HPAC February 2019

TIPS FOR WALK-IN BOX MAINTENANCE

INNOVATION IN ICI FAUCETS AND FIXTURES

THERMAL METERING GETS A BOOST

FEBRUARY 2019

HOW TO SOLVE THE TOP 3 MECHANICAL SYSTEM ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS PROPOSED ENERGY EFFICIENCY REGULATION TO IMPACT EQUIPMENT OPTIONS

ARE HEAT PUMPS UP TO THE CANADIAN WINTER CHALLENGE? ALSO INSIDE MODERN HYDRONICS 2019 SPRING

THE BENEFITS OF INTERNALLY CLEAN SYSTEMS THERMAL ENERGY METERS: AN UPDATE

THE CASE FOR SYNCHRONIZED LOOPS

PM 40065710

PRODUCT SHOWCASE SMALL SCALE HYDRONIC COOLING

PROPOSED EFFICIENCY REGS PROMPT INDUSTRY REACTION MASTERING THE ART OF ZONING

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CONTENTS

FEBRUARY 2019 / VOL. 93 NO. 1

Are heat pumps up to the Canadian winter challenge?

16

FEATURES

ALSO INSIDE

MODERN HYDRONICS 2019 SPRING

24 DISTRICT ENERGY DEEP LAKE WATER-COOLING GETS THE NOD FROM THE FEDS CIPH councils tour soon-to-be expanded Enwave system.

By Jillian Morgan

20

THE BENEFITS OF INTERNALLY CLEAN SYSTEMS THERMAL ENERGY METERS: AN UPDATE

FAUCETS & FIXTURES COMMERCIAL LEADS THE WAY Non-residential market opens the tap on innovation.

By Jillian Morgan

THE CASE FOR SYNCHRONIZED LOOPS PRODUCT SHOWCASE SMALL SCALE HYDRONIC COOLING

16 HEAT PUMPS NEW TECHNOLOGY REMEDIES PAST ISSUES There are rules to be followed, techniques to be learned and utilized properly in the field.

By Ian McTeer

PROPOSED EFFICIENCY REGS PROMPT INDUSTRY REACTION

57 SUSTAINABILITY BROWNFIELD LAND TO BE TRANSFORMED Net-zero waterfront community proposed for site of decommissioned coal-fired plant.

By Jillian Morgan

MASTERING THE ART OF ZONING

a publication of

HPACMAG.COM

Continued on p4 FEBRUARY 2019 | HPAC

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CONTENTS 60

66

HEAT RECOVERY MINING FOR HEAT Quebec startup unveils novel technology.

By Jillian Morgan and Luc Boily

SUSTAINABILITY TINY HOUSE, BIG GOALS Students test the limits of green construction.

By Jillian Morgan

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73

INNOVATION AHR EXPO UNVEILS 2019 PRODUCT INNOVATION AWARD WINNERS

BACKFLOW AN INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE Specialist Bruce Rathburn provides expert insight on ICC podcast.

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74

REFRIGERATION TIPS FOR WALK-IN BOX MAINTENANCE

By Dave Demma

ELECTRICITY 101 HOW TO SOLVE THE TOP 3 ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS Frustrating failures in the field sometimes have simple solutions.

By Curtis Bennett

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HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

FEBRUARY 2019 / VOL. 93 NO. 1

60

66

DEPARTMENTS 6 UPFRONT 8 NEWS FEATURE CONSTRUCTION UNDERWAY ON GREEN VANCOUVER FIRE HALL 9 INDUSTRY NEWS 58 PLUMBING PRODUCTS 64 HVAC PRODUCTS 68 MECHANICAL SUPPLY NEWS 72 PEOPLE 76 CALENDAR 78 TRAINING 78 THE SOURCE

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< UPFRONT POPULAR METEOROLOGISTS TAKE THE CHILL OFF

HPAC MAGAZINE 111 Gordon Baker Road, Suite 400, Toronto, ON M2H 3R1 TEL: 416.442.5600 FAX: 416.510.5140 www.hpacmag.com

OBSESSION WITH THE WEATHER IS A CANADIAN TRAIT–RIGHTLY SO CONSIDERING WE GET TO EXPERIENCE its full spectrum for a seemingly endless period of time. We can carry on lengthy conversations about each and every weather occurrence with friends, family, and even strangers on the street.

Perhaps the greatest testament to our weather obsession is Groundhog Day. While the February 2nd event is not exclusively Canadian, we go a little overboard. Who wouldn’t want to know if winter is going to continue for an additional six weeks, which in fairness seems short by Canadian standards. Or on the flipside it might be good news and we will be enjoying balmy temperatures earlier than expected.

Balzac Billy, Wiarton Willie, Manitoba Merv and Shubenacadie Sam are just a few of the furry friends, both live and stuffed, which attract crowds of spectators and media. And then there is Sydenham Sally, a Guinea pig who is trying to horn in on the action.

This is all fun and a distraction from the increasingly harsh reality of winter. When I shovel mountains of snow, and scrape ice off my windshield the prospect of a rodent hanging about outside instead of scurrying back to its burrow brings a smile to my face.

If they are right about that early spring: great! If they are wrong: rats or should I say marmots.

EDITOR Kerry Turner (416) 510-5218 KTurner@hpacmag.com ASSISTANT EDITOR Jillian Morgan (416) 510-5201 JMorgan@annexbusinessmedia.com ASSOCIATE David Skene (416) 510-6884 PUBLISHER DSkene@hpacmag.com ACCOUNT Vince Naccarato (416) 510-5118 MANAGER VNaccarato@hpacmag.com MEDIA DESIGNER Emily Sun esun@annexweb.com ACCOUNT Kim Rossiter (416) 510-6794 COORDINATOR krossiter@annexbusinessmedia.com CIRCULATION MANAGER Urszula Grzyb (416) 442-5600 ext. 3537 ugrzyb@annexbusinessmedia.com

PUBLISHER Peter Leonard (416) 510-6847 PLeonard@hpacmag.com VICE PRESIDENT Tim Dimopoulos (416) 510-5100 t dimopoulos@annexbusinessmedia.com PRESIDENT & CEO Mike Fredericks

PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40065710 Heating Plumbing Air Conditioning (established 1925) is published 7 times per year

by Annex Publishing & Printing Inc. HPAC Magazine is the leading Canadian business publication for the owner/manager of mechanical contracting businesses and their supply partners.

ISSN: 0017-9418 (Print) ISSN 2371-8536 (Online) Contents Copyright © 2019 by Annex Publishing & Printing Inc. may not be reprinted without permission.

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Editor

Be sure to visit hpacmag.com where you can search products, manufacturers and wholesalers through the online buyer's guide.

You can also access the current issue of HPAC magazine and archived editions. Click on digital archives from the top menu to access this valuable resource.

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, send us a note (kturner@hpacmag.com) and we will look at covering the topic in an upcoming issue.

Follow us on Twitter @hpacmag; connect with us on LinkedIn.

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Subscription Price per year: $43.00 (plus tax) CDN; Outside Canada per year: $84.50 US; Elsewhere: 1 year $92.50; 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.

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NOTICE: HPAC Magazine, Annex Publishing & Printing Inc., 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.

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NEWS FEATURE SEE THE LATEST NEWS @ HPACMAG.COM

Construction underway on green Vancouver fire hall PHOTO HCMA ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN

Shovels are in the ground for a project by the City of Vancouver to replace its aging fire hall No. 17 with a newly constructed building designed to Passive House Standards. Set to open in 2019, the fire hall project aims to reduce heat loss from the building by over 70 per cent. It will use a geo-exchange system and generate on-site renewable energy using solar photovoltaics.

Demolition work was completed at the end of November and the site was handed to D.G.S Construction in December.

Ridgeway Mechanical Ltd. was selected as the mechanical subcontractor for the project.

At twice the size of its aging predecessor, it will include provisions for a training hall with four drive-through apparatus bays, a full size hose/training tower and a training yard, as well as accommodation for a two-crew operation. The hall will be built to a post-disaster standard and serve as an emergency hub and a secure location for city IT services.

Along with a small group of projects, the hall is part of the

The project is one of the first City of Vancouver-owned buildings being designed as part of the City’s Zero Emission Building Plan, adopted by council in July 2016.

Canada Green Building Council Zero Emission Building standard pilot. The project received a grant and loan from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Green Municipal Fund to go beyond a zero emissions standard and increase on-site renewable generation to achieve a net zero energy standard. www.nrcan.gc.ca

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HPACMAG.COM

2019-02-04 1:23 PM

INDUSTRY NEWS SEE THE LATEST NEWS @ HPACMAG.COM

HRAI SETS GOALS FOR 2019 Its a new chapter for the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI).

The association’s newly appointed president and CEO, Sandy MacLeod, said HRAI is focusing on adding new members, building member satisfaction and aligning advocacy efforts with “member priorities” this year.

“Looking ahead, HRAI will become even more visible to members,” MacLeod said in a statement. “HRAI's leadership will be more active and visible across the country.”

Education and training resources will also be expanded with “improvements to existing programs, new online features, and the introduction of new curriculum,” he added.

HRAI also plans to add more members in management.

Those interested in participating on an industry task team or taking part in a half-day industry round table are encouraged to contact Loretta Zita at lzita@hrai.com. www.hrai.com

Daniel Larson of the WCSAWWA CCC presents the prize to Justin Bage.

WCSAWWA CCC member Dylan Gerlack presented the gift certificate to Tayte Sutherland.

“BAD AND UGLY” CROSS CONNECTION PHOTOS AWARDED The American Water Works Association Western Canada Section (WCSAWWA) has handed out the awards for its 2018 Bad and Ugly Cross Connection Control photo contest.

Justin Bage and Tayte Sutherland took home prizes for their photos of “Bad and Ugly” cross connections.

"Our water industry representatives, inspectors, plumbers, and testers all share a responsibility to protect our water supply,” the association said in a statement. “Cross connections do exist and are a potential to contaminate or pollute our potable water. Let’s do our best to find and correct these cross connections before the damage is done.”

During an inspection of a granite countertop, Sutherland–a cross connection control inspector at Epcor Water Services Inc.–found that the building did not have full premises isolation.

“The building’s water distribution is divided into two main feeds, only one of these feeds was isolated with a CSA approved double check valve assembly (DCVA),” he said. “I noticed that premises’ DCVA had been ineffectual after distribution tees had been connected the device’s test cocks.”

In a field conversation with the building and company repreHPACMAG.COM

sentatives, he explained the tees were a code violation, and also explained the working and purpose of the DCVA. “I also informed the building representative that the building did not have full premises isolation and presented a few options to correct the code violation and achieve full premises isolation,” he said.

Sutherland received a gift certificate from the backflow manufacturer representatives on the association’s Cross Connection Control (CCC) Committee.

Bage, a backflow tester based in Winnipeg, MB, was presented a new pressure differential gauge from Watts for his photo.

Contest details can be found here: www.wcsawwa.net/ index.php/simplenews-entry/cross-connetion-contest/. www.wcsawwa.net

PHOTO COURTESY CIPH

MCEE 2019 TO SHOWCASE NEW PRODUCTS, DRAW BIG CROWD The plumbing, HVAC/R, hydronics, electricity and lighting industries are set to converge in Montreal this spring.

MCEE returns to Place Bonaventure in Montreal, QC from April 24 to 25 for it’s 2019 show.

The show is expected to feature more than 400 exhibitors from Quebec and the rest of Canada and the United States–drawing a crowd of more than 6,000 attendees.

This year, MCEE is launching a new product competition and showcase featuring more than 100 contestants.

A series of technical and business seminars–all presented in French–will also be held on both days. Admission is free for all sessions, and some may satisfy continuing education credits.

MCEE is produced by the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIPH), the Corporation of Master Pipe Mechanics of Quebec (CMMTQ), the Corporation of Master Electricians of Quebec (CMEQ) and the Corporation des entreprises en traitement de l'air et du froid (CETAF). www.mcee.ca Continued on p10 FEBRUARY 2019 | HPAC

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INDUSTRY NEWS SEE THE LATEST NEWS @ HPACMAG.COM

BOMA SUSTAINABILITY AWARD GOES TO GATINEAU, QC PRESERVATION CENTRE The Library and Archives Canada (LAC) Preservation Centre in Gatineau, QC received the 2018 Outstanding Building of the Year award at a recent ceremony hosted by BOMA Canada.

Awarded first place in the national BOMA Best – Gold “Corporate Facility” category, the distinction accounts for energy conservation, environment and sustainability, among other criteria.

Managed by Brookfield Global Integrated Solutions Canada, LP, the centre has used the same mechanical systems for more than two decades, modifying some components to meet the federal government’s environmental targets.

The main mechanical and electrical systems are located in a separate building adjacent to the main building, outside the archive’s thermally neutral environment. According to

PHOTO CNW GROUP/LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES CANADA

Gatineau Preservation Centre

LAC, this allows for maintenance and renovations to systems with minimal risk to the laboratories or vaults.

Heating is supplied by two Volcano (now Indeck Boiler Corporation) steam boilers, each of which is fired on natural gas and uses a dual fuel burner with heating oil as a backup fuel source. Two McQuay chillers and one York chiller provide cooling for the building. The ventilation system for the building consists of 16 air-handling units (AHUs) as well as return ventilation fans.

A Building Automation System (BAS), meanwhile, reports on temperature, humidity and air pressure within the building. www.lac-bac.gc.ca

Last Carrier Standing The EZCarry® is load rated to 500 pounds. Its universal feet make install easy for pre-fab contractors. The hydraulically optimized 3" waterway propels waste up to three times farther. Best of all, it lasts. Get strength behind the wall and performance in front of the competition.

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BEEDIE LAUNCHES GRANT PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS ENTERING TRADE SCHOOL BC-based Real estate developer Beedie will hand out grants to a cohort of 50 students in the province’s Lower Mainland in May 2019 as part of its recently-launched $50 million socialprofit enterprise.

Beedie Luminaries aims to help students facing financial adversity achieve “long-term success” by supporting their post-secondary education–whether its through a university, college or trade school.

The company stated it plans to expand the foundation in the future to support 100 students throughout the province.

“There are many bright, driven young people who simply cannot afford postsecondary education,” said Ryan Beedie, the company’s president. “Beedie Luminaries will break down that barrier and give them a leg up so they reach their full potential.”

According to the company, students will be selected based on a number of criteria, including “their resilience, determination, empathy and purpose.” The students will also be judged on academic readiness according to BC’s curriculum set of core competencies.

Those interested can apply online at www.beedieluminaries.ca by February 15, 2019. www.beedie.ca FEDERAL LIBERALS COMMIT FUNDING TO HARMONIZE NATIONAL BUILDING CODES The federal government is proposing to turn the taps on $13.5 million to develop and harmonize building codes coast-tocoast.

Ottawa committed a total of $67.5 million in funding to the National Research Council in its fall economic statement, with $13.5 million to be used to make access to the National Building Codes HPACMAG.COM

free and to develop the codes in a “more timely manner.”

“Having one set of rules that covers both the design of, and products that go into the construction of, buildings reduces regulatory burden and removes barriers to internal trade,” the fiscal update reads.

“Consistently applied, harmonized building codes also make it easier for designers, product manufacturers, distributors and contractors to conduct business more efficiently across the country.”

The report pointed to inconsistent water heater regulations between jurisdictions, which have led to “unnecessary” testing and inspections, increased compliance delays to meet regulatory requirements, and “exacerbated” supply chain issues.

Ralph Suppa, president and general manager of CIPH, said in a statemen t the association was “delighted” with the proposal, which it said will break down provincial and territorial barriers.

“The outcome of this was a true industry and government partnership recognizing that reducing regulatory barriers benefits both businesses and consumers by promoting investment, lowering the price of consumer goods and creating more opportunities for middle-class Canadians,” Suppa said.

Robert Blakely, director of Canadian affairs at the Canadian Building Trades Unions (CBTU) said harmonization will “make it easier for businesses in the construction sector to grow.”

“Conception Bay will work under the same set of rules as the pipefitter in Red Deer,” he added. “This is an important piece of the puzzle to ensure our infrastructure is accessible and built safely, for our workers and all Canadians.”

Other plans outlined in the statement include 100 per cent write offs for machinery and equipment used for manufacturing, including some clean energy equipment. www.nrcan.gc.ca

ASHRAE INVESTS $15.7M TO CONSTRUCT NET-ZERO HEADQUARTERS ASHRAE will pony up $15.7 million to construct its new world headquarters in Atlanta, GA to net-zero standards.

The society hopes to reduce energy consumption in the existing building to a level below 22 kBtu per square feet per year, with a limit of maximum daytime plug load to 0.5 watts per square foot. It will also be designed to exceed ASHRAE standards where possible.

A committee of ASHRAE volunteers will oversee the renovation project, while a subcommittee of volunteers will advise on systems and technical components.

“We want our new world headquarters to be an example of all that we stand for as a society and all that our industry has to offer,” said ASHRAE president Sheila Hayter. “Reuse of existing buildings and the embodied carbon in those structures is the ultimate form of sustainability.”

ASHRAE plans to make the move from its current building by October 2020. www.ashrae.org

ELECTRICAL SAFETY AUTHORITY RELEASES BULLETIN Ontario’s Electrical Safety Authority has issued a bulletin on electrical equipment near combustible gas equipment.

The bulletin provides clarification on equipment covered by Rule 2-324, which states the clearance between arc-producing electrical equipment and a combustible gas relief device or vent shall be in accordance with the requirements of CSA B149.1, natural gas and propane installation code. www.esasafe.com Continued on p12 FEBRUARY 2019 | HPAC

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INDUSTRY NEWS SEE THE LATEST NEWS @ HPACMAG.COM

SASKATCHEWAN TABLES PROMPT PAYMENT LEGISLATION Saskatchewan is the latest province to introduce prompt payment legislation.

The province tabled the Builders Lien Amendment Act on November 20, which sets out timelines for providing payment on construction projects. It also establishes an interim adjudication process that can be used in addition to arbitration and litigation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are pleased to see the government deliver on its commitment to protect Saskatchewan construction companies â&#x20AC;&#x201C; mostly small businesses â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from unreasonable delays in payment that harm them, their employees, and our economy,â&#x20AC;?

Saskatchewan Construction Association President and CEO Mark Cooper said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While we still need to review the

,%33 '2)0%

entire bill introduced today, we agree with the government that no one should ever face bankruptcy because they havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been paid for high quality work theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve already completed.â&#x20AC;?

Under the proposed legislation, owners and developers will be required to provide payment within 28 days of receiving an invoice for construction services. Contractors will be required to provide payment to subcontractors within seven days of receiving a payment from the owner or developer.

The person required to provide payment can also dispute the payment through the interim adjudication process if they feel an invoice is inaccurate. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While The Builderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lien Act was meant to balance the needs of contractors and their customers, over time it

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has become apparent there is some room for improvement,â&#x20AC;? Justice Minister and Attorney General Don Morgan said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This legislation provides a robust set of timelines to ensure payments are made by owners and developers to contractors, and by contractors to subcontractors, in a timely manner.â&#x20AC;? www.saskatchewan.ca

The Morelands accept the award at the convention.

TORONTO MR. ROOTER FRANCHISE OWNERS AWARDED

BY COMPANY A Greater Toronto Area Mr. Rooter Plumbing franchise has been presented the corporationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Franchisee of the Year Award.

Owners Derek and Pam Moreland accepted the award at the Mr. Rooter annual convention.

It is presented to franchisee owners that have grown a model Mr. Rooter business and offer â&#x20AC;&#x153;exemplary customer serviceâ&#x20AC;? along with a team of associates. www.mrrooter.ca

FIREPLACES RECALLED FOR HAZARD Miles Industries Ltd. has recalled its natural gas and propane H5 series fireplace models 1100 and 1150 installed with certain three- and four-sided fireplace trim.

Convective heat was found to escape Continued on p14 HPACMAG.COM

MOVE OVER METAL From parking garages to hospitals to high buildings, more and more mechanical contractors and engineers are switching to a long-lasting DWV solution

Why are DWV systems from IPEX becoming the new standard? As an integrated solution, System XFR® and System 15® meet all code requirements for noncombustible buildings.

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from behind the fireplace trim and overheat on model numbers 1135, 1140, 1145, 1149 and 1184. About 1,900 units were sold in Canada.

The stream of convective heat could cause possible discoloration of the adjacent wood studs or, over a period of time, charring of the wood behind the trim, according to Health Canada.

Customers are encouraged to contact the dealer where the fireplace was purchased to schedule the installation of a left and right bracket in order to prevent any convective air displacement. www.healthycanadians.gc.ca

FEDS ANNOUNCE APPRENTICESHIP GRANT PROGRAM FOR WOMEN The federal government has launched a grant program for women in the trades.

Registered apprentices in eligible Red Seal trades who have successful completed their first or second year/level can receive $3,000 per year or level, up to a maximum amount of $6,000.

Only women who have progressed in their training on or after April 1, 2018 are eligible. For those who progressed in 2018, the deadline is June 30, 2019. The deadline is 12 months after the date of progression for women who progressed after January 1, 2019.

Applications are available online at www.canada.ca/ apprenticeship-grants. Those interested can also call 866.742.3644 to request an application form. www.canada.ca

NOVA SCOTIA TO OFFER INCENTIVES FOR HIGHPERFORMANCE HOME CONSTRUCTION Efficiency Nova Scotia has launched a pilot program aimed at increasing the number of new high-performance homes constructed in the province.

The High Performance Home Plan Pilot will offer a $1000 incentive paid to eligible participants who complete an Initial Design Evaluation under the organization’s New Home Construction Program.

“The initial goal is to see 100 home plans go through the pilot

by March 2020,” said Natasha Brooks, program manager.

Participants who complete the pilot are also eligible for rebates up to $7000 under the New Home Construction Program.

To be eligible, homes must be electrically heated and registered before or within 30 days of receiving building permits. www.efficiencyns.ca/newhomes 14

BUILT GREEN CANADA, GREEN BUILDER COALITION RELEASE WATER RATING PROGRAM A new water-rating program is coming to Canada.

Built Green Canada has partnered with the Green Builder Coalition to launch the Water Efficiency Rating Score (WERS), which it said will be “Canadianized in the coming months” WERS uses a scoring scale of zero to 100–zero being the most desirable. It accounts for indoor and outdoor water use, as well as reuse via rainwater, greywater and blackwater catchment calculations.

Verifier training for the program will occur in the spring of 2019, and Built Green is encouraging trials through 2019 for its single-family, renovations and high-density programs.

Builders will earn points toward their Built Green home certification. www.builtgreencanada.ca www.greenbuildercoalition.org

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ertainly all of us have been truly disappointed by something or other at least once in our lives.

Perhaps your new service vehicle spends more time in the shop than on the road or you are working for a seemingly great new service company only to find out the “every other weekend off” policy is just so many words. Disappointments, say psychologists, life coaches and inspirational thinkers “are not meant to destroy you; they are meant to strengthen you.” So it was with me and air source heat pumps (ASHP).

I was over-the-top about them: “Hey, three watts of heat out for every one watt of electricity in!” What happened to dissolve my original enthusiasm; why did I begin to feel so fundamentally disappointed by heat pumps?

Starting in the mid 1980s, a partner and I formed a contracting business and our little company seemingly existed to sell only ASHP. We aligned ourselves with a premium brand, took numerous technical and sales related courses and never

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HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

missed an opportunity to sell a heat pump. Such opportunities, as it turned out, were few and far between.

Sales information floating around at the time made some, what I categorize as, “far reaching” claims. Figure 1 seems to indicate adding-on a heat pump to a 55 per cent AFUE furnace burning LP might be a wise choice. Yikes!

The asterisk annotating the standard efficiency furnace with add-on ASHP cautioned “air to air heat pump efficiency varies with outdoor temperature. Estimates are approximate for Southern Ontario.”

Bin weather data compiled by Lennox for U.S. cities and some selected Canadian cites provided more convincing data that an ASHP could work in our cold climate. The Lennox table provided an average number of hours each city might experience in a certain temperature range. For example, bin data indicated average Toronto temperatures could be in the 25F (-3.8C) to 60F (15.5C) range for 4,691 hours–a good chunk of the winter.

This is prime ASHP weather as any properly designed and installed ASHP can easily have a balance point at or even below 25F (-3.8C). These are not load hours, but simply hours of heating opportunity for an ASHP unit. Montreal’s bin data allowed for 4307 hours between those temperatures. Indeed, ASHPs installed in Quebec with matching electric indoor sections or added on to oil furnaces were encouraged by government financial incentives for many years.

DISAPPOINTMENTS HAPPEN A federal government incentive program aimed at encouraging homeowners to move away from oil-fired heating systems seemed like the perfect opportunity to get more ASHPs into the field. However, in major cities, natural gas became the fuel of choice. When an opportunity to sell a heat pump did present itself, too many clients balked at the price. Some said things such as, “The quotes I got from other contractors are cheaper and none of them recHPACMAG.COM

ommended any duct renovation” as if we were trying to sell unnecessary work. Selling heat pumps was not working for us and when I look back on it, perhaps this disappointment was a blessing in disguise.

Then, our premium brand ASHP manufacturer decided to leave the HVAC business, literally overnight. The manufacturer had been in the midst of developing a “northern” air source heat pump that included some revolutionary new technology; however, the unit had a nasty habit of pumping down during defrost. A manual reset low pressure switch terminated compressor operation leading to one or more service calls.

Rather annoyingly, if the unit been operating above balance point at the time of compressor lock-out, auxiliary heat did not take over automatically.

Frustrated homeowners would have to switch to “emergency heat” allowing furnace only operation for the duration.

Ultimately, with no solution to the pump down problem and no factory support, these disappointments dampened my spirit. I never again installed another ASHP in a consumer’s home.

Notwithstanding my lack of sales success with ASHPs, some units installed by other mechanical contrac-

MANUFACTURERS, WHAT WERE YOU THINKING? 1. There is no doubt that conventional ASHP equipment works perfectly well in less severe winter climates. AHRI Climate Region lV (see Figure 2) is the standard for rating Heating Season Performance Factors (HSPF) for all heat pumps sold in North America.

Although Region V (most of Canada) provides many opportune heating hours for an ASHP, complicating factors such as heavy snowfall, frequent defrost periods and low temperature rise were never adequately addressed until very recently.

2. Low temperature rise. Even when APPROXIMATE BTU’S PER DOLLAR

FURNACE TYPE NATURAL GAS **

tors did work well when all the rules (including maintenance) were followed.

I serviced ASHP equipment with 25 years or more of service that unequivocally saved many Btus for satisfied homeowners.

Why didn’t the majority of contemporaneously installed ASHPs provide such value and comfort? Problematic installations typically have the same cast of usual characters: manufacturers, contractors (I made some mistakes too) and homeowners are all worthy of some blame.

PRICE PER CU. METRE

Standard efficiency (55%) Standard efficiency (55%) with hi eff. air-to-air heat pump* Mid efficiency non-condensing (80%) High efficiency condensing (92%) Ultra high efficiency condensing (96%) PROPANE

PRICE PER LITRE

$0.550 Per Cubic Metre

$0.575 Per Cubic Metre

35,494 62,607 51,628 59,373 61,954

33,951 59,885 49,383 56,791 59,260

$0.599 Per Litre

$0.679 Per Litre

Standard efficiency (55%)

21,058

18,577

Standard efficiency (55%) with hi eff. air-to-air heat pump*

35,083

30,950

Mid efficiency non-condensing (80%) High efficiency condensing (92%) Ultra high efficiency condensing (96%)

30,631 35,227 36,758

27,022 31,077 32,427

$0.799 Per Litre

$0.849 Per Litre

23,570 41,249 37,714 51,857

22,182 38,820 35,493 48,803

OIL

PRICE PER LITRE

Standard efficiency (50%) Standard efficiency (50%) with hi eff. air-to-air heat pump* Mid efficiency non-condensing (80%) Mid efficiency non-condensing (80%) & H.E. air-to-air HP*

Continued on p18

Figure 1 Energy cost comparison Fig1.indd 1

HPACMAG.COM

equipment worked perfectly well, heated air out the registers felt cold, not cool, but cold. ASHP units typically produced heated air in a temperature rise range of 20F to 30F; air out the registers rarely ever exceeded 105F (41C) in my experience. Then, during defrost, had the auxiliary heat-duringdefrost feature not been utilized, even colder air chilled the homeowner.

Though the conditioned air produced by standalone ASHPs was warm enough to heat the house, it simply was not comfortable for the consumer.

Uncomfortable people fiddle with thermostats. Modern thermostats have a built-in time delay deliberately meant to frustrate the fiddlers and twiddlers.

Uncomfortable homeowners revert to running extra space heating devices eliminating any system efficiency gains and, of course, they complain loudly.

2. Defrost Controls. Some early ASHP units I encountered in the field had nothing more than a pressure switch connected to a copper sensing tube mounted inside the outdoor coil just below the top row of tubes. The sensing tube would fill-up with grass clippings, dirt, bugs and ice thus preventing the pressure switch from tripping the reversing valve. Outdoor units would freeze solid just like the proverbial ice cube. Later, controls based on a combined time and/or temperature differential were used. Almost universally, this type of defrost control ended-up reverting to a timed defrost–often every 30 minutes whether defrost was needed or not. Defrost switched the system into cooling mode and triggered a call for auxiliary heat meant to temper the air delivered to the space. Commandbased defrost controls were useless in a northern climate–it was not until a manufacturer developed demandbased defrost controls in the mid-80s that the situation improved. Did I ever mention that defrost is NOT a problem for ground-source heat pumps?

4. Contractor technical and sales

2019-02-12 8:46 AM

FEBRUARY 2019 | HPAC

17

< HEAT PUMPS Installation Pointers Do we need to worry? Sometimes new technology leads to unacceptable installation short cuts. Is this such an example? A ccASHP installation with all the piping including a branch box installed outside the building. Some heat is lost, perhaps not enough to worry about but advertised levels of performance likely won’t be met in such cases.

Ideally, the tubing and accessory item should be installed indoors. I can understand why the homeowner would not want tubing and such running around on the interior walls when he had no intention of doing any interior renovations.

Tubing could be hidden by PVC ducting inside the house in some cases.

Dripping water is the enemy of all heat pumps– ccASHPs too.

A well-frosted inverter drive heat pump (possibly a ccASHP model) that some joker has fashioned as a snowman. (from LinkedIn)

In the previous month, this heat pump defrosted 29 times for a total of 153 minutes in defrost roughly averaging 5.2 minutes in each defrost cycle. That is good. A properly charged ASHP shielded from the prevailing wind should have no trouble completely defrosting itself in six minutes or less.

Air filters along with indoor and outdoor coils must be kept clean.

Do not forget the blower wheel.

18

HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

training. Several major players such as Carrier, Lennox, General Electric (later Trane) and Westinghouse Electric offered comprehensive training for dealers interested in heat pumps.

However, considering all the players in the early ASHP market, there was not enough training of value. There was far too much “irrational exuberance” or sales propaganda floating around; even technical courses were run by sales people. The fact is this: ASHPs sales and installation in our cold climate requires a well-engineered approach using properly trained installers and technicians.

CONTRACTORS: TOO MANY MISTAKES I said I had encountered some early-day ASHP installations that worked well providing a level of satisfaction for the enduser. But as a technician and service rep I attempted to correct far too many installed systems that simply existed outside of any governable rules: 1. Many contractors improperly sized heat pumps. Without a load calculation it is impossible to know if the existing air handling system can accommodate any given unit selection and an accurate balance point cannot be established.

2. Inadequate indoor airflow and poor air distribution. Heat pumps typically require more airflow than a straight cooling unit (450 cfm/ton); an ASHP coupled to an air handler with electric heat requires more air than straight cooling. These rules too often precluded retrofits; only an engineered new installation or complete renovation job provided satisfactory results for early ASHPs. 3. Mismatched indoor coils sized to fit into tiny plenums installed on furnaces not capable of high static operation too often resulted in damaged compressors, which were very difficult to repair in winter.

4. ASHPs are best installed in warmer months. Evacuation, dehydration and charging procedures can then be completed with greater precision than in cold weather. Any manufacturer supplied charts for charge checking in the winter are temperature range specific; require proper indoor airflow and a completely defrosted outdoor coil.

5. Less than ideal site selection created defrost and poor performance problems: a. ASHPs should not be sited where exposed to prevailing winter winds. It was not unusual to find outdoor units partially covered or even buried in snow drifts. b. Any ASHP must have adequate clearance around and above the outdoor coil to prevent recirculation of its own air. c. All units must reside well above anticipated snow levels providing drainage thus preventing coil melt-water from backing-up inside the unit potentially damaging the outdoor coil.

HPACMAG.COM

Representative cooling and heating load hours for each generalized climatic region Region

CLHz

HKHz

I.

2400

750

II.

1800

1250

III.

1200

1750

IV.

800

2250

V.

400

2750

VI.

200

2750

COURTESY DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

4.4 Rounding of SEER, HSPF and APF for reporting purposes. After calculating SEER according to section 4.1, round it off as specified in subpart B 430.23(m)(3)(i) of title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Round section 4.2 HSPF values and section 4.3 APF values as per §430.23(m)(3)(ii) and (iii) of Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

Figure 2 Heating load hours (HLHA) for the United States

d. Outdoor units cannot be installed where water dripping from overhead might coat the outdoor coil with ice. e. Dripping water can freeze onto the vertical discharge fan blade throwing it out of balance sometimes breaking off a shard of metal capable of puncturing the outdoor coil.

6. Improperly set balance points forced many ASHPs to run in standalone heating mode too long after the house load exceeded the outdoor unit’s capacity. Or, perhaps even worse, the balance point was set too high thus handing off the load to the more expensive auxiliary heat source sooner than necessary.

HPACMAG.COM

I have darkened the doors of heat pump disappointment city, a bleak place for a normally cheery fellow. Its streets were littered with ASHP marketing propaganda, unread instruction manuals, incomplete commissioning reports and unhappy customer letters.

Yet my devotion to heat pumps has not been dashed.

I am strengthened by the recent introduction of fantastic new technology: • Better scroll and rotary compressor technology utilizing inverter drive vapour injection has created an entirely new class of heat pump: the cold climate air source heat pump (ccASHP).

• ccASHP can be easily zoned even

mixed and matched with fan coils, indoor heads, ceiling cassettes or air handlers and some can heat in one part of the building and cool in another all at the same time.

• ccASHPs have better defrost control, only defrosting when absolutely necessary.

• More reliable electronic controls and sensors provide installation and operational data making servicing and repairs much simpler.

• Side discharge outdoor units can be wall mounted and are much quieter than conventional ASHPs. • Ground source heat pumps (GSHP) have none of the outdoor unit problems: no defrost issues, no problem with north winds, no fan blade worries.

• Non-subsidized GSHPs are unfortunately still a first-cost issue for too many homeowners. Commercial and institutional applications are much more common especially condominium projects utilizing one large shared ground loop providing heating and cooling for dozens, even hundreds, of individual indoor units.

Perhaps I am, once again, over the top with enthusiasm for heat pumps, I am certainly spreading my good news in what one might take be an exercise in propagandistic cheerleading. However, I am convinced that ccASHPs are now the most cost effective way to provide not only reliable operation but comfortable HVAC to the greatest number of residential households. Yes, there are still rules to be followed, techniques to be learned and utilized properly in the field; maintenance-free is still a hollow slogan. <> Ian McTeer is an HVAC consultant with 35 years experience in the industry. He was most recently a field rep for Trane Canada DSO. McTeer is a refrigeration mechanic and Class 1 Gas technician.

FEBRUARY 2019 | HPAC

19

< FAUCETS & FIXTURES

COMMERCIAL LEADS THE WAY Non-residential market opens the tap on innovation. BY JILLIAN MORGAN

I

t has to start somewhere.

Pressure to meet evolving regulations and sustainability-focused targets on industrial, commercial and institutional (ICI) projects has paved the way for innovative products that address the unique needs of hotels, healthcare facilities, schools and restaurants.

ICI manufacturers take on a leadership role in the plumbing sector, acting in many ways as a research and development centre for the industry.

Those advancements then trickle down to the residential market, said Tamara Myers, communications chair of the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) mid-Atlantic chapter and founding president of Philadelphia-based Myers Constructs.

“The commercial plumbing fixture industry has had to step up to the plate to create technologies to meet WaterSense requirements, low volume use, and at the same time make a nice looking product,” she added.

Faucets and fixtures in ICI buildings will no longer focus solely on function, instead combining the latest trends in style with tailored technology and attention to energy efficiency.

STYLE AND FUNCTION Functional faucets and fixtures that meet the needs of ICI buildings remain a priority, though the move to incorporate aesthetically pleasing designs represents “an important change in direction,” according to Maria Bosco, director of product marketing for Lixil Canada Inc. “Designers of commercial spaces are always asking for products that not only serve a specific purpose, they need to flow with the overall design concept of the space,” she added.

In the restaurant industry, for example, multiple spray kitchen faucets aim to simplify everyday tasks such as food prep and clean up. Trough sinks have become increasingly popular, too, particularly in hotel restaurants, Myers said. “[Trough sinks] can be a challenge but I think they’re coming up with various designs that both function well, if you have multiple use, and express a high-level of design and finish,” she added.

20

HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

The Genius shower from Riobel is ideal for hotels, according to Kathleen Saint-Yves, the company’s marketing director. The electronic pressure-balanced thermostatic shower system is customizable with either a hand shower and rain shower, or a bath shower with a hand or rain shower. On the installation side, the valve can be inserted between two 2x3 inch studs.

The shower features a digital keypad and temperature sensor, and is designed to output up to 19 litres of water per minute at 60 psi.

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The NextGen Selectronic faucet from American Standard (pictured) features an above deck mixing handle and integrated design with electronics in the faucet spout. It offers 0.35- and 0.5gpm multi-laminar spray, as well as 1.5-gpm laminar flow outlets with adjustable spray face. Four- and 8-inch deck plates are available.

Much like luxury residential builds, popular finishes in the ICI market include brass, rose gold and black, Myers said–though it can be a mixed bag.

“We see still a certain amount of just basic chrome in the commercial market,” she added “Chrome is tried and true in terms of finishes.”

There are a select few style trends the market will be leaving behind in 2018– namely oil rubbed bronze fixtures, particularly in Canada, Bosco said.

Sinks with zero radius corners will also be benched, since the product can be difficult to clean, along with four-inch wideset and centreset faucets at more than $150. “People that spend more than $150 will select a one hand mixer or an eight-inch wideset faucet,” Bosco said.

Dual flush toilets that perform at full flush 6.0 Lpf/conserving flush 4.1 Lpf will be “on the decline” thanks to new HPACMAG.COM

Delta Faucet electronic flush valves are now available in matte black with a chrome finish for the company’s 81T water closet and urinal models.

The 81T series features H2Optics technology and the EZ Adjust system. The valves in this finish are available in three flush volumes: 6 Lpf (adjustable), 4.2 Lpf (fixed) and 4.8 Lpf (fixed). Urinal models are available in 1.9 Lpf (adjustable) and 0.5 Lpf (fixed) flush volumes.

standards for toilets now set at 4.8 Lpf, she added. Contractors should also expect to see fewer faucets with a mechanical lift rod on the back of the faucet for the drain.

EFFICIENCY AND TECHNOLOGY ICI plumbing manufacturers have taken energy-efficiency regulations in stride.

Since most major commercial projects

Continued on p22 FEBRUARY 2019 | HPAC

21

< FAUCETS & FIXTURES

American Standard flush valves allow for conversion to hands-free sensor operation.

The Townsend solid surface shower bases from American Standard are designed with a two-inch threshold height and a trench drain. The base feature a sloped drain end, three-sided tiling/water retention flange, removable trench drain cover and low threshold height.

have a requirement to meet sustainable targets, the sector has assumed a natural leadership role, Myers said.

The latest advancements in faucet and fixture technology are often focused on reducing the environmental footprint of non-residential buildings.

“Faucets and toilet technology is being developed to provide property managers with alerts on the improper

functioning of the fixture and usage,” Bosco said. Sense and Sense Guard smart water sensors by Grohe, a Lixil brand, are just one example.

Hands-free sensor technology continues to dominate, particularly in ICI environments where the reduction of harmful bacteria is a top priority, such as a healthcare facility.

In the commercial market, electronic

faucets will become increasingly common, Myers said.

“We are developing some new commercial faucets that will be launched July 2019–SmartTherm,” Bosco said.

“The electronic components will be integrated in the spout to facilitate maintenance, easier temperature adjustment… and the handle will be removable to eliminate tampering.” <>

The 404 and 405 series faucets from Chicago Faucets are intended for commercial restrooms.

The underbody of the faucets has been updated to accommodate a newly designed spout connection for one-person installation. A knob rest covers the pop-up rod hole, and spout shanks are keyed.

Moen’s M-Power hands-free, sensoroperated lavatory faucets offer a field-enabled sentinel flow option to flush standing water in the supply lines. M-Power features an extended eight-year battery life, intended to reduce the need for maintenance, as well as coordinating hands-free soap dispensers. The sensor faucets can also be programmed with a metering flow time from a minimum of 10 seconds.

22

HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

The Grohe Sense and Sense Guard water management system notifies property managers of excess moisture or leaks using a smartphone app. While the Sense smart water sensor is placed near a risk, the Sense Guard (pictured) uses multiple sensors to track water pressure and the flow of water, and measures general water consumption. It automatically turns off the water supply when it detects unusual water activity.

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ADD STYLE TO YOUR

KITCHEN

WITH THE NEW MYTHIC 2-JET SPRAY KITCHEN FAUCET AVAILABLE IN 3 DIFFERENT FINISHES: CHROME, STAINLESS STEEL AND BLACK!

RIOBEL.CA

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A DISTINCTIVE MEMBER OF THE HOUSE OF ROHL

< DISTRICT ENERGY

Deep lake water-cooling gets the nod from the feds CIPH councils tour soon-to-be expanded Enwave system. BY JILLIAN MORGAN

O

n the bed of Lake Ontario, highdensity polyethylene pipes collect near-freezing water used to cool a cohort of buildings in downtown Toronto.

The deep lake water cooling system (DLWC), operated by Enwave Energy Corporation, is about to undergo a $100-million expansion.

The district energy provider received $10 million in federal funding to increase the capacity of the DLWC to serve an additional two million square metres of floor space–the equivalent of 40 to 50 buildings.

Active for more than a decade, the system is the largest of its kind in the world and continues to earn plaudits from the mechanical industry for its sustainability.

Members of the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIPH) Industrial Pipes, Valves and Fittings (IPVF) Council and Canadian Water Systems Council (CWSC) toured Enwave’s Energy Transfer Station–also the site of the Toronto Water John Street Pumping Station–in November 2018.

Eager to learn about the inner workings of DLWC, members enthusiastically joined the excursion led by Alex Sotirov, vice president of engineering at Enwave, and Joyce Lee, vice president of operations.

The tour took attendees through a maze of massive pipes and capped off with a presentation on the history of the system.

The set of three-pipes–each five-kilometres in length–draw in the dense, cold water that sits 83 metres below the surface of the lake. That water then travels to a filtration plant on Toronto 24

HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

Sotirov shows IPVF and CWSC members around the station.

Heat exchangers at the Energy Transfer Station/John Street Pumping Station.

Island where it is treated and filtered as drinking water. It then travels to the Energy Transfer Station on John Street, where 36 heat exchangers capture the energy from the cold lake water and transfer it into a closed circuit. The water used in this process then becomes part of the city’s potable water system.

Established in 2001, the IPVF council

of CIPH aims to raise awareness of and support the PVF sector by addressing key issues and acting as a liaison with organizations and associations. CWSC, formerly the Canadian Association of Pump Manufacturers, aims to promote and support the Canadian water systems industry. <> www.ciph.com www.enwave.com HPACMAG.COM

MODERN HYDRONICS 2019 SPRING

THE BENEFITS OF INTERNALLY CLEAN SYSTEMS THERMAL ENERGY METERS: AN UPDATE

THE CASE FOR SYNCHRONIZED LOOPS PRODUCT SHOWCASE SMALL SCALE HYDRONIC COOLING

PROPOSED EFFICIENCY REGS PROMPT INDUSTRY REACTION MASTERING THE ART OF ZONING

a publication of

Benchmark® Platinum Optimize Your Hydronic System for Maximum Efficiency and Savings AERtrim Peak Performance

Dual Returns Maximum Efficiency

onAER Predictive Maintenance

AERCO’s patented O2 Trim technology self-adjusts the combustion process to deliver optimal O2 levels keeping your boiler operating smoothly at peak performance.

Enables design and application flexibility — increases efficiency up to an additional 7%.

A pro-active tool detailing comprehensive unit performance so you can ensure your system operates optimally reducing costly unscheduled maintenance.

©2018 AERCO

800.526.0288 aerco.com

CONTENTS

Modern Hydronics

MH4 COOLING

MH12 REGULATORY NEWS

Small scale hydronic cooling

Industry reacts to NRCan proposed equipment efficiency regulations

A market sector with growth potential. BY JOHN SIEGENTHALER

MH16

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

MH8 SYSTEM DESIGN

The case for synchronized loops

MH22 ZONING

Mastering the art and science behind ideal environments

A system composed of synergistic components enhances the efficiency of the entire loop.

There are solutions to the thermal problems often associated with bad buildings.

BY JOHN SHEFF

BY ROBERT BEAN

MH10 METERING

In-service accuracy is key to uptake Measurement Canada to approve thermal energy meters within the year.

MH28 CORROSION Clean your pipes

Establish physically and chemically “clean” surfaces inside piping and other components.

BY JOHN SIEGENTHALER

MODERN HYDRONICS

a supplement of Heating Plumbing Air Conditioning Magazine

111 Gordon Baker Road, Suite 400, Toronto, ON M2H 3R1 TEL: 416.442.5600 FAX: 416.510.5140 www.hpacmag.com EDITOR ASSISTANT EDITOR ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ACCOUNT MANAGER ACCOUNT COORDINATOR ART DIRECTOR CIRCULATION MANAGER PUBLISHER VICE PRESIDENT PRESIDENT & CEO

WWW.HPACMAG.COM

Kerry Turner (416) 510-5218 KTurner@hpacmag.com

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Jillian Morgan (416) 510-5201 JMorgan@annexbusinessmedia.com David Skene (416) 510-6884 DSkene@hpacmag.com

NOTICE: HPAC Magazine, Annex Business Media, 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.

Vince Naccarato (416) 510-5118 VNaccarato@hpacmag.com Kim Rossiter (416) 510-6794 KRossiter@hpacmag.com Emily Sun Urszula Grzyb (416) 442-5600, ext. 3537 ugrzyb@annexbizmedia.com

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

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Proud member of:

Tim Dimopoulos (416) 510-5100 tdimopoulos@annexbizmedia.com Mike Fredericks

MODERN HYDRONICS

SPRING 2019

MH3

COOLING

SMALL SCALE HYDRONIC COOLING A market sector with serious growth potential.

BY JOHN SIEGENTHALER

MH4

SPRING 2019

MODERN HYDRONICS

All piping and components conveying chilled water mus be insulated and vapor seale

COOLING MODE entire system filled with propylene glycol antifreeze solution

INSIDE

nology. Geothermal water-to-water heat pumps, as well as air-to-water heat pumps, stand ready, willing and able to supply warm water for low temperature radiant panel heat systems in all areas of North America.

In many areas of North America, geothermal heat pumps currently enjoy generous subsidies that cover their higher installation cost. Air-to-water heat pumps, although currently not subsidized in most markets, can still hold their own on the basis of cost competitive performance, even in cold climates.

The icing on the cake: In addition to their ability to serve as high performance hydronic heat sources, nearly all currently available geothermal water-towater heat pumps, and air-to-water heat pumps, come with refrigerant reversing valves and associated control logic that allows them to function as chillers.

That’s a game changer when the question “but what do I do about cooling” comes up with prospective clients.

A typical hydronic heat pump (waterto-water or air-to-water) can produce chilled fluids with temperature down to about 40F. Those temperatures are very sufficient for both sensible and latent cooling. All that’s needed is a way to interface this chilled fluid with interior space in a way that produces comfortable air temperatures and humidity levels. That interface should also take advantage of the benefits offered by hydronic delivery system, such as zoning, high distribution efficiency, and minimal invasiveness.

OUTSIDE

H

ydronic heating has long been known for providing superior cold weather comfort.

Even so, the question that often comes from potential clients who are already convinced about of the benefits of hydronic heating, is: “What do I do about cooling?”

In the days when nearly all hydronic heating systems were supplied by boilers, the answer to this question was to install a separate cooling system. It might be a standard ducted system where an outdoor condenser unit supplied a single air handler in the building. The cooled and dehumidified air was then routed through a ducted forced air system.

The potential customer’s argument was typically: Why should I pay to install a hydronic heating system and then pay several thousand dollars more for a fully ducted cooling system, when the ducted system could also be used for distributing heated air? In some cases the allure of superior comfort, especially that provided by a hydronic radiant panel heating system, was sufficient justification for this “two separate systems” approach. However, when the construction budget was the controlling factor, the “ducts can do both” option typically doomed the hydronic heating system in favour of a furnace topped with an A-coil for cooling.

Today, there are many indicators that point to heat pumps gaining a greater share of the hydronic heat source market. There is also a significant overlap between heat pumps and hydronic tech-

spr che val

(P1) air-to-water heat pump (HP)

flexible connectors

There are several possibilities. Let’s take a look.

One approach is to set up a zoned distribution system serving multiple fancoil units, such as depicted in Figure 1.

This system, shown in cooling mode operation, uses an air-to-water heat pump to supply two zones of radiant panel heating, or two zones of cooling.

To ensure freeze protection of the outdoor heat pump, the entire system operates with a 30 per cent solution of inhibited propylene glycol antifreeze.

Some manufacturers also offer “split system” air-to-water heat pumps that only contain refrigerant in the outdoor unit. This eliminates any concern for WWW.HPACMAG.COM

Modern Hydronics

(FC1)

high wall air handler

OFF (ZVH1) (ZVC1)

(FC2)

s st ed

high wall air handler

(ZVC2)

(P2)

ring eck lve

(ORC)

(S2)

(S1) (S3) temperature sensors

(SPC)

buffer tank

Figure 2 High wall unit

from migrating into the radiant panel zones by a combination of a closed zone valve on the supply pipe and a check valve on the return side piping.

A variable speed circulator provides flow to the radiant panel manifold stations, or the air handlers, depending on operating mode. Zone valves determine which manifold or air handler receives flow. The circulator automatically adjusts speed as zone valves open or close.

The buffer tank prevents the heat pump from short cycling when only one zone is operating.

TERMINAL VARIATIONS Figure 1 Zoned distribution system

freezing in the outdoor unit. All piping carrying chilled fluid must be insulated and vapour sealed to prevent condensation. Although this is a simple concept, it remains a challenge in practice, especially for installers not used to insulating piping in hydronic heating systems.

When piping insulation is not properly done condensation on piping, valves, and circulators is sure to occur. That condensate can drip onto drywall surfaces and produce stains in short order.

If you are not willing and able to do the insulation system right, do not get involved with any chilled fluid cooling system.

In Figure 1, chilled water is prevented WWW.HPACMAG.COM

The fan-coils depicted in Figure 1 are called “high wall” units. Figure 2 shows an example of such a unit installed about six inches below ceiling level.

High wall hydronic fan-coils are virtually identical to the air handlers used on many mini-split heat pump systems. The only significant difference is that the hydronic air handler has a water coil, rather than a direct expansion (refrigerant) coil.

Hydronic high wall air handlers are currently available from several North American suppliers. They are typically turned or or off using a remote, and sport features such as vertically oscillating air diffusers, variable speed blowers, and different control modes for cooling, heating, and dehumidification.

MODERN HYDRONICS

PHOTO COURTESY JAGA

(ZVH2) OFF

Figure 3 Console fan-coil

These air handlers come with condensate drainage tubes that can either be routed through an exterior wall, or connected to 3⁄4 inch plastic drainage piping routed through partitions.

It is also possible to use “console” fan-coil units such as the unit shown in Figure 1.

Console fan coils can be surface mounted or recessed into wall cavities.

The later arguably looks better, but requires coordination with wall framing to ensure the recessed cavity is located and sized correctly.

Yet another possibility is one or more ducted air handlers. These are widely available with both vertical or horizontal cabinet configurations. An example of the latter is shown in Figure 4.

Some ducted air handlers are designed Continued on MH6 SPRING 2019

MH5

COOLING

Figure 4 Ducted horizontal air handler

to connect to standard ducting systems. Others are designed as “high velocity” units with blowers that generate high static pressure. the latter are typically configured with a single trunk duct that supplies several flexible two-inch diameter branch ducts.

These small branch ducts can be snaked through partitions or along framing cavities. They terminate in a small orifice mounted on a ceiling or wall. Typically there needs to be six or seven branch ducts per ton (12,000 Btuh) of cooling capacity.

The branch ducts are typically limited to runs of 25 feet from where they connect to the trunk duct.

Figure 5 shows an example of a horizontal air handler mounted within a conditioned attic space. The small two-inch flex ducts supplied from the single trunk are seen fastened to the insulated roof surface. If you look closely you will also see a secondary drain pan under the air handler. It is there in case the drain pan within the air handler develops a leak, or the piping from that drip pan somehow gets plugged. A secondary drain pan is cheap insurance against the possibility of a condensate leak that could damage expensive interior surfaces under the air handler.

PAY ATTENTION Whenever a fan-coil or air handler is used for chilled fluid cooling it is important to understand, respect, and implement several details: 1. Always be sure that the air handler or fan coil is equipped with a condensate drip pan and drain tube.

2. Be sure to plan for how electrical power, an insulated supply and return pipe, and a condensate drain tube will be routed to each air handler or fan coil.

3. When a recessed fan coil is used be sure to provide framers or other construction contractors with information on the size and exact location of the wall cavity.

4. Be sure to pitch the condensate drainage tube to allow gravity drainage.

5. If the condensate drain is connected to the building’s DWV plumbing system be sure to install traps that prevent MH6

SPRING 2019

Figure 5 Air handler in conditioned space

sewer gas from reaching the air handler or fan coil. Follow applicable code requirements for the trap details.

6. Place air handlers or fan coils so that air discharge is not directly aimed at areas where occupants are seated.

Drafts create discomfort.

7. Always get a wiring diagram for the specific air handler or fan coil being used so that it functionality can be coordinated with other control functions such as turning on the distribution circulator and heat pump.

COOL SURFACES Another option is radiant panel cooling. This technology enjoys a more developed market in Europe, but is currently in its infancy within North America. It involves circulating a chilled fluid (water or an antifreeze solution) thorough radiant panel tubing circuits embedded in ceilings, walls, or floors. Of these, radiant ceilings are ideal for cooling.

A key concept is to regulate the chilled fluid temperature to the radiant panel so that it remains just above the dewpoint temperature of the space being cooled. This is critically important in avoiding condensation on the panel.

The May 2014 HPAC article “I Need This Controller” covers the details and possible piping/control designs for radiant cooling. Check it out in the HPAC archives for more information. <> John Siegenthaler, P.E., is a mechanical engineering graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a licensed professional engineer.

He has over 34 years experience in designing modern hydronic heating systems.

Siegenthaler’s latest book is Heating with Renewable Energy (see www.hydronicpros.com for more information).

SEE JOHN AT THE MODERN HYDRONICS SUMMIT 2019.

CHECK MODERNHYDRONICSSUMMIT.COM FOR UPDATES.

MODERN HYDRONICS

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SYSTEM DESIGN

THE CASE FOR SYNCHRONIZED LOOPS

A system composed of synergistic components enhances the efficiency of the entire loop.

BY JOHN SHEFF

A

building’s hydronic HVAC system is rarely just the sum of its parts. The system is comprised of chillers, boilers, pumps, variable frequency drives (VFDs), air handling units (AHUs) and valves that create a loop through which water is circulated to control the building’s temperature and its occupants’ comfort. In this loop, each component is a node that has an effect not just on the one next to it but on every other one, regardless of how far they are from each other.

In fact, the nodes furthest from each other may impact each other the most.

Variable speed pumps, for example, surrender much of their part-load efficiency if the wrong balancing valves are installed at the terminal units. Too often systems are designed and components specified as though this loop is made of discrete nodes. Consequently, building owners continue to install inefficient systems and then struggle to find lasting solutions to chronic problems like hot spots, high utility bills and constant maintenance calls.

A system composed of synergistic components, on the other hand, enhances the efficiency of the entire loop.

Pressure independent control versus manual balancing.

Pressure independent control valves (PICVs) installed at the AHUs tightly control the water temperature entering and exiting the unit’s coils, allowing the chiller’s oil-free variable speed compressor to work as efficiently as possible. VFDs on the pumps supply only as much water as is demanded to take advantage of part load conditions to save energy. All the while, each component collects valuable data on energy usage, flow, pressure and temperature for the building management system to aggregate and use to make decisions about predictive maintenance, fault detection and comfort.

Investing in a synchronized hydronic loop made of synergistic components ultimately offers solutions to the following common problems associated with conventional hydronic HVAC systems: • Occupant comfort • Design efficiency versus installed efficiency • Degradation of efficiency over time These problems are often symptoms of an unbalanced system but are frequently misdiagnosed as issues with individual components. Those disconnected components, however, are operating as best they can in a system not at equilibrium.

A system composed of synergistic components.

MH8

SPRING 2019

MODERN HYDRONICS

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Modern Hydronics

pumps and oil-free variable speed compressors to match the system’s energy consumption to that demand, allowing the system to achieve design efficiency in all load conditions.

SUSTAINED EFFICIENCY OVER TIME

Hydronic pumping strategies.

Left, how much oil is common? Right, how oil impacts performance.

PRECISE COMFORT CONTROL A traditional HVAC system is designed using manual balancing valves to provide proper flow to all coils during the hottest and coldest days of the year, which typically occur just two per cent of the time. These balancing valves, however, possess a fixed orifice that remains in the same open position the other 98 per cent of the time, allowing the system’s differential pressure to change, and thus flow to the coils to shift even as loads remain constant.

Ideally, flow should vary only in response to changes in load.

This improper flow at constant load creates a situation known as “hunting,” which causes inefficient heat transfer, spikes in chiller and pump energy consumption, dramatic swings in discharge temperatures and, ultimately, chronic hot and cold spots in the occupied space.

The pressure independent control valves (PICVs) in a synchronized hydronic loop, on the other hand, continuously adjust their differential pressure orifice poWWW.HPACMAG.COM

sition in response to dynamic load conditions, maintaining consistent differential pressure across the valve. This means the flow into the coils only varies in response to changing loads, allowing for efficient heat transfer and precise comfort control in the occupied space.

DESIGN EFFICIENCY IN ALL LOAD CONDITIONS It is easy to assume that achieving maximum efficiency in an HVAC system means sacrificing comfort. After all, conserving energy at home usually means adjusting the thermostat past the point of comfort. When it comes to hydronic HVAC systems, however, comfort and efficiency are two sides of the same coin.

As the PICVs at the air handlers continuously adjust to current load conditions to optimize heat transfer and comfort, they’re also minimizing flow into the coils.

This means the system is only heating, cooling and pumping as much water as is necessary to meet demand. A synchronized hydronic loop utilizes variable speed MODERN HYDRONICS

Regardless of where a system starts out, its efficiency will decline with time.

Chillers with traditional compressors degrade at a faster rate, as oil from the chiller mixes with the refrigerant and contaminates the system. That could lead to an immediate efficiency decrease of seven per cent, eventually climbing to a peak of around 20 to 30 per cent efficiency loss. However, a synchronized hydronic loop utilizes oil-free chillers, completely avoiding these issues. Instead of oil, these chillers use magnetic rotors to eliminate friction.

This technology is designed to not only allow the system to maintain a high level of efficiency, but to also significantly reduce maintenance costs.

The synchronized hydronic loop offers solutions to many of the problems associated with conventional hydronic systems. It also proves that a systems-based approach, as opposed to selecting components individually, is necessary to maximize efficiency, decrease downtime and, ultimately, improve occupant comfort and the bottom line.

The efficiency of each component in the synchronized hydronic loop is superior to the efficiency of that same component in a system without the other components. In this way, the synchronized hydronic loop is truly greater than the sum of its parts. <> John Sheff is a business development manager focused on utility programs and end user strategy at Danfoss. Previously, he worked as an energy and sustainability policy analyst in the office of Maryland’s governor.

SPRING 2019

MH9

METERING

IN SERVICE ACCURACY IS KEY TO UPTAKE

Measurement Canada to approve thermal energy meters within the year.

T

WHAT ARE THERMAL ENERGY METERS? Thermal energy meters measure the amount of heat energy given up or absorbed by a liquid in a heat exchange circuit such as a radiator. These meters are used to measure the amount of heat energy used by a customer for the purpose of billing.

Thermal energy meters can be used with:

Thermal energy meters consist of three main parts:

• Gas-fired boilers • District heating systems • Sub-metering configurations • Other systems

• A flow sensor • A temperature sensor pair • A calculator

MH10

SPRING 2019

Thermal energy meter installed.

“in service” accuracy (to protect consumers from erroneous billing) are what is needed to advance this technology.”

In 2017 with the intention of developing technical requirements, input was sought from owners of thermal energy meters in use used within Canada; industry members and associated organizations; and consumers who were billed for heating or cooling on the basis of the measurements provided by a thermal energy meter.Following those consultations, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada tells HPAC that technical requirements have been formalized and MC will continue to expand its knowledge in this field by visiting partner laboratories across the world to learn best practices. It is expected that MC will issue its first approvals of thermal energy meters before the end of 2019.

Devices installed prior to the requirement to use an approved meter (tentatively, 2021) will be allowed to remain in service until 2026. After that date, MC will begin requiring their removal and replacement with an approved meter.

In the interim period from 2021 to 2026, MC reserves the right to perform inspections of all installed thermal energy meters, whether or not approved. If an unapproved meter is inspected, it will be allowed to remain in service until 2026, provided that its performance is satisfactory.

For background and more information on this topic see "A Shot in the Arm" by Evans in HPAC August 2015 (digital archives at www.hpacmag.com). <>

MODERN HYDRONICS

WWW.HPACMAG.COM

PHOTO COURTESY ONICON

hermal energy meters, also known as Btu meters and heat meters, are moving from the realm of simple measurement into use as billing devices, which raises some regulatory questions on the municipal, provincial and federal levels. The issue is analogous to a gas pump that is measured and calibrated in accordance with the prescriptive requirements governed by Industry Canada–Measurement Canada (MC) under the mandate of the Weights and Measures Act. Previously, there was no specific legislation or guideline in place from MC to govern the suitability or certification of Btu meters in Canada, meaning the devices were not regulated under the Weights and Measures Act. This is unlike electricity, water and gas, which have regulated measurement (metering) practices in place to ensure fair measurement for both suppliers and consumers.

Without accurate measurement systems installed, thermal energy systems will not be able to allocate costs effectively.

This could potentially result in lower returns on investments for suppliers, increased end-user consumption (waste), or unfair bills to end consumers.

As HPAC columnist Mark Evans noted in a 2015 article, “We have a long way to go before Btu metering becomes ubiquitous and hydronic heating/cooling are mainstream. A fully-vetted, consensus Standard, along with guidelines requiring manufacturers meet a single stated accuracy level to ensure ongoing

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Always a step ahead

REGULATORY NEWS

Limited product offerings for replacement applications is expected to be just one result of proposed increased NRCan efficiency requirements that are not in harmony with U.S. regulations.

INDUSTRY REACTS TO NRCAN PROPOSED EQUIPMENT EFFICIENCY REGULATIONS

I

n October 2018 Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) published new proposed energy efficiency regulations for heating equipment in the Canada Gazette Part 1. These proposed regulations are part of Amendment 15 to the Energy Efficiency Act and introduce new or increased efficiency requirements to a range of products including commercial water heaters, household and commercial boilers, mobile home furnaces and gas fireplaces.

Publication in the Canada Gazette Part 1 is the last step the government takes prior to passing these new requirements into law. After publication of the proposed regulations, NRCan provided for a final comment period, which ended on December 29, 2018, that allowed all stakeholders to provide feedback.

The proposed regulations are controversial, with several of them being opposed by heating industry associations. The Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIPH), the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI) and the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) represent manufacturers and distributors in the plumbMH12

SPRING 2019

ing and heating industry. These three associations presented a joint submission to NRCan outlining their concerns regarding the proposed regulations. The submissions by CIPH-HRAIAHRI covered two separate product categories: water heaters and boilers.

The water heater regulations being proposed by NRCan cover commercial electric, gas and oil-fired storage water heaters, and residential and commercial tankless water heaters. For electric and oil-fired storage water heaters, NRCan is harmonizing energy efficiency requirements with those already in place in the U.S. For gas-fired storage water heaters NRCan is taking a new approach with two different efficiency requirements, which cover new installations and retrofit installations. New installations will require condensing level efficiency equipment, while retrofit applications can still use non-condensing equipment. The industry associations endorse most of the proposed water heater regulations and are very supportive of the concept of separate requirements for new construction and existing construction for

MODERN HYDRONICS

WWW.HPACMAG.COM

REGULATORY NEWS commercial gas fired storage water heaters. The associations have however raised objections to the proposed regulations for non-condensing gas-fired storage water heaters that are more stringent than current United States Department of Energy (DOE) regulations.

“The industry objects to the increase in the efficiency requirements being proposed for non-condensing equipment that can be used for retrofit applications. NRCan is raising the thermal efficiency requirement for this category from 80 per cent (current DOE requirements) to 82 per cent for this category and this is extremely problematic for the industry,” explained Robert Waters, technical consultant for codes and standards for CIPH. The industry associations claim this increased efficiency requirement will not be in harmony with U.S. regulations and will result in the elimination of the majority of the models currently utilized for replacement applications in Canada.

The result will be a very limited product offering for consumers, as most models currently available would not meet the new efficiency requirements. There are also some technical and safety concerns with possible flue gas condensation in existing venting systems with the proposed higher efficiency equipment.

CIPH-HRAI-AHRI do not object to the proposed new water heater efficiency regulations for the new construction category, but have recommended the requirement for non-condensing equipment be harmonized with the current U.S. DOE regulations for those products, ensuring availability of a wide range of products and a smooth transition in the market. They have also asked NRCan to push back the proposed implementation date to allow more time for industry to react to the changes.

The boiler regulations being proposed

by NRCan cover residential and commercial, gas and oil-fired boilers. For oilfired boilers, NRCan is harmonizing MH14

SPRING 2019

“The proposed regulations are controversial, with several of them being opposed by heating industry associations.” efficiency regulations with current DOE regulations. For gas-fired boilers, NRCan is deviating from current DOE regulations and proposing only condensing level efficiency equipment can be used for all applications.

These proposed gas-fired boiler regulations are much more contentious.

“The majority of our members are not in support of the new gas fired boiler regulations being proposed by NRCan,” stated Waters. “Members are very disappointed dual level efficiency requirements for replacement and new construction applications are not being proposed for gas-fired hot water boilers.

“NRCan has proposed this approach for commercial water heaters, but have not applied this same approach to boilers, even though similar technical and other issues apply to both categories of products,” added Waters.

NRCan commissioned a Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) study to look at the economic impact for consumers of the proposed new regulations. NRCan’s CBA report has been used to justify its proposal to increase efficiency levels to condensing technology for all gas hot water boilers. CIPH-HRAI-AHRI believe there are many issues with the CBA study and feel that it contains errors and inconsistencies as well as incomplete and/or incorrect data.

The industry associations state the market for household and commercial condensing boilers has grown significantly over the last 15 years without having any minimum efficiency regulations in place. CIPH-HRAI-AHRI believe that condensing boilers are being utilized extensively where they are economically justified, but feel there will be MODERN HYDRONICS

significant financial and technical burdens for consumers by forcing condensing boilers into all existing installations.

The associations have also stated there continues to be many retrofit applications where condensing boilers cannot be justified and non-condensing boilers are still the best option for consumers.

“There are many existing buildings that will have to incur huge costs to install new venting and mechanical room repiping to accommodate a condensing boiler,” said Waters. “There are also many applications that only use high system water temperatures, resulting in minimal condensing in the boiler. These applications will see minimal if any fuel savings from a condensing boiler, but may have to spend huge amounts to install the boiler.”

CIPH-HRAI-AHRI have recommended that NRCan implement dual level standards for household and commercial gas-fired water boilers for new installations and retrofit installations, similar in concept to the proposed efficiency regulations for commercial storage water heaters.

None of the new proposed equipment efficiency regulations are finalized yet, as NRCan is currently reviewing all of the final comments received. Once they finalize their review NRCan will then have to decide the final version for the new regulations. This is expected to be published sometime in the next few months in the Canada Gazette, Part 2, at which point the regulations will become law.

Waters noted that these regulations will have a big impact on what type of equipment Canadian mechanical contractors will be allowed to be installed in the future. <> WWW.HPACMAG.COM

PRODUCT SHOWCASE The NFC series stainless steel fire tube

From Taco Comfort Solu-

combi-boiler from Navien is available in

tions, the 1915e light com-

two sizes, NFC-175 (175,000 Btuh) and

mercial ECM circulator is de-

NFC-200 (199,900 Btuh), each offering

signed for hot or chilled

95 per cent AFUE, 11:1 turndown ratio,

water hydronic applications

PVC venting up to 150 ft. and high-alti-

and is available in a stain-

tude approval up to 10,100 ft. Models

less steel model for potable

come with a patented in-house designed

water systems. It offers nine

and manufactured heat exchanger, low

operating modes, including

profile burner, controls with intuitive user

constant

navigation, a built-in DHW module (pump,

pressure and proportional

flat plate heat exchanger, three-way valve,

pressure modes. The circulator is vertical mount capable and features

mixing valve, water adjustment valve and

condensate drip holes on the volute for chilled water applications.

auto water fill valve), common venting ca-

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speed, constant

pability up to eight units, cascading capability up to 16 units, and built-in hardware to connect up to three zone

FlexCore symmetrical firetube boilers from

pumps without a need for additional external controllers.

RBI are available in sizes ranging from 1500

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and 9000 MBH. Designed by Mestek, the conical shaped tube sheet coupled with rounded rectangular fire tubes allows for even heat transfer at all levels of the heat exchanger. The counter flow design ensures the coolest water is entering opposite of the down fired burner, optimizing efficiency in low temp condensing applications. The boil-

MagnaClean DRX from Adey is an ASME rated magnetic dirt filter range,

ers have a 96.8 per cent thermal efficiency

available to suit 2 in., 3 in. and 4 in. pipe sizes. The filter eliminates

rating by AHRI with 5:1 combustion turn-

iron oxide sludge in small- to medium-sized commercial hydronic heat-

down on individual units. All units are

ing systems with limited space. Its casing is 304L stainless steel. Ap-

equipped with HeatNet 3.0 with touch screen technology. The intuitive

proximate volume in gallons is 1.3 (2 in.), 1.7 (3 in.) and 2 (4 in.).

control platform allows for integration of FlexCore into any application

Maximum working pressure is 10 Bar and maximum working tempera-

including variable primary systems. www.rbiwaterheaters.com

ture is 212F. www.adey.com Grundfos has introduced the TPE3 inThe Uniform Solar, Hydronics and

line pump featuring a permanent

Geothermal Code (USHGC) is a

magnet motor, leading-edge hydraulic

model code developed by IAPMO to

efficiencies, a series of advanced

govern the installation and inspec-

control modes, and multi-pump func-

tion of solar hydronic, and geother-

tionality. A Flow Limiting Function

mal energy systems as a means of

eliminates the need for a pump bal-

promoting the public's health, safe-

ancing valve. The pump also has a

ty and welfare. Published previously

built-in heat energy meter that can

as the Uniform Solar Energy Code,

monitor heat energy distribution and

the 2018 edition adds provisions

consumption. A built-in sensor and

concerning hydronic and geothermal

an external sensor connected directly to the TPE3 allow the pump to

systems. Key provisions of the 2018 USHGC and changes from the

take charge of the systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s need for flow based on differential tem-

2015 edition include new: insulation and fasteners provisions for radi-

perature. Wireless technology enables the TPE3 to connect with up to

ant and heating/cooling systems; snow and ice melt system controls;

four single TPE3 pumpsâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;they can be controlled jointly in either cascade

slab penetration tube and joint protection used in hydronic systems;

mode, alternating mode or duty/standby without the need for any other

listing requirements for ground coupled and water source heat pumps;

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Continued on MH18

certification of DX heat pumps; and more. www.iapmo.org MH16

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Beacon Morris has released panel radiators and towel warmers, which are engineered to Hydro Shark radiant floor panel systems from

perform in all types of applications including

Stiebel Eltron feature a closely spaced tee to

low temperature systems. Available in 1,472 to 18,355 Btuh, the radiators have valve in-

SpacePak’s Solstice Extreme low ambient

create hydraulic separation between the boiler

serts for thermostatic head. Maximum work-

heat pump is suited to residential and light

loop and emitter heating loop. Panels are

ing pressure is 145 PSI. Maximum operating

commercial primary heating and cooling ap-

available with or without the electric boiler in-

temperature is 200F. The radiators are fin-

plications in severe weather climates. The

tegrated on the panel. Features of the Pro and

ished with a decorative grille, rounded edges

heat pump utilizes enhanced vapour injection

Master models include powder coating, quick

and can be installed anywhere with six differ-

technology and a high efficiency condenser.

mount rails, heavy duty copper pipe and fit-

ent connection points. The panel radiators

Solstice Extreme provides up to 48,000 Btuh

tings, and precision solder joints. Panels are

combine both radiant and convection heating.

at 0F.

pre-plumbed, pressure tested and pre-wired.

www.beacon-morris.com

www.spacepak.com/Solstice.html

www.stiebel-eltron-usa.com

Bacharach’s PCA 400 may be used for spot-

EC Power micro CHP systems can operate as

checking and tuning boilers. It has a high-

one single stand-alone engine, or in a larger

KN-Series Plus cast iron condensing boilers

range CO sensor and available sample condi-

connected group with a central control system

from Advanced Thermal Hydronics utilize a hy-

tioner. Features include a 4.3 in. colour touch

to monitor all engines and maximize efficiency

drophobic coated finned stainless steel heat

screen with enhanced viewing options to eas-

to match base loads of thermally led systems.

exchanger to work in concert with the existing

ily see readings. Bluetooth wireless technolo-

Overall efficiencies are able to reach 96 per

high efficiency cast-iron heat exchanger.

gy allows for live streaming of data to PCs and

cent (thermal and electrical) when operating

Finned stainless steel tubes increase heat

mobile devices. A rugged all-in-one probe con-

at full capacity. The units can be tied into ex-

transfer area to maximize efficiency while

nection offers durability and easy setup. NOx

isting boiler loops, and operate as a “first on

maintaining a small footprint. The unit is a full

and SO2 sensors with Viton probe tubing for

and last off” approach, which provides more

variable flow water-side condensing boiler, al-

emissions testing are optional. The dilution

heating redundancy. Popular sizes in Canada

lowing integration into variable flow primary

mode protects sensors and allows for use in

are 19 kW and 25 kw per unit. Applications

boiler systems. It is certified for use with PVC

harsh conditions. The portable combustion

include

facilities,

and Polypropylene vent materials and comes

and emissions analyzer runs on rechargeable

commercial laundry, car wash, university cam-

in sizes from 600,000 to 3,000,000 Btuh.

Lithium-Ion battery pack or four ‘AA’ batteries.

puses, swimming pools, and snow melt sys-

www.knseries.com

www.mybacharach.com

tems. www.aquatech-canada.com

MH18

SPRING 2019

healthcare, correctional

MODERN HYDRONICS

Continued on MH20 WWW.HPACMAG.COM

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Bell & Gossett’s ecocirc wireless hot water system uses an electronically communicated Weil-McLain’s AquaBalance Series 2 combi

motor to operate at 20 watts. It is intended

and heat only boilers feature stainless steel,

for potable plumbing systems without a recir-

With its minimalist design Ideal MD055 in

titanium-infused heat exchangers. The units

culation line. Installed under the sink, the

chrome from Vogue UK is a contemporary

are designed for retrofits or new construction

system’s

towel dryer with a polished finish. Made from

in single-family homes, apartments or condo-

equipped with an onboard temperature sen-

stainless steel, the Ideal is available in three

miniums. AquaBalance is available in three

sor and wireless RF transceiver, communi-

sizes: 1500 mm. (10 rails), 1200 mm. (8

sizes (8,120 and 155 MBH input). The 155-

cates with the circulator pump mounted to

rails) and 900 mm. (6 rails). Electric models

size combi-boiler products a constant supply of

the hot-water source to deliver temperature-

are also available. www.vogueuk.com

hot water up to 4 gpm. www.weil-mclain.com

controlled hot water. www.bellgossett.com

battery-operated

paired

valve,

The 60V MAX In-Line Stud and Joist Drill with E-Clutch System from Dewalt is a high torque right angle drill. The drill has a mechanical clutch for control in high or low speed. In high and low speed, the EClutch system is designed to sense tool motion and eliminate the V-10 touch screen controller is available on all VFC and SL series

torque when binding is detected by stopping the motor. The user is

condensing boilers from IBC. Boilers may be programmed with an in-

notified the system has been activated through an illuminated LED

terview style and quick start menu. The controller offers up to four-

light. The drill also features the two-speed Quick-Shift, which allows

zone pump control and simplified load pairing. Internet connectivity is

the user to easily shift between two speeds without having to feather

built-in and a USB port simplifies programmability. Features include an

the trigger. The drill also includes a two-position side handle, a shallow

intuitive alert system, built-in notification relay, reverse flow detection,

nose to get into tight spaces, a ½ in. keyed chuck and chuck key

automatic altitude adjustment and pre-programmed values for all load

holder, an LED to illuminate work areas and a knuckle guard to help

types. www.ibcboiler.com

protect the user’s hand. www.dewalt.com

MH20

SPRING 2019

MODERN HYDRONICS

WWW.HPACMAG.COM

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ZONING

Inconsistency in space and surface temperatures can occur where multiple elevations exist off a single floor plate.

MASTERING THE ART AND SCIENCE BEHIND IDEAL ENVIRONMENTS There are solutions to the thermal problems often associated with bad buildings.

BY ROBERT BEAN

T

his continues to shock many readers but as I have said repeatedly the construction industry does not exist to employing building professionals. The industry exists to create spaces for humans because without shelter for protection we would not be able to populate many parts of the world. When it comes to buildings it all comes down to MH22

SPRING 2019

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs where food and shelter are basic essentials and the final stage manifested through self-actualization. In architecture, self-actualization is expressed through creative forms and interior finishes.

But here’s the thing, creative forms and interior finishes are not sufficient for creating ideal environments–supplementary solutions are most always necessary to condition indoor spaces. This explains the existence of lighting and HVAC systems. These take on many forms from meeting mandatory minimum requirements established by building codes, to voluntary compliance to higher requirements identified by proMODERN HYDRONICS

grams such as Well, Living Building Challenge or Active House.i In the former neither comfort nor energy are the priority, being trumped by basic needs of safety and reducing risk of illness. In the latter it is assumed the former is a prerequisite to support much higher aspects of human factor design (self-actualization) and earth stewardship.

When it comes to zoning, most design practitioners carrying out HVAC load calculations to minimum code compliance often follow a single or minimal approach ignoring many of the factors which contribute to occupant discomfort and system inefficiencies. As I have discussed before, HVAC load calculaWWW.HPACMAG.COM

Modern Hydronics

tions are not comfort calculations and should never be represented as such.ii Alternatively the designer could lead the client to a multi-zone system, which based on good practice, considers the space dynamics due to wind, precipitation, solar loads and enclosure performance; and occupant’s metabolic rate and clothing and tactics which promote adaptive strategies.iii If compliance to comfort standard ASHRAE 55 is desired (and why wouldn’t it be) then separate calculations according to the Standard are necessary. To precede with comfort calculations two approaches are considered. Use a multizone systems approach or design and construct a building of such high performance that single or minimal zoning is sufficient.

Zoning is both an art and science, which strategically must consider the

representative occupant, competing representative occupants, their individual and collective authority over controllability, system operation, and economics.

Tactically it considers the following as good practices:

ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS How a building is orientated on a parcel of land will affect precipitation, wind and solar loads on exposed above grade surfaces or unexposed below grade surfaces. These mass and energy loads are then transmitted to the interior spaces through differentials in moisture, pressure, and temperatures. Surfaces and spaces that receive extraordinary loads ought to have their own comfort controls.

Examples of these are southern facing rooms with large window to wall ratios and finished with interior blinds and

without exterior shading. These southern surfaces will receive relatively large amounts of shortwave radiation which depending on solar heat gain coefficients could influence the space conditions differently than other spaces. If the southern space had the only thermostat and was combined with (for example) northern facing rooms it is possible that under heating could occur in the north spaces during some periods. This is due to the thermostat shutting down the heating system due to a rise in temperature from the solar load.

Likewise, if the north space had the thermostat it is highly likely that the southern spaces will overheat. This is due to the thermostat remaining on to satisfy the setpoint but can’t pick up the temperature rise in the south facing rooms. It is important for designers to develop this, Continued on MH24

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MODERN HYDRONICS

SPRING 2019

MH23

ZONING TABLE 1: ZONING STRATEGIES BASED ON ROOM FUNCTION, TYPES, MOISTURE LOADS, TEMPERATURE SETPOINT, CLOTHING (CLO) AND METABOLIC (MET) RATE Space function

Typical room types

Moisture load

Temperature setpoint

Typical clo values

Typical met rates

Socializing, entertaining

Living, family, kitchens, break rooms, lounges, solariums, atriums

Steady state

Normal

Low to medium

Low

Food preparation and consumption

Kitchen, dining, pantries, break rooms, lounges

Variable

Normal to low

Low to medium

Low to high

Hygiene

Bathrooms, powder rooms, change rooms, laundry

Variable

Above normal

Low to medium

Low

Rest, sleeping

Bedrooms, dens

Steady state

Below normal

Low to medium

Low

Study, work

Offices, study, libraries, reception, meeting, copy/print

Steady state

Normal

Low to medium

Low to medium

Personal

Hobbies, music gyms, greenhouses, solariums

Variable, steady state

Varies

Low to high

Low to high

Media

Theatre, music

Steady state

Normal

Low to medium

Low

Pool/wet rooms

Swimming, hot tubs, steam, sauna

Med to high

Above normal

Low

Low to high

Cellars

Wine, food

Steady state

Below normal

na

na

Storage

Household goods, office supplies, janitorial

Steady state

Below normal

na

na

Any space with an extraordinary source of heat such as fireplace, stoves, theatre equipment, kilns, solar loading etc. Should be on separate controls.

Any spaces with extraordinary low heating or cooling loads with similar function, moisture loads, temperature set points and where occupants are doing similar activities and wearing similar clothing should be combined for simplifying systems and reducing capital costs.

Mixed spaces should permit adaptive strategies (clothing, shading) and accommodate personal devices such as desk fans and heaters.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;if/thenâ&#x20AC;? understanding and herein (in part) lays the art of zoning.

CHANGES IN ELEVATION OR GEOMETRY Any time there is changes in elevation such as in a multi floor building there could be thermal consequences due to stack effect. This will result in stratification where warmer air temperatures accumulate in the higher floors and colder temperatures at lower floors due to convective flows. There can also be inconsistency in space and surface temperatures where multiple elevations exist off a single floor plate (ex. vaulted ceilings mixed with flat ceilings) or where floor plates change direction (L-shaped rooms exposed to different solar loads) or are sepMH24

SPRING 2019

arated (for example) by stairwells or elevator shafts. For these reasons floor plates of different geometry, separation or with different elevations should not be combined, as a single thermostat cannot accurately represent the different conditions that may exists.

SPACE FUNCTION/PURPOSE AND CONTROL There is frequent control conflict when rooms of different use and purpose are assigned to a single control point.

Consider the metabolic rate, clothing and pattern of an occupant in a specific space relative to occupants in other spaces; and consider what heat and/or moisture sources might be present in one room but not in another. Also conMODERN HYDRONICS

sider the location and types of control employed in one space but not others this includes shading, fans, heaters and building management systems. In addition, there could be any number of mixtures of spaces, people, lights and equipment operating at any time. Any combination of the above could cause conflicts if the entire building is treated as a single zone. Good practice suggests rooms of unique characteristics and use each be considered for separate controls as described in Table 1.

INTERIOR DESIGN AND FINISHES The importance of interior systems on indoor environmental quality and energy use cannot be overemphasized. This Continued on MH26 WWW.HPACMAG.COM

ZONING includes effects of short wave radiation and moisture on finishes (outgassing) and effect of surface treatments on heat transfer.iv The latter has significant consequences for designers of radiant floor systems. For this reason zones of similar flooring conductivities with similar fluxes should be grouped together.

Another way of stating this is zones with different floor conductivities and fluxes should not be controlled with the same control system. In practice the radiant system (tube spacing) along with the flooring conductivities (U values) and enclosure design (ACH and U values) should be manipulated to harmonize the necessary fluid temperatures to the least number of required profiles.

GOOD BUILDINGS There is in practice a conflict between zoning, controllability and economics. Consider the entry level, two-storey home with a single furnace and thermostat. In a “built to code” house it is almost impossible to comply with ASHRAE Standard 55 due to the thermal dynamics in the home.

The same applies to poorly designed and constructed commercial spaces with single roof top units. Even multi-zoned balanced air systems will have noncompliance issues such as

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MH26

SPRING 2019

HPAC_Aug_Roth.indd 1

cold floors, radiant asymmetry, drafts and stratification simply because of climate inappropriate architecture, poor choices in finishes and inadequate enclosure designs.

Solving the non-compliance issues by zoning and enclosure improvements often makes the building uncompetitive relative to the market for entry level structures. Until the benchmark for entry level products changes, industry will always have non-compliance complaints. Simply put if the industry wants to reduce the complaints stop doing bad buildings.

Good buildings with flexible policies around adaptive strategies can have simple single or simpler multi-zone systems because the occupants, building and finishes solve many of the thermal problems often associated with bad buildings.

Zoning in and of itself is not a single solution to comfort problems. Anyone making this suggestion does not fully understand the relationships between people and buildings.

Understanding how spaces respond to exterior and interior stimuli and how these relate to occupant needs and preferences for space conditions helps develop the designer’s art of zoning but the art first must be based upon the sciences of physiology, psychology and buildings.v <> REFERENCES

i Bean, R. 2018. Human factors and their influence on building perfor-

Radiant, Snowmelt, Oil Storage and Solar

www.Roth-America.com Call 800-969-7684

“Zoning in and of itself is not a single solution to comfort problems.”

mance and comfort. HPAC Magazine Canada ii Bean, R. 2012. Built to code: What does it mean for consumer thermal comfort? < http://www.healthyheating.com/Built-to-code.htm> iii Bean, R. 2016. It is time HVAC system design grew up. HPAC Magazine Canada iv Bean, R. 2012. Together Forever. HPAC Magazine Canada v Bean, R. 2014. Integrating Elements to Improve Comfort Design.

HPAC Magazine Canada

Robert Bean is a Registered Engineering Technologist in building construction (ASET) and a Professional Licensee (Engineering) in HVAC (APEGA). He is president of Indoor Climate Consultants Inc. and director of www.healthyheating.com; a past ASHRAE Distinguished Lecturer; recipient of ASHRAE’s Lou Flagg Award and ASHRAE Distinguished Service Award; and a member of ASHRAE technical committees 2.1 (Physiology & Human Environment) 6.1 (hydronics), 6.5 (radiant), 7.04 (eXergy) and SSPC 55 (thermal comfort).

Bean is also the author of numerous industry courses and seminars covering the building sciences, indoor environmental quality, energy, and radiant-based HVAC systems.

MODERN HYDRONICS 2018-07-17 3:06 PM

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CORROSION

CLEAN YOUR PIPES Establish physically and chemically “clean” surfaces inside piping and other components.

BY JOHN SIEGENTHALER

W

ater is the “life-blood” of hydronic systems. Its chemical characteristics can make the difference between a system that lasts for decades, versus one that develops expensive corrosion issues within months of commissioning.

We discussed the advantages of establishing and maintaining good water quality in hydronic heating and cooling systems in the March 2016 issue of HPAC. Part of that discussion focused on removing dissolved ions created by calcium and magnesium salts, which are commonly found in groundwater.

The resulting “demineralized” water would ideally have a total dissolved solids (TDS) reading between 10 and 30 parts per million (PPM). This gives the water just enough electrical conductivity to allow low water cutoff safety devices to function properly, but not enough to support galvanic corrosion. It also high enough to prevent the water from scavenging ions from piping materials, which can happen when the water’s TDS number approaches zero.

Although demineralization is the primary method for improving water quality in hydronic systems, its effectiveness is dependent, in part, on establishing physically and chemically “clean” surfaces inside the piping and other components of a closed loop system.

Although it is easy to think of a new crafted hydronic piping system as being internally clean since it was built with all new materials, this is seldom the case. To begin with, think about how copper or steel tubing makes its way from the mill to a newly assembled system. Those materials are typically handled, transported, and stored multiple times and at different locations before they make it to your job site. During that time they can be exposed to dust, rain, wind, pollen, road salt, insects, birds, mice and more.

It is inevitable that contaminants from some of these sources will get into piping that is not capped at both ends.

These contaminants aside, there is also likely to be some residual of lubricants used during manufacturing. When copper MH28

SPRING 2019

Figure 1. Recommended setup

piping is soldered together there is going to be residual flux inside the piping. Threaded steel piping is also going to contain some cutting oil.

Cast iron components, especially those that are not internally painted, or that have been stored in high humidity conditions, are going to have internal surface oxidation. There is also likely to be small pieces of metal inside the pipe from sawing, deburring, reaming, grooving, or other metal cutting operations.

These contaminants should be physically removed, to the extent possible, as the system is assembled. In some cases, this is as simple as wiping down components with a clean rag before they are joined together. I know one experienced hydronics pro who pushes and pulls a small wad of clean cloth through every piece of copper tubing that is four feet or less in length, before joining them into the system.

After physical cleaning has done all it can, the next step is chemical cleaning–giving systems a healthy and thorough internal bath before filling it with demineralized water.

Internal washing is done by filling the system with water, adding a “hydronic detergent” formulation (now available from several suppliers) and circulating this blend through the entire system, with the heat source operating at normal temperature, for at least one hour.

Suppliers of these hydronic detergents typically avoid giving out their proprietary formulations, which break down oils and greases within the system and suspend them in the circulating fluid. At the end of the wash cycle the wash water is completely drained from the system and disposed of based on the detergent supplier’s directions. Most of the currently available hydronic detergents are biodegradable and can be disposed

MODERN HYDRONICS

Continued on MH30 WWW.HPACMAG.COM

February 2019

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CORROSION

MH30

SPRING 2019

ON

partially closed open

inlet purging valve

water sample valve open outlet purging valve

demineralizer

of in sewer drains. The piping should get a final rinsing flush and drain to remove as much of the wash water as possible.

I recommend use of a double-ported purging valve, along with a sump pump and a clean five gallon pail for getting the mixture of water and hydronic detergent into smaller systems. The setup is shown in Figure 1.

The inline ball within the double-ported purging valve is closed during this process. A hose from the sump pump carries the mix of water and hydronic detergent into the system, the other hose returns it to the pail after it has passed through the system. A clean white pail lets you see what gets flushed out. Keep the fluid level in the pail high enough and the end of the return hose far enough away from the sump pump to reduce entrained air bubble entry into the system.

After the system has been internally washed it can be filled with demineralized water–assuming a source of that water is available. Alternatively, it can be filled with clean on-site or trucked in water and then demineralized using a “sidearm” assembly as shown in Figure 2.

Demineralizing cartridges or carts are now available from several North American suppliers. Each time some of the system water passes through the demineralizer ions are removed. Water leaving the cartridge gets mixed back into the remaining system water. Thus, with this method of demineralizing it is necessary to draw small periodic samples of the system water to check its TDS reading. Maintain the demineralizing process until a TDS reading between 10 and 30 PPM is reached.

After demineralizing, best practices call for adding a film-forming hydronic system stabilizing formulation. Again, several such products, with proprietary chemical combinations, are available in North America. These products form extremely thin protective films on the inside of the piping and components that help isolate the water from the raw metal sur-

TDS testing

Figure 2. Sidearm assembly

face. They also stabilize the pH of the water, and help protect the system against the slow but unavoidable oxygen entry that occurs over the system’s life.

To keep the system clean you should include high performance air and dirt separation devices in every system.

These functions can be achieved with separate devices, or a single device. If the system contains any ferrous metals such as cast-iron or steel, as most systems do, the dirt separating device should include a magnet to capture ferrous oxide particles. I also highly recommend dirt separation for systems containing high efficiency circulators with permanent magnet motors.

Internally clean hydronic systems help maintain peak component efficiency and lengthen service life. You wouldn’t take a bath in dirty water. You would not MODERN HYDRONICS

(knowingly) put contaminated fuel in your vehicle and you probably would not eat with a rusty fork. Treat your hydronic systems with the same respect and enjoy their benefits for decades. <> John Siegenthaler, P.E., is a mechanical engineering graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a licensed professional engineer. He has over 35 years experience in designing modern hydronic heating systems. Siegenthaler’s latest book is Heating with Renewable Energy (see www.hydronicpros.com for more information).

SEE JOHN AT THE MODERN HYDRONICS SUMMIT 2019. CHECK MODERNHYDRONICSSUMMIT.COM FOR UPDATES. WWW.HPACMAG.COM

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Brownfield land to be transformed Net-zero waterfront community proposed for site of decommissioned coal-fired plant.

BY JILLIAN MORGAN

J

PHOTOS LAKEVIEW COMMUNITY PARTNERS LIMITED

ust off the shore of Lake Ontario, demolition machines chip away at the extensive concrete foundations that once rested beneath a massive coal-fired power plant.

The arduous work is part of an ambitious plan by a consortium of developers to transform the 177-acre brownfield site in Mississauga, ON into Lakeview Village, a net-zero, mixeduse community overlooking the waterfront.

Lakeview Community Partners Limited–Argo Development Corporation, TACC Construction Limited, Branthaven Homes, Greenpark Group and CCI Development Group of Companies– purchased the property from Ontario Power Generation for $275 million in March (OPG’s Lakeview Generating Station, operational since 1962, was decommissioned in 2005).

Over the next 10 to 15 years, the largely untapped piece of land will become a sweeping construction site for residential, commercial and institutional structures backdropping a 600-metre pier.

David Scott, founding partner of The Municipal Infrastructure Group Ltd., said that’s just the “tip of the iceberg.”

Scott, along with Brian Sutherland, director of development at Argo Development, and Fabio Mazzocco, president of land development, and Albert Bicol, owner of Alberto Bicol Consulting Inc., presented an overview of the project at The Buildings Show in Toronto, ON. The developers hope to create community equipped with a plethora of “green” features, such as permeable paving, rooftop solar systems, natural ventilation and roof rainwater reuse. Implementation of a district renewable energy system and Passive House design are also key parts of the plan.

Rendering of the proposed community.

“We have an RFP out for some of the world's leading district energy providers and we're actually just kind of going through that now,” Mazzocco said. “We have to narrow it down and pick one to work with."

As far as water and systems wastewater go, it’s largely “plug and play” thanks to existing infrastructure, namely the G.E. Booth Wastewater Treatment Facility east of the site and Lakeview Water Treatment Facility to the west. Though, a single pump station will need to be constructed.

"The region was promoting that we would use the effluent coming off the site. We can redirect that into the district energy plant and strip heat off of that and use it for heating and cooling,” Mazzocco said. “That's one big piece of infrastructure from the energy side.”

The consortium recently submitted its Master Plan to the City of Mississauga, and hopes to have planning approvals in the fall of 2019 so that construction on the first phase can begin in 2020.

“It’s going to take the municipality and everybody working together, thinking a little outside the box. Which, typically, it’s hard for the municipalities to do that but they seem capable.

These new ideas take some time,” Mazzocco said. “Having said that, Mississauga is getting more and more progressive and they see the benefit here and they really want this community to be a priority.” <> www.lakeviewcommunitypartners.com

Demolition work underway at the site.

HPACMAG.COM

FEBRUARY 2019 | HPAC

57

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< HEAT RECOVERY

MINING FOR HEAT Quebec startup unveils novel technology.

BY JILLIAN MORGAN & LUC BOILY

I

t is not cheap to grow strawberries in Quebec. The bitter temperatures common there put pressure on energy-guzzling greenhouses for more than eight months in a year.

For two growers in Neuville, QC, cyrptocurrency mining might be the unlikely solution.

A newfangled technology from Quebec City-based startup Heatmine recovers heat that would be otherwise wasted from computers used to mine bitcoin. The aim of the technology is to generate “virtually free heat,” since profits made through the cryptocurrency mining are expected to cover costs by 75 to 100 per cent.

Guy and Maxime Béland, owners of Le Caveau à Légumes strawberry farm, were able to “significantly” reduce production costs with the system. “[We] were as competitive on prices as Mexican strawberries,” the pair said in a statement. “The energy consumed for heating, ventilating, and air conditioning, as well as supplemental lighting in our greenhouse, represents the most important cost for us.”

But the technology is not just for greenhouses. The units can heat industrial, commercial, institutional and residential properties–promising to lower utility bills by 50 to 75 per cent.

"Computers generate a lot of heat, and that heat is normally lost. Even a company that owns one to ten small servers is sleeping on a potential revenue stream. We have made recovering this heat our mission," Jonathan Forte, the company’s CEO, said.

Here’s how it works: Heatmine’s technology recycles ther-

Heat recovery plates are located on the processor 60

HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

The units are compact.

Fluid heats up as it circulates through copper plates.

mal energy generated by central processing units (CPUs) and graphics processing units (GPUs) in machines mining cryptocurrency. The heat from the machine warms copper plates filled with a water/glycol fluid, which then feeds a 60-gallon water heater. A single unit can generate 75,000 Btu/h per hour.

"Depending on the type of heating system installed in the building, the fluid can feed a radiant system or a forced-air heater, for example. HVAC contractors know these systems very well–our role is simply to power them," Forte said.

In the past year, the company has installed 13 units in Quebec City. Over the next five years, it hopes to increase that number to 15,000.

As this emerging technology competes with geothermal energy, Forte said Heatmine’s system offers an alternative.

"I find this emerging technology more attractive, both for the consumer (who enjoys some free heating) and for the government (which sees its hydroelectric resource, renewable and clean, used wisely),” Forte said. <> HPACMAG.COM

INNOVATION >

AHR unveils 2019 product innovation award winners

M

anufacturers were once again awarded for product innovation at the 2019 Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration (AHR) Exposition.

Winners were formally recognized at the show, held at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA from January 14 to 15.

In a ceremony for award winners, AHR Expo also announced enVerid’s HVAC Load Reduction module 1000E-M as the Product of the Year Award winner.

Winners and finalists of the 2019 Innovation Awards were selected in 10 categories:

• Building automation: OptiFlex, a software-based integration platform for data monitoring by Automated Logic Corporation • Cooling: Johnson Controls, Inc. was awarded for the York YZ magnetic bearing centrifugal chiller • Heating: The Genteq Ensite motor

by Regal • Green building: The HVAC Load Reduction module 1000E-M, an indoor air scrubber module by enVerid Systems • Indoor air quality: CPS Products, Inc. was awarded for its IAQ SmartAir tool, used for IAQ diagnostics

• Plumbing: Anvil International took home the award for the AnvilPress copper, copper press fittings and coupling systems • Refrigeration: The Copeland Scroll fractional-horsepower, low-temperature compressors from Emerson • Software: Taco Tags featuring eLink, a cloud-based support program from Taco Comfort Solutions • Tools and instruments: Dwyer Instruments, Inc. was awarded for the wireless hydronic balancing kit, series 490W • Ventilation: The universal ERV from Energy Wall, LLC AHR Expo is co-sponsored by ASHRAE and the Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI). The 2020 AHR Expo will be held February 3-5 in Orlando, FL. www.ahrexpo.com <>

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FEBRUARY 2019 | HPAC

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2019-02-08 12:54 PM

< REFRIGERATION

TIPS FOR WALK-IN BOX MAINTENANCE

BY DAVE DEMMA

W

alk-in boxes are an essential component of commercial applications such as convenience stores, grocery stores and restaurants. Without them it would be difficult for these businesses to maintain a steady supply of products that require refrigeration, either to maintain their freshness, or to be sold/served at a desirable temperature for consumption.

As such, it behooves these commercial establishments to employ the services of reputable contractors to ensure their equipment is well maintained, which will minimize any interruption in providing those refrigerated products to their customers.

It should go without saying that a professional installation with attention to cleanliness and detail will go a long way in ensuring the equipment operates trouble free, at peak efficiency while delivering its rated capacity. But it is imperative to provide regular maintenance so that the equipment can remain operating at peak efficiency. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s review some tips for maintaining walk-in boxes, and the equipment which provides the refrigeration capacity to deliver the desired temperature the product requires.

Condenser High compressor compression ratios, and high discharge temperatures lead to reduced compressor capacity, and shortened compressor life. Studies have shown that a relatively minor amount of dirt on a condenser surface will lead to drastic reduction in heat transfer efficiency. For example, a mere 0.042 inch film of dirt on a condenser 62

HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

It is important to periodically inspect evaporator fan motors and fan blades.

surface will lead to a 21 per cent loss in heat transfer efficiency. A lack of condenser maintenance will not only limit the ability of the equipment to maintain the desired walk-in box temperature, but this will also lead to a very short compressor life.

Evaporator Evaporators are subject to the same loss in heat transfer efficiency if their surface becomes obstructed by dirt. Again, the loss on heat transfer efficiency will result in an inability to maintain the desired walk-in box temperature.

In addition, this may lead to a premature compressor failure as well. Liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator, at a temperature that is typically in the range of 10F below the desired walk-in box temperature. The evaporator fans force the air inside the walk-in box through the evaporator fin-tube structure, facilitating the transfer of heat from the air to the cooler refrigerant.

The result of this heat transfer process

is the liquid refrigerant changing state into a vapor. If the evaporator is dirty enough, there is the real potential that some portion of liquid refrigerant doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t undergo a change of state into vapor, allowing liquid to enter the compressor. It is critical that all of the liquid refrigerant change state into a vapor prior to the outlet of the evaporator, as compressors are not designed to compress liquid refrigerant. Liquid refrigerant entering a compressor will result in loss of lubrication, and potentially causing broken valves, pistons, rods, etc. In a word: devastating.

Similarly, a frosted/iced evaporator will yield the same result. It is important to set the quantity and duration of defrost cycles according to the manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specifications. In addition, there are instances where the defrost time clock is set correctly, for the quantity and duration of defrost cycles. Yet, the defrost clock pin could be old, with enough of the pin tip worn away to where it never initiates the defrost cycle.

HPACMAG.COM

Evaporators need to breath.

Adjust door tension so it closes on its own.

Plastic strip curtains.

When instances of frosted/iced evaporators occur, it is important to check the quantity and duration of defrost cycles, make sure the defrost timer is operating correctly, ensure that the pins are not worn.

In addition, check to see of the evaporator drain is clear, and in freezer applications verify that the drain heat tape is keeping the drain warm to prevent it from freezing. A plugged drain (either from dirt/debris, or inoperative drain heater) in an application below 32F will cause a buildup of ice in the pan, eventually resulting in a good portion of the evaporator icing up.

It is also important to periodically inspect (1) the evaporator fan motors, and ensure that they are operating correctly, and (2) the fan blades, and make sure theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re clean and functional.

Surprisingly, a dirty fan blade will reduce the fanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s efficiency, resulting in reduced air flow through the evaporator. Obviously, a broken fan blade is extremely ineffective. As seen in the photo below, the fan shrouds are missing. For safety reasons, fan shrouds should always be used.

Evaporators do need to breath. If their ability to draw air from the walk-in box space is limited, it can result in a decrease in capacity due to the reduction in air flowing through the evaporator fin-tube structure. It is important to ensure that product hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been stacked/stored in such a way as to cause this.

based on a complex set of parameters (such as product load, number of lights and fans, how many people are working in the walk-in box, how long the workers will be in the box, and how often the door is opened).

Door openings can be broken into two categories: 1. It seems as though there is an ongoing battle with workers who want to leave the walk-in box door open during those times when product is being stocked or rearranged. While this might lead to the temporary comfort of the worker, it places undue load on the equipment, and also results in the product temperature increasing above what it should be. A very easy solution to this is to install plastic strip curtains, to prevent ambient air from entering the box when the door is open.

2. It Is not uncommon to venture into a convenience store for a cold beverage and see one or more of the glass doors open. This could be due to either a mis-adjusted or defective tension assembly. The typical recommendation for adjusting door tension is to open it approximately six inches and adjust the door tension until it closes on its own.

In some instances the door might be closed, but the door gasket is worn and ineffective in providing a seal between the refrigerated space and the outside air. This is another item that should be regularly inspected during maintenance checks. If it is determined that the door gasket is ineffective in sealing, it should be replaced. If the gasket defect is not severe, the equipment

might still be able to maintain the desired temperature but there will be additional equipment run time to refrigerate the excessive air infiltration from the ineffective gasket.

Most adults own an automobile.

Most automobile owners budget money to provide regular maintenance for their vehicle rather than face expensive emergency service. Likewise, business owners who have invested in refrigeration equipment should enlist qualified and competent contractors to perform regular scheduled maintenance of their equipment.

How simple it is to clean condenser and evaporator coils on a regular basis to ensure efficiently operating equipment, which allows products to be stored at the required temperature necessary for fresh and long lasting life. Yet, how utterly devastating and expensive it can be to choose to neglect the proper maintenance of the investment in equipment.

There is an old saying amongst contractors regarding installing the job correctly, and maintaining the equipment: You can either pay me a little now, or you can pay me a whole lot more at a later date. The choice is yours. <>

Walk-in/reach-in doors Walk-in box equipment is selected HPACMAG.COM

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.

FEBRUARY 2019 | HPAC

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HVAC/R PRODUCTS

The Command and Control Suite release 200 (CCS R200) from Honeywell features intelligent

From Tempstar Heating and Cooling, the Ion

Venstar ColorTouch, Explorer and Explorer Mini

automation, analytics and data visualization.

system control is designed for variable-speed

programmable Wi-Fi thermostats are now com-

Map-based visualization and incident workflows

air conditioners and heat pumps. The Ion ther-

patible with Google Assistant. Voice com-

are available in the control room workstation,

mostat provides homeowners with a smart-

mands include setting temperatures and turn-

desktop PCs and Windows tablets. Workflows

phone-inspired control that offers remote ac-

ing on heat or air conditioning for one or

can be initiated by system alarms, and proce-

cess, programming and over-the-air software

multiple thermostats in a home.

dure steps can include operator-initiated control

updates. It features bypass-less (no bypass

www.venstar.com

actions. www.command.honeywell.com

damper) zoning. www.tempstar.com

The Covertech rFOIL Big6 is The PelletVent Pro tee cap, also

a reflective duct insulation

branded Secure Pellet, is a one-hand-

composed of a 5â &#x201E;16 in. poly-

ed twist-off cap held in place with a

ethylene bubble, bonded to

spring button design from DuraVent.

and sandwiched between

The cap height has been reduced by 1

two radiant barrier sheets.

in. compared to previous designs.

It comes with spacer strips

www.duravent.com

pre-attached. www.rfoil.com

Air conditioner covers from HVAC Covers are de-

The 320-328 series of stainless steel pumps

signed for off-season/winter use. The custom

with NPT connections from Scot Pump covers

made covers are produced from heavy-duty vi-

up to 385-gpm and 275 ft. of head. The ANSI

A brochure about Tjernlund Productsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; line of

nyl with a fleece-like backing. Available in an as-

flanged centreline discharge models feature

de-stratification fans, called D-STRAT, is now

sortment of colours, the covers are designed so

slip-fit O-ring/flinger design. The pumps are

available. Included in the brochure are product

that there is enough clearance from the bottom

mounted on a JM frame and incorporate a

information, optional accessories and a guide

of the condenser unit's base to permit airflow to

back pull-out design and weep holes in the im-

to determine the number of fans required for

prevent condensation. www.hvaccovers.com

peller. www.scotpump.com

de-stratification. www.tjernlund.com

64

HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

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< SUSTAINABILITY

The exterior of the Northern Nomad.

TINY HOUSE, BIG GOALS Students test the limits of green construction with a tiny net-zero energy and water house.

BY JILLIAN MORGAN

T

he Northern Nomad claims a mere 220 square feet of Carleton University campus in Ottawa, ON. An emblem of sustainable construction, this tiny house is big on efficiency.

Built by a group of students to withstand the northern climate, the Nomad is designed to achieve three goals: annual net zero energy, on- and off-grid operation and water autonomy.

“The purpose of the project kind of shifted throughout the different phases.

The original idea was to design a netzero water and energy house,” said Seungyeon Hong, a graduate student managing the project. “That has been made the embodying goal but throughout we’ve been experimenting with different technologies and even building materials and equipment.”

In the fall of 2016, a group of five fourthyear engineering students dreamed up the Nomad as part of a fourth-year cap-

66

HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

stone project under the supervision of Scott Bucking, assistant professor in building information modeling.

Bucking recruited a number of students from various disciplines to bring the project to life, including architecture, architectural engineering, sustainable renewable energy engineering and civil engineering.

“It’s a very organic, non-structured design process because our experiences are limited,” Hong said. “Everybody brings in a bit of expertise from different fields.”

Construction started in the summer of 2017. The floors, walls and roof of the house were installed first, followed by electrical components, windows and doors. Vacuum insulated panels were placed in the roof, floor and parts of the walls. The home was then spray foamed with polyurethane insulation.

Rigid extruded polystyrene insulation was installed on the exterior face of the

house before the exterior finish was applied. Inside, the ceiling is composed of reclaimed barn board planks and the walls are pine.

“On the plumbing side, it’s the same idea as on-grid, off-grid that applies to energy,” Hong said. “You can imagine it as the same system as an RV, where you can hook up the city water and use city water pressure. Ours does not hook up to the city water, we have a small pump that will pressurize the house at 30 psi.”

DS Plumbing, based in Ottawa, helped the team install five rainwater tanks, totalling 900 litres of water storage. The tanks store water that has been filtered through an atmospheric water generator (AWG). Hong said AWG is a “fancy word for pulling moisture out of the air and filtering it to make it potable.”

“Instead of using rainwater capture, which is great, we wanted to produce water on demand, which helps with the HPACMAG.COM

A BIM of the mechanical and plumbing systems. The tiny house uses a composting toilet and eight-gallon electric water heater.

building autonomy,” he added. “If you were to deploy this house somewhere, energy is taken care of, but what about water?”

For heating, Ottawa-based HVAC contractor ClimateWorks was enlisted to install a Mitsubishi Electric mini-split heat pump. Designed to run down to -25 C, the unit is “3.5 times more efficient than electric resistive heating,” Hong said.

“The heat pump was essential for us to go completely sustainable,” Eric Ho, a fourth-year student in charge of mechanical systems and smart home features, said.

Ventilation, heating and cooling are all coordinated with an energy recovery ventilator through a smart thermostat.

Another aspect of the heating and cooling system leverages building-integrated photovoltaics.

“In our house, our solar panels are the

HPACMAG.COM Untitled-3 1

roof and there is a ventilation air gap underneath,” Hong said. “That air gap allows air to flow through and cools the solar panels. What that means for that air is that it is heated up. We can take advantage of that air, which is two degrees hotter than the ambient air inside the house, and we can save energy by using what you could call ‘free heating.’”

At night, the panels are cooler than the ambient air, meaning the air that flows under the panels can be used for cooling,

Now complete, the tiny house is equipped with more than 200 sensors, which will monitor temperature, humidity and pressure–among other measurements–to ensure it achieves net-zero status.

“We have software students who will coordinate these things and write the code for the control systems and what not,” Ho said. “There’s many different aspects of research made available by this project” <>

FEBRUARY 2019 | HPAC

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2018-06-15 1:07 PM

MECHANICAL SUPPLY NEWS MANUFACTURERS • DISTRIBUTORS • WHOLESALERS

HAIER DUCTLESS ADDS MANUFACTURERS REPS FOR WESTERN CANADA, ONTARIO, ATLANTIC CANADA Haier Ductless has partnered with three manufacturers representatives across Canada.

The representatives include: Martech, headquartered in Edmonton, AB, for Western Canada; Tiny, ON-based MET Sales; and Fredericton, NB-based Thomas Industrial Sales Ltd. for Atlantic Canada. www.haierductless.com REHAU ACQUIRES SWISS DISTRIBUTOR, APPOINTS NEW LEADERSHIP REHAU Verwaltungszentrale AG, the holding company of REHAU Group, has acquired MB Barter and Trading AG (MBT), a Swiss distributor of commodity polymers.

The new independent company will focus on logistics, trading and distribution.

The Swiss trading and purchasing company REHAU GmbH and its subsidiaries will gradually merge its businesses with the acquired MBT companies until the joint market launch under a new name, which is planned for the coming months. www.rehau.com

(Left to right) Bryan Nowill (Caleffi), Dino Mazzon, Dave Vallieres and Mike Vallieres (Dave Vallieres & Associates), and Roger Corrente (Caleffi).

CALEFFI AWARDS QUEBEC REPRESENTATIVE Caleffi North America, Inc presented its Pinnacle Award to Quebec-based representative Dave Vallieres & Associates for “exceptional 2018 performance.”

The company held its annual Manufacturers’ Representative Meeting in conjunction with the 2019 AHR Expo in Atlanta, GA. “Our reps delivered a fantastic 2018,” stated Mark Olson, Caleffi’s general manager and CEO. “Over 75% exceeded their ambitious sales objectives. We are proud to be represented by these professionals.” www.caleffi.com 68

HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

FIRST CO. PARTNERS WITH ONTARIO DISTRIBUTOR Total HVAC Solutions and First Co. have added Ontario-based Marks Supply Inc. to their distributor-roster for the province.

The company has nine distribution locations. Those interested can contact Mike Goll at 226.646.4578 or e-mail mgoll@ markssupply.net. www.markssupply.ca www.firstco.com WATERFURNACE ROLLS OUT UPGRADES TO COMMERCIAL WEBSITE WaterFurnace International, Inc. has launched a new website for the commercial HVAC market.

The site includes responsive design for mobile browsers and enhanced graphics, transitions, and animations to showcase the company’s product offerings.

Tools to find commercial reps, build product nomenclatures and software for energy modeling and product configuration are also included.

“The site is now a more accurate reflection of our focus on the commercial and industrial markets,” said Tim Litton, director of marketing communications at WaterFurnace. www.waterfurnace.com/commercial

Ruskin executives break ground on the expansion.

RUSKIN INVESTS $2.2M TO EXPAND MISSOURI R&D LAB Ruskin doubled the size of its Grandview, MO research and development lab in a $2.2 million expansion.

More than 100,000 square feet will be added to the space.

The expansion focuses on new product innovation, testing standards and cost-saving improvements for louvres, control dampers, life safety dampers, sound control and air measurement technologies.

“Our goal is to accelerate speed to market with improved testing capabilities and resources in a certified AMCA/UL facility,” said Brian Poe, director of engineering and product development for Ruskin.

The facility was completed in December 2018. www.ruskin.com HPACMAG.COM

MSN > TULSAR PROJECTS JOB CREATION AT BRANT, ON FACILITY Tulsar Canada has attributed “unprecedented growth” in 2018 to the company’s relocation to Brantford, ON. “It has unquestionably been a good time for Tulsar since moving to the Brant County,” George Micevski, president of the company, said.

The Brant location is also the Canadian sales hub for Tulsar’s parent Tulsar held a tour of the Brant facility with company, Zoeller Pump Company.

Mayor David Bailey, Ward 5 Councillor Joan Since moving to Brantford in the Gatward, Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis, MP spring of 2017, Tulsar increased its Phil McColeman, Chamber of Commerce CEO Charlene Nicholson and Chamber workforce from 32 employees to 100– President Tony Araujo. and the company anticipates continued growth.

In 2019, Tulsar will launch the Aquanot series, a battery backup control system for residential sump pumps. The company also plans to expand into new sectors, such as agriculture.

In the last year, the company took on manufacturing The Aquanot series control panels for one of its sister companies, Flint & Walling. Tulsar also acquired one of its suppliers, Arrow Radio, and moved its production operations from Etobicoke to Brant. www.tulsar.com

DIVERSITECH ACQUIRES OHIO-BASED TOOL MANUFACTURER DiversiTech Corp. has acquired Stride Tool LLC, an Ohio-based manufacturer of hand tools.

The company hopes the acquisition will allow it to expand its HVAC/R tool product offering and increase its U.S. manufacturing capabilities from five locations to six.

DiversiTech added hand tools to its product line in 2018 following the acquisition of hilmor.

Stride Tool brands include Imperial, Milbar (wire twister tools and kits), Lakeland Products (tube fabricating equipment), and Bright Solutions International, a supplier of leak detection products and hand tools.

“Our acquisition of Stride Tool is a perfect strategic fit,” said DiversiTech CEO Andy Bergdoll. www.diversitech.ca HPACMAG.COM

NORTH AMERICAN PIPE CORPORATION, ROYAL PIPE AND FITTINGS REBRAND North American Pipe Corporation and Royal Pipe and Fittings will now operate under a single brand: Napco.

“We are better positioned to solve our customers’ business challenges with systems solutions that encompass a broad range of piping and fittings,” said Andre Battistin, vice president of North American Pipe.

The company also launched a new website, featuring pipe and fittings product offerings in the U.S. and Canada.

The site is available in French and English. www.napcopipe.com MODINE EARNS PATENT FOR SYSTEM DESIGNED TO REDUCE HGRH REFRIGERANT CHARGE Modine Manufacturing Company has been granted a patent for the hot gas

reheat (HGRH) system option used in its Atherion commercial packaged ventilation units.

The design aims to manage and reduce the refrigerant charge required in a HGRH system, providing the ability to adjust the total volume of the system.

The option allows the user to vary the internal volume and allow for reduced fan energy consumption. It also offers modulating adaptive control. www.modinehvac.com

The company’s coaching is “focused on profitability, structure, service, sales and labour management.”

BUSINESS COACHING COMPANY FOR CONTRACTORS CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY Business Development Resources (BDR), a business training service provider for HVAC and plumbing contractors, recently celebrated its 20th anniversary.

The company was founded in Seattle, WA in 1998. It currently has 1500 clients, offering more than 30 classes in Canada with five distribution partners.

It currently has 90 employees in the U.S. and Canada, including 25 coaches and 12 trainers. Over the course of its history, BDR reports that it has trained approximately 1000 HVAC dealers in Canada. www.bdrco.com Continued on p70 FEBRUARY 2019 | HPAC

69

< MSN

Front row (left to right): Brian Davis, senior director, sales development – industrial automation, North America, Danfoss Cooling; Kristian Strand, president – refrigeration and A/C controls, Danfoss Cooling; Arthur Marshall, co-founder and president, AAIM Controls. Back row (left to right): Henrik Moller Henriksen, director of strategic programs – refrigeration and A/C controls, Danfoss Cooling; Pat Ocker, power engineering manager, AAIM Controls; Craig Cordell, PLC engineering manager, AAIM Controls; Alan Izer, co-founder and vice president of operations, AAIM Controls.

NORITZ ACQUIRES PEERLESS BOILER, PLANS TO OPERATE SEPARATELY Noritz Corporation has acquired PB Heat, LLC, a provider of stainless steel boilers based in Bally, PA. Both companies will operate separately and independently as subsidiaries of Noritz. Doug Shuff, president and CEO of PB Heat, will continue to lead the company.

PB Heat’s Peerless stainless steel boilers will continue to be marketed and sold independently, and the same local sales representatives will serve the company’s customers.

In other Nortiz news, the company has partnered with distributor Reliable Parts to stock and distribute its warranty and replacement service parts throughout Canada. Reliable Parts has distribution centres in Mississauga, ON and Calgary, AB. The Mississauga centre will service Eastern Canada with next-day deliver throughout Ontario and Quebec and two-day delivery to Atlantic

GOODWAY, SWEP TECHNOLOGIES PARTNER TO OFFER DESCALING SOLUTION Goodway Technologies has partnered with Swep, a supplier of brazed plate heat exchangers, to offer a descaling solution.

The company’s ScaleBreak-MP biodegradable descaling solution is designed to dissolve scale deposits into a liquid suspension, which will be flushed out of the heat exchangers.

SWEP has tested and verified the compatibility of ScaleBreak-MP with its products. www.goodway.com/swep 70

HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

Canada. The Calgary centre will service Western Canada with next-day delivery. www.reliableparts.net

PHOTO BUSINESS WIRE

DANFOSS ACQUIRES INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION CONTROL PRODUCTS SUPPLIER Danfoss has acquired Pennsylvaniabased AAIM Controls Inc., a supplier of custom-designed regulation and control automation solutions. With the purchase, Danfoss hopes to enter the industrial refrigeration market as a systems provider.

“By adding electronic regulation and control automation to our already-extensive portfolio of components for industrial refrigeration applications, we strengthen our global position by becoming a systems provider in the industrial refrigeration market,” said Jürgen Fischer, president of Danfoss Cooling. www.aaimcontrols.com

BAXI EXPANDS NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS, APPOINTS SALES DIRECTOR Baxi S.p.A is extending its operations in Canada.

The Italian company announced plans to transfer all North American business and support to its North American factory operations.

Baxi North America, headquartered in Utica, NY, will now be exclusively distributed through Morden Roger McLaughlin National Sales and Marketing in Canada.

The company also appointed Roger McLaughlin to director of sales.

McLaughlin previously held the title of regional sales manager, northeast region, at Uponor. www.baxiboilers.com

BLÜCHER stainless steel trench drains are now being produced in Fort Worth, Texas, for the North American market.

WATTS BEGINS BLÜCHER BRAND PRODUCTION AT TEXAS FACILITY Watts Water Technologies, Inc. has expanded manufacturing capabilities for its BLÜCHER brand in North America and Europe.

The company will produce the brand’s stainless steel trench drains at its facility in Fort Worth, TX. Watts has also invested in new manufacturing equipment in the facility.

Watts also added 55,000 square feet to its production facility and warehouse in Vildbjerg, Denmark. www.blucher.com www.watts.com HPACMAG.COM

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BWHPAC0219

< PEOPLE RectorSeal has named Jeff Underwood vice president of sales and marketing. Underwood also assumes the same position for parent company CSW Industrials. He previously held several positions at Goodman Manufacturing, including vice Underwood president of marketing, director of brand management and brand manager for Goodman’s parent company Daikin.

Bibby-Ste-Croix has hired Carlos Ferraira as a sales representative in Ontario. Ferraira brings more than 14 years experience in business management, sports marketing, communications and Ferraira sales.

Cheryl Merchant is the new president of the Taco Family of Companies, North America. For nearly two decades, Merchant held the title of president and CEO at Hope Global Industries. Luca Bolcati, previously vice president of Taco International, Merchant will now become president of Taco International.

Wolseley Canada Inc. has appointed Kim Forgues to the position of vice president, human resources. Forgues was most recently the partner and head of HR practice at Odgers Berndston.

Prior to that, she held HR leadership roles with D Forgues + H (purchased by Finastra), Home Depot Canada, CIBC, Bombardier Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney Canada.

Fujitsu General America, Inc. has appointed David Trautman to the position of national account sales manager. Trautman previously held sales positions at Lennox and JCI. In this new role, he will focus on supporting unitary sales Trautman with national distributors.

72

HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

Zurn Industries, LLC has appointed Richard Bledsoe to the position of vice president of sales and marketing in North America. Barry Moulsdale Moulsdale assumed the position of general Bledsoe manager of Zurn Canada. Moulsdale will be responsible for managing the company’s business operations and commercial strategy. He most recently served as general manager of plumbing, personal care and home appliances for Spectrum Brands.

Eric Alain is joining the sales team at A.O. Smith in the role of district sales manager for southwest Ontario. Alain previously worked as a national sales manager for AP Wagner and as a business Alain development manager for Reliable Parts Ltd. Frico AB, a Systemair company, has appointed Scott Ferguson to country manager for Canada and the U.S. Ferguson was most recently the president of sales and marketing, North America, for Biddle Air Systems, Thermoscreens and Ferguson Applied Comfort. Frico’s new North America operation will be headquartered in Toronto.

Nortek Air Management has named Hervé Mallet senior vice-president of operations and Kevin Facinelli senior vice-president of engineering and Facinelli product management. Mallet is the Mallet former executive vice president, North America, at Dynacast Inc. Facinelli is the former executive vice president of operations for Daikin Applied Americas. Prior to Daikin, he was vice president of manufacturing and technology at Johnson Controls Inc.

HPACMAG.COM

BACKFLOW >

AN INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE Specialist Bruce Rathburn provides expert insight on ICC podcast.

WHAT IS BACKFLOW? Rathburn uses a simple analogy to distinguish backpressure, when water is forced to flow in the opposite direction, and backsiphonage, which draws water from a contaminated source into potable water supply–both of which create backflow.

Picture a glass of water with a straw.

Creating suction on the straw and drawing in water is a similar process to backsiphonage. Blowing into a straw and causing bubble to appear on the other end, “Well, that’s kind of like backpressure,” he said.

This analogy, Rathburn said, reflects a loss or gain of water pressure in a distribution system. In a high-pressure scenario, backpressure can result, causing water to be pressured back into the distribution system.

“Or, you could loose water pressure, causing backsiphonage to occur in the drinking water system,” he added.

“Either would cause water to follow the HPACMAG.COM

PHOTO COURTESY ICC

C

ross-connection control programs are designed to streamline backflow prevention–protecting water, the world’s “most precious resource,” said backflow prevention specialist Bruce Rathburn, based in Texas.

Rathburn shared his insights on a recent International Code Council (ICC) Pulse podcast with host Lee Clifton, senior director of PMG Resources, headquartered in Boulder, CO. According to Rathburn, former president of the American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA) International, backflow in drinking water poses a serious health concern, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Even more, undetected cross-connections are highly common.

Lawn irrigation systems provide an increased potential for backflow to occur.

least past of resistance back into our drinking water. In both cases, this would cause a potential contamination or a pollution event of the drinking water system.”

IPC SOLUTIONS IPC requires annual inspections be made of all backflow prevention assemblies and air gaps. A certified or licensed individual performs inspections and tests of backflow preventers to ensure proper functioning.

“Many cases have occurred where backflow preventers have been removed or the air gaps have then been directly connected to a known hazard,” Rathburn said. “[Inspections] allow this individual to ensure no other cross connections have been created since the last inspection.”

Cross-connection control programs offer another backflow prevention strategy.

“A cross connection control program is run by the authority-having jurisdiction in a city or township that has own-

ership over the water,” Rathburn said.

“This is normally the water purveyor who works with the local plumbing officials and many others to make this all work.”

These individuals establish requirements for backflow prevention methods at individual sites, depending on hazards to the main drinking water system. Notices are then sent to the sites to ensure testing/inspection of backflow prevention assemblies or devices on an annual basis.

“If we contaminate [water], people have no water to drink and don’t survive,” Rathburn said. “It is the ultimate win or lose scenario… We have cities and townships across the world that work day and night to provide it to every household. Only with these [cross-connection control] programs intertwined with our plumbing codes do we have a shot at keeping this water safe.” <> www.iccsafe.org/about-icc/periodicals-and-newsroom/icc-pulse-podcast/ FEBRUARY 2019 | HPAC

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< ELECTRICITY 101

HOW TO SOLVE THE

TOP 3 ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS

IN MECHANICAL SYSTEMS Frustrating failures in the field sometimes have simple solution.

BY CURTIS BENNETT

W

hen I was asked to do an article on three common electrical problems, I thought “What, only three?” Keep in mind that I do come at this from a slightly different angle than an installer might. At my “day job” we design and manufacture controls for residential and commercial buildings.

Sometimes we find these controls in some very weird situations. So, do n’ofault me for over simplifying this list as it comes from 15 years of being on the phones and going out to sites and seeing what is actually happening when our controls are wired up. These problems cross many fields and different pieces of electrical equipment.

Number 1. “R2-D2, you know better than to trust a strange computer!”

We do not all have an R2-D2 handy to help us out with installations. He is not there guiding us to cut the right wire or press the right button, but there is something else just as valuable: READ THE MANUAL. I know I said that this might be an oversimplification but READ THE MANUAL. It is there for a reason. It takes time to read it and we 74

HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

sometimes think we don’t have the time but this is the one thing you can do when installing controls to actually save time.

We have countless people call in and it is very clear they do not read the manual. This easy step does save a lot of headaches. I am as guilty as others and have done my share of not reading but at the end of the day this is my number one pick. Manuals are usually packed full of sample electrical drawings with troubleshooting guides in the back.

Number 2. Check the flux capacitor

“We have countless people call in and it is very clear they do not read the manual. This easy step does save a lot of headaches.”

If you do not know what a flux capacitor is then you are probably too young and don’t appreciate a good movie. Simply put: CHECK THE POWER. What do you do after you have read the manual and everything is hooked up properly but you still have a blank screen? Start by checking the breaker. After that get out the volt meter and actually check the power, at the pins on the control.

Too many times I have seen the power get checked at the electrical box under the assumption that there was power at the control. Check the source

first, then check the end point (pins at the control). If you have power at the unit and still nothing, keep moving through the power circuit to the fuse.

Most controls are moving towards resettable fusing but there are still some with one-time fuses. Look in the manual and see if they are changeable. If the fuses are resettable you may need to just kill the power for 30 seconds and allow the fuse to reset itself from the fault condition. They do not always reset on their own.

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cause it is the most frustrating issue, not only to me but to installers out in the field. Thankfully many controls now indicate a temperature fault or error on the screen, which makes life even easier as it tells you which one.

That being said we have still had many calls to ask what is wrong with the control. This is where we always ask what the screen says. If the control is not doing what you expect, and it has power this is the next step. What are we looking for?

Start by testing the thermistor. How do you do that? You need to grab your volt meter and put it on ohms.

You cannot test resistance while it is connected to the control. You have to remove it, and here we go again, look in the manual to find the resistance curve. Test the resistance and check it against the curve. If you are showing the correct resistance, tug on the wire a bit, a broken wire can be very hard to find. Outdoor sensors are even more susceptible than others because they are, well, outside. In this case if you are not getting the proper resistance at the control side of the wiring, there is usually a lot of wire between the control and the actual outdoor sensor, so also check it right at the outdoor sensor box. If you get a good resistance reading at the source then you know your wiring is bad–somewhere.

And finally, Number 4. If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. See number 1. <>

Number 3. If you can’t stand the heat get out of the kitchen.

That was literally all I could come up with for this one. The controls in our industry are “generally” temperature driven.

This means without temperature inputs the control is not going to do what you expect. This almost made number one be-

Curtis Bennett C.E.T is product development manager with HBX Control Systems Inc. in Calgary, AB. He formed HBX Control Systems with Tom Hermann in 2002. Its control systems are designed, engineered and manufactured in Canada to accommodate a range of hydronic heating and cooling needs commonly found in residential, commercial and industrial design applications.

COMING... SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

SUMMIT 2019

North America’s LARGEST (and growing!) hydronic – only event.

Presented by

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FEBRUARY 2019 | HPAC

75

2018-09-27 8:56 AM

CALENDAR 2019

FOR THE LATEST EVENT NEWS, SEE HPAC'S NEWSLETTER @ HPACMAG.COM National HVAC/R Educators and Trainers Conference March 3-5

CCOHS Forum: The Changing World ISH of Work March 11-15 March 5-6 The ISH trade fair will be held at the Messe

The conference for HVAC/R instructors will take place at the South Point Hotel in Las Vegas, NV.

Canada's National Centre for Occupational Health and Safety will hold this national event in Winnipeg, MB at Delta Hotels by Marriott.

Frankfurt in Frankfurt, Germany.

Ontario Geothermal Association Conference April 3-4

MCAC Innovation Conference April 15-16

www.escogroup.com

CCA Annual Conference March 25-28 Join the Canadian Construction Association for it’s 2019 conference in Bermuda.

www.cca-acc.com

www.ish.messefrankfurt.com

www.ccohs.ca

The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada will host its first-ever innovation conference in Toronto.

OGA will hold its conference in Mississauga, ON.

www.hrai.ca/news-event/oga-2019conference

MCEE April 24-25 Industry professionals will gather at Place Bonaventure in Montreal, QC for the Mécanex/ Climatex/Expolectriq/Éclairage (MCEE) 2019 trade show.

www.mcac.ca

Solar Canada Conference and Exposition May 8-9

CIPH ABC June 16-18 The Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating Annual Business Conference will take place at the Delta Prince Edward Hotel in Charlottetown, PEI.

The event will be held at the BMO Centre in Calgary, AB.

www.solarcanadaconference.ca

www.mcee.ca

ASHRAE Annual Conference June 22-26

www.ciph.com

NAPHN Annual Conference and Expo June 27-28

HRAI Annual Meeting and Conference August 25-27

Themed “Build the World We Want: Implementing Low Carbon Solutions,” the North American Passive House Network event will take place at the Metropolitan Pavilion in New York, NY.

The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute event will hold it’s meeting at the Sheraton on the Falls Hotel in Niagara Falls, ON.

Canadian Hydronics Council Conference September 24-25

Getting to Zero National Forum October 9-11

SMACNA Annual Convention October 20-23

The global event will be held in Oakland, CA.

The conference will be held at the Ottawa Conference & Event Centre in Ottawa, ON.

www.gettingtozeroforum.org

The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association will hold the convention at the JW Marriott Austin in Austin, TX.

The 2019 conference will take place in Kansas City, MO.

www.ashrae.org

www.naphnetwork.org/conference

www.ciph.com

www.hrai.ca

www.smacna.org

ASPE Technical Symposium October 24-27 The American Society of Plumbing Engineers symposium will be held at the Wyndham Grand Pittburgh Downtown in Pittsburgh, PA.

www.aspe.org

76

HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

MODERN HYDRONICS SUMMIT

SUMMIT 2019

This highly successful trade show and conference will take place September 19, 2019. Stay tuned for more details.

HPACMAG.COM

April 24 & 25, 2019

Place Bonaventure, Montréal

Canada’s largest plumbing, HVACR, hydronics, electrical and lighting expo

• Attend free seminars,

many of which will offer continuing education credits

• see more than 400 exhibitors

and thousands of products

• Visit the

new Product showcase

to see innovative energy and water efficient products

Free registrAtion up to April 23, 2019 mcee.ca Produced by :

ciph.com

in cooperation with :

cmmtq.org

cmeq.org

cetaf.qc.ca

electrofed.com

TRAINING

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS CANADA HRAI Training

The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) offers a variety of residential and commercial courses. The Small Commercial Air System Design course builds on the Small Commercial Heat Gain & Heat Loss Calculations course. The three-day program includes how to design commercial air distribution systems for applications of up to 3 stories and 600 sq. metres per storey. Up to 2⁄3 of the cost of educational programs can may be reimbursed under the Canada Job Grant Fund Program. For more information and scheduling opportunities, tel. 800.267.2231 ext. 237, or e-mail amantei@hrai.ca. www.hrai.ca

Dollars to $ense Energy Management Workshops

Construction Education Council

Under agreement with AGSHP, HRAI will be providing IGSHPA training courses for geothermal heat pump system designers and installers in Ontario. The courses are in support of the recently established GreenON Low Carbon Technologies Incentive Program requirements, using IGSHPA certified trainers. The IGSPHA Accredited Geothermal Installer course covers ground-source heat pumps systems, while IGSPHA Certified Residential Geothermal Designer course will train attendees on how to properly design a residential geothermal heat pump. For details contact Angie Mantei at 800.267.2231, ext. 237 or e-mail amantei@hrai.ca. www.hrai.ca

CEC’s Gold Seal Accredited Advanced Project Management course, offered in partnership with the University of Waterloo, is a four-day program focus on improving leadership, management and advanced project management skills. It is designed for experienced project managers and senior project managers. To register, contact Tania Johnston at tania@mcac.ca.

Hydronics Training

The Canadian Hydronics Council (CHC) has partnered with NAIT and British Columbia Institute of Technology to provide course blocks toward CHC certification for hydronic system designers and installers. At NAIT students can register for online or paper-based learning and have nine months to complete each block. www.ciph.com

TECA Quality First Training

TECA’s Quality First training programs are developed by the industry, for the industry, setting minimum standards for the residential and light commercial heating, ventilating and cooling trade in BC. Courses provide contractors with the information they need to install equipment that operates safely and comfortably at rated efficiencies. www.teca.ca

Since 1997, over 30,000 representatives of industrial, commercial and institutional (ICI) organizations have enrolled in the Dollars to $ense energy management workshops. In 2016, the material was completely remodeled and updated; it is now presented in 30 modules, which can easily be used as building blocks for organizations that have limited resources or that wish to focus on specific topics. www.cietcanada.com

International Ground Source Heat Pump Association (IGSHPA)

GPRO Fundamentals of Building Green

Canada Green Building Council is offering this four-hour course as part of its Green Professional Skills Training (GPRO) program. It teaches the basics of sustainability and provides an overview of the essential strategies and work practices that make buildings more efficient. GPRO covers the “green gap” between standard trade skills and the new awareness required to successfully implement sustainable building practices. It is the prerequisite for all GPRO trade-specific courses. www.cagbc.org

THE SOURCE

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE

Adrian Steel....................... AdrianSteel.com.......................................12

Navien................................. Navieninc.com....................................MH11

AERCO................................ aerco.com............................................. MH2

NIBCO/Webstone............. webstonevalves.com/PEX.................. MH31

Amvic.................................. amvicsystem.com...............................MH15

PVI...................................... pvi.com......................................................79

Aqua-Tech.......................... aquatech-canada.com....................... MH27

Riello.................................. riello.com............................................. MH17

Bradford White.................. bwforthepro.com...................................... 71

Riobel................................. riobel.ca....................................................23

Brant Radiant Heaters.... brantradiant.com......................................14

Roth.................................... Roth-America.com..............................MH26

Caleffi................................. caleffi.com............................................. MH7

Saniflo................................ saniflo.ca...................................................15

Canplas.............................. canplas.com..............................................59 Ford..................................... ford.ca......................................................... 2

Tamas Hydronic Systems............ TamasHydronic.com...........................MH13

General Pipe...................... drainbrain.com/geneye............................. 7

The Whalen Company...... WhalenCompany.com/Maximize............... 8

HBX Control Systems...... hbxcontrols.com.................................MH25

Thermo Manufacturing.... thermopan.com........................................61

IPEX.................................... ipexna.com................................................13

Viessmann......................... viessmann.ca......................................MH32

Liberty Pumps................... libertypumps.com....................................... 5

Watts.................................. PowersControls.com/IntelliStationJr.......80

Master Group.................... master.ca..................................................65

Xylem.................................. bellgossett.com..................................MH19

MCEE.................................. mcee.ca.....................................................77

Zurn.................................... zurn.ca.......................................................10

78

HPAC | FEBRUARY 2019

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