America.

There were many highlights amongst the various lectures but of special interest was a key note presentation by engineer Peter Ayres of the United Kingdom who shared his experience working on the newest British Antarctic Survey research station, Halley VI. Having been personally involved in the late 1980s designing a solar system for a McMurdo Station project, I was keen to hear more. Needless to say, quantum leaps have been made by the architectural and engineering teams in creating habitable space, which may as well have been built for Mars or a future set for a Bond movie.iii Halley VI is a fantastic feat of engineering and construction in a place where temperatures rarely rise above 0C with extreme lows of around -55C. Of special interest at the Halley base is, “buildings on the surface become covered and eventually crushed by snow, necessitating periodic rebuilding of the station.”iv The new modules however, are built on hydraulic lifts mounted on skis for mobility and handling the accumulating snow.

I was particularly interested in the prefabrication process for these cold climate pods, which occurred in Cape Town, South Africa. The pods were then delivered and assembled on-site. I chuckled to myself, recalling contractor reluctance to use prefabricated control appliances when in a far more complicated fabrication-based industry prefabricated is the norm, no matter how custom the project.

22

HPAC | november/december 2012

By Robert Bean

Erich Binder, conference chair, noted, “By being open and receptive to new ideas and willing to push our designs beyond our traditional comfort levels, we can learn from each other.” He went on to say, “We can achieve better, more innovative designs that utilize fewer resources and provide superior service or comfort. But such progress does not happen unless we are willing to actively pursue the broadening of our horizons.”v Having chaired one of the conference's HVAC and Equipment programs, and participating as an audience member in several other lecturers, I was witness to the application of Binder’s words, which are solid advice for the HVAC industry in Canada and all other cold climate regions.

One of the final tasks at the conference was to convene for a special meeting amongst those interested in participating in the assembly of a “Cold Climate Design Guide.” This guide has already received approval for development by the representative associations with hopes of a 2014-2015 publication date.

Kudos to the City of Calgary for stepping up as the silver sponsor. This was evidently the first time a municipality has become this involved in the event. The scientific committee headed up by Bert Phillips (UNIES Ltd.), Bjarne Olesen (Danish Technical University) and Bill Dean (NRC-CNRC) did a great job with the technical program; and thanks as well to the sponsoring manufacturers who stand to benefit from the over 150 000 design practitioners who collectively were represented at the conference by the endorsing organizations and co-sponsors of SCANVAC, REHVA and ASHRAE. < > Robert Bean, R.E.T., P.L.(Eng.), is a registered practitioner in building construction engineering technology (ASET) and a professional licensee in mechanical engineering (APEGGA).

He has over 30 years experience in the construction industry specializing in energy and indoor environmental quality and is the author and lecturer for professional development programs addressing building science, thermal comfort quality, indoor air quality and radiantbased HVAC systems. www.healthyheating.com

i. Source: www.ashrae.org/membership--conferences/conferences/ashrae-conferences/Cold-Climate-HVAC-2012 ii. Source: City hosts International Cold Climate Conference, City of Calgary, Planning & Building, November, 2012 iii. www.antarctica.ac.uk/images/video/player.php?id=7696653c iv. www.antarctica.ac.uk/living_and_working/research_stations/halley/halleyvi/ v. See note ii

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< building science

Guaranteeing Energy Performance: Mission Impossible?

M

ost energy models produce best-case scenario goals for the design team, assuming perfect construction and operation. However, owners/operators quickly realize that energy models are typically not exact predictors of energy use. But that is changing: design teams and constructors/operators are being required to hit energy model predictions - or else.

With the rise of P3s (Public Private Partnerships) has come energy guarantee modeling. also known as painshare/gainshare or aggregate energy targeting. This type of modeling provides an energy performance prediction during the pro-

posal phase that the constructor/operator guarantee will be met. And there are penalties (or rewards) for the operator depending on if the energy savings predicted are achieved. In 2006, Enermodal helped Infrastructure Ontario craft one of the first painshare/gainshare contracts in the country. Since then, the number of similar projects have increased quickly, with many P3 projects using this model today. A typical contract will see the developer/operator pay 50 to 100 per cent of excess energy use (more than predicted by the model) and receive 50 to 100 per cent of any energy savings (see Figure 1).

Figure 1 Typical Energy Modelling Process

Energy Guarantee Modelling Process

Project Initiation Phase

No energy modeling conducted.

Owner issues a RFP indicating the approximate energy savings or even an absolute energy target they would like for the final building; a constructor/operator hires a design team and energy modeler to create a detailed design that achieves the desired energy savings at minimized cost.

Proposal (Concept Design) Phase

Energy modeler produces a preliminary energy model in consultation with the design team.

Owner selects the winning team based on best value (including energy costs) and the contract is executed.

Detailed Design Phase

Design is changed due to value engineering, input from members of the design team, etc. The energy model is updated accordingly.

Design can be tweaked, but the energy modeler works closely with the design team to ensure changes will not affect the proposed energy use.

Construction Phase

Slight changes are made to the design based on, material availability, scheduling, etc. The final energy model is completed based on as-built condition.

The contractor constructs the building exactly as designed.

Post-Occupancy Phase

Energy use may or may not be measured and compared to the energy model

Energy use is carefully measured by source (hydro, gas, diesel, etc.) and end-use (lighting, heating, etc.) and compared with the energy model predictions.

24

HPAC | november/december 2012

hpacmag.com

â&#x20AC;&#x153;This type of energy guarantee project adds huge weight to our input as energy modelers and sustainability experts: both in terms of encouraging the adoption of energy efficiency measures and in maintaining these during detailed design.â&#x20AC;?

Benefits While energy guarantees, and P3s in general, provide challenges and risks, the result is often a better building from an energy efficiency perspective. This is because of some fundamental differences in the creation of an energy guarantee model versus a typical energy model, including more coordination between the design and construction team, which adds 'weight' to the input of the energy modeler.

Traditional/LEED energy models contain a variety of assumptions to prevent energy modelers from inputting unrealistic numbers or 'cheating' the software to create unachievable energy savings predictions. These assumptions include the number of occupants, operating schedules, process loads (i.e., elevators, kitchen equipment), and plug loads (i.e., computers and electronic equipment). An Energy Guarantee Model must be more accurate, so more precise detail on the building as well as plug and process load calculations are required.

Since the energy model's predicted savings must be carried from the proposal stage through design and then construction, much more effort is put on coordinating between phases. Also, the design team is highly motivated not to 'value engineer' out energy efficiency items, which often happens in green building projects.

The energy modeler's voice is heard much louder and given more weight when a certain level of energy efficiency is a guaranteed requirement. This ensures sustainability is prioritized at the same level as budget, timelines, and the personal preferences of members of the design team.

The most significant affect energy guarantee modeling has on the design/construction process is providing a fundamental shift in the incentive each player has in creating the best, most energy-efficient building possible. In a typical design process, the design team (and the developer if they are not operating the building) has little incentive to ensure the building performs as efficiently as possible. In this process, the

hpacmag.com

- Corrie Mooney, project principal, Green Buildings Group

developer, operator, and design team all have a stake in ensuring near-perfect design, construction, and operation.

Keys to Success 1. Understand process and plug loads

Since the energy modeler must carefully calculate and (if possible) reduce process and plug loads, this professional must have extensive experience in understanding these loads. They also must know how to use the 'back end' of energy modeling software, not just the interface used on many projects.

2. Have experience in actual energy performance

Many members of the design team, including some energy modelers, go through their entire career never truly understanding how their buildings are operated and how they perform in actual practice. Their focus is on creating a great design - in theory. The construction and operation are someone else's job. Not anymore. Energy guarantee modeling requires design teams to understand how building systems work and perform in real life, not just on paper.

3. Do not forget to measure and improve

Many owners and design teams still do not realize the absolutely vital role extended commissioning and ongoing energy metering and monitoring play in an energy-efficient building.

It usually takes several months to one year to fully commission a building, particularly a complex, large building, but the result is typically a 10 to 25 per cent reduction in energy use by improving operations, adjusting control settings, and correcting construction errors. A measurement and verification program ensures sufficient metering to uncover unexpected energy use and provide the information necessary to correct these problems. Both these services are key to operating a building that meets the energy model predictions. <>

Source: Enermodal Engineering www.enermodal.com

november/december 2012 | HPAC

25

< management

Crossing the divide Knowing how to interact and retain employees from the Gen Y generation

T

here are a variety of challenges and conflicts that stem from having different generations interacting in the workplace. An example of generations that sometimes have trouble co-existing in the workplace is the baby boom generation (people born between 1946 and 1965) and Generation Y (people born between 1977 and 1995). Enter Jason Dorsey, chief strategy officer at The Center for Generational Kinetics in Austin, TX, who travels all over the world delivering keynote speeches on crossing the generational divides with Gen Y. “The new generation of workers has a different set of priorities, set of communication styles and different motivations, and those differences are where that conflict is created,” said Dorsey.

Dorsey said boomers tend to communicate in a more formal manner; relying on phone calls, hand-written notes,

e-mail and eye contact when speaking in person, while many members of the Gen Y generation are more likely to communicate using text messages, sending incomplete messages and not making eye contact when speaking face to face, even when they are paying attention.

The second big difference lies in the work ethic and work styles of the two generations. Dorsey said the number one complaint he hears from managers in the workplace from boomers about Gen Y is their sense of entitlement. He said one factor often overlooked by boomers is that entitlement, as a behaviour, is 100 per cent learned.

“You’re not born entitled, you have to be raised that way,” he said. “The irony of course is that the people who raised us that way are the same baby boomers, the same age demographic, that’s frustrated and annoyed with us.”

He adds that many Gen Y’ers do not share that sense of entitlement and, in fact, are the people most frustrated by it.

How hours are worked is another big difference between the generations.

“Baby boomers, their identity starts when they show up to work,” he said. “Their identity is very much about what they do and what they’ve achieved through what they do. Gen Y’s identity starts when they leave work… that idea that you place work above everything else hasn’t transferred to Gen Y – in large part due to we see what it did to our boomer parents.”

He said Gen Y’ers often reject the longer hours their boomer parents worked – and the financial success and stability sometimes associated with it, in exchange for a better life/work balance.

Dorsey noted that the perceptions of the skilled trades as careers for the younger generations are another challenge managers will need to overcome.

“Whoever figures out Gen Y for retention purposes will have a built-in competitive advantage and a long-term strategic advantage.”

– Dorsey 26 26 HPAC HPAC | | november/december november/december2012 2012

hpacmag.com

Photo: istockphoto

is vital to companies’ long-term success. By Andrew Snook

Being green does not mean younger employees do not possesses the right skills or lack the smarts to the jobs they are hired for; in fact, Dorsey says in fields like the skilled trades where jobs are becoming more techreliant, the skills that Gen Y bring to the table have never been more important. <>

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hpacmag.com

ing may be necessary for younger generations, Dorsey warned against coddling.

“I am completely against the idea of coddling Gen Y, it brings out the worst qualities,” he said. “[Gen Y] respond well to consistency of rules and responsibilities and being held accountable; but it has to be consistent.”

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“I think there’s an industry perception, and the industry perception is that it’s not an attractive, sexy industry and that it’s not evolving quickly and Gen Y is drawn to things that are exciting and changing,” he said. “The reality is that the industry is evolving and there’s more technology, more cool stuff than ever before, it’s just not marketed well.”

Dorsey said Gen Y looks for company videos of people and interesting projects within industries that would appeal to them when looking for a job, not just money. He said Gen Y is very much into instant gratification and being outcome driven, and the skilled trades are a perfect fit.

Another factor sometimes overlooked is the age at which Gen Y’ers and younger generations are entering the workforce. Dorsey said people are entering the workforce at an older age then any other generation before them, that is three to five years later than previous generations.

“What’s happening is that Boomer manager sees himself at age 22 and thinks, ‘Well by the time I was 22 I had four jobs, two kids and a house,’ yet the 22-year-old Gen Y’er may have never have lived on their own, never had a job, doesn’t know how to balance their bank account and they’re going in completely green.”

Boomers often expect Gen Y’ers to have already learned the necessary training for a job, while Gen Y’ers often assume the training will be provided once they are hired, and this leads to a variety of issues in the workplace.

“What we advise [managers] to do is to identify the five or 10 things that these new hires do that frustrate you or that doesn’t meet your expectations, then go and create a homemade training video that the new hires can watch that addresses these five or 10 things.”

Although a different style of train-

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november/december 2012 | HPAC

27

< refrigeration

ASHRAE and UNEP Join Forces Promoting sustainable refrigeration in facilities and systems.

A

SHRAE and the United Nations Environment Programme recently announced a collaborative effort to develop and publish a new Guide for Sustainable Refrigerated Facilities and Systems. This $400 000 project is jointly funded by ASHRAE and the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer and is scheduled to be completed in early 2014.

The Guide will address the entire range of facility and equipment design and efficiency alternatives for refrigerated processing, storage and distribution (the cold chain) in both developed and developing countries. As global urbanization continues, refrigerated storage and transport from farm to store is critical. Medicine storage and transportation is likewise critical.

The Guide is also important as Parties to the Montreal Protocol face upcoming compliance deadlines. For developing countries this means a freeze in HCFC consumption and production by January 1, 2013, followed by a 10 per cent reduction in 2015 and 97.5 per cent reduction by 2030.

Currently, HCFC-22 is the preferred refrigerant for many facilities and systems, particularly for small-medium sized enterprises, but this ozone depleting gas is being phased out under the Montreal Protocol. The Guide’s goal is to support the selection of alternatives while maintaining or improving energy efficiency across the entire cold chain and reducing

the environmental footprint. That, in turn, supports countries’ compliance with this international treaty and improves global sustainability.

James Curlin, interim head of UNEP’s OzonAction Branch notes: “The protection of the stratospheric ozone layer under the Montreal Protocol has a long track record of meeting specific and measurable sustainable development objectives, including contributing to Millennium Development Goal 7, ‘Ensuring Environmental Sustainability.’ This guide will help impart such sustainability considerations to the owners and operators of refrigerated systems and facilities in developing countries, and help them make informed decisions about refrigerants, equipment and energy efficiency considerations. ” <>

Backgrounder The Montreal Protocol on Substances That Deplete the Ozone Layer is an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production and consumption of a number of substances believed to be responsible for ozone depletion. The treaty was opened for signature on Sept. 16, 1987, and entered into force on Jan. 1, 1989. Since then, it has undergone five amendments, in 1990 (London), 1992 (Copenhagen), 1995 (Vienna), 1997 (Montreal) and 1999 (Beijing). Due to its widespread adoption and implementation it

The Players

has been hailed as an example of exceptional international

ASHRAE (www.ashrae.org), founded in 1894, is a building

cooperation "Perhaps the single most successful international

technology society with more than 50,000 members worldwide.

agreement to date...”

The Society and its members focus on building systems,

The Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal

energy efficiency, indoor air quality, refrigeration and sustain-

Protocol is managed by an executive committee, which is

ability within the industry. UNEP (www.unep.org) is the United

responsible for overseeing the operation of the Fund. The 2012

Nations system’s designated entity for addressing

Committee membership includes Argentina, Belgium, Canada,

environmental issues at the global and regional level. Its man-

China, Cuba, Finland, India, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Mali,

date is to coordinate the development of environmental policy

Romania, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern

consensus by keeping the global environment under review and

Ireland, and United States of America. UNEP is one of four

bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and

Implementing Agencies of the Fund, along with UNDP, UNIDO

the international community for action.

and the World Bank.

28

HPAC | november/december 2012

hpacmag.com

< conference Report

CHES 2012: Towards World Class Health Care Mechanical business professionals make their points on the best practices and regulations in healthcare facilities. by LUC BOILY

T

he Canadian Healthcare Engineering Society (CHES) held its 2012 National & Education Forum Trade Show at the Palais des congrès de Montreal this Fall under the theme, "Towards World Class Healthcare." This threeday event brought together major players involved in planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance in Canadian healthcare facilities. Topics ranged from infection control to energy conservation.

Infection Control With 11.6 per cent of patients entering a Canadian hospital to cure a illness contracting an infection – about 250 000 cases reported each year in the country – safe measures in hospitals are a must, said Jessica Fullerton, Infection Control Practitioner (PCI) at the University Health Network in Toronto.

Her session focused on the preventive and infection control requirements at construction and renovation sites in healthcare facilities.

To prevent the spread of bacteria in water, which occured in Quebec City this summer with the outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease, or the transportation of fungi in dust, for example, all construction/renovation sites must take on strict procedures, and need diligent teamwork from the very beginning of each project, stressed Fullerton. She went on to explain procedures that must be undertaken, which include: back and forth safe pathways for workers (dedicated elevator, restricted access), site isolation, venting duct and plumbing system recovery procedures, filter cleaning and replacement, as well as building negative pressure in rooms.

that copper plating these surfaces would prevent many of these infections and explained that has the natural property of destroying bacteria in a short period of time: two hours or so for the 30 million species in concentration tests performed. In fact, 15 minutes are often enough, contended the speakers. “Without eliminating the need to sanitize the room, copper surfaces nevertheless offer additional protection that pays itself in terms of infection decreases and patient quality of stay increases,” concluded Roles and Kadjolka.

Solutions for the future Laurier Nichols, mechanical engineer with Dessau, offered delegates insights into improving the efficiency for the hospital of the future, because hospitals – given their purpose and ventilation requirements – have a much higher energy consumption rate than average buildings. As IAQ, comfort and HVAC efficiency solutions, Nichols pointed out energy efficiency measures including preheating domestic hot water; reducing steam production (used for sterilization and cooking); heating, cooling and humidifying the air used for ventilation; and heating the building envelope.

Heat recovery for heating, which often represents more than 40 per cent of the total electricity cost in hospitals - is the first move, according to Nichols. Using heat wheel technology will often provide the expected results. He added that water-glycol coils technology should be an alternative for contaminated exhaust air applications, which cannot be recirculated in the building.

Back to Copper

Exhibit floor

An amazing children's hospital case study in Alberta was presented by Allan Roles and Marc Kadziolka. Both were involved in the management and engineering of the project, in which a state of the art domestic water distribution system had been installed in 2006. Among its many unique features is an ultraviolet radiation water disinfection system, which is used to treat all incoming water.

Roles and Kadjolka emphasized that as much as 80 per cent of infections are spread through hand contact with the highest risk surfaces in hospital rooms being bed rails and tables, handles, faucets and sink edges. They suggested

In addition to the 20 seminars available to delegates, more than a hundred exhibitors were there to offer solutions for planning, construction, engineering, facilities management and security, building maintenance and support services, environmental and waste management. The next CHES Annual Conference will be at the Niagara Convention Centre, Niagara Falls, ON, September 22-24, 2013, with the theme "Powering Into the Future." www.ches.org <>

30

HPAC | november/december 2012

Luc Boily is the editor of Plomberie, Chauffage & Climatisation, HPAC’s French language sister publication. hpacmag.com

< combustion

Where there is smoke... there is a maintenance issue New oilburners should not produce smoke.

Sulfur Sulfur exists in varying degrees in all fossil fuels. The sulfur content of heating oil ranges from 0.5 per cent to 0.05 per cent by weight.

When burned, the sulfur mixes with oxygen to form sulfuric oxide (SOx). It reacts with the water vapour in the combustion gases to create sulfuric acid aerosol. When the acid condenses (at about 66C-93C); (150F to 200F), it adheres to the flue pipe and heat exchanger surfaces in a film and rehpacmag.com

acts with the iron in the pipe and heat exchanger wall. This creates iron sulfates, the light-yellow to rust-coloured crusty scale you find clinging to the heat exchanger.

Scale buildup downgrades efficiency by one to four per cent over the year. It also blocks flue passages, restricting air flow and increasing smoke and soot. Sulfur levels in heating oil are gradually being reduced, so this will be less of a problem in the future.

Carbon monoxide Carbon monoxide, or CO, is a toxic gas that can occur in homes and buildings where combustion by-products are generated, not properly vented and allowed to accumulate. CO is a colourless, odourless, tasteless poison. Carbon monoxide is readily absorbed into the body and can impair the oxygencarrying capacity of the blood (hemoglobin).

Impairment of the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hemoglobin results in less oxygen to the brain, heart, and tissues. Even short-term overexposure to carbon monoxide can be critical or fatal to people Continued on page 32

Figure 1 Soot affects fuel consumption

Effect of Soot on Fuel Consumption

S

moke and soot, which are nothing more than unburned carbon, are created by outdated burner designs and incorrect burner service and adjustment.

Smoke production is unnecessary and must be eliminated, because it reduces efficiency, increases service calls, and is a nuisance to homeowners. It can be prevented using modern burners, and through careful adjustment of burners using combustion test equipment.

Excessive smoke wastes fuel because it deposits soot on the heat exchanger surfaces (see Figure 1). This insulates the heat exchanger, limiting its ability to extract the heat from the combustion gases. A layer of soot only 1/8" thick can reduce heat absorption by over eight per cent.

Efficiency loss caused by a smoky burner occurs as the soot slowly builds up. Soot also affects the reliable operation of the burner. If it builds up on the cad cell or the bimetal of the stack relay, it can act like a flame failure and cause the control to lock out on safety, creating an unnecessary service call.

Overfiring can cause smoke. If a unit is overfired, the burner will create heat faster than the heating system can distribute to the building. When this happens, the burner short cycles (goes on and off frequently for short periods of time). The problem is that older oilburners create smoke when they start and stop.

Up to two thirds of all the smoke produced by burners made before the year 2000 is produced on start up and shut down. Therefore, properly sized nozzles will produce less frequent burner cycling and less smoke.

Soot layer on heating surfaces november/december 2012 | HPAC

31

< combustion

Continued from page 31

with heart and lung diseases, and to the young or the elderly.

It may also cause headaches and dizziness and other signifAmbient CO limits (Recommended) icant medical problems in healthy people. At low concentra0 ppm. This level is most desirable, but cannot always be tions, CO can go undetected and contribute to nagging achieved due to cigarettes, candles, and appliances illnesses, and can compound pre-existing health problems. such as gas stoves.

Carbon monoxide is a result of incomplete combustion 1-9 ppm. Normal levels within the home. due to unburned fuel. During combustion, carbon in the fuel 10-35 ppm. Advise occupants, check for symptoms oxidizes through a series of reactions to form carbon dioxide (slight headache, tiredness, dizziness, and nausea or flu (CO2). However, 100 per cent conversion of carbon to CO2 is like symptoms), check all appliances, including the furnace, water heater and boiler, check for other sources inrarely achieved under field conditions and some carbon only cluding internal combustion engine operation in attached oxidizes to the intermediate step, carbon monoxide or CO. garages.

Carbon monoxide is usually produced by insufficient com36-99 ppm. Recommend fresh air, check for symptoms, bustion air. However, excess air and mismatched oil to air ventilate the space, recommend medical attention. patterns and ratios can also reduce flame temperature to a 100+ ppm. Evacuate the home (including yourself!) and point where CO is produced. So, adding too much air to clean contact emergency medical services (911). Do not atup a smoky fire can create CO. When any part of the flame is tempt to ventilate the space. Short-term exposure to reduced below 609C (1128F), CO will be produced. Flame these levels can cause permanent physical damage. impingement also results in lower flame temperature and CO production.

Carbon released into homes by vent blockage, 16 FLIRmonoxide Back in isBlack HPAC Feb12:3.375x4.875 2/14/12 12 flue pipe damage, heat exchanger cracks, and restricted air supply into the house. This last problem is progressively getting worse as new homes become tighter in their construction, and many homeowners are weather stripping and insulating their older homes.

Most homes have a number of devices such as exhaust fans, clothes dryers, and fireplaces, that remove air from the See How the Most Affordable Thermal Imaging Cameras Just Got Better home. This suction is often stronger than the suction of the heating system’s chimney or power vent. This backdrafting causes the emissions from the heating system, the water heater, gas ovens, gas stoves, gas dryers, and wood stoves or fireplaces to enter the living area and elevate CO levels.

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Quality – Innovation – Trust

HPAC | november/december 2012

If you see smoke near the burner, dark smoke coming from the chimney, or smell a sharp raw oil smell, the burner is probably producing unacceptable levels of carbon monoxide.

With insufficient combustion air, oilburners usually produce elevated smoke levels before high CO levels are reached.

This smoke is a warning signal.

The result is that the danger from high CO levels is much lower from oilburners than any other hydrocarbon burner.

However, if oilburners are operated with too much combustion air, it chills the flame and creates CO with no smoke.

Improper nozzle to air patterning can also produce CO. <> This material has been supplied by the Canadian Oil Heat Association. It is excerpted from Today's Oilheat Technician's Manual 3rd Edition, which is available at www.coha.ca. hpacmag.com

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HPAC | november/december 2012

hpacmag.com

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1 ½-in. below surface material. They feature AC Detection, which detects

housing and operates on the Flexible Power

live wires up to two inches below surface material, and ergonomically-

System of Bosch of batteries, including the

designed soft grips for increased comfort and control.

3.0-ah FatPack or 1.5-ah SlimPack.

www.stanleytools.com

www.boschtools.com Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster True 52 Series manual plasma cutting system weighs 43 lb. and provides a ½-in. recommended cut at 25 inches per minute. It delivers a 1-1/8 -in. maximum cut and offers a 60-amp drag tip for more precise cutting. The unit comes standard with a four-year warranty and features a roll bar for easy transportation and protection of the front and rear power supply; and the Thermal Dynamics 1Torch, which works on most plasma power sources. www.victortechnologies.com

The RNC5-TPD and RNC5-TPF are designed for maximum performance in small space applications.

These units offer: • 3 selectable high speed settings • Door port balancing • Top ports with self-locking dampers • No side access required • Full size Heat Recovery Core • Available in damper or fan defrost

Setting a New Standard

Visit us at www.lifebreath.com

36

HPAC | november/december 2012

hpacmag.com

Plumbing PRODUCts ThermaSol’s NoTouch Aromatherapy Steam Head for its

The HydroRight dual

residential

steam

flush converter from MJSI,

showers

products

Inc. is designed to convert

line

available

standard toilets into water-

in

are

traditional

and

saving dual flush toilets.

contemporary designs

It features a split design handle

and deliver essential

that offers quick flush or full flush

oil through its NoTouch

capabilities and can be installed without

Steamhead Reservoir.www.thermasol.com

tools or tank removal. www.gomjsi.com

Taco’s SmartPlus circulator is designed for systems with

The Cadet PRO from American Standard comes

dedicated hot water return lines. It has a mode select toggle

equipped with a 3-in. flush valve with fully glazed

switch on the electronic control board that allows for “Pulse” or

2- 1/8 in. trapway, metal trip levers and metal

“Smart” operation to be selected. A yellow LED indicates which

shank fill valve and EZ-install tools. It features

mode is selected. All operation is automatic. No manual timer or

PowerWash rim for scrubbing the bowl with

temperature setting is required. In smart mode, the unit records

each flush and comes standard with EverClean

each time hot water is called for. In pulse mode, it operates

surface and has a 1000g MaP score at 1.28

for 150 seconds every 10 minutes to maintain hot water at all

GPF. It is available in white, bone and linen with

fixtures. A vacation mode activates if hot water is not used for 36

trip level options of chrome, polished brass,

hours. In this mode, water is circulated once a week to prevent

satin nickel, oil rubbed bronze and white.

corrosion and scale buildup. www.taco-hvac.com

www.americanstandard.com

WHEN THE SITUATION CALLS FOR UPDATING YOUR WATER SYSTEMS,

ZURN LISTENS.

Thousands of workers depend on this facility’s water every day. So when we updated our restrooms and water systems, we needed the most dependable product with the most value. That’s why we called Zurn.

T O TA L B U I L D I N G S O L U T I O N S • Wall-hung Modulating Condensing Gas-Fired Boiler • ASME approved Stainless Steel Heat Exchanger • Optional Domestic Hot Water Generator • 93% AFUE Efficiency • 160,000 BTUH Input • Modulation Ratio 1:5.3 • Microprocessor Control • Free 5 Year Parts and Labour Warranty See more of the VSL-160 on our website at:

www.slantfin.ca hpacmag.com

A complete line of products for any project. A 100-year history of quality and innovation. And the lowest life-cycle costs in the industry. When it comes to total building solutions for your water needs, one name stands above the rest. Zurn. For new construction, retrofit, and replacement, give us a call. We’ll listen.

zurn.c m 905-405-8272

november/december 2012 | HPAC

37

Plumbing PRODUCts Zurn's Go Blue plumbing products are interchangeable with a variety of brands. The clog-resistant triple and linear filtered bypass diaphragms parts are built with Thermo Plastic Elastomer (TPE) materials for increased chemical resistance and are blue in colour for simple identification. The Go Blue line of commercial faucet cartridges and aerators are designed to endure high usage. www.zurn.com

Armstrong’s Design Envelope IVS Booster is built to address the need The SANIACCESS 3 macerating system from Saniflo

for consistent water pressure while using less energy than a con-

Canada is designed to accommodate a complete

stant-speed booster. This unit is designed to increase water pressure

bathroom

and

to match occupant requirements for every fixture within a building.

discharges waste up to 15 ft. vertically and 150 ft.

When water usage is low, the booster system automatically reduces

horizontally. It features a 0.5hp induction motor, two

the pressure boost so energy is not wasted creating excess pres-

service panels a pipe size discharge of ¾-in. and a

sure. www.armstrongpumps.com

(sink,

shower

and/or

bathtub)

maximum fluid temperature of 104F (40C). The system is available in round or ADA-compliant elongated bowl styles and has the following dimensions: 10 ¾-in. H x

The EC-3122 above-deck electronic sensor faucet from T&S

18 ¾-in. W x 6 ¾-in. D. www.saniflo.ca

Brass features a manual mixing valve built into the faucet body; above-deck electronics and programmable controls and a vandal-resistant aerator with a flow rate of 2.2 gpm (lowerflow aerator options available). It is lead-free, comes standard with AC and DC power options and various compatible power options. www.tsbrass.com

The Bell & Gossett Snap Zone Valve from Xylem Inc. features a compact design, an adapt-

AERCO’s Benchmark 1000 boiler delivers 20:1 turndown and

er ring that allows for the actuators to be in-

offers a range of 50 000 to 1 million Btuh and has dimensions

stalled in any 360-degree position and it can

of 79" x 28" x 25". It features low-NOx burner design and its

fit under baseboards or in other tight spaces.

C-More control package can be integrated into a facility-wide

It has a push-button actuator that allows for

building automation system via MODBUS and is fully compatible

one-handed installation and permits wiring in

with AERCO’s Boiler Management System II (BMS II). AERCO’s

any direction. The valve has a forged brass

Oxygen Level (O2) monitoring system is available for this model.

body and comes equipped with a visual indi-

www.aerco.com

cator that offers recognition of which valves are energized and its replaceable plunger assembly allows for internal removal without removing the valve from the system. Its oper-

The Universal Tub and Shower kit from Pfister is compat-

ating temperature range for fluids is 32F (0C)

ible with water valves from several manufacturers and

– 212F (100C); it has an ambient temperature

does not require the removal of tile or fibreglass from

range of 32F (0C) – 122F (50C); a maximum

walls. It is built for quick installation and is available in a

operating pressure of 240 psi; a maximum dif-

variety of finishes, including: chrome, brushed nickel and

ferential close-off of 60 psi; shutoff/opening

Tuscan bronze. The kit comes with a five-function shower-

speeds of three minutes; an electrical rating of

head, a handle kit designed to work with eight different

24V (60Hz) and a power consumption of 1.8W.

valves, and an all-metal tub spout.

www.xylemappliedwater.com

www.pfisterfaucets.com

38

HPAC | november/december 2012

hpacmag.com

Advanced Comfort Technologies

Bosch utilizes a host of diverse technologies to achieve optimum thermal efficiency.

Tankless Water Heaters. Solar Thermal Panels. Condensing Boilers. Heat Pump Water Heaters and Ultra-Efficient Geothermal Solutions. Bosch Advanced Comfort Technologies: Built to meet even the harshest Canadian conditions.

Visit us at www.bosch-climate.us for further product information.

HYDRONIC PRODUCts Lochinvar, LLC’s CREST condensing boiler has inputs up to 5 million Btuh. They feature fire-tube technology integrated with Lochinvar’s Smart Touch operating control and are now offered with a dual fuel gas train on the 1.5 to 3.5 million Btuh models. The boilers are equipped with a keypad switch on the front panel for simple conversion from natural gas to propane. Additional features include lower firing input derate numbers in high altitude applications. www.Lochinvar.com Futera Fusion condensing, modulating, hot water supply and hydronic heating boilers from RBI are

XTherm high efficicency low-NOx boilers and water heaters from

offered in models ranging from 500 MBH to 2000

Raypak are built with a steel channel base and a stainless steel

MBH. They feature a finned copper tube heat

flue wrapper and condensing heat exchanger. They are available

exchanger, ASME 160 psi MAWP, 4-pass design;

in three input models, ranging from one to two million Btuh

full modulation with continuous 4:1 turndown; a

and are AB-1953 low lead certified. They feature a footprint of

stainless steel secondary heat exchanger with

less than 11 sq. ft., up to 4:1 turndown and have a minimum

low pressure drop; a variable speed blower; flame

continuous inlet water temperature of 50F. Water heater models

safeguard control; small vent sizes; quick-release

are equipped with all copper and bronze waterways. The boiler

service latches; a HeatNet integrated boiler

models come equipped with cast iron headers and pumps with

management system; and Modbus protocol for

an option to upgrade to bronze (All other waterway plumbing

BS communications. www.rbiwaterheaters.com

is copper). www.raypak.com

HE-AB Series Forced draft, gas fired water boilers in 6 standard sizes; 900 MBH to 3,000 MBH input, output 23 BHP to 76 BHP. Model HE-AB120-W-FDG

Select from 14 standard models

HE-RV Series Forced draft, gas fired water boilers in 8 standard sizes; 3,500 MBH to 8,000 MBH input, output 89 BHP to 203 BHP.

Confused by bogus efficiency claims?

Get guaranteed higher efficiency from the most trusted and respected name in boilers – Bryan Steam has introduced two boilers with a guaranteed efficiency of 85% on gas! The high combustion efficiency results from a uniquely designed integrated extended surface heat extractor. These boilers feature an industry leading 7 sq ft of heating surface per boiler horsepower.

They operate at normal operating temperatures, without need to provide for the expense or complications of special venting material.

The Bryan “Flexible Water Tube” provides for extremely fast internal circulation for maximum heat transfer and operating efficiency. The flexibility of the bent water tube design eliminates all possible damage from “Thermal Shock”.

Learn more at bryanboilers.com Originators of the “Flexible Water Tube” design

Model HE-RV800-W-FDG

WaterFurnace

International,

Inc.’s

Envision2

Compact Series geothermal heat pumps feature a small cabinet built with heavy-gauge galvanized steel for corrosion resistance; and are available in 0.75to 6-ton capacities. All heat pumps feature coaxial heat exchangers that are oversized and convoluted with a copper inner tube and steel outer tube for maximum heat transfer at normal and low water flow rates; are equipped with the Aurora generation of communicating controls and use R410A refrigerant.

Single-speed models operate with a Copeland 5-K

®

Scroll or LG rotary compressor, while dual-capacity Bryan Steam LLC • Leaders Since 1916 783 N. Chili Ave., Peru, IN 46970 / Phone: 765-473-6651 / Fax: 765-473-3074 / E-Mail: inquiry@bryansteam.com / www.bryanboilers.com Commercial/Industrial Steam and Hot Water Boilers, Boiler Room Accessories

© 2012 Bryan Steam LLC 12-3934

40

HPAC | november/december 2012

units use a Copeland UltraTech compressor. www.waterfurnace.com hpacmag.com

Slant/Fin’s VSL-160 gas-fired, hot water condensing boiler is available as a combination gas boiler and water heater and features a stainlesssteel premix burner and a corrosion-resistant, stainless-steel heat exchanger. This low-NOx, compact unit can be used with natural gas or propane and has a maximum input of 160 MBH and an input modulation of 30 MBH. The combi-unit is equipped with a 2.6-gallon expansion tank, circulator, DHW heat exchanger and diverter valve. www.slantfin.ca

Caleffi's MINICAL automatic air vents come in two models – 1/8-in. NPT and 1.8-in. NPT

Navien’s condensing Combi

with check valve – and are made with a brass

gas boiler and water

body, cover and valve stem, and stainless

heater has an input of

steel vent wire lever and spring. They have a

up to 199 000 Btuh and

maximum working pressure 150 psi (10 bar), a

features: dual stainless

maximum venting pressure of 40 psi (2.5 bar)

steel heat exchangers;

Uponor’s PEX-a Pipe Support is a steel

and a maximum working temperature of 250F

an

remote

channel that offers continuous support of

or 230F. www.caleffi.us

control

intelligent

with

crosslinked polyethylene (PEX-a) tubing in

an easy to read LCD

system

suspended piping applications designed

display; a DHW pressure

to enable hanger spacing equal to that of

range of 15-150 PSI and

copper. The support is available in 9-ft.

heating pressure range

lengths for 1-in., 1¼-in., 1½-in. and

of 7-30 PSI; an automatic water filling system and a

2-in. PEX-a pipe sizes and can be used

low cost PVC venting solution with the ability to vent

in commercial plumbing and hydronic

up to 100 ft. with a maximum of six elbows.

distribution systems. www.uponor.ca

www.NavienAmerica.com The tekmarNet Touchscreen Thermostat 557

The DeltaSol BS solar thermal collector from Resol features a

from tekmar operates water-to-air or air-to-air

drainback option, cooling functions and pump speed control in all

heat pumps together with radiant floor heating.

versions. The BS/4 and BS Plus relay versions both offer thermal

A backup heat source is available when the

disinfection, thermostat function and evacuated tube collector

heat pump is off. When combined with the tN2

function. The BS Plus allows the user to choose from 10 basic system

House Control 406, radiant floor and two-pipe

layouts, including one for heat dissipation, and its extended priority

fan coils provide heating and cooling.

logic controls the distribution of solar heat between two tanks or a

www.tekmarControls.com

tank and a swimming pool. www.solarnetix.com

Radiant Heating and Potable Systems HeatWeave® Electric Floor Warming

SubRay® Subfloor Radiant System

Infrared image of a radiant heated home

Learn more at www.wattscanada.ca or call 1-800-268-4045 hpacmag.com

november/december 2012 | HPAC

41

< Plumbing

Luxury Baths paradise for your bottom line

Digital designs and refurbished relics trendy for high-end bathrooms

By Andrew Snook

W

e live in a digital age, so it is not surprising to see luxury bathrooms heading in that direction. From modern to contemporary and other unique designs, innovative technologies are helping transform bathrooms into a place of retreat and relaxation like never before.

“Our research shows that consumers look at the shower as a private sanctuary,” said Garry Scott, vicepresident of wholesale marketing and brand development for Moen Canada. He said consumers are gravitating towards digital technology to add convenience to their bathroom experience.

“Sometimes it’s the only place in the home you can go to get away from everyone,” said Donna Church, Kohler Canada marketing and communications manager.

“Combined with great design, it makes for a great retreat.”

Church added that multi-generational homes, new technology, and ready access to that technology, are driving forces in today’s designs.

Customers want the digital and higher-end bathroom products but what is in it for contractors? Jon Leeson, vice-president and general manger at Desco, said one advantage of installing and selling luxury bathroom products is that contractors can enjoy a little more profitability; particularly with products offered at showrooms exclusive to contractors that are not available through traditional retail outlets.

Superior showers With digital shower products, consumers can maintain water temperature in their showers and baths, redirect water to various body sprays and save unique settings for different members of the household.

“It’s as close to computerizing your bathroom as you can get,” said Scott.

Homeowners use their showers as a place to get rejuvenated at the start or end of their day, according to Scott, who also noted that shower walls that incorporate jets are becoming increasingly popular.

42 42 HPAC HPAC || november/december november/december2012 2012

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One of Moen’s offerings to consumers looking to re-energize is its Flushmount body spray line, designed as a non-intrusive body spray that provides ample coverage while giving the bathroom a modern look. It is built to blend in with tile, slate and other premium bathroom shower-surround materials. Available in multiple trims and finishes, the Flushmount line is designed to appeal to a variety of tastes, but consumers are not the only people Moen was thinking about when the product was designed. The body spray line was designed to be roughed in easily and serviced from outside, without the need to break into a wall to service it, explained Scott.

“We find when we talk to tradespeople, they were asking for this type of (body spray) design but it created installation issues, which made it necessary to design it to make them easy to install,” said Scott.

Gary Uhl, director of design at American Standard, said there is a strong trend towards thermostatically-controlled showers for better control and improved safety, as well as improved accessibility as a design requirement.

“More people are living in apartments, condos or homes with more than one generation in place, so accessibility is becoming a bigger issue,” he said. “Boomers very much say they want to age in place.”

Delivering on water “conservation without diminishing any performance or convenience of luxury products is a major challenge for manufacturers.

”

This has pushed a trend for more walk-in tubs, seated showers, higher toilets and higher vanities, explained Uhl. Masco Canada Ltd.’s marketing brand manager Anita Griffin said another factor affecting shower and overall bathroom and home designs is the push towards greater water conservation. To help conserve water without having to sacrifice having higher-flow shower systems, people are also installing greywater systems and other water-saving devices.

Griffin pointed out that there are ways to install these types of shower systems and be environmentally conscious.

Uhl says delivering on water conservation without diminishing any performance or convenience of luxury products is a major challenge for manufacturers.

“If you ask people, ‘Do you want to conserve water?’ They all say ‘Of course I do,’” said Uhl. “If you then ask them if they are willing to give up any performance or convenience they’ll tell you, ‘No, I’m not.’”

Mr. Steam’s Steam@Home units feature a 20-minute timer, polished chrome in-shower control and come standard with an AromaSteam steam head. They are more compact than regular Mr. Steam generators and are available in three models, designed for 3-ft. x 4-ft. or 3-ft. x5-ft. tile showers and existing acrylic units. The 208V and 240V single-phase generators come in 3 kW, 4.5 kW and 6 kW sizes.

Opposiite page: The Laufen Palomba Collection includes two freestanding ceramic washbasin models.

Axor’s Urquiola freestanding tub is made of cast marble with a durable gel-coated finish. It weighs 310 lb. empty and is 48 gallons full for a 160-lb. person. The tub includes a built-in drain and overflow.

Good vibrations Griffin said one trend that is gaining popularity is the freestanding tub. She said uniquely designed freestanding tub fillers are becoming a sculpture within the bathroom. continued on page 44 hpacmag.com

november/december november/december2012 2012 | | HPAC HPAC 43 43

< Plumbing

continued from page 43

Kohler’s Numi Toilet features a wide variety of high-tech gadgets, including: seat and feet warmers, motion sensors for hands-free opening and closing of the seat cover, an FM radio and MP3 player, a self-cleaning wand with multiple options for water spray patterns, an integrated air dryer, illuminated panels, an automatic flush system, touch screen remote, magnetic docking station, a deodorizing charcoal filter and auxiliary controls.

Porcher’s electronic bidet seat with dryer and deodorizer is equipped with a cleansing function with oscillating wash and nozzle for posterior and a setting for gentle wash and nozzle for anterior.

Other features include: a warm air dryer with two speeds, five adjustable levels for water and drier temperatures, a slow-close heated seat with three temperature settings, a control panel, a kids setting for child-friendly functions, an economy mode for reducing energy consumption and an automatic deodorizer.

The VibrAcoustic hydrotherapy tub from Kohler uses sonic rhythms that generate vibrations in the user’s body designed to offer them a soothing bath. The vibrations are generated from music played on a personal device that is plugged into the bathtub, or from one of four original compositions, that are sent through six speakers located within the shell of the tub.

“Those sound vibrations really penetrate you right to the core of your body when you’re in the bathtub,” said Church.

Changing fixtures and accessories For consumers who are not flush with cash, accessories and fixtures provide an opportunity to make bathrooms feel a little more posh.

“You can always change up the accessories, it’s worth putting some thought into,” said Griffin.

“Replacing showerheads to improve the bathroom experience is also an option for consumers,” said Scott. “That is probably the easiest change someone can make to make it feel like a premium shower without adding the whole expense of renovating the bathroom.”

Installing a grab bar with a similar design can also add to the look of a bathroom, while improving safety. Scott said giving all the faucets a similar look is another way to give a bathroom a premium look.

Reduce, reuse, redesign While technology-driven modern and contemporary designs are increasing in popularity, the old ways of crafting luxury products are also on the rise, being reborn through a unique, green-inspired niche market.

California-based Native Trails creates a wide variety of artisan hand-crafted designer products for the kitchen and bathroom.

The company has won several awards for its unique designs, including back-to-back Innovative Product of the Year awards from the Decorative Hardware and Plumbing Association in 2011 and 2012.

Naomi Howard, CEO and founder of Native Trails, said green design is important for many consumers, particularly when it does not ThermaSol’s Solitude Mobile Application is designed to allow users to control steam flow, temperature, duration and its Bluetooth-enabled Serenity Light & Music System.

The Aqua-Sense shower system from GRAFF features an electronic system with a ceiling-mounted showerhead, an RGB LED colour-changing effect controlled via touchscreen and a USB port and speakers for a portable music player.

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HPAC | november/december 2012

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mean a trade-off for great design. “Aesthetics, style, and functionality are usually most important, and when a great looking or unique bath vanity is also made from sustainable materials, like bamboo or salvaged wood, it's a tremendous plus,” said Howard.

A variety of vanities Howard said people expect features like soft-close drawers and dovetail construction with higher-end bath vanities; however, customers are often pleasantly surprised to see soft-close drawers in her company’s rustic-themed Chardonnay and Cabernet vanities made from reclaimed winemaking materials.

“Solid wood construction is very important for true longevity,” she said. “We see a bath vanity as a piece of furniture that should last as long as any heirloom quality piece of furniture, thus solid wood and high-quality construction are essential.”

Howard said there has been a big surge in demand for distressed finishes, especially authentic reclaimed wood.

“It's interesting that vanities made from salvaged materials are being used often in quite contemporary designs, whereas in the past we would see them going into primarily rustic spaces,” she said. “Now the contrast between old and new, rustic and modern is part of what gives many designs character, a feel of authenticity.”

Although master baths typically require more storage, a minimalist look with open shelving is also popular, according to Howard. She said the minimalist trend and movement toward clean, simple lines has opened up the market recently for wall-mounted vanities.

Delta’s Arzo Monitor 17 Series tub and shower trim features a solid brass construction, separate volume and temperature controls, and a Monitor Scald-Guard valve for keeping water temperature within +/- 3F. It is available in chrome and stainless finishes.

Native Trails’ Chardonnay Vanity is hand made from reclaimed winemaking materials and features four, full-extension, soft-close drawers; a removable front panel for easy plumbing access and hidden storage; and reclaimed white wine-stained oaking staves. The vanity can be paired with any Native Trails surface mounted sink less than 7-in. deep.

Trends change, so choose wisely Although keeping up with the latest trends may seem important when remodeling or building a luxurious bathroom, Griffin reminds contractors that there is a more important factor to consider. “The bathroom is an area your customers go to for privacy and retreat and unwind before bed, so make sure they love it,” she said.

“You want it to be an investment they will enjoy for years to come.” < > Flushmount body sprays from Moen allow the user to pivot the water up to 20 degrees in any direction and feature Immersion rainshower technology. The body sprays are available in round or square trim shapes. They are compatible with various Moen Canada shower and vertical spa systems, including ioDIGITAL.

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45

MECHANICAL SUPPLY NEWS MANUFACTURERS • distributors • wholesalers • associations

Giant and Rinnai team up to design new water heater Giant Factories and Rinnai America Corporation have formed a partnership to develop and market a new energyefficient water heater for the Canadian market. Expected in Canada during the first quarter of 2013, these hybrid products aim to revolutionize the traditional water heater market, merging both the advantages of tankless and tank type heating. "It is too soon to give figures, but we can already say that the performance of this new product will be definitely higher," said JeanClaude Lesage, vice president of Giant Factories.

The residential sector is the main target for the moment. Among the benefits of this product, Lesage highlights its modular aspect: "The new units could replace a conventional atmospheric water heater, without replacing the flue or other existing components."

The combustion device, manufactured by Rinnai, will be fitted in the Giant’s units, and put together at its Quebec facility. Both companies agreed

RBI Manufacturing showcases latest products HPG Sales, Div. of Hydronic Parts Group Ltd. and RBI Water Heaters recently held an open house display and factory tour at the Mississauga, ON, manufacturing facility. RBI boiler technology and products on display included its new Fusion XLF condensing boiler (2500 to 4000mbh) and the newest RBI product: packaged roofEric Irmscher (l), sales and application engineer with Mestek, Inc., explains the top units with condensing technology. standard arrangements available with its www.hydronicpartsgroup.com air handlers.

that Giant could extend the technology to its private label products. www.giantinc.com www.rinnai.us

ers how to use automation and control systems to improve safety, security, reliability and energy efficiency. www.honeywell.com/buildingsolutions

Customer support in Fort McMurray Honeywell recently opened a new customer training and support centre in Fort McMurray, AB, designed to serve as a regional hub for the company's industrial process and building control customers in northern Alberta and Saskatchewan. The facility will house a Honeywell Automation College for teaching operators, engineers, technicians, and plant and building manag-

Viessmann unveils enhanced Partner Program Viessmann Manufacturing Company Inc. recently launched its revamped Partner Program for licensed, professional heating contractors in Canada and the U.S. Following the most extensive overhaul since its inception in 2006, the program offers a collection of new contractor resources and incen-

Wholesalers score with Get in the Game

Clockwise from top: Eastern region winner Nathaniel Bell of Trane; White-Rodgers' territory manager Dan Fleming (l) with Western Region winner Jeff Weber of Independent Supply; and Central Region winner Jeremy O'Hara of Powrmatic of Canada.

46

HPAC | november/december 2012

Three winners and their guests headed off to Toronto, ON, to enjoy the 100th Grey Cup on November 25, 2012, after winning White-Rodger's Get in the Game online training program promotion. The program began in November 2011 when inside and outside sales representatives were encouraged to sign up for the online training. After completing the 12 modules at their own pace, they received a ballot for a chance to win the football experience. Additional chances to win the trip were awarded by participating in three Web-ex Huddles and the Hail Mary Pass -- a handle that is used for applying the training modules to a contractor situation. In addition, a draw for a 32" Flat Screen TV and Home Theatre Surround Sound was made at each Web-ex Huddle. Grand prize winners were: Jeremy O'Hara, Powrmatic of Canada, Toronto, ON; Nathaniel Bell, Trane, Longueuil, QC; and Jeff Weber, Independent Supply, Calgary, AB. www.emersonclimate.com

hpacmag.com

tives. Online media streamlines Partner account management.

An interactive website features a password protected area where Partners can manage their accounts online, submit claim forms, redeem points and access exclusive member resources. New Partner Pro足gram Twitter and Facebook accounts keep contractors informed with product news and updates on issues that affect their businesses. www.vitoteam.com

Copper Alliance branding program in effect The International Copper Association's (ICA) Copper Alliance branding program, which was recently introduced by the Canadian Copper Brass Develop足 ment Association (CCBDA), is designed to provide a unified look and feel to the ICA's global network locations. The CCBDA's website has been redesigned and offers users information on the role of copper in sustainable and renewable

energy applications, updates on important related topics and more. A new logo is also in the works for the CCBDA's communications and publications. www.coppercanada.ca

Distech Controls and Samsung Techwin combine efforts Quebec-based Distech Controls and Samsung Techwin have announced a partnership to improve Samsung Continued on page 48

Flushing system recalled Trane awarded Western Cooling Challenge certification

Photo: Jonathan Woolley/UC Davis

Trane has achieved Western Cooling Challenge certification for manufacturing its Voyager DC, a rooftop air conditioner that is designed to be 40 per cent more energy efficient than conventional units. The challenge was created by the University of California Davis (UC Davis) in 2008. The Voyager DC is a hybrid rooftop air conditioner that uses indirect, evaporative cooling to increase cooling capacity and reduce peak electrical demand. UC Davis Western Cooling Efficiency Center-verified equipment is required to be at a minimum of 40 per cent more efficient than Department of Energy 2010 standards to be Western Cooling Challenge certified. www.trane.com http://wcec.ucdavis.edu

A joint recall notice by Flushmate, Health Canada and the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission has been issued for the Series 503 Flushmate III pressure-assist flushing system installed inside toilet tanks. The systems can burst at the vessel weld seam releasing stored pressure. There were approximately 9400 units sold in Canada. http://cpsr-rspc.hc-sc.gc.ca/PR-RP/recall-retrait-eng.jsp?re_id=1633

Former UC Davis Western Cooling Efficiency Center director Dick Bourne and Intertek's Thomas Stiles examine Trane's DC Voyager cooling unit. The unit achieved Western Cooling Challenge certification from WCEC.

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november/december 2012 | HPAC

47

< MSN

Continued from page 47

Fall heating show draws a crowd

Viega honoured for marketing prowess

Approximately 1000 people attended Nobleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fall Heating Show in Vaughan, ON, on October 4, 2012. The show featured dozens of exhibitors, free educational seminars and a variety of prize draws, including seven furnace giveaways.

The Business Marketing Association recently awarded the Viega ProPress stainless product launch a B2 Award for Excellence in the Multi-Channel Lead Generation Category. www.viega.com

Emerson awards Canadian wholesalers

HPAC columnist Steve Goldie discusses the benefits of mass for modulating condensing boilers during one of 10 free seminars that took place during Noble's Fall Heating Show. To read Goldie's article, "Why Mass Matters," check out HPAC's Digital Edition, January/February 2012 edition, page 26.

Seven companies picked up honours at Emerson Climate Technologies' National Wholesaler Conference for Canadian companies. The winners included: B&B Trade Distribution (Summit Award), Eastern Refrigeration (Peak Performance Award), Independent Supply Co. (Signature Award), Le Groupe Master (Signature Award), Refrigerative Supply Limited (Centre Stage Award), Thermal Resources (Signature Award) and WWG/Carrier Totaline (Summit Award).

In other company news, Emerson Climate Technologies celebrated the 25th anniversary of Copeland Scroll compressor technology on November 14, 2012. Since its introduction in 1987, more than 100 million Copeland Scroll compressors have been produced worldwide. www.emersonclimate.com

Canadian students snag Xylem scholarships

Allied Air Enterprises' J. Alain Boudreau (l) and Noble's Vince Baggetta (r) pose with furnace giveaway winner David Escott of Comfort Heating after he was declared the winner of an Armstrong furnace during one of the seven furnace draws.

Techwin's Smart Building Management Solutions. A representative from Samsung Techwin stated that the partnership would help differentiate the company's total building solutions and add to its commitment to the promotion of energy efficient technologies. www.distech-controls.com www.samsungtechwin.com

ABM adds location in the Maritimes ABM subsidiary Linc Network, LLC recently signed a franchise agreement with Controls & Equipment Ltd as the company's first HVAC contractor servicing the Maritime provinces (New Brunswick, P.E.I. and Nova Scotia). Controls & Equipment has more than 130 employees spread across five offices and a field office throughout the Maritime region.

ABM is one of the largest facility management service providers in the U.S. The company offers a variety of facility solutions including HVAC and mechanical. www.abm.com 48

HPAC | november/december 2012

Jenna Cassidy of Miramichi, NB and Travis Clelland of Loring, ON were awarded $1000 scholarships through Xylem's Goulds Water Technology Professional Dealers Association, designed to assist students in the U.S. and Canada attending colleges or technical schools. There were 14 scholarship recipients in total. All recipients are children of Goulds Professional Dealers Association members. www.completewatersystems.com

Canaplus honours suppliers Canaplus held its annual Supplier of the Year Awards at its supplier conference this past fall and presented awards to Novanni Stainless Inc. (most improved supplier), BMI Canada Inc. (supplier of the year) and Great Lakes Copper Inc. (supplier of the year - high volume). www.canaplus.com

ON THE MOVE >> AIRPC Distributions have become Descair and moved to the company's head office, located at: 8335 Saint-Michel Blvd., Montreal, QC, H1Z 3E6. tel. 514.744.6751, fax.

514.744.1180. www.descair.ca

>> Redmond/Williams has moved its order desk to its showroom, located at 5190 Timberlea Blvd., Mississauga, ON. www.redmondwilliams.com hpacmag.com

Mergers and Acquisitions >> Sullair Corporation announced that the private equity firms of The Carlyle Group and BC Partners reached an agreement with United Technologies to purchase Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation's industrial businesses, which includes Sullair Corporation. The Carlyle Group and BC Partners formed a limited partnership to jointly oversee Sullair. The transaction's expected closing date is sometime within the fourth quarter. www.sullair.com >> Daikin Industries, Ltd. recently completed its acquisition of Goodman Global Group, Inc. www.daikin.com Members of the Canadian Institute of Plumbing & Heating (CIPH) pose for a photo during their open house, celebrating their new but familiar location, on October 26, 2012. CIPH is now located at: 295 The West Mall, Suite 504, Toronto, ON, M9C 4Z4. Tel. 416.695.0447, fax 416.695.0450. From left, Stephen Apps, Kevin Wong, Colleen Yarnell, Antonella Nunez, Nancy Barden, Elizabeth McCullough, Marian Speelman and Ralph Suppa. www.ciph.com

>> Gander Larvic Specialty Products (tel. 800.265.0238)

>> Taco, Inc. recently purchased HydroFlo Pumps, a manufacturer of vertical and submersible turbine driven pumps for various industries, headquartered in Fairview, TN. In addition to the Farivew facililty, Hydroflo also have assembly and distribution facilities in Culver, IN; Marion, AR; Grand Island, NE; Brownfield, TX and Fresno, CA. www.taco-hvac.com

has moved to 425 Newbolt St., London, ON, N6E 1K2.

>> Mirolin Industries Corp. has opened a new acrylic manufacturing and distribution facility (tel. 800.760.3388) in Airdrie, AB. It is located at 705 East Lake Rd., Airdrie, AB, T4A 2J7. www.mirolin.com

>> Anvil International recently purchased Guntersville, AL-based North Alabama Pipe Corporation (NAP). NAP is a manufacturer of fire sprinkler fabrication equipment. www.anvilintl.com www.nalapipe.com Continued on page 50

Distribution News >> Noble recently opened a 120â&#x20AC;&#x2020;000 sq. ft. distribution centre in Langley, BC (tel. 604.455.2900, fax.

604.455.2979). It is located at 1-20146 100a Avenue, Langley, BC. www.noble.ca

>> Aeroseal LLC has named Niagara Duct Cleaning in St. Catharines, ON and Cassidy's Air Duct Cleaning in Ajax, ON as two new distributors offering Aeroseal services in the Greater Toronto Area. www.aeroseal.com

>> FreshAire UV has appointed Air Force 1 Sales and Marketing Ltd. its sales representative agency for Ontario. www.airforce1.ca

Powrmatic of Canada president Jacques Gratton (r) cuts the ceremonial ribbon marking the opening of the company's new branch in Dartmouth, NS. From left: branch manager Linda Kempster, Fred Murphy and Sandy Steel, inside sales.

>> Yorkland Controls Ltd. has been named a Belimo Platinum Distributor. Yorkland is the fourth Canadian company to receive the designation. Other companies with the designation include: Regal Controls Limited, Wiles-Legault & Associates Ltd. and Pro Kontrol. www.belimo.com www.yorkland.net

Powrmatic of Canada recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the grand opening for its Darmouth branch. This branch replaces the company's former location in Halifax. The new facility is located at 100 Wright Ave., Dartmouth, NS, B3B1L2. tel. 902.454.8684, fax. 902.453.5875. www.powrmatic.ca

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november/december 2012 | HPAC

49

< MSN

Continued from page 49

>> WaterFurnace International, Inc. has acquired a five-percent ownership position in GI Endurant LLC, accompany that focuses on cogeneration projects, thermal energy and backup power and ground source heat pump (GSHP) projects. www.waterfurnace.com >> Descair, a subsidiary of Deschênes Group, purchased Gelair Inc. on November 1, 2012. Gelair will continue to do business under its current name and its leadership will report directly to Deschênes Group. www.groupedeschenes.com www.gelair.ca

Clips >> Camfil Farr Air Pollution Control (APC) recently announced plans to open a 40 000 sq. ft. facility in the U.K., to serve customers in the U.K. and Europe. Scheduled to open in January 2013, the facility is expected to employ more than 100 people in engineering, metal fabrication, welding and assembly positions. www.camfilfarrapc.com

>> Kitchen and Bath Classics, a Wolseley company, has redesigned its website to offer helpful tools and ideas to its clients. www.kitchenandbathclassics.com

< people The Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating recently hired Katie Hutchinson for the position of manager, councils.

Hutchinson said one of her priorities within the Canadian Hydronics Council (CHC) is Katie Hutchinson to increase its membership and awareness amongst consumers, wholesalers and manufacturers by generating more exposure and more education around what CHC does.

Novo Water Conditioning has hired Greg LeClair for the position of customer service specialist. He has more than 25 years of experience in the water conditioning industry in the plumbing wholesale channel. His main Greg LeClair responsibility will be to support the company's growing customer base in an inside sales and technical support role.

Wolseley Canada has named Casian Glavce as its strategic business manager, plumbing.

Glavce will focus on developing business strategies for the company, in addition to working on customer and market and segmentation Casian Glavce efforts. His most recent position was operations and general manager of BudMax/Arabesque.

Ron McArthur was recently appointed to the position of president of Napoleon Fireplaces and Napoleon Gourmet Grills. McArthur recently held the position of president at WSI, a digital marketing franchise company.

Ron McArthur He also served as executive vice-president of mergers and acquisitions with A L Van Houtte Inc. and was president of Red Carpet Food Services.

Dustin Steward has been named senior business development manager for Bristol Compressors.

Steward will be responsible for working with existing OEMs and Dustin Steward Joel Moseley developing new business opportunities across North America. He has a background in business ownership and sales. In other Bristol news, the company appointed Ed Gniewek its new CEO. Joel Moseley was recently promoted to the position of senior vice-president of global sales and marketing at Bristol Compressors.

Ted Elliott has been appointed area manager for Emco. He has also held the positions of profit centre manager and territory manager with the company, Ted Elliott Victor Hyman within the McKeough Supply division. Elliott has 17 years of experience with the organization. In related news, Victor Hyman has been named profit centre leader for McKeough Supply for its new Hamilton location.

Hyman previously worked as outside account manager, HVAC for the company.

Graff has hired Jim Stockstill for the new position of international projects and trade sales manager. His main role will be working with architects and designers to help facilitate project specifications in North America and Europe.

The Oatey Company has named Blake Oatey director, Canadian sales. His most recently worked as Oatey’s director, South Asia.

Jim Stockstill 50

HPAC | november/december 2012

Blake Oatey hpacmag.com

>> The York Catholic District School Board in Toronto has awarded eSight energy management software, through Canadian Distributor Yorkland Controls, a contract to assist the board in identifying areas of energy reduction. www.esightenergy.com www.yorkland.net

The world’s leading trade fair The Bathroom Experience Building, Energy, Air-conditioning Technology Renewable Energies

Frankfurt am Main 12 – 16. 3. 2013

>> Lochinvar kicked off its VIP Contractors Program when its annual loyalty program started for the 2012-13 heating season on October 1, 2012. The points system put in place two years ago stopped accruing on September 30, 2012. www.Lochinvar.com

Grace Moreland has joined Pro Kontrol as an outside sales representative for the Greater Toronto Area. Her most recent role was inside sales representative with the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada.

Grace Moreland

BMI Canada Inc. has appointed Charles Darveau as its Eastern Canada sales manager. Darveau will be responsible for representing BMI throughout Eastern Canada, including the company's branches and Charles Darveau regional offices. He has previous experience in the plumbing industry, including sales management experience in the retail market as well as the development of new markets.

Dedicated to water and energy.

ISH is the world’s largest showcase for innovative bathroom design, sanitary ware technology, energy-efficient heating, building and air-conditioning technology and renewable energies. Make sure you’re here in person to see trendsetting innovations presented for the first time! www.ish.messefrankfurt.com info@canada.messefrankfurt.com Tel. 905-824-5017

Soler & Palau Canada Inc. has named Glenn Curtis as its national sales manager. Curtis will oversee the company's sales team.

Glen Curtis

Andy Cincar has joined Goodman Canada's sales department in the role of key accounts manager. He has over 25 years experience in the HVAC industry and his career includes field, sales and marketing Andy Cincar positions. Most recently, Cincar was the residential sales manager for Carrier for the Carrier and Bryant brands in Ontario.

Jean Bérubé has been hired as Bélanger's new executive vice-president and general manager.

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november/december 2012 | HPAC

51

HVAC/r PRODUCts Armstrong’s Design Envelope IVS Twin Vertical In-Line pumps for commercial HVAC systems are designed to combine two variable-speed rotating assemblies in one shared casing. The twin pump design is a variable-speed, duty/standby solution for any application that demands constant availability, energy savings, and a small footprint.

They feature Sensorless technology for increased overall efficiency and accuracy matching pump

The Broan LP80 and NuTone LPN80 ventilation fans

operation to the demands of the HVAC system.

are designed for installations where conventional

www.armstrongpumps.com

ventilation fans cannot fit. The LoProfile fans offer 80 CFM of ventilation and are built for quiet operation. They are narrow enough to be installed in

Emerson Climate Technologies new version of its

a wall between 2-in. x 4-in. studs.

E2 supervisory controller is designed to offer retail

www.Broan.ca www.NuTone.ca

facilities open BACnet communication protocol, allowing retailers to interface with more devices. It also features native integration with Emerson’s multizone infrared refrigerant leak detection device. The E2 is equipped with 128 MB of RAM and a 500 MHz processor, a USB port and a widened screen with a system status bar that shows a breakdown of system advisories, network connectivity status and system configuration. www.emersonclimate.com

Metal-Fab’s Temp/Guard Chimney is

made

construction

with

a

double-wall

with

stainless

A/C Leak Freeze is designed to stop leaks of refrigerant gas in HVAC/R air conditioning and

refrigeration

systems

in

homes

and

steel flue wrapped with ceramic

commercial buildings. It is inert until it mixes

insulating material. It is offered in

with the refrigerant and is activated by refrigerant

a range of sizes from six- to 18-in.

escaping at the site of a leak, forming a chemical

diameters. www.metal-fabinc.com

weld and sealing the leak. It is compatible with all standard refrigerant gases, polymer-free and tested to be non-clogging to the A/C compressor and recovery unit. www.leakfreeze.com

The Lennox Prodigy control system is equipped with push-button controls for simple navigation during setup and diagnostics, a scrolling display with clearly displayed text instead of codes and a high contrast ratio for improve readability, a time clock with runtime information for system components and integrated controls and terminal boards and more.

It features a patent pending USB port that offers service verification with encrypted time/date stamp, unit serial number, alarm code log and critical component runtime information. The control system is BACnet and LonTalk-compliant and comes standard on Lennox’ Energence and Strategos rooftop units. www.lennox.com 52

HPAC | november/december 2012

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< Trade show recap

Wholesaler numbers up at CIPHEX West

W

estern Canada's largest event for plumbing, HVAC/R and water treatment, CIPHEX West took place at the Vancouver Convention Centre on November 5-6. The two-day trade show, back in British Columbia for the first time since 1995, attracted over 3000 industry delegates.

Organizers report that total attendance at this month's show increased by nine per cent compared to the previous show in 2010. Participation by wholesaler staff was up 14 per cent; contractor attendance was consistent with past years. Additional promotions targeting plumbing and HVAC/R engineers resulted in a significant increase in that group as well, which was well received by exhibitors.

The show expanded its geographical reach with 29 per cent of attendees coming from outside of the lower mainland of BC, or from other provinces and the U.S. In addition to the exhibits from more than 250 manufacturers, more than 375 CIPHEX West visitors attended the 10 free seminars and four technical workshops.

CIPHEX West 2012 was produced by the Canadian Institute of Plumbing & Heating, with support from the Canadian Water Quality Association, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC), MCA-BC Chapter, the Canadian Hydronics Council, the BC Chapter of the American Society of Plumbing Engineers, the Thermal Environmental Comfort Association, the BC Water & Waste Association and the Canadian Association of Pump Manufacturers.

The 2014 show will be back in Calgary, AB, on November 5-6 and will be co-located with Buildex. The 2016 show will be in Vancouver with exact dates to be announced. <>

The Plumbing and Heating Summit attracted a full house to hear stakeholders discuss backflow and cross-connection control, among other regulatory issues. From left, Bob Thompson and Andrew Pape Salmon of the Province of BC, moderator Ed Chubb of Noble and Brian Husband of the Plumbing Officials Association of BC.

Contractor attendence for the show was consistent with previous years.

Ken Marks of Noble (l) congratulates Collin Warren of Allin Plumbing on winning one of two boilers in Noble's boiler, tool pack and bathroom suite give-away contest.

Xylem Captures Top Honors at CIPHEX West 2012

Ralph Suppa (l), president and general manager of CIPH presents Tim Main, market development manager residential HVAC, Xylem Canada with the Gallery of New Products award in the Hydronic Heating category.

54

HPAC | november/december 2012

The Gallery of New Products showcased the best of the best and gave industry members a chance to see them in person for the first time. Xylem Inc. was selected as the winner of the Gallery of New Products award in the Hydronic Heating category for its Bell & Gossett ecocirc auto and vario heating circulators.

A panel judged specific criteria such as sustainability, use of materials in an innovative manner, and energy-efficient design to select category winners. Selected as a category winner from among 56 new products, the ecocirc 'smart' heating circulators were recognized for their revolutionary ECM (Electronically Commutated Motor) technology, energy-saving features and innovative design. hpacmag.com

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< CONSERVATION

Beyond the tap Conservation program expands to include best practices for water guzzling mechanical systems. By Andrew snook

W

aterSense is a labelling program designed to reduce indoor and outdoor water consumption through the combination of water-efficient products and water-saving practices. Products with the WaterSense label are independently certified by a third-party, licensed body to “save water without sacrificing performance or quality” while using at least 20 per cent less water than standard models.

The partnership program is run by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and brings together various stakeholders to “promote of the value of water efficiency; provide consumers with easy ways to save water, as both a label for products and an information resource to help people use water more efficiently; encourage innovation in manufacturing and decrease water use and reduce strain on water resources and infrastructure.”

Environment Canada formed a partnership with the EPA and its WaterSense program in January 2011. The agreement allows Canadian manufacturers, retailers, and promotional partners, such as utilities, various levels of government

and non-profit organizations to join WaterSense to promote labelled products.

In October, 2012, the EPA’s WaterSense program published an online resource and guidebook titled, “WaterSense at Work: Best Manage­ ment Practices for Commercial and Institutional Facilities,” a compilation of best management practices designed to assist commercial and institutional facilities in their water management through efficient practices and products.

The online resource offers in-depth sections that cover a variety of topics, including: water management planning, water use monitoring and education, sanitary fixtures and equipment, commercial kitchen equipment, outdoor water use, mechanical systems (which can account for up to 30 per cent of the total water use within a facility), laboratory and medical equipment, and onsite alternative water sources.

To check out WaterSense at Work, visit: www.epa.gov/watersense/commercial/bmps.html. <> Sources: Environment Canada and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Manufacturers lead the conservation charge On October 4, 2012, EPA announced the 2012 WaterSense Partners of the Year and Excellence Award winners at the WaterSmart Innovations Con­ ference and Expo. Since the launch of WaterSense in 2006, more than 2600 WaterSense partners have brought more than 5000 different models of WaterSense labeled products to market. Kohler Co. and American Standard Brands were among the winners, which included a U.S. utility, a retailer and a homebuilder.

Jim McHale, vice-president of engineering at American Standard, accepts

www.epa.gov/watersense/partners/watersense_awards.html hpacmag.com

the WaterSense 2012 Partner of The Year award on behalf of American Standard from the EPA. november/december 2012 | HPAC

57

< IAQ

Growing Your Business: Particulate Profiling The merits of offering IAQ assessments and particulate counts to commercial and residential customers. By Colin Plastow

Y

ou have probably heard mould referred to as the "new asbestos" within the HVAC/R industry. Concern about mould and its health effects is driving consumers to have their indoor air quality (IAQ) situation assessed and, if necessary, repaired. If you are the contractor they call, keep in mind that mould is not the only issue to consider when assessing the IAQ of a commercial building or residence. Many different kinds of particulates in a work or living environment can cause sick building syndrome and aggravate allergy and respiratory conditions.

IAQ has generated so much awareness that you may want to consider offering IAQ assessments and particulate counts to all of your customers as an extra service â&#x20AC;&#x201C; similar to a mechanic charging for a diagnostic check. If you can present a convincing case, many facilities managers and homeowners will agree that measuring particulate pollutants, such as plant pollen, animal dander, fiberglass, combustion particles or airborne bacteria, is important.

With a particulate counter, you will also be able to present real data in support of any repair or purchasing recommendations you make. Taking before and after particulate readings can be an especially powerful way to win customers and build word of mouth about your service.

The first step is to understand how indoor air quality relates to HVAC systems. The second step is deciding what tools you need. Once you have the tools, start measuring and learn how to interpret the data. Soon, you will be ready to offer a complete IAQ assessment, including particulate profiling.

BY Luc Boily

other contaminants can be constantly introduced into the living space due to leaks and other HVAC system malfunctions and it is not just return ducts. Duct systems within the conditioned envelope are just as susceptible to IAQ issues.

IAQ inspections are built on exactly that kind of HVAC knowledge. Using your knowledge of how HVAC systems are designed and how the design can be compromised on installation, as well as where those systems can break, will help you track down where air quality pollutants may be coming from. On the flip side, air quality data provides the means to track whether the HVAC system is working the way it should.

Step 2: What tools do you need?

To conduct a complete IAQ investigation, you need to measure temperature, humidity and particulates at a minimum.

That is because temperature and humidity can take a regular particle count and magnify it times ten, by giving certain contaminants like mould a welcoming environment. That makes the handheld multi-channel particle counters a practical tool for the job.

A particle counter senses, sizes, and counts the particles passing through it. Multi-channel refers to how many different sizes of particles the tool can measure. Knowing the breakdown of particle sizes is essential to diagnose what is polluting customers' air (mould particles are different sizes than dust, for example), to trace particles to their source, or to verify that a fix has really lessened the count of particles.

Handheld is also an important distinction, since some higher-end models are meant to be installed for long-term monitoring.

Step 1: How IAQ analysis and particulate profiling fits into HVAC systems

Step 3: Making the measurements

Consider something as simple as a 10 per cent leak rate in the return duct system (not uncommon in residential construction) in an attic crawl space. Now, consider the dust and other particulate levels in that crawl space. And, finally, imagine the amount of particulates being distributed throughout the ducts in the home.

It is not just door openings, or air seeping in around windows and other small openings that affect IAQ. Dust and

To conduct an IAQ inspection, get a map of the HVAC system, as installed and use that to create an inspection route. Plan to take temperature, humidity and particle samples in every zone of the building, especially in any areas where there have been complaints, as well as outside the building, as a baseline. Within each zone, take a measurement in the middle of the space as well as near the air intakes, outlets, and any other HVAC system elements. Make particular note to mea-

58

HPAC | november/december 2012

hpacmag.com

sure both upstream and downstream at any HEPA filters.

Also use your own senses. Look for signs of moisture leaks, smell the air for mould and ask the people who frequent each area if they have experienced anything different, such as smells, headaches, or eye irritation.

Do not be intimidated by particulate counters â&#x20AC;&#x201C; newer models designed specifically for HVAC technicians are easy to use. As you take your samples, use the labelling feature on the particle counter to identify samples taken from different rooms, the particle counting mode, air sampling volume and time.

Once you have collected data, compare the counts in each area against the baseline and between each other. You should see patterns develop. When you detect a high-volume area, see if it is just one particle size or several, and think about what kinds of contaminants could be involved. Then, compare the particle counts to air flow balancing in the building. Always remember to take readings of the outside air in order to make meaningful comparisons with the particle levels indoors.

If you think the system itself is transporting contaminants, consider whether to propose re-balancing the existing system or adding a mechanical solution, such as dehumidifiers or a better filter. Sometimes the solution can even be as simple as blocking off a room or identifying problematic behaviour.

Step 4: Offering IAQ services The easiest way to integrate indoor air quality and particulate testing into your business is to start with customers who are already sensitive to air quality. The first time you describe IAQ to a customer, come prepared to describe how poor air quality could affect that customer's facility, from employee health issues and product contamination to the maintenance costs and energy expenditure related to inefficient HVAC and aging filters.

Customers with HEPA filters installed will especially appreciate your knowledge of ASHRAE 52.2. That standard spells out the testing requirements that manufacturers follow to verify filter performance before sale. As an HVAC technician with a particle counter, you can use the standard as a guideline for testing installed filters, so that customers know how efficiently their filters are removing particles and whether they are due for replacement. Particulate profiling is now recommended in the latest NADCA ACR 2005 standard.

It is one thing to mention the importance of ASHRAE guidelines to a customer when selling a necessary duct renovation

or other repairs, but it is another thing altogether to back that explanation up with particulate measurements and an air quality evaluation.

Next, start offering IAQ inspections and particle counts as part of a standard "seasonal start-up" maintenance check.

Charge for a building or home evaluation in which a particle counter is used.

Make sure customers understand that IAQ analysis and particulate profiling is an above-average service that requires specialized training and tools. Just by offering the service, you take your organization to a higher level of professionalism and customer service. Your recommendations now come with supporting data, assuring the customer that you are making the right suggestions on equipment selection, installation, and repair. <> Colin Plastow is industrial product manager with Fluke Electronics Canada, where he brings his expertise in electronic test and measurement to customers in high-tech and industrial markets.

He may be contacted at colin.plastow@fluke.com.

Want to learn more about increasing your IAQ business? See HPAC April 2012, p.44 at

www.hpacmag.com/issues/archives.aspx. hpacmag.com

november/december 2012 | HPAC

59

Calendar 2013

FOR THE LATEST EVENT NEWS SEE HPAC'S NEWSLETTER @ hpacmag.com IDS13 Interior Design Show

Buildex Vancouver

AHR Expo January 28-30

January 24-27 IDS13, Canada’s largest contemporary design fair, will take place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Toronto, ON.

February 13-14

The 2013 AHR Expo HVACR Trade Show will take place at the Dallas Convention Center in Dallas, TX.

www.ahrexpo.com

www.interiordesignshow.com

This tradeshow and conference hosts more than 13 000 design, construction and real estate management professionals. It will take place at the Vancouver Convention Centre West in Vancouver, BC.

www.buildexvancouver.com National Home Show

European Pellet Conference

NFSA Annual Seminar and North American Fire Sprinkler Expo

February 27-28

March 15-24

This conference offers a meeting place for companies in the global pellet community and will look at the latest technology trends, policy updates, case studies and more. It will take place in Wels, Austria.

The National Home Show, presented

by RE/MAX, is Canada’s largest and longest running consumer show. It will take place at the Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place, in Toronto, ON.

www.wsed.at

www.nationalhomeshow.com

April 4-6 The National Fire Sprinkler Association’s (NFSA) annual seminar is partnering with the Canadian Automatic Sprinkler Association and Mexican Fire Sprinkler Association to host the inaugural North American Fire Sprinkler Expo at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, NV. www.nfsa.org

MCEE

Kitchen & Bath Industry Show

April 17-18

April 19-21

April 24-27

This plumbing, HVAC/R, hydronic, electrical and lighting expo will take place at Place Bonaventure in Montreal, QC.

KBIS 2013 will take place at the New Orleans Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, LA.

The Refrigeration Service Engineers Society’s annual educational conference will take place at the Hilton Hotel and Suites Niagara Falls/Fallsview in Niagara Falls, ON.

www.mcee.ca

www.kbis.com

www.rsescanada.com

NEBB Annual Conference

RSES Canada Educational Conference

CIPH ABC and AGM

Cleaner Heat

June 16-18

June 18-19

The National Environmental Balancing Bureau’s annual conference will take place at the Hyatt Regency in Montreal, QC. The conference theme is “Solutions for Optimizing High Performance Buildings.”

The Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating’s annual business conference and AGM will take place at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel in Halifax, NS.

The Canadian Heat and Oil Association’s Cleaner Heat Conference will take place at the Delta Beausejour Hotel in Moncton, NB.

www.nebb.org

www.ciph.com

http://symposium.coha.ca

May 2-4

HRAI 45th AGM and conference

August 21-24

MCAC National Conference

IAQ 2013

September 25-28

October 15-18

The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada’s 45th annual general meeting and conference will take place at The Westin Bayshore in Vancouver, BC. www.hrai.ca

The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada’s national conference will take place in Winnipeg, MB.

IAQ 2013, Environmental Health in Low-Energy Buildings, will take place at the Renaissance Vancouver Hotel Harbourside in Vancouver, BC.

www.mcac.ca

www.ashrae.org

World Plumbing Conference

AHRI Annual Conference

Greenbuild International Conference & Expo

November 14-15

November 17-19

November 19-22

The 10th annual World Plumbing Conference will take place in New Delhi, India.

The Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute’s annual conference will take place at The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island in Amelia Island, FL. www.ahrinet.org

Greenbuild’s annual conference and expo will take in Philadelphia, PA. It is dedicated to green building and attracts thousands of building professionals from around the globe. It features three days of educational sessions, guest speakers, green building tours, special seminars and networking events. www.greenbuildexpo.org

www.wpc2013.in

This could be your last issue of Visit www.hpacmag.com to renew your free subscription to HPAC Magazine.

60

HPAC | november/december 2012

hpacmag.com

Training

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS CANADA CMCEF National Seminar Program

Canadian Hydronics Council

The Canadian Mechanical Contracting Education Foundation’s National Seminar Program Catalogue & Calendar for 2012-13 is available online. It contains more than 100 programs available for on-site training for companies and associations. Programs range from a half-day to two days in duration. To request a seminar, contact your local association or the CMCEF office at 613.232.5169 or by email at cmcef@cmcef.org. www.cmcef.org

CHC’s course descriptions and training schedules are available online. Introduction to Hydronic Heating Installations is a starting point for anyone interested in the professional installation of hydronic heating systems. Participants will gain basic knowledge of hydronic terminology, how the design relates to the installation and how to avoid common pitfalls. The Essentials of Hydronic System Design intermediate level program is geared to helping practitioners understand key design principles and the different options and solutions required to meet client needs. Participants must have previously completed CHC’s Introduction to Hydronic Heating Installations.

RETScreen 202 – Heating & Cooling Project Analysis This intermediate-level course offers intensive instruction on RETScreen’s Heating & Cooling Project Model, including: an overview of heating and cooling project analysis; biomass heating project analysis; ground-source heat pump project analysis; solar water heating and air heating project analysis and more. www.retscreen.net/ang/home.php

TECA's Quality First Training To register for the Thermal Environmental Comfort Association's (TECA) Quality First training courses, call 604.594.5956. www.teca.ca

www.ultimatecomfort.ca

LEED Canada Training The Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) is offering a variety of workshops in early 2013, including: LEED Green Associate Exam Preparation; LEED AP BD+C Study Course and Understanding the Living Building Challenge. Tel. 613.241.1184. www.cagbc.org

Canadian Electrical Code Updates GeoExchange Training The Canadian GeoExchange Coalition (CGC) has added a national accreditation program for geothermal loop installers, which is valid for commercial and residential installations. www.geoexchange.ca

Dollars to $ense Energy Management Workshops Natural Resources Canada's Office of Energy Efficiency is once again offering workshops focusing on improving efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and lowering operation costs. The 2012-13 schedule is now available online. http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca

CSA Standards is holding two-day, instructor-led, in-class seminars on the 2012 Canadian Electrical Code updates. The 2012 Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, has more than 180 updates and revisions. This two-day course is designed to help people understand, interpret and apply key code changes to their business. CSA’s training schedule is also available online. www.csa.ca

HRAI SkillTech Academy The SkillTech Academy’s Winter 2013 course schedule is available online. www.hrai.ca

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THE SOURCE

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61

< 2013 forecast

Optimistic outlook for 2013 Industry stakeholders have reason to be optimistic, say HRAI and AHR Expo.

A

ccording to a recent AHR Expo survey, which was sent to more than 1000 HVAC/R manufacturers worldwide, 70 per cent of the respondents expect the economy to be better in 2013 than in 2012. In fact, 15 per cent of these manufacturers expect a “much better year,” while 28 per cent of respondents expect the economy to remain the same.

Just three per cent expect it to be worse than 2012.

In keeping with this optimistic outlook, 86 per cent of the HVAC/R manufacturers believe sales will increase next year with 35 per cent of these respondents expecting sales increases of more than 10 per cent. Thirty-two per cent forecast sales increases between five per cent and 10 per cent, and 19 per cent expect increases of less than five per cent.

Eleven per cent believe sales will remain the same, while only Sales Increase 3 per cent expect sales to decrease.

What did respondents expect in 2013 3% More than 10%

Sales Increase 11%

Between 5% - 10% 3%

19%

35%

11%

35% 19%

32%

Less than 5% Stay the same More than 10% Decrease Between 5% - 10% Less than 5% Stay the same Decrease

32%

Expect 2013 To Be Better

3%

Better Year

Expect 2013 To Be Better

Much Better Stay The Same

28%

Worse Better Year

3% 54%

28% 15%

Much Better Stay The Same Worse

54%

Most respondents (41 per cent) said the residential sector would account for the strongest demand for new products, followed by institutional (30 per cent), industrial (19 per cent), light commercial (seven per cent) and heavy commercial (three per cent). The industry categories expected to show the strongest growth were renovation/upgrade (42 per cent), new construction (34 per cent) and replacement (24 per cent).

More than two thirds of the respondents (67 per cent) predicted that the greatest demand for new products would come from domestic markets and 33 per cent from international markets. Of these respondents, 52 per cent said the greatest demand for new products would come from the healthcare segment, 45 per cent from industrial plants, 43 per cent educational marketplace and 42 per cent government/civil.

To meet this demand, 75 per cent of AHR Expo exhibitors said they will be introducing new products or services at the 2013 show in Dallas, January 28-30.

Clay Stevens, president of International Exposition Company, which produces and manages the AHR Expo, pointed out that while the percentage of manufacturers who expect the upcoming year to be better has continued to climb every survey, the percentage expecting the economy to be worse has also been steadily declining. Equally encouraging is that compared to last yearʼs survey, three per cent more respondents plan to introduce new products at the 2013 Show.

The Manufacturers Division of the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada’s (HRAI) 2013 Industry Forecast Shows increases in all sectors with the largest increase in ductless minisplits shipments. Actual 2012 ductless minisplit shipments were 87 171. The projected year-end figure for 2012 shows an increase of six per cent to 92 400. The forecast for 2013 projects an increase of nine per cent to 100 500. <>

The 2013 AHR Expo will feature more than 1800 leading manufacturers and suppliers from around the world, showcasing hundreds of innovative new products to nearly 45 000 industry professionals.

The 2013 AHR Expo is co-sponsored by ASHRAE and the AirConditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI). The Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) is an honorary sponsor. ASHRAE's Winter Conference is held concurrently with the AHR Expo each year.

www.ahrexpo.com

www.hrai.ca

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HPAC | november/december 2012

hpacmag.com

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