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Vol. 85 No. 4

44 Lower Flow Non-Clog Solids handling options improve reliability

By JOE EVANS

Small-Scale Chilled Systems Offer Big Opportunities

50 Something Rotten Is In The Air Some simple steps to correct the dirty sock syndrome, which can arise in the cooling season.

A primer on residential hydronic cooling.

52 The Air At The Top How to determine the minimum required height of the air space at the top of the drainback tank.

By John Siegenthaler

BY JOHN SIEGENTHALER

58 Closing The Deal The painstaking business of due diligence.

By Mark Groulx

61 New CPP Rules An overhaul of CPP will start in 2012.

Should you reconsider when to receive benefits?

By Hank Bulmash

22 17th Annual Service Vehicle Report Power and economy fuel 2011 innovations.

BY BILL ROEBUCK

30 Economizers: An Interesting Addition To The Mix Using outside air to provide comfort cooling Cover Photo iStockphoto

makes good sense in arid climates.

BY DAVE DEMMA

33 Construction Nirvana A report on the Canadian Conference on Building

PRODUCTS

DEPARTMENTS

40 HVAC/R 46 Plumbing 56 Hydronic

4 Upfront 6 Industry News 42 Manufacturer Supplier News 59 The Source 60 Calendar 62 Training

Science and Technology.

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

FOLLOWING THE DELIVERY OF THE FEDERAL budget on June 6, 2011, organizations including The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), offered up assessments of its impact on individuals and businesses. CFIB representatives noted that the June federal budget did indeed deliver on earlier commitments to small business with a few caveats.

"With measures focusing on reducing red tape, the introduction of an Employment Insurance (EI) tax credit and better transparency and accountability at Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), government took some important steps to enhance job creation and recognize the economic contributions of small businesses in Canada," stated CFIB president Catherine Swift.

On the flipside, one of the concerns voiced by CFIB is ON THE MOVE "the reference to make modest HPAC MAGAZINE staff are happily enhancements to the Canada settled in their new home at: Pension Plan (CPP). Another 80 Valleybrook Drive in Toronto, ON. tax increase is not the answer," See the masthead for direct lines noted CFIB representatives. and e-mail addresses and be sure Like many other organizations, to update your files.

CFIB pointed out that action to reduce the growing gap between public sector and private sector compensation, benefits and pensions was noticeably absent.

With private companies increasingly abandoning pension plans such as the defined benefit plans that were once the norm, pension has become a powerful word. If employees were fortunate or sought out employment with a company offering a fair pension plan, they were assured a certain standard of living upon retirement. Others were left to rely on the avails of the government pension plans (see page 61 for need to know information on the Canada Pension Plan).

Today, if an employer hopes to entice the cream of the crop and, most importantly, keep them motivated and happy, an attractive benefit plan, and particularly pension, is an important part of the mix. When an employer has something it seems even the government cannot assure us will be available in the long-term, it demonstrates a commitment, respect and concern for employees. And who would not want to work for an employer like that? <>

EDITOR Kerry Turner (416) 510-5218 KTurner@hpacmag.com SALES & MARKETING Kim Rossiter (416) 510-6794 COORDINATOR KRossiter@bizinfogroup.com ACCOUNT John Chiasson (416) 510-6791 MANAGERS JChiasson@hpacmag.com David Skene (416) 510-6884 DSkene@hpacmag.com ART DIRECTOR Franca Romano (On Leave) Sandy MacIsaac (416) 441-5600, ext. 3242 SMacisaac@hpacmag.com MARKET PRODUCTION Karen Samuels (416) 510-5190 MANAGER 800-268-7742, ext. 5190 KSamuels@bizinfogroup.ca CIRCULATION MANAGER Selina Rahaman (416) 442-5600, ext. 3528 SRahaman@bizinfogroup.ca PUBLISHER Peter Leonard (416) 510-6847 PLeonard@hpacmag.com EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER Tim Dimopoulos BIG MAGAZINES LP VICE-PRESIDENT OF Alex Papanou CANADIAN PUBLISHING PRESIDENT OF BUSINESS Bruce Creighton INFORMATION GROUP

PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40069240, REGISTRATION NO. 10815 Heating Plumbing Air Conditioning (established 1923) 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 © 2011 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: 800.668.2374, Fax: 416.442.2191; E-mail: jhunter@ businessinformationgroup.ca; or by mail: Privacy Office, 80 Valleybrook Dr., North York, 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.

Proud member of:

Editor 4

HPAC | MAY/JUNE 2011

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HPACMAG.COM

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Industry News

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Finance Minister Jim Flaherty tabled the Next Phase of Canada's Economic Action Plan in the House of Commons on June 6, 2011.

Short-Term Commitment to ecoENERGY curbs Enthusiasm Supporters of the Save ecoENERGY Coalition welcomed the Harper government's $400 million extension of the ecoENERGY Home Retrofit program, but say the one-year timeline is not enough to help the energy savings industry transition to self-sustainability.

"Home retrofit programs are great for the economy because they help families, businesses and tradespeople across the country," said Jeff Murdock, vice-president of Building Insight Technologies, a Save ecoENERGY Coalition

supporter. "But the on-again, off-again nature of these programs creates unpredictable conditions that make it difficult for businesses to develop a long-term approach."

The Save ecoENERGY Coalition, a national group of industry associations, environmental organizations, small businesses, and others, has developed a three-step plan to help the energy savings industry achieve long-term self-sustainability. The Coalition's plan calls for a four-year commitment to ecoENERGY, which, when coupled with a new national EnerGuide rating system and home energy rating at timeof-sale, would allow the necessary time and stability for the industry to achieve self-sustainability.

"It should be easy for governments to make a four-year commitment to this program. The numbers show that ecoENERGY creates jobs, reduces the deficit, and helps the environment, all at the same time," contended Murdock.

"With ecoENERGY, families spend $10 for every dollar they receive in government incentives. This generates $2 in tax revenue for every dollar paid in homeowner grants."

Save ecoENERGY Coalition supporters represent more than 1,600 manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, home renovation contractors and energy audit businesses across Canada. The Coalition was formed in response to the March 31, 2011 end of the ecoENERGY Retrofit-Homes program and related provincial home retrofit programs. www.budget.gc.ca www.saveecoenergy.ca continued on page 8

HRAI AGM Delegates To Get A Glimpse Of The Future Planning For The Next Generation is the theme for HRAI’s 43rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference, which will be held August 25-27, 2011, at the White Oaks Conference Resort in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON. The AGM kickoff breakfast will feature Michael “Pinball” Clemons.

Business sessions for delegates will include: next generation refrigerants; how internet marketing can increase sales; the impact of the 2012 Ontario Building Code changes; core competency training for managers and supervisors; comfort and energy management control in modern hydronic and HVAC systems; and ultraviolet air cleaning in HVAC systems.

Manufacturer and wholesaler delegates will participate in product section meetings on refrigeration, heating and air conditioning, indoor air quality and controls. These sessions will address regulatory, market and supply chain issues as well as promote dialogue between manufacturers and wholesalers.

For more information contact Heather Grimoldby-Campbell, manager, wholesalers and administration, HRAI, 2800 Skymark Avenue, Bldg. 1, Keynote speaker Michael “Pinball” Ste. 201, Mississauga, ON L4W 5A6, tel: 800.267.2231, 905.602.4700, Clemons was the CFL’s all-time ext: 238, or e-mail hgrimoldby@hrai.ca. all-purpose yardage leader.

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hpacmag.com

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© 2011 Masco Canada Limited.

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Raising IAQ Awareness

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HPAC | MAy/june 2011

HPAC04_006-012.indd 8

Health Canada has implemented a number of initiatives designed to promote Canadian awareness of Radon and other threats to indoor air quality. An on-line resource that has been added to the HazardCheck website (www.

HealthyCanadians.gc.ca/Hazardcheck), includes a virtual house tour and other learning tools.

In other IAQ-related news, the Radiation Protection Bureau, in partnership with international experts, such as the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), is developing a Radon Mitigation Guide. The guide will provide guidance and recommended protocols for radon professionals and specialists in the radon mitigation field.

The product is intended to help radon mitigation service providers reduce the radon levels in Canadian homes. The document will provide professional standards and methods that will help in reducing the radon level in Canadian homes below the guideline of 200Bq/m3 (or as low as practicable).

The guide will be made available on the radon section of the Health Canada website. www.hc-sc.gc.ca

Programs Target Commercial Customers SaskEnergy has energy efficiency programs available that are specifically designed for commercial customers. Its Commercial Boiler Program is available until November 30, 2011 and encourages the use of appropriately-sized, high efficiency, natural gas hydronic space-heating systems in large, commercial new construction and retrofit applications.

Applications for the Commercial HVAC Program must be received by October 31, 2011. This program encourages the use of high efficiency natural gas furnaces, boilers and rooftop units in commercial retrofit applications through a financial incentive. The program is designed for use by small- to medium-sized commercial buildings. www.saskenergy.com

DMA Takes Top Honours DMA Applied Controls, with offices in Regina, Saskatoon, and Yorkton, SK, has received Honeywell’s “2010 Canadian Contractor of the Year” Award.

“DMA Applied Controls is a past winner of this award and has continued to demonstrate their dedication to offer creative and affordable integration solutions. Their willingness to find an innovative solution for each customer has allowed them to thrive despite the rough economy,” said Dave Molin, general manager, Honeywell Building Control Systems. www.dmaappliedcontrols.com hpacmag.com

6/15/11 12:12:55 PM

Strategic alliances will be forged with homebuilders, architects, designers, renovators and realtors. The program will also establish a referral mechanism to connect buyers with knowledgeable contractors.

Beautiful Heat partners include Armstrong, Bell & Gossett, Grundfos, To g o w i t h you r Perfect Kitchen, LAARS Heating Systems, Raypak, m ay w e s ug g e s t t h e Taco, Tekmar Control Systems, Uponor, Perfect Heat.

Viessmann, Watts Water Technologies and Weil-McLain Canada.

“The Beautiful Heat initiative is long overdue in the HVAC market place, bringing industry leaders and resources together,” said Bill CAMPAIGN AIMS TO HEAT UP Hooper, market development manager — residential hydronTHE HYDRONICS MARKET “Beautiful Heat”, a marketing program to promote the ben- ics of Bell & Gossett. “Exploring and communicating the efits of hydronic heating, will launch in September with a roll benefits of hydronic heating technology across Canada will out of public relations, consumer advertising and internet be crucial to our long-term success in this market.”

FLIR bSeries HPAC Sep08:3.375x4.875 9/8/08 4:55 PM P marketing geared- to consumers. continued on page 10 Discover r adiant home heating, the finest home heating s ystem you w ill ever exper ience. V isit beautifulheat.com

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6/15/11 12:13:06 PM

< Industry News

continued from page 9

Public Campaign Identifies Risks of Using Flammable Hydrocarbon Refrigerants The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) has launched a consumer safety awareness campaign to warn Canadians based on the theme “Some Jobs Are Best Left to the Experts.” The campaign provides the public with safety information about “do-it-yourself” (DIY) kits containing flammable hydrocarbon refrigerants that are being offered by major retailers to home and business owners.

“Retailers are aggressively selling these DIY kits that contain the propane used in a BBQ tank as a replacement refrigerant for home or business air conditioning systems,” stated Warren Heeley, president of HRAI. “With the air conditioning season nearly here, Canadians need to know that flammable refrigerants used in home or business air conditioning systems can create the potential for a serious explosion and fire, which could result in injury or death.”

The campaign covers the risk factors that consumers should be aware of when considering the purchase of these

hydrocarbon refrigerant kits. In addition to the potential for fire and explosion, these refrigerants are not approved for use in air conditioning equipment already installed in the home or business and their use could cause environmental damage if the existing refrigerants in these systems are not properly recovered.

The bottom line of the campaign asks consumers whether they want to use a substance in their home or business air conditioning system that is a potential danger to your family or business colleagues or does it make more sense to use a qualified technician trained in the safety and environmental aspects of refrigerants and air conditioning systems?

A copy of the campaign message can be found on the HRAI consumer website. www.hrai.ca

see the 17th Annual service vehicle report on page 22

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RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE IN CANADA’S GREEN BUILDING COMMUNITY The Canada Green Building Council has announced the recipients of the 2011 CaGBC Leadership Awards. Awards in seven categories were presented at a Gala Evening in Toronto as part of the CaGBC National Symposium in April.

2011 CaGBC Leadership Award winners include: • Chapter Leadership – Cindy Choy, CaGBC Manitoba Chapter, Manitoba • Government Leadership – Province of Ontario • Industry Leadership – Michael Brooks, REALPac, Ontario • CaGBC Volunteer – Curt Hepting, Enersys, British Columbia • Green Building Champion – John Godden, Clearsphere Consulting, Ontario • Academic Leadership – Dr. John Robinson, UBC, British Columbia • Lifetime Achievement Award -- Wayne Trusty, The Athena Institute, Ontario www.cagbc.org

NEW IAPMO DIRECTOR OF STANDARDS DEVELOPMENT The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) has hired Abraham I. Murra as director of Standards Development. Murra worked as a construction industry consultant for two years before joining the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) as project manager, Sustainability Standards. Recently, Murra led committees developing standards on water conservation, water reuse and wastewater.

He will oversee development and maintenance of IAPMO’s full line of standards, including the ANSI accredited Z124 consensus standards for plastic plumbing products, Z1000 series for waste disposal products, IAPMO’s Trailer, Material, Property and Installation standards and IAPMO Guide Criteria. www.iapmostandards.org

continued on page 12

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< INDUSTRY NEWS

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PLUMBING AND GAS INFORMATION BULLETINS AVAILABLE Requirements for Solar Domestic Hot Water Systems and Requirements for Combination Heating Systems STANDATA have been released and are available on the Alberta Municipal Affairs website (http://municipalaffairs.alberta. ca). Questions or information requests can be directed to safety.services@gov.ab.ca.

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NOTES Chisholm Mechanical in Calgary, AB is the first company in Canada to achieve the Mechanical Service Contractors of Canada (MSCC) Certified Contractor Designation. www.servicecontractor.ca The 2010 National Building Code of Canada has been adopted into law by the Nova Scotia Building Code Act. www.gov.ns.ca/lae/buildingcode The Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes is pleased to introduce free online presentations on the 2010 National Model Construction Codes. These complimentary online presentations provide detailed overviews of major technical changes in the 2010 editions of the National Building Code of Canada (NBC), National Fire of Canada (NFC) and National Plumbing Code of Canada (NPC). Each presentation is approximately 30 minutes in length. www.nationalcodes.ca/eng/presentations/2010_codes_presentations.shtml

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< cooling

Small Scale Systems Offer Big Opportunities Residential hydronic cooling complements your service offering.

BY John siegenthaler

I

n upstate New York, where I live, we have a "heating mode mentality" from late September to early May. Perhaps it is not surprising that I spend most of my time thinking about hydronic heating applications. I suspect quite a few readers can relate to this. Still, the same physical properties that make water ideal as a conveyor belt for moving heat through a building also apply to its use in cooling.

Chilled water cooling has been used in larger buildings for decades. The chiller in many of these systems may be a large centrifugal machine, or an absorption unit that turns out water in the range of 40 to 55F. This water is usually conveyed to several air handlers where it passes through a coil to both cool and dehumidify air stream of return air.

I have been involved with several residential hydronic cooling projects over the last few years, and am pleased with the results. I recommend it as a unique offering that complements what hydronic professionals provide for comfort heating.

THE HARDWARE Figure 1 shows a small scale chilled water cooling system using zoned air handlers. Refrigerant lines run from the air-cooled condenser to a flat plate heat exchanger inside the mechanical room. This heat exchanger is specifically designed to operate as the system's evaporator, with refrigerant gas passing through one side and water through the other. This configuration keeps all water inside the building and thus eliminates the need to use antifreeze or to drain external piping during cold weather.

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The chilled water produced by the flat plate heat exchanger is routed to an insulated and vapour sealed buffer tank. Only tanks with foam insulation should be considered for such applications. After the piping is in place, all connections should be sealed with expanding spray foam and wrapped with a suitable jacket. All seams in the tank's jacket should also be sealed with aluminum foil tape.

A temperature setpoint controller monitors tank temperature and operates the chiller as necessary to maintain it within a certain range, typically from a low of 40F to a high around 55F. Chilled water temperatures lower than 40F are not needed and only serve to lower chiller performance. Water temperatures above 55F will compromise the moisture removal capability of the air handler coils.

The flow switch installed between the buffer tank and the heat exchanger is essential. It verifies flow in this loop as a prerequisite to operating the chiller. Without it, the flat plate heat exchanger could be quickly frozen and damaged should there be a loss of flow.

This distribution side of the system is a homerun layout using zone valves and a variable speed pressure-regulated circulator. The coolest water in the system will also be the most dense and will settle to near the bottom of the buffer tank. For that reason the supply pipe to the distribution system comes out near the bottom of the buffer tank. hpacmag.com

6/15/11 12:10:45 PM

Figure 1 Small-scale chilled water cooling system using zoned air handlers

Installation of a radiant ceiling system developed by the author.

DON'T SWEAT IT All piping carrying chilled water must be insulated and vapour sealed. Omit this detail and condensate damage to drywall surfaces will be quickly evident and lead to costly corrections. I prefer flexible foam rubber insulation with a low vapour permeability. All joints and seams must be closed and glued. This same insulation in the form of flexhpacmag.com

HPAC04_014-020_Cooling.indd 15

Figure 2 Wall-mounted fan coil

ible sheets or tape should be used to encase all portions of valves (other than the handle).

The volutes of the circulator should also be insulated, but do not wrap the motor can. Chilled water cooling is one application where three-piece or two-piece circulators â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as differentiated from wet rotor circulators â&#x20AC;&#x201C; have an advantage. The coupling assembly between the volute and motor helps prevent condensation formation on the latter.

As a rule, do not install circulators or valves directly above electrical components, or in any area where an occasional drip of condensate would be a problem.

Figure 2 shows an example of a small wall-mounted fan-

Image courtesy of Aermec

I have had good results using so-called "hi-velocity" air handlers equipped with higher static pressure blowers to deliver cooling air flow to the building. A typical approach equips each air handler with a discharge trunk duct, to which several two-inch diameter, flexible, pre-insulated "mini ducts" are attached. The latter are easy to route through the framing systems of small buildings and do a good job of sound attenuation. As a rule of thumb, plan on seven, two-inch size air outlets per ton (12,000 Btuh) of cooling capacity.

The zone valves are placed on the return side of the air handlers where the water temperature is slightly warmer.

This helps minimize condensation, but does not eliminate the need to wrap the zone valve bodies with flexible foam rubber insulation. Do not wrap the valve's actuator with insulation as this could cause condensation to form on the internal electrical components.

continued on page 16 MAy/june 2011 | HPAC

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continued from page 21

Figure 3 Radiant ceiling panel (for heating & cooling) fibreglass insulation

coil that is equipped with a condensate drip pan, and thus suitable for chilled water cooling. This particular unit can be operated by a handheld remote. Be sure to route the condensate piping to a suitable drain.

Looking Up to the Future Radiant ceiling, wall, or floor panels can also be used with chilled water cooling, but only in combination with a reliable dewpoint controller that ensures their surface temperature remains above the dewpoint temperature of the room by at least 2 or 3F at all times.

Given the growing interest in radiant cooling, as well as the established comfort of radiant panel heating, I think radiant ceilings are best poised as one of the most versatile hydronic terminal units (for heating and cooling).

Figure 3 shows the construction details for a radiant ceiling system I have developed and used over the last decade. This construction results in a low mass panel continued on page 18

THE BENEFITS OF SMALL-SCALE CHILLED WATER COOLING 1. A range of products are now available to serve as the chiller.

These include: • Ground source, reversible water-to-water heat pumps • Air-cooled chillers (e.g. air-to-water heat pumps) • Small gas-fired absorption cycle chillers that can dissipate heat to either outdoor air or an earth loop.

• Direct cooling from a lake or large pond in Northern climates.

2. I t is much easier to zone a cooling system using multiple small air handlers rather than installing multiple motorized dampers in a central duct system. Zoning could be done using zone circulators, or with zone valves in combination with a variable speed pressure regulated circulator. The latter option offers the same percentage savings in electrical energy as when it is used in a zoned heating system. It also eliminates the need for a differential pressure bypass valve in the system. Finally, minimizing circulator power input is very important in cooling applications because all such power adds a corresponding amount to the cooling load.

3. W ith a properly-sized buffer tank it is possible to size a ground source heat pump to the full design heating load of the building, and not have it short cycle during the cooling mode. Such short cycling has been a definite problem in earlier generation waterto-air heat pumps, especially when used in Northern climates with minimal cooling loads. It led to the development of twospeed and even variable speed compressors. This helps, but at the expense of complexity and higher cost. Using a buffer tank to store chilled water allows a simple and less expensive single stage chiller to be used. The buffer tank, if properly configured, can also provide hydraulic separation between the chiller side

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circulator and the distribution circulator. This is especially important if the latter is operated at variable speeds.

4. A ny concern for "frosting" the cooling coil, which can occur with direct expansion coils operating at reduced air flow rates, is eliminated.

5. T he potential exists for using a radiant panel to handle the sensible portion of the cooling load, thus reducing the air flow rates to those required for latent cooling (e.g. moisture removal) and ventilation. This hybrid approach significantly lowers the distribution energy required to operate the system. It is the primary reason for increased worldwide interest in radiant cooling.

6. I n areas with time-of-use electrical rates, systems can be designed with chilled water storage. Ideally, the chiller would only operate during periods of low electrical rates to drop the tank temperature to where it could absorb the following day's cooling load. I designed and helped install a residential system using this approach back in 1991. It is still operating. Adding storage also allows air-cooled chillers to operate at night when both electrical rates and outdoor temperatures are lower. The latter increases both the capacity and the EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) of air-cooled chillers.

7. In applications where there is a steady demand for domestic hot water, a water-to-water heat pump can serve double duty. the hot side of the heat pump supplies water at temperatures up to 145F, while the cold side supplies chilled water for cooling. Such applications can nearly double the effective Coefficient Of Performance (COP) of a heat pump because both the heated water and chilled water are produced from the same electrical input energy.

hpacmag.com

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Introducing the

LoadMatch_HPAC 7.875x10.75.indd 1

06/05/10 8:28 AM

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continued from page 16

Figure 4

Figure 5

that can respond quickly to changing internal load conditions. When finished this ceiling is indistinguishable from a standard drywall surface.

Figures 4 and 5 show a gypsum ceiling panel now being used in Europe for both chilled water cooling and warm water radiant ceiling heating.

The rear side of the gypsum panels have CNC-milled grooves that hold very small diameter PEX tubing. After the panels are mounted to ceiling framing, the small tubing circuits are connected to manifold piping using shape memory PEX fittings. These panels are manufactured specifically for each installation, with panel shape and tubing placement adjustments that accommodate ceiling penetrations for lighting, ducting, or other equipment. The exposed underside of the panels have a grid of small holes as seen in Figure 4. They are designed to absorb sound, and thus improve room acoustics. Do not be surprised to see such

panels on the North American market in the future.

The sensible cooling capacity for the panel shown in Figures 4 and 5 can be determined using Formula 1:

Where: qsen. cooling = sensible cooling capacity of panel (Btuh/ft2) â&#x2C6;&#x2020;T = difference between average water temperature in panel and room air temperature (ÂşF) For example: If the panel was supplied with 65F water, and the return water was 72F. The sensible cooling capacity of the panel in a room maintained at 75F would be approximately:

continued on page 20

Photos: Diego Jendretzki

Figure 6 Small chilled water cooling system with a radiant panel and chilled water air handler

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hpacmag.com

6/15/11 12:11:19 PM

񡑣 #&"+񡑡 "*񡑧)!񡑰񡑰񡑙$񡑱񡑠񡑢񡑖񡑘񡑦񡑣 #&"+񡑖񡑩'񡑀񡑀񡑆񡑆񡑃񡑅񡑑񡑃񡑆񡑅񡑀񡑀񡑈񡑕񡑈񡑉񡑀񡑢񡑡񡑀񡑀񡑢񡑧񡑱񡑰񡑀񡑆

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< c ooling

continued from page 18

Greater cooling capacities are possible using lower supply water temperatures, but the overall constraint is always maintaining the panel temperature above the room's current dewpoint temperature.

The design cooling load on a typical single family residence is usually in the range of 12 to 18 Btuh/ft2. This total load consists of both sensible cooling (lowering the air's temperature), and latent cooling (removing moisture from the air). Depending on climate, anywhere from 65 to 90 per cent of the total load will be sensible cooling.

These numbers, in combination with the performance estimate for the radiant panel described by Formula 1, indicate that radiant cooling can handle a significant portion of the total load, especially in drier climates.

WRINGING OUT THE WATER Sensible cooling without latent cooling will generally not produce comfortable indoor conditions. Thus, nearly all

radiant cooling systems require a means of moisture removal. One of the most common approaches is to use a chilled water coil in an air handler designed with a drip pan.

Figure 6 shows a possible way to set up a small chilled water cooling system that combines a radiant panel with a chilled water air handler.

Chilled water is produced by a geothermal water-to-water heat pump, which maintains the buffer tank temperature between some preset upper and lower limit whenever there is a demand for cooling. The coolest water is extracted from near the bottom of the buffer tank.

The first load on the chilled water loop is the air handler, through which passes a combination of recirculated air and outside ventilation air. A mixing damper controls the proportions of each. The mixed air passes over the chilled water coil for moisture removal, and passes on to the occupied spaces. Flow through the chilled water coil is induced by the differential pressure across the partially closed globe valve (V1) whenever circulator (P1) is operating.

The second load on the chilled water loop is the radiant cooling panel(s). The three-way motorized mixing valve is operated by the dewpoint control, which continually senses room conditions, and modulates the valve to keep the supply water temperature two or three degrees above dewpoint.

The system shown in Figure 6 is for dedicated cooling.

However, with some minor variations it could also provide radiant panel heating.

MORE TO COME I have just touched on small scale chilled water cooling systems. There is far more to learn and understand about these systems.Watch for future HPAC articles that will extend your knowledge in this growing sector of the hydronic market. <>

John Siegenthaler, P.E. is the author of Modern Hydronic Heating. The third edition of this book is now available. Visit his website www.hydronicpros.com for reference information and software to assist in hydronic system design.

Siegenthaler can be reached at siggy@dreamscape.com.

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hpacmag.com

6/15/11 12:11:29 PM

< 2 011 Service Vehicle Report

Power and Economy

Fuel 2011 Innovations

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offers an optional full-height, washable, interior trim.

BY BILL ROEBUCK

Better fuel economy than last year, along with upgrades to heavy-duty trucks, highlight the latest changes in work vehicles.

C

ontractors and technicians in big shops can agree on one thing when it comes to their work vehicles.

Despite yearly updates and impressive innovations in the pickup truck and cargo van markets, there's no making drivers of work vehicles completely happy.

Complaints range from the mundane -- that seat covers wear out after years of sliding in and out of the driver's seat -- to more serious concerns about fuel economy amid rising gas prices and expensive-to-repair maintenance issues.

Even though most trucks get bigger and better with each model changeover, one business owner wonders why they have to be so big and tall. "We're not going off-roading in them, and most jobsites are pretty smooth these days," says Patrick Flood of First Choice Ventilation in Saint John, NB. He would like to see trucks that are closer to the ground so as to make ingress and egress easier. And he is not the first to complain that the horsepower and torque war among manufacturers may have gotten out of hand.

Certainly there is a market for beefy heavy-duty models with tons of trailer-hauling grunt. But a lot of techs just carry around tools and a few supplies on their routes, with the heavy stuff often being delivered on a utility trailer.

In some cases, complaints about trucks can be unfair, as it is fairly common to see then on the road for 10 years or

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more. That is the case for Lowe Mechanical of Winnipeg, MB, which operates a fleet of 57 cargo vans and pickups.

Ford E-Series three-quarter-ton cargo vans make up the bulk of the vehicles, with a couple of smaller vans -- Ford Aerostars and even a quarter-ton Dodge Caravan in the mix. Plus there are a few Ford and Dodge pickups. All range in age from 1996 to 2009 models.

"We like to run a truck for 10 years," says Lowe's controller, Bill Hubert. He notes the drivers average only 10,000 km to 15,000 km annually. "We often buy gently used trucks from U-Haul. They typically have less than 7,000 km on them. We carry a fair amount of weight in them, so we use the three-quarter-ton models."

Because of recent increases in staff, Hubert has seen the company's fleet grow by four or five trucks a year over the past five years. "We've only retired three trucks in that period of time," he adds.

"Trucks are our second largest cost, after staff," says Hubert. Lowe fights high fuel costs by buying gas from a local Co-Op, which provides rebates of 7.5 cents to 12.5 cents per litre. Also, GPS systems have been installed on about half of the vehicles to target leadfoot drivers.

"We've always had Fords and they've been relatively good, although they're terrible on ball joints in the front, hpacmag.com

6/15/11 12:09:08 PM

Nissan NV is the first commercial van to offer rugged body-on-frame construction combined with a High Roof, offering most users the ability to walk, stand and work in the cargo area.

2011 LINEUP

The Ram C/V is expected to be available in the Fall 2011.

and on brakes," says Hubert, raising a concern over maintenance costs.

Like Hubert, Patrick Flood is also loyal to one particular truck manufacturer, using mostly Toyota Tundra pickups for all but a couple of the models in First Choice Ventilation's fleet of a dozen trucks. The others are GMC Sierra pickups.

"We had almost all GMC models at one time, but we've found the Toyotas to be more heavy-duty and rugged, and to need less maintenance. The Tundra's brakes are a lot larger, which makes a big difference when towing a trailer," says Flood.

First Choice, which has been in business for a dozen years, also uses three utility trailers for hauling gear to jobsites -- including its own scissor lift. About half of the truck fleet is purchased, with the rest being leased. The annual mileage put on the trucks averages 20,000 km. "Our oldest truck is five years," says Flood. "Once they start to cost us money, we trade them."

Other contractors contacted by HPAC agree with keeping costs in check by dumping vehicles when trouble starts, yet just as many, it seems, are happy to "keep them till they die," as one Oshawa, ON, shop said. Even with this kind of feedback, most truck manufacturers are still putting more emphasis on power and towing capacity than on durability.

HPACMAG.COM

HPAC04_022-028.indd 23

When you need to work inside your truck, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Panel Van's configuration gives you a 76-in.-high cargo area with the option of a Super High Roof (84.2 in.), which increases the maximum cargo volume by 53 cu. ft. to 600 cu. ft. In addition, the Sprinter offers two wheelbase lengths (144 in. and 170 in.), three body lengths, a standard-height version and a crew package with seating for up to six. The rear doors open 270 degrees and the side sliding door open to a width of 51 in.

New on 2011 models is a BlueTEC badge on the rear doors, a 12-volt power outlet in the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seat base, electrics for a trailer socket, heat-insulating glass, assist handles, a hinged lid for the centre console storage compartment, two-stage opening for the sliding door, and a lockable glove compartment. Also optional is a redesigned full-height, washable, interior trim. The Extended Cargo Package now includes additional lashing rails and tensioning straps, and assist handles on the rear doors.

You can also stand up while you work in the new 2012 Nissan NV commercial van, which is available in three models, the NV1500, NV2500 HD and NV3500 HD, and in two roof configurations -- Standard Roof (83.9 in.) and High Roof (105 in.). The NV is the first commercial van to offer rugged body-on-frame construction combined with a High Roof, offering most users the ability to walk, stand and work in the cargo area. Maximum cargo space is 323 cu. ft.

Two engines are available to power the rear-wheel-drive NV -- a 4.0-litre V6 rated at 261 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.6-litre V8 rated at 317 hp and 385 lb-ft of torque. continued on page 24 MAY/JUNE 2011 | HPAC

23

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continued from page 23

Photo GM Corp.

< 2011 SERVICE VEHICLE REPORT

Above: 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD features an all-new chassis.

Left: The 2011 Toyota Tundra offers two new interior colours.

Both are mated to a five-speed automatic. The NV is available in two grades, S and SV. Maximum cargo height is 56 in. on the Standard Roof model and 77 in. on the High Roof version. Access is through 60/40 split barn doors in the rear. With the front passenger seat folded, the NV can carry objects 10.5 ft. long. The van is based on Nissan's Titan full-size pickup, and it has a fully boxed ladder frame.

Nissan recently announced a Commercial Advantage Program that targets small commercial customers who use vans. Eligible customers can choose from three offers, The first, available on both the Standard and High Roof Van, is a Cargo Management System; the second option is a package, which provides the convenience of carrying cargo and ladders with a steel cabin/cargo partition and utility rack; and the third option is simply a $1,000 commercial rebate.

In terms of its pickup trucks, there are very few changes to the 2011 Nissan Titan, other than new names for the half-ton models. The entry-level XE, middle-line SE and top-of-the-line LE trims have been renamed S, SV and SL, respectively.

General Motors' full-size pickup twins, the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, have slightly different body styles 24

HPAC | MAY/JUNE 2011

HPAC04_022-028.indd 24

and trim features but share pretty much the same specs.

Both come in 1500 standard-duty models and heavy-duty 2500 and 3500 versions. Regular, extended and crew cab trims are available, along with a choice of regular-length and short cargo beds. Three gasoline engines are offered, as well as a torquey diesel and a hybrid, and four- or sixspeed automatic transmissions. (Notably, General Motors is the only company to offer a hybrid pickup.)

The 1500 series models were upgraded for 2010 and the 2011 models received wind noise reduction enhancements. The heavy-duty (HD) 2500 and 3500 units underwent major changes for 2011, including new exterior styling.

Six air bags are now standard.

The 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD have an all-new chassis with a high-strength, full-length, fully boxed steel frame. They also received an upgraded powertrain, asymmetrical leaf spring rear suspension, beefed up independent front suspension, and larger-capacity front and rear brakes.

Highlights of the 2500HD versions include increased Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) to 5,897 kg (13,000 lb.), 12 per cent more power and 16 per cent more torque. This extra power rating comes from GMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new 6.6-litre Duramax turbo-diesel engine mated to its Allison six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain is rated at 397 hp and 765 lb.-ft. of torque and the payload capability is 3,010 kg (6,635 lb.).

Other enhancements include trailer sway control, integrated trailer brake control, hill start assist, automatic continued on page 26 HPACMAG.COM

6/15/11 12:09:45 PM

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The All-New 2012 NV Lineup INNOVATION THAT WORKS

Your business card may say contractor, plumber, landscaper or electrician, but we know that’s only half of the story. You’re also the accountant, customer service department and CEO. And that’s why the Nissan NV is so much more than a van.

With a built-in filing cabinet,* and expanded desktop surface,* it’s your entire office on wheels – perfect for all your jobs.

You’ll have a hard time finding any other van than can do the same.

Starting from $30,998 For more information, visit ncv.nissan.ca *Available features. MSRP for 2012 NV 1500 (X41A72 AA00) is $30,998. Freight and PDE charges ($1,630), license, registration, insurance, duties and applicable taxes (including excise tax, fuel conservation tax, tire recycling tax and duties on new tires, where applicable) are extra. All prices are subject to change without notice. TMThe Nissan Commercial Vehicles names, logos, product names, feature names, and slogans are trademark owned by or licensed to Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., and/or its North American subsidiaries.

< 2011 SERVICE VEHICLE REPORT

continued from page 24

grade braking, intelligent brake assist and a new smart exhaust brake system.

The General Motors cargo van line includes the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana Cargo Van, which are basically twins. The 1500, 2500 and 3500 series cargo vans are available with 4.3-litre V6, 4.8-litre V8 or 5.3-litre V8 flexfuel gasoline engines or a 6.6-litre Duramax Diesel (available on the bigger 2500 and 3500 models), with four-speed automatics on the 1500 or six-speed automatics on the 2500s and 3500s, in rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive versions.

For 2011, four-wheel disc brakes, a tire pressure monitoring system and OnStar are standard equipment. StabiliTrak has now been included and a locking rear differential is available. Door configurations include split rear doors and an optional sliding door on the passenger side. Maximum payload is as high as 4,173 lb. and there is a top tow rating of 10,000 lb. with the diesel option. Cargo capacity is rated at 240 cu. ft.

For 2011, Ford's regular-duty half-ton F-150 models carry over the performance and option updates introduced for the 2010 model year. Several new powertrains are available in the 2011 F-150. A 3.5-litre V6 twin-turbo EcoBoost engine is aimed at providing good fuel economy; a 3.7-litre V6 and 5.0-litre V8 each have fuel-saving and performance26

HPAC | MAY/JUNE 2011

HPAC04_022-028.indd 26

enhancing twin independent variable camshaft timing technology; and a new version of the 6.2-litre V8 is the base engine in the 2011 F-Series Super Duty.

A new 6.7-litre Power Stroke diesel V8 offered in the F-Series Super Duty, rated at 400 hp and 800 lb.-ft. of torque, delivers a 20 per cent fuel economy gain over its predecessor. The 2011 F-Series Super Duty pickup line offers a towing capability of 11,068 kg (24,400 lb.) and a payload capacity of 3,207 kg (7,070 lb.).

The 2011 Super Duty also got a new hood, with a prominent inverted power dome. Inside, there is a new reconfigurable flow-through console that improves the functionality of the truck. Storage space is increased about 60 per cent, and at least 70 different configurations are possible.

The 2011 Ford F-150 SuperCrew was recently named an Insurance Industry For Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick. The F-150 includes a number of standard safety and stability systems, including Safety Canopy side curtain airbags, AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, SOS Post Crash Alert System and trailer sway control.

2011 marks the 50th anniversary of Ford's E-Series Cargo Van, so the company is offering a 50th anniversary edition that includes luxury options, as well as Ford Work Solutions and Sync technology. Available in E-150, E-250 and E-350 models, the available engines consist of a 4.6litre V8, a 5.4-litre V8, a 6.8-litre V10 and a 6.0-litre Power Stroke Diesel. An E85 fuel option is available on the gas versions. The cargo vans can be equipped with Ford's tool tracking systems, Tool Link and Crew Chief. Payload capacity is as high as 4,900 lb., with the top tow rating reaching 10,000 lb. Cargo capacity tops out at 238 cu. ft.

The 2011 Ford Transit Connect is a carryover from last year. The XLT Cargo Van version is available without rear

Photo (top) Wieck Media Services Inc.

Above: Several new powertrains are available in the 2011 F-150.

Left: Four-wheel disc breaks, a tire-pressure monitoring system and OnStar are standard equipment on the 2011 GMC Savanas.

HPACMAG.COM

6/15/11 12:09:58 PM

B:8.125” T:7.875” S:7”

Up to 7' roof height for easy walk-in loading and unloading

Class-leading fuel economy via the BlueTEC clean diesel engine

B:11”

S:10”

T:10.75”

600 cubic feet of cargo capacity can fit over 100 sheets of drywall

Works hard, even in park.

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Starting from

$42,900.

mercedes-benz.ca/sprinter

Ad Number: MBZ_SPR_P05917HP4 Publication(s): HPAC Heating Plumbing Air Conditioning This ad prepared by: SGL Communications • 2 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario • phone 416.413.7495 • fax 416.944.7883 File Location: SGL_MercedesBenzCanada:Volumes:SGL_MercedesBenzCanada:Magazine Ads:O15028_MY11 Sprinter Q1 Magazine:MBZ_SPR_P05917HP4.indd

This proof was produced by the following department:

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JOB SPECIFICS

< 2 011 Service Vehicle Report door glass, yet still includes several comfort features for the driver. The van features dual sliding side doors and split rear cargo doors that open up 180 degrees. The interior cargo height is 59 in. and the cargo box has 135 cu. ft. of storage space with a cargo payload of 1,600 lb. Power comes from a 136-hp, 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine connected to a four-speed automatic.

Ram Trucks from Chrysler LLC are available in a 1500 series and a heavyduty 2500 and 3500 series. There are more than 40 variations of the pickups for 2011, from base through to luxury models. Regular, Quad Cab and Crew Cab configurations are also offered, with standard- or long-box cargo beds.

The Ram 1500 Express is a new Ram Truck aimed at first-time buyers.

It includes a standard Hemi V8 engine

continued from page 26

with an 11.8 L/100 km (20 mpg) rating. Other models in the Ram 1500 line include upgrades made on the 2010 models to increase payload capacities. The V6 models come with a four-speed transmission, while the V8s get a five-speed. A Cummins diesel engine is also available, with a standard six-speed manual or an optional five-speed automatic.

Upgrades to the Ram Truck Heavy Duty line-up for 2011 were focused on trailer-towing capacity. The Ram 3500 Heavy Duty saw a performance boost to its 6.7-litre Cummins Turbo Diesel Engine that increased its torque by 23 per cent to 800 lb.-ft. and its trailertowing capacity to 10,297 kg (22,700 lb.). Dual-rear-wheel-equipped Ram 3500 Heavy Duty pickups also can be upfitted with a package of compo-

nents that will produce a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 13,608 kg (30,000 lb.).

Chrysler has also re-introduced a cargo van to its lineup. The 2012 Ram Cargo Van (C/V) features a solid sliding door, rear quarter window and backlight privacy panels in place of clear glass windows. It also has a structural aluminum rear load floor. The C/V will go on sale in the third quarter of 2011. Two flooring options are offered on the Ram C/V, including one with a flat, uninterrupted, high-capacity surface. A second, optional floor provides through-the-floor access to three storage bins and load floor tie-downs.

The 2011 Toyota Tundra is basically a carry-over from the 2010 model, with minor option changes being offered. A total of 11 different Tundra models are available, with options such as two- or four-wheel drive, Regular Cab, Double Cab and CrewMax configurations, and short or long box lengths. There are two V8 engines offered, a 4.6-litre and a 5.7-litre, both with a six-speed automatic transmission. Payload capacities range up to 830 kg (1,835 lb.) and towing ratings go as high as 4,760 kg (10,500 lb.).

Overall, the manufacturers can be commended for focusing on improved fuel economy even while they increase the overall power in their work vehicles.

Bill Roebuck is a long-standing member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and has been writing the annual Service Vehicle Report for HPAC Magazine since 1999.

For pointers on selecting a service vehicle visit hpaCmag.com Click supplements & Special features 28

HPAC | MAY/JUNE 2011

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hpacmag.com

6/15/11 12:10:06 PM

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< Cooling

Economizers: An Interesting Addition To The Mix Using outside air to provide comfort cooling makes good sense in arid climates.

BY dave demma

A

fter experiencing several weeks of rainy weather, it appears that spring/summer might finally be on the way. Yesterday it was in the mid 80s, and as bedtime approached it was still a little stuffy and uncomfortable in the house. Yet, it was a crisp 60 degrees outside. And better yet, I live in an arid climate… no humidity! So do I turn on the air conditioner to make the indoor condition tolerable for sleeping? Nope, I opted for operating in the simplest economizer mode and open a few windows.

Now, this system can be refined, advanced and automated, but basically the concept of using an economizer with rooftop units or packaged A/C units entails using outside air to provide comfort cooling when the outside air temperature/humidity is lower than the temperature/humidity required for the indoor space.

While ASHRAE’s Standard 62 will require a minimum amount of outside air to ensure indoor air quality, applications that require comfort cooling year round can utilize an economizer to introduce “more than the minimum” outside air to provide that comfort cooling. This eliminates the need to operate the air conditioning system’s compressor. The resulting electrical savings are always welcome.

The typical “mixed air” air handling unit will include dampers for outside air, return air and relief (exhaust) air. Using the proper control strategy can provide airside economizing in one of the following four methods:

1

Heating Mode – When the space requirement calls for heating only, the air handler will allow only the minimum amount of outside air as determined by ASHRAE Standard 62. This outside air mixes with the return air and is heated as necessary to maintain the set-point for the space. In this example no more than the minimum amount of out30

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side air should enter the building, as doing so would only increase the energy consumption.

2

Modulated Economizer Mode – When the outside air is cool enough (in the 30F-55F range), there should be sufficient cooling capacity to maintain the space temperature requirement without utilizing the mechanical cooling system. This method will simultaneously modulate the outside air damper and return air damper, matching the cooling load with the cooling capacity of the cool outside air. The outside air damper will modulate anywhere between the minimum setting and 100 per cent open.

3

Integrated Economizer Mode – During mild weather, or periods where the cooling load increases beyond the capacity of the outside air’s capacity to provide cooling, mechanical cooling will be used as a supplement. This is where the outside air temperature is below the space temperature, the outside air damper is 100 per cent open, but the space temperature is still above the set-point. Mechanical cooling is brought on; however conditioning the 100 per cent outside air is more efficient than conditioning the higher temperature return air. The system will remain in this mode until either the outdoor air condition reaches the high limit setpoint shutoff, or when the outside air temperature falls to a point where the space requirement can be met with the modulated economizer mode.

4

Mechanical Cooling Mode – During periods where the differential between the space temperature requirement and the outside air temperature is insufficient to provide any measurable comfort cooling, the outside air damper will close to its minimum position (as determined by ASHRAE Standard 62) and that reduced amount of outside air mixhpacmag.com

6/15/11 12:02:30 PM

ing with the return air from the space will be conditioned by the mechanical cooling system.

SYSTEM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS While ASHRAE Standard 90 calls for all cooling systems with a fan to include an economizer, there is a laundry list of exceptions. There is an obvious extra cost to add an economizer to a system and areas with climates that can-

NOTE: An economizer system needs to be designed with adequate relief air so that when outside air is drawn into the building, the excess air is relieved. Without an adequate relief system, the building can become over-pressurized, causing exterior doors to stand open and air to whistle through exterior doors and elevator doors. There are three common types of relief systems that can be considered when retrofitting an RTU with an economizer: relief dampers, relief fans and return fans.

Source: Energy Innovators Initiative Office of Energy Efficiencyâ&#x20AC;¨ Natural Resources Canada

not realize enough energy savings to justify this expense are waived from the Standard 90 requirement. Potential energy savings are greatest in dry climates. As such, systems with capacities above approximately five tons must include economizers. In moist cool climates that minimum capacity requirement jumps up to 11 tons. Where the weather is moist and warm economizers are not required.

Because there will be times when the system will operate with the outside air damper in the 100 per cent open position, it must be sized appropriately to handle 100 per cent of the maximum CFM delivered by the supply fan.

Now, the economizerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s function is to provide energy savings during periods where comfort cooling is required, yet the outside air temperature is sufficient to provide that comfort cooling. During periods when the outside air temperature is insufficient to provide any measurable cooling capacity to the space, the outside air damper better not be open any further than the required minimum amount.

It would be ironic to invest in an economizer, only to have continued on page 32

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31

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< COOLING it remain open more than the minimum during the heat of summer. The extra cooling load resulting from a wide open outside air damper during the heat of summer will certainly result in excessive energy consumption and quite probably an inability to maintain

adequate comfort cooling levels.

Proper control sequencing, along with verification of control sensor accuracy, is an absolute must.

Additionally, in areas where humidity could cause the movable parts of the dampers to become corroded, suffi -

cient maintenance is required to ensure that the dampers do not become immovable. <> Dave Demma holds a degree in refrigeration engineering and worked as a journeyman refrigeration technician before moving into the manufacturing sector where he regularly trains contractor and engineering groups. He can be reached at ddemma@uri.com.

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Are you a manufacturer or wholesaler? Be sure to update your FREE National Buyer's Guide listing at www.hpacmag.com. If you require assistance, contact Kerry Turner at 416.510.5218.

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You can also access the current issue of HPAC Magazine and archived editions. Are you a contractor with an installation or troubleshooting question? Chances are you will find the answer in a past issue of HPAC. If not, e-mail KTurner@hpacmag.com and we will look at covering the topic in an upcoming issue.

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< Show report

Construction Nirvana What happens when the who's who in North American building science get together to discuss real world applications of building enclosure technologies? BY ROBERT BEAN Delegates gather for a post conference tour and presentation at Manitoba Hydro Place.

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HPAC04_033-038_Bean.indd 33

"What You Don't Know Can Make Your Work Useless." The message synchs with Straube's point about projects that screw up the order of things, such as doing major mechanical overhauls before the building "facelift."

University of Waterloo's Professor T.M. Boake,4 echoed that point in her preconference seminar. She also reminded continued on page 34 Delegates took advantage of the opportunity to tour interesting sites in the Winnipeg area, such as the Canadian Museum of Human Rights, shown here. Construction completion of the museum is projected for 2012. The physical home of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights is expected to be an inspiring international landmark, drawing visitors from around the globe. The $310-million project is being created in partnership between the Government of Canada, the Province of Manitoba, the City of Winnipeg, The Forks North Portage Partnership and the private sector.

Photos: Colin Szewaga

O

ver 265 guests and 30 sponsors attended the 13th Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology in Winnipeg, MB. While there were no healing miracles per se, there was brevity along with a number of significant highlights. My top three picks included: integrating HVAC with building technology; addressing the inventory of inefficient structures; and meeting the needs of owners and occupants.

Unlike other more sombre conferences, this one had entertainment value in the form of speaker witticisms as University of Waterloo's Dr. John Straube2 effectively demonstrated when he discussed the importance of getting the sequence right in remediation/retrofits. He offered the analogy: "One can pick your nose, pick your teeth and pick your butt and the significance of the order, as most will agree, is not a trivial matter."

Taking this a bit further, session chair Dr. Mark Bomberg3 pointed out that the building enclosure is the "face" of the building and the barrier separating the outside from the inside. In keeping with many of the speakers, his key message emphasized achieving an effective "face lift" in remediation and retrofit before "picking" away at indoor environmental quality and energy use related to the HVAC and lighting systems. The latter two are intimately integrated and influenced by the former.

Getting the sequence right is in keeping with Bomberg's principles in building physics and mechanical systems.

He once taught an appropriately sub-titled course called

MAY/JUNE 2011 | HPAC

33

6/15/11 12:00:04 PM

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34

delegates of the observations of industry philosophers who noted that we are the only species on the planet where garbage is a byproduct of our own survival strategies.

This sentiment was hammered home by several presenters who poked fun at the misuse of the words green and sustainability.

As others joked, when it gets really hot people in the tropics do not crank up the air conditioning as we do here in North America. In the south when it gets hot they take a nap. I do not know about you but given the choice between using energy for cooling buildings and taking a sustainability snooze – I am voting for the snooze.

I really enjoyed the promotion of prevention, correction and, if necessary, avoidance. As Prof. Boake said, "If you don't want buildings to overheat don't invite the sun in, that way you won't have to kick the heat out." This and other uncomplicated principles were in part the foundation of a keynote delivered by indoor climate engineer and TransSolar5 managing director, Thomas Auer.

Auer cautioned that in some badly designed buildings, power failure means occupants have to vacate the building for fear of heat stroke (an architectural illness we in the industry refer to as "death in a box"). TransSolar is the highly-acclaimed climate engineering firm on the design team for the 22-storey Manitoba Hydro Building,6 as well as the Bangkok International Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)7 and the 40-storey Deutsche Post AG building in Bonn, Germany.8 Interestingly all of these buildings are conditioned with embedded pipe radiant systems.

A self-proclaimed translator between architecture and mechanical engineering, Auer emphasized that designers pay far too much attention to air temperature and not enough to the mean radiant temperature and subsequently the operative temperature. Having drawn the line in the continued on page 36 hpacmag.com

HPAC | MAY/JUNE 2011

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< Show report

continued from page 34

sand long ago over design criteria based exclusively on air temperatures (à la the National Building Code of Canada), versus operative temperature (the ASHRAE and ISO metric for thermal comfort) I say Amen to Auer's comments.

Remediation of existing building enclosures is a key focus for this industry segmentand several speakers discussed government and/or university funded demonstration projects or private client buildings, which were challenged to develop or refine tools and processes. Among them were Professor Kim Pressnail of the University of Toronto and Nick Trovato of Read Jones Christoffersen. Both provided real world examples of applying innovative but practical

NOTE:

approaches to existing buildings, which resulted in energy reductions and improvements to occupant comfort.

Industry colleague and conference attendee, John Hockman noted that the availability of research and information on the application of building science is more readily available. Pressnail, Boake, Trovato, Auer, et al. emphasized the need to use available research and application information to do preconstruction analysis in order to achieve the winning combination of high performance buildings with what I refer to as radiant-based HVAC systems. Radiant refers first to the radiant exchange between occupants and the enclosure, and secondly to low temperature radiant heating and high temperature radiant cooling.

Other speakers included John A. Wells of Crosier Kilgour & Partners Ltd.,9 who emphasized the need to understand the link between building maintenance, moisture, biological growth and IAQ. This single presentation reinforced a belief I hold that HVAC engineers and contractors involved in IAQ must learn the basics in building science.

HVAC contractors in particular are reluctant to

As always, the downside to a really upbeat conference is missing out on some sessions and not having the opportunity to thank those behind the scenes. Burt Phillips,10 an ASHRAE colleague and scientific committee chair, and session chair Dr. Mark Bomberg3 were two individuals who graciously volunteered their valuable time engaging me in industry dialogue, for which I am grateful. I did not get a chance to converse with conference chair Ryan Dalgleish11 and his team but take this opportunity to thank all for the opportunity to cover the conference.

24112_BWC_SolarAD_HALF_resize_Layout 1 5/19/11 10:22 AM Page 1

continued on page 38

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HPAC | MAY/JUNE 2011

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continued from page 36

learn about this area and often default to resolving IAQ issues exclusively with air-based solution. But installing the most effective filters for particulate, odours and microbials won't solve the foremost problem in buildings – that being moisture. In fact, trying to solve moisture challenges with air filtration only exacerbates the problem as it gives permission to the owner to ignore the root cause – this is never a good thing.

Without a doubt, the high calibre seminars at this event made it clear – those with both construction and mechanical skills are the knowledge-based leaders.

There is a message there for those responsible for growResources: 1. www.becwinnipeg2011.com 2. www.civil.uwaterloo.ca/beg/ 3. http://i-face-team.com; www.linkedin.com/pub/mark-bomberg/b/813/165 4. www.architecture.uwaterloo.ca/faculty_projects/terri/BCEHOME.html 5. www.transsolar.com/ 6. www.hydro.mb.ca/corporate/mhplace/features.shtml 7. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suvarnabhumi_Airport 8. www.transsolar.com/download/e/pb_post_bonn_e.pdf 9. www.ckpeng.com/partners.html 10. www.unies.mb.ca 11. www.buildingprofessionals.ca

ing their HVAC businesses.

Last but not least – unlike other professions, the building science community refreshingly does not take itself too seriously, but let there be no mistake they do take the work very seriously...and that includes understanding the building as a system for which HVAC plays a significant role.

I encourage HPAC readers to bring your sense of humour and a passion for learning to the 14th Canadian Conference on Building Science and Technology in Toronto, Ontario.

Visit http://obec.on.ca for future announcements. <> Robert Bean, R.E.T., P.L.(Eng.), is a registered practitioner in building construction engineering technology (ASET) and a mechanical engineering professional licensee (APEGGA). He has over 30 years experience in the construction industry, specializing in energy and indoor environmental quality. Bean is the author and lecturer for professional development programs addressing building science, thermal comfort quality, IAQ and radiant-based HVAC systems. www.healthyheating.com

When you choose Ruud, you’re getting a heritage of doing things right; a history of uncompromising dedication to quality. A legacy of standing by our word, our products, and our customers.

Ruud has seen decades of fads and fancy footwork come and go, all while we remained focused on you and what really matters:

38

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6/15/11 12:01:04 PM

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40

HPAC | MAY/JUNE 2011

HPACMAG.COM

Broan’s Model 784 delivers 80 CFM at 2.0 Sones and Model 770 delivers 50 CFM at 1.5 Sones. Both are designed for 2” x 6” ceiling construction. Single packs and builder finishing packs are available. www.broan.ca

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Tel (905) 760-1212 hpacmag.com

HPAC04_040-041.indd 41

Toll Free 1-855-760-1212

www.accesspanels.ca MAy/june 2011 | HPAC

41

6/15/11 11:56:12 AM

MECHANICAL SUPPLY NEWS MANUFACTURERS • distributors • wholesalers • associations

Name Showcases Experience

Taco Breaks Ground On Education And Training Centre Taco has embarked on a major building project to modernize its Cranston, RI facility and to revamp the Taco Learning Center. The $18-million project involves expanding the front of the present building to accommodate a new, state-of-the-art education and training centre, to be called the Taco Innovation & Development Center, along with over 24,000 sq. ft. of renovations to office space areas.

Slated for completion in the Fall of 2012, the project represents the largest capital expenditure effort in the company's history and addresses the company's short and long-term needs for remaining in Rhode Island.

The LEED project will showcase the best that today's advanced hydronics industry offers, including "Living Laboratories" demonstration spaces for working Taco products and systems.

The company, in business since 1920, also operates facilities in Fall River, MA and Milton, ON. www.taco-hvac.com

Distech Controls Improves 17 Spots In Ranking Distech Controls, a provider of building automation and energy management solutions, recently announced that it has ranked #119 in the Branham300 list of Top 250 Canadian Information and Communications Technology Companies for 2011.

The Branham300 is produced annually by the Branham Group, an industry analyst and strategic consulting firm.

It highlights the top Canadian and multinational ICT companies operating in Canada. In the 2010 Branham300, Distech Controls ranked #136.

Distech Controls designs and manufactures systems and products based on open and interoperable communication protocols, delivered via a Web-based building management platform. www.distech-controls.com www.branham300.com 42

HPAC | MAy/june 2011

HPAC04_042-043_MSN.indd 42

American Hometec, Inc. has changed its name to AHI Technologies LLC. "Our new name reflects our commitment to both the residential and commercial industries," said Shimin Luo, president of AHI Technologies. "As an innovator in water heating technologies, we want to ensure we reach our target audiences - both residential and commercial."

AHI Technologies product lines will remain the same, including the recently announced ThermoLock line of ultracompact electric tankless water heaters. Installation, which the U.S. Department of Energy recommends to help conserve both valuable water and energy.

Morden National Sales and Marketing Inc., which has moved from 6800 Base Line to 6850 Base Line in Wallaceburg, ON, was recently appointed national master rep for AHI. www.mordennational.com www.coilless.com

MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS EnerWorks and Provision Solar have closed the sale of EnerWorks to Provision Solar. The company continues to operate under the EnerWorks name and is led by Suni Ball, general manager. Provision Solar operates under the name "Proterra Solar." EnerWorks business will now offer Proterra Solar's evacuated tube solar thermal products.

EnerWorks' operations have been relocated to Woodstock, Ontario and the new factory is already up and running at 969 Juliana Dr., tel: 519.268.6500.

Mike Noble (EnerWorks' founder) will remain with EnerWorks as vice president of business development. Derek Holman is the new director of operations for EnerWorks. www.enerworks.com www.provisionsolar.com

DISTRIBUTION NEWS >>Bardon Supplies Limited,

recently held a customer appreciation night to commemorate the opening of its new flagship distribution centre at 405 College St. E. in Belleville's industrial park. The renovated 125,000 sq. ft. facility also serves as Bardon's corporate head office and hosts both the Bardon wholesale branch and its affiiated retail showroom, Bathworks. www.bardonsupplies.com

>>Noble has opened plumbing counter locations at existing Don Park branches at 16 Lesmill Rd. in North York, ON (tel: 416.443.1300) and in Barrie,ON at 112 Caplan Ave. hpacmag.com

6/15/11 12:14:11 PM

(tel: 705.726.1114) The newest full service location is at 1188 Gorham Rd., Unit B in Newmarket, ON (tel: 905.

830.6900). www.noble.ca

>>NEO Valves Ltd is now a part of the same ownership group as Dobbin Sales Ltd. NEO and Dobbin will continue to operate as separate companies but will share office and warehouse locations in Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal.

Dobbin will also provide representation for NEO in key markets across Canada. Dobbin was recently named the Canadian master distributor of Sunroc water coolers. info@ neovalves.com www.dobbinsales.com >>Venstar, a thermostat and energy management systems supplier, has expanded Canadian availability of its HVAC systems, including its thermostats and accessories, through an exclusive distribution agreement with Trane Canada Co. www.venstar.com >>Plumberex Specialty Products Inc. has named Canadian master distributor Vision Parts & Accessories Inc. as its distributor for the Canadian market. Plumberex manufactures pre-fit, antimicrobial under lavatory protectors for barrier free applications. Vision Parts & Accessories is located in Markham, ON, tel: 866.847.4665. www.visionparts.com >>HD Supply Canada has opened its first showroom in Vaughan, ON. The showroom combines the product offerings from the company's HD Supply Litemor and HD Supply Brafasco stores under one roof. Located at 100 Galcat Dr., the facility also features an attached, fully-stocked distribution centre and a 16,000-sq. ft. showroom with more than 15,000 product offerings. www.hdsupply.ca

PEOPLE Uponor has named Bill Gray vice president of sales for Uponor North America.

Gray was general manager for Uponor Ltd. in Canada.

Alexander G. van der Weerd is the first person to be named chief executive officer in S.A. Armstrong's history. In this new role, van der Weerd is responsible for the formulation and execution of the company's global business strategy.

Dan Bondoc has joined Continental Fan Canada (formerly Aeroflo) where he is responsible for sales on the industrial and OEM side of the business.

Ron Vanhevel has joined GeoSmart Energy as the Southwestern Ontario territory manager. In this role he will accelerate the company's growth and expand and strengthen its dealer network.

Moen Incorporated has promoted Tim McDonough to vice president, global brand marketing. He was most recently vice president of wholesale marketing and brand development for Moen Canada. Moen Canada also announced the addition of John Farina, Tony Hogan and Ryan Wright to the positions of senior territory manager, wholesale.

>>PAW NA L.P. has named TTS Thermaltech Systems Inc. (Thermaltech) as its Canadian representative.

Thermaltech is a distributor of specialty equipment for solar thermal, and hydronic heating applications, based in Burnaby, BC. www.thermaltechsystems.com

Ryan Carr has joined E. S. Gallagher Sales Ltd. as sales representative for Southwestern Ontario.

>>The Master Group's Dartmouth, NS, branch has relocated from Ilsley Ave. to a larger location at 181 Joseph Zatzman Dr., Unit 15, B3B 1R5. The contact information remains unchanged. www.master.ca <>

Caleffi veteran Roger Corrente has been promoted to national sales manager. He joined Caleffi in 2007 and was most recently eastern region sales manager. Nick Kugler has joined Caleffi in the newly created position of sales engineer.

hpacmag.com

HPAC04_042-043_MSN.indd 43

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< Plumbing

Lower Flow Non-Clogs

44

HPAC | MAY/JUNE 2011

A better alternative would be to reduce the rotational speed to 1,150 RPM as the pump would maintain about 60 per cent efficiency since efficiency moves to the left with a reduction in speed. But, suppose we require 225 GPM @ 38 ft.? Could we just trim the impeller to seven inches and run at a lower efficiency? We could, but we must be willing to accept a lower reliability due to the increased radial forces that are formed when operating that far off BEP. Unfortunately, this puts us in that proverbial area located between a rock and a hard place. We can reduce flow by reducing the impeller’s diameter or rotational speed but, in doing so, head becomes unacceptable. We can also reduce flow by reducing the vane width. Now head will remain acceptable but the impeller will no longer pass a three-inch solid.

Or, we could run well to the left of BEP and accomplish both at a cost of reduced pump life. Fortunately there are other impeller options.

FIGURE 1 Two Vane - 1,750 RPM 8 in 45

7.5 in

50

55 65

7 in

70

70 70

6.5 in

Head - ft

any guidelines and codes require submersible wastewater pumps to pass a minimum of a three-inch spherical solid. This is not a difficult task for many four-inch and larger non-clogs but, a problem arises when flow requirements drop and certain heads must be maintained. These lower flow, higher head applications can make it difficult to accommodate a three-inch solid.

Have you ever wondered why a typical, ½ HP residential sewage pump has a flow rate of well over 80 GPM? If we turned on every faucet, flushed every toilet and ran every appliance at the same time flow would not exceed 30 GPM for the average three or four bedroom home. It turns out this 80+ GPM flow rate is due to an impeller characteristic we seldom consider.

When we think about the varying flows and heads produced by a centrifugal pump our brains tend to focus on the affinity laws, impeller diameter, and motor speed. We know that flow is directly proportional to both rotational speed and impeller diameter. And, of course, head varies as the square of a change in diameter and rotational speed.

But, there is another factor that, that is vane width or the distance between the shrouds of a closed impeller is another factor contributes to flow.

If we double the width, the impeller’s internal volume will double. If we keep diameter and rotational speed constant, flow will vary in proportion to vane width. Since that residential sewage pump is designed to pass a two-inch solid, its vane width will dictate a much higher flow than one might expect. The same holds true for a four-inch non-clog designed to pass a non-deformable, three-inch spherical solid.

Figure 1 shows the performance of a moderate flow, four-inch submersible non-clog that meets most guidelines for solids passage. It employs a two vane impeller operating at 1,750 RPM to produce a BEP flow of 450 GPM at 70 per cent efficiency. Could we use this pump in an application that requires 225 GPM? If we trim the impeller to about six inches we could obtain that flow at about 22 ft., but our efficiency would drop to about 47 per cent.

65

6 in 5.5 in 25 55

45

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

450

500

550

600

650

700

8.5 in 80 8 in

SINGLE VANE IMPELLERS 70

7.5 in

The single or mono vane impeller was developed in the late 1940s by Fairbanks-Morse. Its unique geometry produced different flow characteristics and resulted in a steeper H/Q curve than that of a two vane impeller of the same size. It also passed a larger solid and was more tolerant of the radial forces that arose due to off BEP flow. They are still popular today and the only negative is that it can be difficult to balance in the field due to its inherent lack of symmetry.

60

Head - ft

M

BY Joe evans

50

40 30 0

100

50

150

200

250 300 US gpm

350

400

8 in 7.95 in 7.7 in

50

40

Head - ft

Solids handling options.

30

7.2 in

6.28 in 5.9 in

hpacmag.com

20

10

0

HPAC04__044-045_Evans.indd 44

50

100

150

200

250

300 350 US gpm

400

450

500

550

600

6/15/11 12:46:37 PM

8 in 45

7.5 in

50

55 65

7 in

70

70 70

Head - ft

6.5 in 8 in 6 in 25 50

65

5.5 7.5 in in

45

55

7 in

65 55

45

FIGURE 2 Mono Vane - 1,750 RPM

70

70 70

Head - ft

6.5 in

0 6 in

50

100

150

200

250

350

400

450

500

350

400

450

500

5.5 in

25 8.5 in

55

45

80 8 in 0 70

50

100

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250

300

7.5 in Head - ft

60 8.5 in 50 80 8 in 40 70

Head - ft

30 60

7.5 in

0 50

50

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200

250 300 US gpm

350

8 in 7.95 in 30

FIGURE 3 Vortex - 1,750 RPM 0

Head - ft

40

7.7 in 7.2 in

50

100

150

200

250 300 US gpm

350

400

6.28 in

5.9 inin 30 8 7.95 in 7.7 in 50 20 7.2 in

Head - ft

40 10 6.28 in 30 0

5.9 in 50

100

150

200

250

300 350 US gpm

400

450

500

550

600

20

10

0

50

100

150

200

250

300 350 US gpm

400

450

500

550

600

650

700

550

600

650

700

VORTEX IMPELLERS

400

40

50

Figure 2 is the H/Q curve produced by a single vane impeller. This particular model will produce flows of 200 to 350 GPM at a wide range of heads and still pass a three-inch spherical solid. This impeller design offers a viable alternative to off BEP operation of a two vane impeller.

65

300

550

600

The vortex impeller resides completely outside of the volute and this feature gives rise to two significant advantages.

First it is immune to radial thrust and can operate well to the left of BEP. Secondly, it allows lower flow pumps to pass a full three-inch spherical solid since the solid does not have to traverse the vane passages.

These advantages do come at a cost â&#x20AC;&#x201C; lower hydraulic efficiency. But, this is usu-

ally a small price if you have a low flow application that requires the passage of large solids. Figure 3 shows the performance curve for a four-inch vortex pump that meets the standard guidelines. This particular model provides flows from 150 to 350 GPM at heads up to 45 ft. Other models will provide similar flows at significantly higher heads and still pass a threeinch spherical solid.

If you have lower flow applications that still require the passage of large solids, investigate these impeller alternatives.

Lower flow, solids handling pumps are generally less efficient than higher flow models. Therefore, reliability and not efficiency should be your major concern. <> Joe Evans who is a trainer with PumpTech Inc, hosts the popular educational website www.pumped101.com.

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hpacmag.com

HPAC04__044-045_Evans.indd 45

MAY/JUNE 2011 | HPAC

45

6/15/11 12:46:49 PM

PRODUCTS plumbing The Ridgid KJ-3100 water jetter is designed to clear blockages in two- to 10-inch diameter drains with a full 3,000-psi working pressure and a 5-1/2 gallons-per-minute flow. Powered by a 16-horsepower gasoline engine, the modular unit is mounted on a heavy-duty, twowheeled cart that fits through standard-sized doors and negotiates tight turns. Features include a removable hose reel and a 200-ft.

The rectangular Metro tub from MTI Whirlpools

jetter hose with a 3/8-inch inner diameter.

can be ordered as a soaking tub, air bath, whirl-

www.ridgid.com

pool, or combination. Available in two sizes, it is made of Lucite cross-linked cast acrylic

The 5050-Series duplex control from Liberty

and is available in a variety of colours. The

Pumps is designed for use in sump pump ap-

hardwood surround can be ordered in several

plications where control of two pumps is re-

finishes, including cream, driftwood, walnut,

quired. The unit will provide alternating opera-

ebony, and antique black. Metro sinks are

tion of two 120-volt pumps. In the event of a

available in two sizes and have the look and

pump failure, power is switched to the other

feel of natural stone. The sinks are designed to

pump and the built-in alarm is activated. Plug-in

sit flush on a countertop and they can also be

ready wiring simplifies installation. It is NEMA 1

under-mounted. They come in white or biscuit

rated for indoor mounting and is available with

with a matte or gloss finish. Vanities are also

vertical style or wide angle floats.

available. www.mtiwhirlpools.com

www.libertypumps.com

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New WatcoFlex Bath Waste ...installs faster/easier TM

Special patent pending PVC flexible tubing. Eliminates four field joints.

Innovator overflow parts assemble by hand. No screws. Approved by IAPMO. It’s green. You’ll get used to seeing it.

Just ask your wholesaler

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1220 South Powell Road, Independence, MO 64057-2724 Phone 816-796-3900 • FAX 816-796-0875 A Division of WCM Industries, Inc.

46

HPAC | May/june 2011

HPAC04_046-048_plumbing.indd 46

hpacmag.com

6/15/11 11:53:34 AM

NEW HIGH PERFORMANCE 1/3 hp 6EN 1/2 hp 10EN 42 gpm @ 10 ft 61 gpm @ 10 ft 22 ft shut-off 30 ft shut-off

ENERGY EFFICIENT Lower amp draw and power consumption.

EPOXY COATED Little Giant products have provided the industry with durable epoxy coated cast iron motor housings for more than 40 years.

PSC MOTOR Permanent Split Capacitor (PSC) motor built for continuous duty and thermal overload protection runs cooler for longer life.

When you purchase a new Little Giant 6EN or 10EN sump/efďŹ&#x201A;uent pump, you are getting a proven product, trusted by professionals.

For more information on Little Giant products, contact your local plumbing distributor.

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PRODUCTS plumbing

The Decorative Round Trap from Jaclo offers a

Kohler Co. offers the Numi toilet with built-in per-

solution to exposed plumbing. Fully polished

sonalized bidet functionality and deodorizer. The

and plated with an extra long wall band, the

WaterSense and CALGreen-certified toilet has

product fits 1-1/4-inch drains and is available

dual-flush technology with .6 and 1.28 gallons

in numerous finishes, including chrome, satin

Innovation tankless water heaters from AERCO

per flush. Features include intuitive auto-open

nickel and matte black. www.jaclo.com

incorporate condensing/modulating technol-

and -close lid; built-in music system; heated seat;

ogy and a scale resistant heat exchanger. Avail-

and foot warmer. www.kohler.com

able in 600, 800 and 1060 MBH, the low NOx units offer +/-4° temperature control. Features include a helical firetube heat exchanger, stainless steel construction, enhanced waterside flow distribution and up to 20:1 turndown.

Sidewall, through–the–roof and sealed combustion capabilities provide installation flexibility. www.aerco.com

The Delta In2ition two-in-one shower is an Profile Smart from Caroma features dual flush

integrated showerhead and handshower. The

(1.28/0.8 gallons), a large trapway and an in-

showerhead flows 2.5 gpm at 80 psi (each

tegrated hand basin. After flushing, fresh cold

device). It can be installed on the existing

water is directed through the faucet for hand

shower arm or using the included shower

washing and drains into the tank to be used for

arm and flange. The handshower has a six-

the next flush. Chrome buttons are built into

foot hose and docks securely into the show-

the tapware design. www.caromausa.com

erhead when not in use. www.deltafaucet.ca

The AXION eyePOD is a faucet-mounted eyewash with an inverted water-flow-pattern to mitigate the risk of inhalation or ingestion of hazardous contaminants during eye cleansing.

It features a built-in thermostatic safety valve that will automatically shut off eyewash flows

The ProPEX lead-free brass fire sprinkler adapt-

The Sanivite grey water pump from Saniflo Can-

at 100F (37C), diverting all water out through

er from Uponor is available in ¾" and 1" tees.

ada includes multiple inlets and has the ability

the aerator faucet at the bottom of the prod-

Suited to multipurpose systems, the adapter

to handle hot water. It discharges 18 gallons of

uct. Adapters allow the eyePOD to be used with

features Uponor’s cold-expansion ProPEX fit-

waste per minute and can pump up to 16 feet

most standard faucets.

ting system. Flexible pre-assembly and mount-

vertically and 150 feet horizontally with gravity

www.axioneyepod.com

ing options with no blocking required simplifies

fall. www.saniflo.ca

www.dobbinsales.com

installation. www.uponor.ca

48

HPAC | May/june 2011

HPAC04_046-048_plumbing.indd 48

hpacmag.com

6/15/11 11:54:19 AM

< IAQ

Something Rotten Is In The Air

W

hy do some buildings smell like dirty socks?

Unfortunately, it is a common problem. Bacteria that collect and grow within ducts and other HVAC/R equipment frequently cause odours such as dirty sock syndrome.

The most common times when complaints surface is when there is a large influx of warm and humid outside air or when systems are run in heating mode for a brief time and then switched back into cooling. In both cases, warm humid air is introduced into the system and then cooled, causing condensation. As the bacteria grows and blooms, the air passing over the coil picks up an odour similar to dirty socks.

It is important to ensure proper identification of the problem before action is taken. If the odour is present during heating the problem is probably not a dirty sock syndrome complaint. Dirty sock complaints only occur when the HVAC system is cool and the bacteria releases its odour into the air stream.

The first step in correcting dirty sock syndrome is to eliminate standing water in drain pans, dry traps in drain lines connected to plumbing systems and return air leaks in ductwork.

Second, if you are using a heat pump, clean the entire coil. This means deep inside the coil, as well as its surface.

Use a high sudsing detergent that is safe for evaporators.

The sudsing action gets deep in the coil and helps bring the dirt and bacteria to surface.

Next, check the balance of outside air drawn into your system. People produce CO2 through normal respiration and though it is not toxic, its accumulation to excessive levels indoors can indicate that an inadequate amount of outdoor air is being added to the HVAC airflow. Incorporating the right percentage of outside air requires a delicate bal50

HPAC | MAy/june 2011

HPAC04__050_IAQ.indd 50

ancing act. Too little, and CO2 adds up, but add too much outside air, especially hot, humid air, and you may get condensation leading to dirty sock syndrome. One way to test for this is to compare the percent CO2 in delivered air compared to the CO2 concentration in return and outside air.

Lastly, some professionals try to control this issue by sanitizing the ducts. This involves fogging a chlorine dioxide fungicide and deodorant into the air handler and through the supply ducts.

TELL ME MORE Maintaining the balance between indoor and outside air is very difficult in an office or industrial facility. The challenge is that the HVAC system is not the only way outside air is added to the mix. There are outside doors and windows, which are constantly being opened and closed.

If an overhead door is open in a loading dock and a hall door is also open, as much as 10,000 cubic feet of outdoor air may enter the building. Obviously you cannot control this and have to work with the situation using some of the solutions above.

From the www.mybuildingdoctor.com, a reference and education tool hosted by Fluke Corporation. <>

Photo: istockphoto

POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

hpacmag.com

6/15/11 11:33:58 AM

< SOLAR

The Air At The Top How to determine the air volume required at the top

BY DAVE DEMMA of a drainback storage tank. BY JOHN SIEGENTHALER

O

ne of the simplest and most reliable configurations for a solar thermal combisystem makes use of drainback freeze protection. The idea is simple: Drain the water out of the collectors and exposed piping whenever the collector circulator is not operating.

This includes nighttime, low sun conditions, as well as during a power failure or when a maximum allowed tank temperature condition occurs during sunny conditions. The latter two conditions allow the collectors to â&#x20AC;&#x153;dry stagnateâ&#x20AC;? without concern over degradation of the antifreeze fluids used in other types of systems.

Although there are several ways to configure components for drainback freeze protection, my favourite approach uses the top of the storage tank to hold the drainback volume, and accommodate the expansion of water within the system when it is heated. This eliminates the need for a conventional expansion tank. An example of this configuration is shown in Figure 1.

This article disFIGURE 1 cusses the specifics of sizing the air space at the top of the tank.

The formulas given are based on vertically-oriented cylindrical pressure vessels.

filled with cold water and the collector circulator is not operating. All water in the system, including water that will eventually be in the collectors, as well as the water in the tank and distribution system, is assumed to be at some initial (relatively cool) temperature, such as 60F. The air at the top of the tank is also assumed to be at the same temperature. This state establishes the static water level in the system. The distance from the top of the tank down to the water level is designated as (h). The pressure of the air at the top of the tank and in the empty collector array and collector array piping is assumed to be at some initial pressure. It could be atmospheric pressure, or a slightly higher pressure.

The other limiting condition occurs when all water and air in the system is at some maximum allowable temperature (180F for example). Under this condition the air at the top of the tank cannot exceed some limiting pressure. The limiting pressure assumed in formulas one through six is the rated opening pressure of the pressure relief valve at the top of the tank.

These two limiting conditions are shown in Figure 2.

FIGURE 2

DEFINING THE EXTREMES

To determine the required space at the top of the tank, one must establish a criterion for the changes in temperature, pressure and volume of the captive air that will occur between two limiting conditions.

One of those limiting conditions is when the system is 52

HPAC | may/june 2011

HPAC04_052-055_Solar.indd 52

The minimum height (h) of the cylindrical air space at the top of a tank with flat ends can be calculated using Formulas 1, 2 and 3. hpacmag.com

6/15/11 12:07:43 PM

Formula 1:

Formula 2:

ing specific constraints for the tank, (in this case a vertical cylinder with flat ends), along with the initial and final conditions for the captive air volume in the system, and making sure all pressures and temperatures are expressed as absolute temperatures and absolute pressures (e.g. absolute temperature = ºF + 460; and absolute pressure = gauge pressure + 14.7).

PUTTING IN THE NUMBERS

Formula 3:

Where: h = MINIMUM height of cylindrically-shaped air space required at top of tank (inches) d = tank diameter (inches) vT = volume of entire tank (including water and air space at top) (gallons) vd = volume of water in distribution system (gallons) vc = volume of collector array + collector piping above static water level (gallons) Dc = density of “cold” water when system is filled and pressurized (lb/ft3) Dh = density of water in system at maximum temperature (lb/ft3) pi = initial air pressure in tank when water is cool (psi gauge) pRV = opening pressure of pressure relief valve (psi gauge) Tmax = maximum temperature of water and air in system (ºF) Ti = initial temperature of water and air in system (ºF) These formulas are derived from the ideal gas law. This law, which is fundamental to thermodynamics, is a combination of Boyle’s Law and Charle’s Law. Mathematically it can be expressed as Formula 4:

Here is an example of how to use these formulas. Assuming you are sizing up a tank for a drainback system. The tank you have selected has flat ends, a volume of 250 gallons and an internal diameter of 30 inches. The system is filled with water at 60F and the air space at the top is left at atmospheric pressure (e.g. gauge pressure = 0). The distribution system (exclusive of the storage tank and collector subsystem) contains 50 gallons of water.

The maximum temperature condition assumes that all water and captive air in the system reaches 180F. The latter is a conservative assumption because it is unlikely the entire distribution system will reach this high temperature.

A 30 psi rated pressure relief valve is installed at the top of the tank. What is the minimum vertical dimension of the air space at the top of the tank to accommodate expansion?

Solution: There is sufficient information given to immediately evaluate Formula 2:

Before using Formula 1 we need to know both S and R. To find R we need the density of water at 60F and 180F. These values can be found in several references, or calculated using Formula 5.

Formula 5:

Formula 4:

In words, this formula states that the absolute pressure of a quantity of air multiplied by its volume, and divided by its absolute temperature remains a constant.

So how did the relatively simple Formula 4 spawn off the three more complex formulas? Answer: It comes from definhpacmag.com

HPAC04_052-055_Solar.indd 53

Where: D = density of water (lb/ft3) T = water temperature (°F) (50≤ T ≤ 250) At 60F the density of water is: Dc = 62.4 lb/ft3 At 180F the density of water is: Dh = 60.5 lb/ft3 continued on page 54 may/june 2011 | HPAC

53

6/15/11 12:07:53 PM

< SOLAR

continued from page 53

Formula 3 can now be used to find R:

FIGURE 3

The values of R and S, along with the other given data can now be used in Formula 1:

This means that just under two inches of vertical space at the top of the storage tank, in combination with the volume of air in the collectors and collector piping (above the static water level), is sufficient to keep the pressure from exceeding the pressure relief valve rating when all water and air in the system are at a temperature of 180F. The actual volume of the expansion space within the tank can be determined using Formula 6: Formula 6:

Where: v = volume of the expansion space within the tank (in gallons) d = tank diameter (in inches) h = minimum height of cylindrical air space (in inches) If you are familiar with sizing non-diaphragm type expansion tanks, this volume probably seems a bit low for a system with almost 300 gallons of water being heated from 60 to 180F. However, keep in mind that the volume of the collectors and the piping to and from them is also filled with the air and is acting as an expansion space.

If the collector circulator is running, this air volume is just moved from the collector into the storage tank. For the previous example this adds another 10 gallons to the system’s air volume, making the total expansion air volume around 15.5 gallons.

required. You can always opt to be a bit more conservative and include more air space, or change the limiting constraints. For example, I often suggest subtracting five psi from the rated pressure of the relief valve as the maximum pressure the valve should reach with assurance that it will not “dribble.”

Another conservative assumption would be to assume that the air volume within the dished head at the top of the tank is simply extra expansion space as shown in Figure 3.

Anything that increases the air volume in the system relative to the water volume will reduce the pressure fluctuation as the system heats up and cools down.

While you are still looking at Figure 3, consider the placement of the tank inlet connection from the collector array. I suggest it be a couple of inches below the water level in the tank when the circulator is on. This helps reduce splashing noise as water enters the tank.

The flow enters the tank horizontally to help preserve temperature stratification.

You can calculate the drop in water level (∆H) within the tank when the collector circulator is operating using Formula 7.

Formula 7:

KEEPING IT CONSERVATIVE

Also keep in mind that (h) is the minimum air space height 54

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Where: Î&#x201D;H = change in water level within tank when collector is on versus off (inches) d = diameter of tank (inches) vc = volume of collector array + collector piping above static water level (gallons) For the previous example, in which the collector array and its piping had a total volume of 10 gallons, the drop in water level when the collector circulator is running would be:

Also be sure the piping connection leading to the distribution system is at least a couple of inches below the water level in the tank when the collector circulator is operating.

EXERCISING THE FORMULAS

Here is a final example to show how things can change with different tank geometry and relief valve settings. Assume the tank is only 22 inches in diameter, but still has a total volume of 250 gallons. The collector array collector piping above the static water level has a total volume of five gallons. The distribution system has a volume of 50 gallons as in the previous example. Assume the pressure relief valve is rated at 15 psi and that the same minimum and maximum water temperatures (60 and 180F) remain in effect.

This substantial change in the minimum air space height is due to a decrease in tank diameter and pressure relief valve setting, and a smaller collector volume. The combined volume of the air space in the tank and the collector array plus collector piping is now about 22.7 gallons.

Use the formulas and data given in this article, perhaps as a spreadsheet, to determine the minimum required height of the air space at the top of the drainback tank.

Then, add at least an inch or two to the required height as a further safety margin. Although the mathematics may look a bit messy, the underlying physics of drainback systems are simple, reliable and efficient.<> John Siegenthaler, P.E. is the author of Modern Hydronic Heating. The third edition of this book is now available. Visit www.hydronicpros. com for reference information and software to assist in hydronic system design. Siegenthaler can be reached at siggy@dreamscape.com.

The value of S is now:

The value of R remains the same since the limiting temperature did not change:

The minimum air space height can now be calculated using Formula 1:

HPACMAG.COM

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hpacmag.com

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< mergers & acquisitions

Closing The Deal

T

he buyers

BY DAVE DEMMAdue diligence process is an important component in the process of selling a company, however, most folks selling their business do not appreciate the detail that is involved in actually getting the deal closed. In this article I elaborate on the dreadfully boring and painstaking business of due diligence because I have found that most folks selling their business do not appreciate the detail that is involved in getting the deal closed.

BY MARK GROULX

So, let’s assume you have hired an experienced business broker/mergers and acquisitions advisor to assist you in selling your business. You have worked diligently in providing your advisor with the necessary information he needs to put together a Confidential Information Memorandum (aka the CIM or the book that describes your business in some detail for prospective buyers) and you have an approved list of potential buyers. Hopefully you will get multiple offers

Due Diligence Questions Human Resources • Employee details for each employee • Employee contracts • Labour Union information and contracts • Employee handbooks and personnel policy manuals • Benefit plans • Employee pay plans and practices • Executive/management compensation • Life insurance • Workers’ Compensation – standing, rates, claims • Organization chart – by department Financial • Last five years financial statements with management letter from accountants • Tax returns for past five years and Notice of Assessments • Payroll, unemployment and other related taxes • Details of loans, lines of credit and letters of credit • Security agreements • Loans to or from officers, directors and stockholders • Guarantees • List of current bank accounts • Payroll documentation • Listing of property, plant and equipment • Listing of leased property • Physical Inventory count • Unfunded liabilities of pension plans • Warranties – policies, experience • Capital projects • Accounts receivable • Accounts payable • Motor vehicles Business Operations • Employee resumes • Summary of current contracts/projects • Marketing activities Corporate Documents • Minute books (prepared by your lawyers) • Directors and officers • Shareholders agreement • Stock options • Shareholder list

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Information Systems • Hardware assets • Management processes • Software employed Health and Safety • Insurance policies and carriers • Accident records • Policies and procedures Material Contracts • Banking agreements • Guarantees • Customer contracts • Marketing, consulting, management contracts • Leases and service agreements • Insurance policies • Other Litigation • Active, pending or threatened legal actions • Regulatory and governmental correspondence • Copies of all Orders, judgements and decrees • Copies of all permits, licences Environmental • Copies of environmental audits • Certificates, approvals, licenses and permits issued

by Environment Canada or others • Building inspection reports • Records of underground storage tanks • Environmental proceedings Intellectual Property • Trade names, corporate names and business names • Trademarks, trade secrets, copyrighted material • Licenses, royalty agreements, distribution and franchise agreements • Domain names • Computer programs, software licenses • Patents and patent applications Miscellaneous • Questions specific to the business in question

hpacmag.com

6/15/11 11:37:14 AM

and you then choose the winning bidder. The fun is now over and due diligence begins.

To define due diligence in laymanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s terms it is the process whereby the potential buyer verifies detailed information regarding your company. They have pretty much taken everything you have said to date at face value but now that a big cheque is on the horizon they want to verify in intimate detail that what you have reported is true.

See the sidebar for a summary of the information you will be requested to provide. It should be a good heads up as to what you should be assembling now, even if you are months or years away from selling.

As you can see, this condensed version of due diligence questions can keep someone very busy at the photocopier.

An experienced agent will negotiate with the purchasers to eliminate the questions that are not applicable to the specific business being discussed but there will be a considerable amount of information to be compiled. The smart businessperson will assemble and organize their records in advance. <> Mark Groulx is president of A.I.M. Group Canada. He can be reached at mark@aimgc. ca. He is also the author of Preparing Your Business for Sale (HPAC January/February 2010) and The Step-by-Step Process of Selling an HVAC/R Business (HPAC March 2010).

THE SOURCE

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Access Panels Inc........................(905) 760-1212..................... www.accesspanels.ca................................... page 41 Acoustical Floors..........................(905) 827-6358..................... www.pouriton.ca........................................... page 11 Adrian Steel.................................(800) 677-2726..................... www.adriansteel.com.................................... page 28 Apollo Valves................................(905) 761-6161..................... www.apollovalves.com.................................. page 49 Arcoaire.......................................(905) 795-8113 ................... www.goarcoaire.com..................................... page 34 Arkema........................................(800) 567-5726..................... www.arkema.ca............................................ page 32 Bradford White.............................(800) 690-0961..................... 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621-6032..................... www.woodfordmfg.com................................. page 63 Zurn.............................................(905) 405-8272..................... www.zurn.com.............................................. page 10 hpacmag.com

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CALENDAR 2011

FOR THE LATEST EVENT NEWS SEE HPAC'S NEWSLETTER @ HPACMAG.COM

Intersolar North America July 12-14

HRAI 43rd Annual Meeting August 25-27

World Plumbing Conference September 7-11

The premier platform for the solar industry in North America will be held at the Moscone Center in San Franciso, CA. www.intersolar.us

The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada will hold its AGM at White Oaks Conference Resort & Spa in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON. www.hrai.ca

The WPC will be held in Edinburgh, Scotland. www.wpc2011.co.uk

MCAC September 14-17

COHA Ontario Chapter Education Day September 15-16

Greenbuild 2011 October 4-7

MCA Canada will hold its National Conference in Quebec City, QC at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. www.mcac.ca

The Canadian Oil Heat Association Ontario Chapter will hold its 2nd Annual Education Day at the Scotiabank Convention Centre and Niagara Falls Hilton Fallsview Hotel in Niagara Falls, ON. www.coha-ontario.ca

The U.S. Green Building Council’s annual conference and expo will be held in Toronto, ON. www.greenbuildexpo.org

Construct Canada November 30-December 2

Solar Canada December 5-6

Construct Canada will be held in the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. www.constructcanada.com

The Canadian Solar Industries Association will hold its 2011 conference at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, North Building. www.cansia.ca

2012

In the same venue, the National GreenBuilding Conference will be held November 30-December 1. www.nationalgreenbuildingexpo.com

AHR EXPO January 23-25

Buildex Vancouver February 8-9

CMX-CIPHEX March 22-24

Chillventa October 9-11

The International AirConditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition will be held at McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, IL. www.ahrexpo.com

Held at the Vancouver Convention Centre, Buildex offers a comprehensive seminar program in addition to the trade show. www.buildexvancouver.com

The National Trade Show and Forum will be held at the Metro Convention Centre, North Building. www.cmxciphexshow.com

The International Trade Fair For Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Heat Pumps includes a congress program on October 8. www.chillventa.de/en/

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

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< Finance

New CPP Rules

may prompt you to change your mind about when to receive

Canada Pension Plan benefits BY HANK BULMASH

B

eginning in January, 2012, the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) will undergo its first major overhaul in years. If you are not yet receiving CPP, the proposed changes could prompt you to change your mind about when to receive benefits.

CPP forms an important part of the retirement plan for many Canadians. The payments you receive are based on the actual contributions to the plan you have made over your working life. If you have worked from 18 to 65 and made the maximum contribution each year, you will receive the maximum benefit. Right now that is a little under $1,000 per month.

If you have not worked consistently throughout your life, or if you have not made the maximum contributions, you’ll receive less. There are humane adjustments that limit your reduction of benefits if you suffered from a disability or had reduced income due to raising children under seven years of age. CPP also removes from consideration up to seven years when you did not make your maximum contribution due to low income.

The other important factor in determining your benefit is your age when you begin receiving CPP payments. Consider an example: Joe Smith began work at age 25, was employed to 65 and died at age 77. He made the maximum contribution to the plan every year he worked. If he began benefits at 65, he would have 40 years of contributions and 12 years of receiving benefits. That is three years of work for each year of benefits.

On the other hand Alphonse, Joe’s twin who had the same work history and died on the same day, took CPP benefits at age 60. He ceased contributing to CPP in the month he began benefits. Alphonse contributed to the plan for 35 years and received benefits for 17 years. That is only two years of work for each year of benefits. Alphonse contributed five years less than Joe and received benefits for five years longer. Obviously the plan cannot afford to pay Alphonse the same monthly benefit that it pays Joe. To deal

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with this, CPP employs a formula that adjusts payments based on your age when you begin receiving cheques.

Alterations to that formula constitute one of the major changes in the new CPP rules.

Under the existing scheme when you begin receiving payments early, your payment is reduced by one half per cent per month for each month before age 65. That means if you would be entitled to a monthly CPP payment of $750, but you begin taking it at age 60, the payment would be reduced by 30 per cent (one half per cent per month for 60 months) to $525.

Many people think that is a good reason not to take payment early. And it is true that by deferring payments to age 65, you can receive significantly more per month. But the size of the payment is not the only thing to consider. Your health and life expectancy is also important.

Canadians who make it to age 60 can expect to live to about 85. So taking your payment at age 60 could mean that you will receive CPP for about 25 years – that is $157,500 (12 x $525 x 25 years).

If you begin payments at age 65 instead of 60, your monthly payments are larger. By the time you are 85 you will have earned more starting at 65 than at 60 (with a reduced payment). By age 85 you would have received $180,000 (12x $750 x 20 years). So…if you do live to be 85 or older, deferring CPP might be the right financial choice.

The break-even point is about age 77. If you die before 77, it makes sense to take the money earlier rather than later.

But recognize that the gross amount of money received is not the only issue. If you feel you want the money earlier for travel or debt reduction or other expenses, it still might make sense to take the CPP payments earlier. And receiving payments early is betting on a sure thing. Holding out for more later is gambling that you will live past 77. Given those rules, many people feel it makes sense to take the funds as soon as they can. continued on page 62 MAy/June | HPAC

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6/15/11 11:36:11 AM

< Finance

continued from page 61

Recognizing that the current rules encourage taking CPP early, the new system beginning in January 2012 will impose a larger penalty on receiving benefits before 65.

The important message here is that the break-even point will drop from age 77 to age 73. It is far more likely a 60 year old today will live past 73 than 77. And it is even more likely that the 73 year old will be in good health versus a 77-year-old. So, the new system encourages you to defer payments to age 65.

But wait – there is more. For each year that you defer payments past 65, you will receive a substantial reward – a premium of 7/10 of one per cent per month – or 8.4 per cent per year. So, under the new system if you put off receiving monthly payments of say $900.00 for one year, you will be eligible for payments of $975.60 the next year.

That is a very attractive alternative in today’s investment climate. Where else can you get a guaranteed 8.4 per cent return for a year?

These new system percentages will be brought in gradually. The penalties for early payments will begin in 2012 and they will mature in 2016. The increased premiums for late payments will begin in 2011 and they will mature in 2012.

Something else: under current rules once you begin receiving CPP, you can no longer contribute to the system.

Under the new regime if you are working, you will be able

to contribute to age 70 in order to increase your CPP payout. In fact, you can continue to contribute even if you are receiving benefits. That can be helpful to older employees since they will only be responsible for making one-half of their annual contribution. The other half will come from their employer. In essence, it will constitute an additional employment benefit. Self-employed individuals will pay the entire CPP contribution as they do now. This means as more people work longer, they will be receiving both CPP and also a paycheque. The system has been updated to reflect the evolving social realities of the senior population.

The new system will present some challenges: It will become important to decide when to begin receiving CPP (before age 65, at 65, or later). And you will have to decide if it makes sense to continue paying into the system once you are receiving CPP payments. Finally, with CPP as a riskfree foundation for your retirement plan, you will have to determine what level of risk you are willing to take with your other investments. <> Hank Bulmash, CA, MBA, is senior partner with Bulmash Cullemore Chartered Accountants and is president of its consultant subsidiary BusinessLab Inc. E-mail Hank at hbulmash@ bulmashcullemore.com.

Training

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS CANADA LEED Canada Training

GeoExchange Training

Sign up for one of the Canada Green Building Council's (CaGBC) LEED workshops at www.cagbc.org or tel. 613-241-1184.

Developed by the Canadian GeoExchange Coalition (CGC), the three-day training program is intended for those involved with the installation of residential geothermal systems. www.skilltech@hrai.ca

CMCEF National Seminar Program

HRAI SkillTech Academy

The Canadian Mechanical Contracting Education Foundation program includes: commissioning, inventory management, estimating and project management. www.cmcef.org

Through in class training, training resources, worksheets and certification programs, industry members can acquire the technical competence required to design and install quality indoor environment systems that meet code requirements. CFC/HCFC/HFC Control in the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Industry is also offered. www.hrai.ca

TECA's Quality First Training To register for the Thermal Environmental Comfort Association's (TECA) Quality First training courses, visit www.teca.ca or call 604-594-5956.

Solar Installer Certification Programs For information on Canadian Solar Industries Association (CanSIA) workshops and training courses, visit www.cansia.ca or call 866-522-6742.

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Canadian Hydronics Council Certification The Canadian Hydronics Council offers the Two-Day Introduction to Hydronic Heating Installations Course and an Intermediate Course. www.ultimatecomfort.ca

hpacmag.com

6/15/11 11:36:26 AM

Think of it as a 50-storey hose.

Get a convenient and reliable rooftop water source when you specify the Woodford RHY2-MS roof hydrant.

Engineered for quality and durability, the Woodford RHY2-MS is perfect for washing down cooling towers, cleaning condenser coils or providing water for window washers and other types of roof equipment.

The hydrant support allows for installation flexibility, while its unique mounting system secures above and below the roof deck, providing exceptional strength and security. It also comes with a 2-degree shim for pitch adjustment. Featuring ASSE 1052 backflow prevention and Woodford’s freezeless technology, the RHY2-MS makes getting water on the roof easier than ever before.

The choice of professionals.

For more information, visit WoodfordMfg.com.

Woodford.indd 1

2/16/11 9:45:08 AM

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