Mechanical Business July/August 2021

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THE PUZZLE MASTER • • • • THERMAL ENERGY METERS: • TARGETING ACTUAL USE TAP POTENTIAL SAVINGS WITH A PUMP • SYSTEM ASSESSMENT

WHEN IS IT TIME TO CONSIDER A BOILER PLANT UPGRADE? DISCOVER THE VALUE OF MODULATION

HYDRONIC PRODUCT SHOWCASE

ALL ABOUT CIRCULATOR COUPLINGS

A sopping wet supplement of Mechanical Business

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“MAXI-ROOTER IS BUILT LIKE A TANK” Maxi-Rooter

®

For over ten years, two General Maxi-Rooters have been the go-to machines for A. Pederson’s Plumbing of Dallas Oregon.

“There’s nothing quite built like the Maxi-Rooter—it’s built like a tank,” says Pederson plumber Trenton Hargrove.

Beyond its low maintenance and heavy-duty construction, Hargrove says the Maxi-Rooter’s sheer performance makes the machine a worthwhile investment. “In addition to the power and mobility, we are able to clean these lines out faster, which saves our customers money,” Hargrove concludes.

Questions? Call the Drain Brains ® at 800-245-6200.

To see Trenton Hargove rip out a massive tree root with his Maxi-Rooter, visit www.drainbrain.com/maxi-rooter

MADE IN U.S.A. © 2020 General Wire Spring

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CONTENTS O F

THE CASE FOR INVESTING IN THE AIR WE

BREATHE David Chilton:

26INDOOR

SHARING A WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE

AIR QUALITY We have a lot of tools at hand to combat COVID-19 transmission if we make an effort.

Brian Fleck

A P P L I C A T I O N S

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38COVER STORY

Television personality, author, speaker and entrepreneur David Chilton ventures into the M&A field.

Kerry Turner

T E C H N O L O G I E S AUGUST 2021

ERIC CAMERON:

THE PUZZLE MASTER • • • ALL ABOUT CIRCULATOR COUPLINGS • THERMAL ENERGY METERS: • TARGETING ACTUAL USE TAP POTENTIAL SAVINGS WITH A PUMP • SYSTEM ASSESSMENT

WHEN IS IT TIME TO CONSIDER A BOILER PLANT UPGRADE? DISCOVER THE VALUE OF MODULATION

HYDRONIC PRODUCT SHOWCASE

A sopping wet supplement of Mechanical Business

49WET HEAT

From an array of hydronic products, to the latest in boilers, pumps, controls, metering, system design, and more, check out the second of our semi-annual Wet Heat Applications & Technology supplements in 2021. Turn to page 49.

www.mechanicalbusiness.com

On the cover: It’s been a decade since David Chilton was interviewed by Mechanical Business and since then the television personality, author, speaker and entrepreneur hasn’t slowed down. Cover photo: Cassidy Crowe Photography

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CONTENTS O F

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64ROAD WARRIOR: ERIC CAMERON The puzzle master Carolyn Cooper

74BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

De-escalating frustrated customers Navigate difficult situations and guard your company’s reputation.

Tracy Robinson

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46 76LOOKING AHEAD

The carbon tax challenge Understanding the federal government’s plan for the carbon tax, and what it will mean for consumers, makes it clear it is worth investing in lower carbon heating solutions now.

Victor Hyman

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HVAC Clearing the air Gord Cooke Make the right filtration choices for forced air ducted AC and heating systems.

REFRIGERATION Achieving ultra-low temperatures Phil J. Boudreau The effects of subcooling a low temperature (LT) system using a medium temperature (MT) system.

PLUMBING Getting a grip on pipe joining Fred Bretzke Alternative joining methods include press connection tools.

MARKETING Digital marketing takes the wheel post COVID-19 Doug MacMillan If digital marketing isn’t sitting in the front seat of your business plan, there is a good chance your company will be left behind.

HYDRONICS Out with the old, in with the new Bob “Hot Rod” Rohr When is the right time, or the best time to consider a boiler plant upgrade?

ASK ROGER What to do with the business – Part II Roger Grochmal My experience with selling my business from beginning to end.

78PLUMBING

Add water treatment solutions to your offerings Aging infrastructure, a host of emerging contaminants and by-products from disinfection chemicals make it necessary to treat water once it enters a home or building.

John Cardiff

83HVAC

Nunatsiavut energy program addresses heat insecurity Initiative includes installation of 240 high-efficiency wood stoves.

Carolyn Cooper

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30,31HVAC/R

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36,37Plumbing

16,18Movers & Shakers

60-62Hydronics

20People

80Stuff You Need

82,83The Info Page 86By the Numbers

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For All Subscription Inquiries Shila Naik Circulation Director 905-272-4175 shila.naik@mechanicalbusiness.com Editor: Kerry Turner, C 416-435-1193 kerry.turner@mechanicalbusiness.com National Sales Manager: Kyle Badder, C 416-735-1375 kyle.badder@mechanicalbusiness.com Operations Manager: Caroline Bexfield, C 647-217-2076 caroline.bexfield@mechanicalbusiness.com Art Direction: Fourteen Orange Graphic Design Inc. davem@fourteenorange.com Controller: Liz Mills liz.mills@mechanicalbusiness.com Publisher: Bruce Meacock, C 416-457-9563 bruce.meacock@mechanicalbusiness.com PM:41536047 ISSN 1916-0674 MB (Print) ISSN 1906-0682 MB (Online) We acknowledge the support of the Government of Canada.

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EDITORIAL

“and then there was COVID” Following the tragedy in Surfside, FL, in June, a family member of one of the victims was asked why action hadn’t been taken after an engineering report in 2018 revealed significant structural deficiencies in the building. She recounted how her mom had mentioned that work needed to be done and there seemed to be any number of reasons why work hadn’t started, “and then there was COVID.” It resonated with me and made me incredibly sad.

I have heard COVID being hauled up in any number of different ways and in reference to different circumstances over the past 16 months. While it is sometimes a legitimate reason for something not being done or for enforcing rules, or for higher prices, I don’t doubt it is the fall back for businesses or individuals who are opportunistic, who wish to avoid or deflect responsibility, or who find a lack of personal contact to be a positive.

There are many reasons why supply has been an issue and COVID has certainly exposed cracks in the supply model, many of which have been covered by Mechanical Business. Our industry has not been immune to the global impact of the pandemic, labour disputes, and bizarre incidents such as the Suez Canal blockage.

Beyond that, Canada doesn’t address the potential for what are legitimate issues in these times to be exacerbated. In November 2020, CBC’s Markeplace reported that, “Every province, aside from Quebec and New Brunswick, has a law prohibiting price gouging. But these laws simply state sellers cannot sell goods for prices that “grossly” exceed market prices. There is no federal, provincial or territorial law in Canada limiting price markups on consumer goods during a state of emergency.”

In spite of the COVID-19 fallout for the HVAC/plumbing industry, by all accounts it has rolled along, doing the best it can to supply, install and service equipment; at times at some risk to the professionals responsible for getting things done. They haven’t had the luxury of working from home. With an eye to the future, HVAC engineers are working to ensure when people do return to work, school and entertainment venues, they are as safe as possible.

I look forward to the time when I recount stories of 2020 and 2021, and say “and when there was COVID I was involved in an industry that stepped up, not out.”

Kerry Correction MAY/JUNE 2021 $6.95

From time to time, Content Media Group Inc. makes subscribers’ names available to reputable companies whose products or services may be of interest to readers. If you would like your name excluded from these mailings, please notify the publisher. © Copyright 2021. The contents of this magazine may not be reproduced in any manner without prior written permission of the publisher.

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Also in this issue:

Electric making inroads in van offerings

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In the May/June 2021 issue of Mechanical Business Aaron McMillan was featured as our Road Warrior.

Unfortunately, he was referred to by his nickname in the article. We sincerely apologize for the error.

The corrected article is available in our digital edition (mechanicalbusiness.com/2021/06/14/mayjune-2021/) – please take the time to read it. Aaron attended a high school that offers trades training.

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News

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CIPH presents awards, announces return of CIPHEX West 2021 The Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIHP) held its 89th annual general meeting virtually on June 15, drawing more than 200 attendees from nine provinces.

Bill Hooper has been The board later formally announced that elected CIPH chair.

CIPHEX West 2021 will take place in person November 3 and 4 at the Pacific Coliseum of the PNE in Vancouver, BC. The association presented its new board of directors for the 2021/2022 year, and elected Bill Hooper as its 74th chair. Hooper is regional sales manager – Atlantic, Uponor Ltd., located in Quispamsis, NB. Hooper, who has been in the industry since 1989, was a past president of the CIPH Maritime Region and past chair of the Canadian Hydronics Council (CHC).

A number of awards were highlighted during the AGM, including CIPH’s new Golden Leaf Award, presented to Bradford White Canada Inc. The award recognizes a manufacturer or master distributor supporting the efforts of sales agencies.

Wade Peterson, vice-president of sales and marketing for HeatLink Group Inc., received the 2021 Award of Merit from CIPH’s CHC. The meeting closed with keynote speaker Chantal Hébert, national affairs writer with the Toronto Star and a L’Actualité columnist, offering her take on current Canadian politics.

The next CIPH AGM will be held in person June 29, 2022 at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in Jasper, AB. For additional coverage see mechanicalbusiness.com. ciph.com

Canada and BC invest in green infrastructure projects The federal government and the province of British Columbia are funding construction of a new Passive House certified building in Castlegar, BC and a biomass energy centre in the District of Sicamous. The government of Canada is investing more than $1.7 million in the projects through the Green Infrastructure stream of the Investing in Canada Plan, while the province will contribute more than $1.1 million. infrastructure.gc.ca gov.bc.ca

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Feds launch Canada Greener Homes Grant The government of Canada’s new Canada Greener Homes Grant will invest $2.6 billion over seven years.

It is expected to help up to 700,000 homeowners across Canada access grants of up to $5,000 for energy efficient retrofits to primary residences, and up to $600 to help with the cost of home energy evaluations. To be eligible, homeowners must first register a pre-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation from a list of eligible retrofits, schedule a post-retrofit evaluation, and apply for reimbursement.

Eligible home improvements and upgrades include adding insulation, sealing air leaks, improving heating and cooling systems by adding equipment such as heat pumps, and purchasing renewable energy systems. The grant is retroactive to December 1, 2020. nrcan.gc.ca

Technical Safety BC launches free ammonia safety course Technical Safety BC has introduced a free online Ammonia Safety Awareness Program designed for owners, managers and supervisors of facilities with ammonia refrigeration. The program addresses knowledge gaps in the industry, and was developed due to the increase in ammonia-related incidents, including the 2017 tragedy at the Fernie Memorial Arena in Fernie, BC. Since the Fernie tragedy, there have been 66 reported instances assessed, resulting in 29 hazards and 37 incidents. Participants will learn the basics of the ammonia plant life cycle, including industry best practices, and why and how equipment and systems should be maintained to prevent safety hazards. Downloadable tools and resources are available. The course is a combination of online self-paced learning, plus live instructor-led webinars. technicalsafetybc.ca

Sainte-Croix, QC-based BibbySte-Croix is celebrating 100 years of business. The company manufactures municipal road castings and cast iron drain, waste and vent pipe for plumbing systems. It has almost 500 employees and foundries in Saint-Ours and Sainte-Croix, QC. Congratulations!

Section 10 of the 15-year Zibi project.

Photo: Hydro Ottawa and Zibi

Bibby-Ste-Croix celebrates 100th anniversary

Ottawa’s planned Zibi community receives $23-million investment

bibby-ste-croix.com

The federal government and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities are investing $23 million in Hydro Ottawa to create a district energy (DE) system for Ottawa-Gatineau’s new Zibi waterfront development. The DE system, designed by engineering firm Eequinox, will allow the carbon-neutral waterfront development to create the National Capital Region’s first net-zero community on 34 acres of brownfield lands between Ottawa and Gatineau’s urban core. The DE system will remove greenhouse gas emissions from building heating and cooling operations by leveraging locally generated hydroelectricity, river-coupled cooling from the Ottawa River, and waste industrial heat from a tissue manufacturing plant.

New automated COI process for BPV device owners The Technical Standards and Safety Authority in Ontario has implemented an automated process for certificates of inspection (COIs) for boiler and pressure vessel device owners. Device owners can use the new portal to renew their COI after an inspection by an insurance company or inspection agency. tssa.org

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CAF-FCA report shows continued high demand for apprentices The latest labour market report from the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum (CAF-FCA), Apprentice Demand in Red Seal Trades, looks at apprenticeship trends and projections to assess future demand and supply for trade certification. It predicts that from 2021 to 2025 Canada will require “an estimated 163,785 new journeypersons to sustain workforce certification levels across 56 Red Seal trades,” and “375,026 apprentices to meet the anticipated demand.” The report also says supply may be limited in the short term due to fewer new registrations during the pandemic.

Rheem wins gold at 2021 Edison Awards Rheem has won gold at the 2021 Edison Awards in the Sustainability category for its ProTerra line of residential water heaters. The ProTerra hybrid line of residential water heaters, introduced in Canada in October 2020, was one of four gold-winning products recognized Rheem’s ProTerra in the Sustainability category. rheem.ca

Feds provide funding for energy advisor training

caf-fca.org

HRAI plans virtual AGM The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) has announced that its 2021 annual general meeting will take place online on September 23, 2021. hrai.ca

The federal government says it will support innovative projects that recruit, train and mentor young people as energy advisors with $10 million in funding over the next five years. The initiative will focus on projects in under-represented groups and on underserved areas. Projects will be selected in August, and agreements will be in place by September and October 2021. nrcan.com

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08.21

News

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Ontario to fund youth training for construction sector jobs Ontario will invest close to $2 million to provide 150 underprivileged youth with skilled trades training and jobs in Ottawa, Hamilton and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The 10-week pre-apprenticeship program, led by Etobicoke, ON-based Brook Restoration Ltd., is offered to youth aged 19 to 29, including those who are living in community housing or who are homeless. Funding for the initiative comes through the province’s $115-million Skills Development Fund. The program includes two weeks of in-class learning, and eight weeks of on-the-job training with Brook Restoration and other businesses in Hamilton, Ottawa and the GTA. The first round of training began May 24, 2021, with two additional cohorts starting September 13, 2021 and January 17, 2022. ontario.ca

U.S. launches campaign to promote smart diagnostic tools Energy efficiency stakeholders in Canada will hopefully take notice of the U.S. Department of Energy’s new campaign to promote the use of smart diagnostic tools by HVAC contractors. Because these detection systems can be expensive, the Residential HVAC Smart Diagnostic Tools campaign will address system performance at a much lower cost. The campaign includes an online platform offering contractors technical assistance, resources, best practices, case studies, reviews of smart diagnostic tools, utility incentive programs and more. The initiative is implemented by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

Omar Salaymeh, CEO of Kitchener, ON-based Bonfire Interactive Ltd., has received the Governor General’s Meritorious Service Medal (civil division). The medal is part of the Meritorious Service Decorations, which honour Canadians who make exceptional contributions to the country. Salaymeh, who is a mechanical engineer, was recognized for his work to co-found Jumpstart Refugee Talent in 2016, a non-profit organization that helps skilled refugees find work in Canada. jumpstartrefugee.ca

Report reveals construction firms are low adopters of innovation A report released by the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) and KPMG reveals that Canadian construction companies have been slow to embrace innovation. Construction in a digital world also identifies opportunities for businesses to adapt their digital strategy. At the same time, the report notes that construction companies which embrace digital transformation “will achieve greater efficiency, generate substantial productivity gains, improve onsite safety for workers, reduce the cost of goods sold, and modernize operating models.” Opportunities for construction companies exist in technology such as predictive analytics, building information modelling (BIM), wireless monitoring and autonomous equipment, and augmented reality (AR). cca-aac.com

ASHRAE and Ultraviolet Association form MOU

pnnl.gov

Navien marks 15 years in North America Navien Inc. is celebrating two milestones this year – 15 years in North America and 43 years of business for parent company KD Navien, which is based in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do province, South Korea. Navien’s North American headquarters is in Irvine, CA, with additional training centres in Woodbridge, ON and Moorestown, NJ. navieninc.com

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Omar Salaymeh receives Governor General’s medal

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ASHRAE and the International Ultraviolet Association (IUVA) have formed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to formalize their working partnership. The MOU outlines how the organizations will work together to promote research and new technology for more sustainable building. Areas of collaboration may include research, advocacy, joint conferences, communication, education and professional development, and technical activities. iuva.org ashrae.org

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News

www.mechanicalbusiness.com

BC workers eligible for COVID-related paid sick leave

Humber College grows its skilled trades centre, adds more accessible training

British Columbia is mandating paid sick leave for employees forced to take time off from work due to COVID-19. If employers do not have a sick leave program, the government will reimburse them up to $200 a day for workers’ wages. Employers can apply for the province’s reimbursement program through Worksafe BC. The program is available for sick leave taken from May 20, 2021 onwards, and runs until December 31, 2021.

Renovations at Humber’s Skilled This fall Humber College’s Trades Centre will include the Centre for Skilled Trades and addition of 16,620 sq. ft. of space, Technology will break ground allowing another 500 students to on a planned $9.5-million attend classes annually. expansion that will take three years to complete. The expansion will add 16,620 sq. ft. to the centre, which is located on the school’s North Campus in Toronto.

As well as adding space for another 500 students, the renovation will allow the centre to add alternative learning tools such as simulated worksites, virtual reality and augmented reality; create multi-purpose classrooms; and remove accessibility or gender inequalities that prevent students from receiving training.

worksafebc.com

Hydronics Conference returns The Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIPH) and the Canadian Hydronics Council (CHC) have announced that the postponed Canadian Hydronics Conference will take place September 27 and 28, 2022 in Saskatoon, SK. The last CHC hydronics conference took place in Ottawa in 2019. ciph.com

humber.ca

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Munch’s Supply buys Marks Supply/Watermarks Munch’s Supply has acquired Kitchener, ON-based Marks Supply/Watermarks, a wholesaler with nine wholesale branches and three Watermarks Kitchen and Bath Boutiques in southwestern Ontario.

Munch’s Supply is based in Hillside, IL and is a wholesale distributor of HVAC equipment, parts and supplies. munchsupply.com

TML now has 13 locations in Ontario Peterborough, ON-based TML Supply Company has added two more Ontario locations. The company’s new Pickering location will serve Pickering, Ajax, Oshawa and the surrounding area, and will be managed by Dustin Lindsay. Meanwhile, its Kitchener location, managed by Brad Bulmer, will service Cambridge, KitchenerWaterloo and the surrounding area. Both locations will offer TML’s full product lineup, while the Pickering location will also include a custom sheet metal shop. tmlsupply.com

Jefcom new Roth rep in Ontario Syracuse, NY-based Roth North America has announced that Jefcom Consultants Inc. is now representing Roth radiant and plumbing lines in Ontario. Jefcom provides hydronic heating solutions for commercial and residential buildings, equipment and training. Sharp Environmental will continue to represent the Roth DWT in Ontario and Quebec. jefcom.ca roth-northamerica.com

The Arcticom Group enters Canadian market with three acquisitions The Arcticom Group (TAG) has purchased three Canadian HVAC/R companies: Vancouver’s CT Control Temp Ltd. and IHM Mechanical Ltd., and CTR Refrigeration & Food Store Equipment Ltd., located in Calgary and Edmonton. Walnut Creek, CA-based TAG offers design and installation of commercial and industrial HVAC and refrigeration systems, maintenance programs, repairs, retrofits, remodels and more. thearcticomgroup.com

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IPEX celebrates the opening of its distribution centre in Winnipeg.

IPEX enhances Canadian distribution centres IPEX has opened distribution centres (DC) in Winnipeg, MB and Dartmouth, NS replacing two smaller locations in each area. The Winnipeg DC is a new build that increases the site’s warehousing and onsite yard space. The Dartmouth DC has doubled in size, and now also has yard space for additionall storage. ipexna.com

Franklin r Electric acquires New Aqua Franklin Electric Co., Inc. has finalized its purchase of Indianapolis, IN-based New Aqua, LLC and its subsidiaries.

New Aqua is a 60-year-old business with more than 230 employees, offering residential and commercial water treatment and drinking water equipment under the brand names Aqua Systems and Hellenbrand. franklin-electric.com

The Master Group grows Ontario g distribution network Boucherville, QC-based The Master Group has bought Sudbury, ON’s Gagnon & Associates Inc. Gagnon specializes in HVAC solutions for commercial applications in the industrial, institutional and environmental sectors across Northern Ontario. master.ca

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Movers & Shakers www.mechanicalbusiness.com

Carrier finalizes Guangdong Giwee Group purchase

ASC Engineered g Solutions buys Trenton Pipe Nipple Co.

Carrier has finalized its acquisition of a controlling stake of China’s Guangdong Giwee Group (Giwee Group) and its subsidiaries, including Guangdong Chigo Heating & Ventilation Equipment Co., Ltd. Giwee Group produces variable refrigerant flow (VRF), modular chiller and light commercial air conditioning equipment and systems. carrier.com

ASC Engineered Solutions has acquired Federalsburg, MD-based Trenton Pipe Nipple Company, makers of brass and stainless nipples, fittings and valves.

Commerce, CA-based ASC manufactures precision engineered pipe connections, valves, support solutions and related services. asc-es.com

Right Time purchases Comfort Masters St. Catharines, ON-based Right Time Group of Companies has acquired Comfort Masters Ltd. Established in 2005, Oshawa, ON-based Comfort Masters offers residential HVAC, air quality and hot water services throughout Southern Ontario and the Simcoe and Muskoka regions. This is the seventh acquisition by Right Time, which now has 14 locations and more than 600 employees in Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta and British Columbia. The company’s recent purchases include Edmonton’s Romaniuk Heating and Oakville, ON’s AtlasCare. right-time.ca

Pace Solutions takes over Glengarry Chemicals Delta, BC-based Pace Solutions has acquired Toronto’s Glengarry Chemicals Ltd., which will now be known as Glengarry Solutions. Glengarry is a water treatment servicer with more than 700 customers throughout Ontario. With this acquisition Pace Solutions now has eight water treatment and energy conservation divisions in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. pacesolutions.com

Virtual, in-person or hybrid?

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Bartle & Gibson named authorized distributor for Leviton Edmonton’s Bartle & Gibson Co. is now an authorized stocking distributor for Leviton Canada’s entire line of Leviton load centres. PointeClaire, QC-based Leviton provides wireless smart home technology and electrical wiring devices including load centres such as breaker boxes and panels. leviton.com bartlegibson.com

Belimo partners p r with Bidtracerr, collaborates with BrainBox Belimo has formed a partnership with Bidtracer, a sales, operations and channel management tool for product manufacturers. Belimo’s full product range is now available on Bidtracer, with product specifications and technical data. Customers are able to select Belimo products for estimating projects, service agreements and repairs. The system also offers modules for managing bids, generating proposals and sharing documents. In other Belimo news, BrainBox AI and Belimo Explore have announced an ecosystem collaboration in a series of undisclosed commercial buildings across North America and Asia Pacific. belimo.com/ca brainboxai.com r bidtracer.com

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08.21

People in the news www.mechanicalbusiness.com Weil-McLain Canada has hired Lorenzo Rigatti as territory sales manager for central Ontario. Rigatti will support contractors in the Greater Toronto Area and surrounding region.

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Burlington, ON-based Aqua-Tech Sales and Marketing Inc. has made two additions to its team. Laura Monster (1) will join the customer service representative group and provide support for Aqua-Tech’s operations, sales and wholesale distribution partners.

Ryan Theisen (2), who is a certified hydronic designer, joins the technical support representative group to support Lochinvar products across Canada for inside and outside sales reps, wholesale distribution partners and service contractors.

Riley Archer is now vicepresident of sales and marketing for Aspen Manufacturing.

He will be responsibility for all commercial activities, including sales, marketing, customer service and pricing.

2

Goodman Canada has named Guillaume Talbot (1) as territory sales manager for Quebec, and Philippe Barriault (2) as branch manager at the company’s Quebec City location.

The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) has hired Chelsea Goberdhan as government relations specialist for Ontario. She will be focused on the government relations needs of HRAI members in Ontario, especially contractors.

1

Ritchie Engineering Company has hired Anup Shetty as project manager.

20

M e c h a n i c a l

2

3

Duravit has realigned its North American business development department with the promotion of three key personnel. Nina Allen (1) has been promoted to business development manager, North America.

Galen Stump (2) has been named vicepresident of business development & technical sales, and Bryan Huie (3) has been promoted to technical sales manager.

B u s i n e s s

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Ray Newstead has joined The ECCO Group as vice-president of the Canadian division of the new ECCO sales and distribution business unit. Newstead will be responsible for overseeing Canadian operations, including ECCO Supply and the national accounts sales team.

Wes Sisco has joined IBC Technologies USA as national training manager. He will be based out of IBC’s U.S. headquarters in Lawnside, NJ, and will be managing IBC's training strategy, overseeing its implementation and assessing its outcomes.

Marnie Roll has been promoted to HVAC Controls sales leader (BPL) for Johnson Controls, with a primary focus on Canadian markets through the company’s field business.

Danfoss has named Vikas Anand vicepresident of sales in North America for its new Climate Solutions division.

The Danfoss Climate Solutions segment was formed earlier this year through the merger of the Danfoss Cooling and Danfoss Heating businesses.

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HIGH-PERFORMANCE HVAC

CLEARING THE

AIR

P

erhaps haps it’s a symptom off the the times, tim imes es, but es but I have have been bee een n attending to a rash of comfort complaints that have come through the new home warranty program in houses less than three years old. The complaints are usually expressed as rooms that are too hot, too cold, stuffy or stale. These are in homes that have gone through the building permit process and have had a proper heat loss, heat gain and duct design done. The resolution is often a pretty simple adjustment of fan speeds and a balance of flows.

It is interesting to note that in five of the last six houses I attended, the homeowners, as they recounted their concerns, very quickly and emphatically stated, “It’s not

Comfort complaints in homes less than three years old often have a simple solution. because I haven’t changed the filter.” It seems they were told repeatedly by every contractor they called to resolve the issue that the problem was most likely due to a dirty or restrictive filter. Of course, this is a simple, first order item to check. In fact, these homeowners had made some really good decisions, or at least their builder and HVAC contractor had made good choices.

Let’s review what are considered good choices when it comes to filtration in modern forced air ducted heating and cooling systems.

Standard 52.2 Composite Average Particle Size Efficiency, % in Size Range, ␮m Minimum Efficiency Range 1 Range 2 Range 3 Reporting Value 0.30 to 1.0 1.0 to 3.0 3.0 to 10.0 (MERV) 1

n/a

n/a

E3 < 20

Aavg < 65

2

n/a

n/a

E3 < 20

65 ⱕ Aavg < 70

3

n/a

n/a

E3 < 20

70 ⱕ Aavg < 75

4

n/a

n/a

E3 < 20

75 ⱕ Aavg

5

n/a

n/a

20 ⱕ E3

n/a

6

n/a

n/a

35 ⱕ E3

n/a

7

n/a

n/a

50 ⱕ E3

n/a

8

n/a

20 ⱕ E2

70 ⱕ E3

n/a

9

n/a

35 ⱕ E2

75 ⱕ E3

n/a

10

n/a

50 ⱕ E2

80 ⱕ E3

n/a

11

20 ⱕ E1

65 ⱕ E2

85 ⱕ E3

n/a

12

35 ⱕ E1

80 ⱕ E2

90 ⱕ E3

n/a

13

50 ⱕ E1

85 ⱕ E2

90 ⱕ E3

n/a

14

75 ⱕ E1

90 ⱕ E2

95 ⱕ E3

n/a

15

85 ⱕ E1

90 ⱕ E2

95 ⱕ E3

n/a

16

95 ⱕ E1

95 ⱕ E2

95 ⱕ E3

n/a

Gord Cooke

22

Average Arrestance, %

M e c h a n i c a l

The notion that the furnace filter is just to keep the equipment itself clean is long gone.

There are ample choices available now that can legitimately offer more for homeowners without compromising the airflow performance of the system. To make the right choice, a review of the most common industry metric for filtration effectiveness is warranted. That metric is described in the ASHRAE Standard 52.2 Method of Testing General Ventilation Air-Cleaning Devices for Removal Efficiency by Particle Size. The metric is distilled down to a single number, known as the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value or MERV rating for a filter. Arriving at this number is a measure of a filter’s initial efficiency across 12 dust particle sizes averaged down into three particle size ranges to determine the single MERV rating. The chart attached shows the particle size ranges and corresponding effectiveness levels required to achieve a specific MERV rating. For example, a MERV 8 filter would be expected to remove more than 70 per cent of particles in a

Gord is a professional engineer who has spent 20 years helping builders and HVAC contractors implement innovative technologies into high-performance homes. He has particular expertise in IAQ and airflow management in houses, and can be contacted at gordc@buildingknowledge.ca.

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The next consideration is the impact the filter may have on airflow of the heating and cooling system. To reinforce the homeowner’s decision, I immediately measure the pressure drop across the filter, both the one in place at the time of the visit and even a new or dirty filter that happens to be nearby. Many HVAC designers are now allowing for a filter pressure drop of 0.1 in. to 0.15 in.

(15 Pa to 37.5 Pa) of external static pressure in their designs. I fully appreciate that allowance may not have been made in older duct systems. However, given how easy and quick it is to measure the pressure drop across a filter, it should be a routine part of every site visit.

All three of those MERV 13 filters were nicely between 0.1 in. and 0.15 in. static. They were each four-inch thick pleated media filters. Two of the other houses had MERV 8 filters, one labelled, I had to look up the rating for the other. Both of those MERV 8 filters were one-inch thick media filters purchased at a big box store by the homeowners. One of those filters was just over 0.1 in. static and the other was just over 0.25 in., even though it was a clean filter. I showed that homeowner the results and explained how to shop for a better choice in the future, even though I was able to confirm the filter was not adversely affecting the total airflow of the system by more than a few cubic feet per minute (CFM). This is due in large part to the benefit of having the electronically commutated style fan motors or equivalent that are effective at overcoming higher levels of static.

Finding a balance

size range of 3.0 to 10.0 microns and at least 20 per cent of particles in the 1.0- to 3.0-micron range but no expectation for removal of particles in the 0.3- to 1.0-micron range.

Compare these effectiveness ranges to air quality industry objectives to reduce exposure to particles of 2.5 microns, or less, in size. This size range, often referred to as PM2.5, is of concern because particles of this size are respirable and typically make their way through the nose, the throat and deep into the lungs. The Government of Canada recommends “Indoor levels of PM2.5 should be kept as low as possible” and Health Canada recommends “that indoor PM2.5, at a minimum, be lower than PM2.5 outside the home.”

A MERV 13 filter with an expectation of removing 85 per cent of particles in the 1.0- to 3.0-micron range may be of more interest to clients concerned about the quality of air in their home, office or school. Indeed, of the six houses I attended, three of them had filters clearly labelled as being rated at MERV 13. Not all filter manufacturers choose to label their filters to this metric. Professional contractors should have the resources on hand to accurately communicate the performance effectiveness against particle sizes for filters they choose to sell.

There are at least three ways to help your customer address the airflow resistance of filters and find a nice balance between filtration effectiveness and air flow delivery. Start by assessing whether the proper filter size has been used. I couldn’t find pressure drop labels on any filters I looked at in three retail centres, but I was able to find data online from a leading manufacturer. It lists pressure drops at two different face velocities, 300 feet per minute (FPM) and 500 FPM. This is a good hint to selecting the proper filter size. For example, a 16 in. x 25 in. filter has a face area of 2.78 sq. ft. at a face velocity of 300 FPM. The air flow would be 834 CFM and at 500 FPM face velocity the air flow would be 1,390 FPM. Thus, a 16 in. x 25 in. filter is ideally suited for a two- to three-ton system (assuming 400 CFM per ton). It was no surprise then when I measured a pressure drop of over 0.3 in. across a 16 in. x 25 in. filter on a four-ton system. My recommendation was to modify the return duct to allow for at least a 20 in. x 25 in. filter. It worked out nicely, since the only way to do it was to create a flair out in the return duct drop and install the filter in a horizontal drop. This is a much better location for a filter, as it gets the filter away from that

M e c h a n i c a l

B u s i n e s s

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23

HIGH-PERFORMANCE HVAC Cont’d from pg. 23

sharp restrictive bend right at the mouth of the fan and provides two pressure drop relief measures in one: a larger face area and a less restrictive location. The homeowner also noted it made the filter easier to change as well.

Another measure is for you as the professional to use a pressure gauge to test three of four filter options on behalf of your client.

I did this just last evening for a client whose daughter recently had a severe asthma attack and they are scrambling to ensure the air in their home is as healthy as possible. I took over five filters, from three manufacturers, ranging from MERV 8 to 13. We chose a MERV 11 that showed a pressure drop at cooling speed of 0.2 in.

That was manageable for their system in the short term while they make other changes to the house and the HVAC system over the next year or so.

Back in business I recently came across an HVAC contractor who works with a builder of about 40 highperformance homes per year. The contractor’s bid included the cost of four four-inch pleated MERV 11 furnace filters, as well as filter replacements for the ERV. They would provide two filter changes per year over the two-year new home warranty commitment. A filter-change reminder on the customer’s smart thermostat links back to the contractor, who brings two filters to the annual service. The contractor is back in the filter business, which with the growing interest in air quality, is a smart move.

24

M e c h a n i c a l

The filter experiment Knowing that higher MERV rated filters will capture more particles and become dirtier quicker, adding surface area by using deeper four- or five-inch thick pleated filters should increase service life. I was disappointed to find that manufacturers of commonly sold filters don’t publish surface areas of their filters, so I purchased three filters and tore them apart to measure the expanded surface area. I was pleasantly surprised to find the expanded surface area of the MERV 11 filters was five to six times that of the nominal face area of a 16 in. x 25 in. filter. It lends credibility to guidance that these filters only need to be changed once or twice a year. The one-inch MERV 11 filter was only $4 more expensive than the MERV 8 option and can be considered to be a cost-effective choice.

Filter Descriptions

Efficiency Rating

Expanded Surface Area

Listed/Measured Pressure Drop

1 in. pleated, 16 in. x 25 in.

MERV 8

4.68 sq. ft.

0.13 in. w.c.

1 in. pleated, 16 in. x 25 in.

MERV 11

14.75 sq. ft.

0.21 in. w.c.

4 in. pleated, 16 in. x 25 in.

MERV 11 (assumed from manufacturer’s data)

17.53 sq. ft.

0.23 in. w.c.

The face area of a standard, non-pleated 16 in. x 25 in. filter is 2.78 sq. ft.

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INDOOR AIR QUALITY

By B r i a n F l e c k

THE CASE FOR INVESTING IN THE AIR WE

BREATHE H

ere we are, 16 months after the world recognized that the SARS-CoV2 virus is a pandemic and we are still struggling to believe it and react. We are still hoping that vaccines will quickly eradicate this, and we will return to normal. There is a reluctance to admit that COVID-19 spreads through the air in microscopic drops that may stay aloft for hours and that a small amount of the virus landing in your lungs is all that is needed to cause infection.

Like it or not, SARS-CoV2 is a rapidly mutating virus like other coronaviruses for which we have not found a permanent definitive vaccine. It seems likely it is going to be a pesky endemic problem that will challenge us for quite some time. The good news is that we have a lot of tools we can employ to combat transmission. If we make an effort to combat COVID-19 by improving indoor air quality (IAQ), we will reap many other benefits along the way. We have an amazing opportunity to invest in our future health right now.

Given that SARS-Cov2 is here to stay and is likely aerosol, indoor air in our built environment should be a priority.

Discussions of the economic benefits of improving IAQ are numerous and not just a recent fad. In richer countries, people are spending around 90 per cent of their time indoors breathing air supplied by their built surroundings. This means we must find a way to reduce the rising problem of any kind of inhaled matter that is not good for us, which includes allergens, plastic particles, fossil fuel emissions, wildfire smoke, mould spores, viruses and bacteria.

But as is the case in the field of public health, stakeholders in building infrastructure are somehow reluctant to accept the strong evidence that spending on improved IAQ is more of an investment than a cost.This could well be because the global benefits

26

M e c h a n i c a l

of improved IAQ are not returned directly to whoever bears the cost of infrastructure investment. Infrastructure owners are often different than the people occupying buildings and are hesitant to make an additional investment, especially when they have fiduciary duties to minimize cost and maximize return.

This is where I believe a change in the market is coming. We have been shocked by the unpleasant effects COVID-19 has on our lives, our economies, and our sense of security. Meanwhile infrastructure owners are seeing risk to the value of their infrastructure and urgently need their investments to hold value. Finally, legal liability looms. History has shown if proof arises that people of influence ignored the evidence and failed to do the right thing, as was their duty, legal penalties could be disastrous.

What’s more, the cost of doing nothing could have a chain reaction through our economy and slow down our ability to remain competitive in the global economy. We have seen that the failure to take this crisis seriously has put many Western countries behind, weighing on our economy and our reputations as advanced scientific nations.

Our collective future may not be the one we were imagining before March 2020, but it doesn’t have to be filled with anxiety.

Confidence, health and a strong economy are ours to achieve and enjoy if we avoid the error of procrastinating any longer in taking action to improve IAQ. Long-term investment reaps rewards for the wise and ethical.

B u s i n e s s

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Smart building technology will make it impossible to hide poor IAQ.

AIR STRATEGIES MATTER In Canada alone, additional costs of sick leave attributed to poor IAQ is estimated at between $1.4 billion and $2.8 billion to Canadian business and drastically affects employee health and productivity. Employers lose valuable resources as a result of absenteeism, presenteeism (coming to work sick), decreased productivity and disability.

In turn, the government and taxpayers pay for this poor workplace air quality through increased health-care costs from sick employees and disability payments.

It has been estimated that improving IAQ in commercial buildings could increase labour productivity by $7.5 billion (Standards Council of Canada, 2017), not to mention what it means for quality of life.

Then there is the powerful trend to building automation and Internet of Things sensing. Soon indoor air instrumentation will make it impossible to hide poor IAQ and individuals will have their own ways to measure air quality and become more discerning “breathers” of the air supplied to them. There is a rush on now to be the software and information platform that allows individuals to have agency and control over what they breathe.

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cont’d from pg. 26

SOLUTIONS ARE SIMPLE AND NOT COSTLY Clean air relies primarily on providing a good rate of clean air delivery to all the spaces in the built environment. This is what mechanical engineers and air handling experts know well. Filters have a well-established rating system; MERV being the minimum efficiency rating value or HEPA being the high-efficiency particulate air. Having clean air can be as easy as ensuring all fresh and recycled air passes through a MERV-13 filter with no leaks or bypasses.

Increasing fresh air can be inexpensive if heat recovery systems are used in air handling. Effective killing of viruses and bacteria is possible with ultraviolet light, which does not produce dangerous ozone when narrow band light is used.

The trickier problems arise in areas where the air changes per hour (ACH) designed for heating, humidity and comfort is not enough to clean the air fast enough when there is crowding, high risk emissions (large numbers of infected individuals) or a preponderance of highly sensitive people. This could be quite challenging in buildings with heating systems that do not provide ventilation air. Air purifying systems can provide a solution with highly filtered or UV purified air at a high flow rate. This market is taking off and is highly unregulated.

Investors in these technologies should be opting for systems supported by scientific evidence and regulated professionals. Facility managers need to look for information written by experts in the field and find the solution that works for their space.

28

M e c h a n i c a l

B u s i n e s s

0 8 . 2 1

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Brian Fleck Ph.D., P.Eng., ICD.D is a professor in the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Engineering − Mechanical Engineering Department. He is the author of an introductory guide to air purification available at puraairpurification.com.

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0 8 . 2 1

Digital service platform

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B u s i n e s s

0 8 . 2 1

31

REFRIGERATION

SUBCOOLING LOW TEMPERATURE REFRIGERATION CIRCUITS S

ubcooling is simply the process of reducing the temperature of the refrigerant below its saturation temperature. Natural subcooling takes place as the cool ambient temperature or cool fluid temperature enters the condenser and removes additional heat from the already condensed liquid.

Mechanical subcooling is a concept that has been applied for so many years that it is now used quite extensively. Supermarkets are a great example of this because they require both medium and low temperature refrigeration, and the medium temperature system can provide refrigeration more efficiently than the low temperature system.

Let’s look at the effects of subcooling a low temperature or LT system using a medium temperature or MT system. Due to the lower compression ratio, MT units generally provide refrigeration more efficiently than LT units.

If we compare the values in Figure 1, we can see two systems that use the same compressors operate at significantly different capacity, power and EER levels.

The MT system has a capacity that is 249 per cent greater than the LT system. Since the power increase is only 80.8 per cent. The resulting increase in EER is 93.3 per cent The main reasons for these differences in performance is the compression ratio that the compressors operate at along with the specific volume of the refrigerant entering the compressors.

Of course, the specific volume entering the LT compressors is greater than the MT compressors.

FOUR COMPRESSOR LOW TEMPERATURE RACK. The specific volume of the refrigerant entering the compressors in these two scenarios is 2.32 ft 3 /lb and 0.94 ft 3 /lb, respectively.

So, in this case, the specific volume of the vapour entering the LT compressors is approximately 148 per cent greater.

Now let us look at how we can use the same MT circuit (see Figure 2 on the page 34) by adding another compressor to subcool the liquid feeding the LT expansion valves, and compare the performance of this added subcooling compressor capacity to the additional performance that we gain in the LT circuit. Afterwards, we will summarize the results.

By adding the semi-hermetic compressor, the capacity of the medium temperature system increased to 800 kBTU/H. The additional 81 kBTU/H is available to provide liquid subcooling of the liquid in the LT system before it reaches the expansion valves. To accomplish this,

Figure 1

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Phil Boudreau

32

M e c h a n i c a l

Phil is the Ontario sales manager for Bitzer Canada Inc. and provides training and technical support for Bitzer’s clientele. He can be contacted at pboudreau@bitzer.ca.

B u s i n e s s

0 8 . 2 1

Canadian refillable cylinders available

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REFRIGERATION

cont’d from pg. 32

Figure 2

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!

" " " * Note: Percentages are the difference in TOTAL capacity, power and efficiency between the system with subcooling and the one without.

a brazed-plate heat exchanger (BPHE) is typically used. The BPHE can be installed on either the LT or the MT system.

However, by installing it on the LT rack, the overall LT refrigerant charge should be less since the liquid line does not have to be piped over to the MT system and then back to the LT system.

If the semi-hermetic compressor operates at the same SST as the other four compressors on the MT system, it still follows that one of the compressors should be equipped so that it has a high-capacity range. In this case, the capacity control can be applied to both the MT load and the LT subcooling load simultaneously.

With the MT system carrying the additional 81 kBTU/H, capacity of the LT system has increased by approximately the same amount. Also, the EER of the LT system increased from 4.89 to 6.69. This represents an efficiency increase of 34.8 per cent. However, the MT system now draws additional energy to provide the additional cooling in the LT circuit. Note the input power of the MT system increased from 76.1 kW to 84.5 kW. This represents an increase of 11 per cent which is a very good trade-off.

An electronic expansion valve is recommended for the BPHE. It is very important that this valve is loaded up as much as possible and not too large. Additionally, by operating the BPHE at a higher temperature difference, it is possible to achieve good stability of the subcooler circuit.

If we compare the total energy efficiency ratios of both the LT and MT groups with and without the additional subcooling load on the MT system, we can see that the EER has increased from 7.83 to 8.53 (925 kBTU/H ÷ 118.2 kW = 7.83 and 1,087 kBTU/H ÷ 127.4 kW = 8.53).

This represents a total EER increase of 8.9 per cent.

A LITTLE MORE ON THE TOPIC OF SUBCOOLING Subcooling is higher at the bottom of liquid line drops, in the bottom of vertical pressure vessels.

Some degree of subcooling is needed to offset inevitable pressure losses that take place as the liquid travels from the condenser or receiver to the expansion valve. If there is a possibility for the liquid line to absorb some heat during its travel, then this will tend to reduce the amount of subcooling also.

One thing to point out with this approach is that the additional MT compressor that was added to handle the LT subcooling load operates at +18°F SST since it is piped in parallel with the other 4x semi-hermetic compressors. This could be made even more efficient by allowing the semiVERTICAL RECEIVER BESIDE RACK. hermetic compressor to operate at a higher saturated suction pressure.

Many split-type refrigeration systems include an optional However, this is not quite as simple as it may sound. liquid line kit at the condensing unit. This liquid line kit typically consists of a drier, sight glass and shut-off If the semi-hermetic compressor is configured such that it will valve. However, having a sight glass near the inlet of the operate at the higher SST, that is 35°F or so, then it becomes expansion valve is beneficial in that it makes it possible a dedicated subcooling compressor. Since the subcooler load to ensure there is no flash gas present at this point in the will vary with ambient temperature and the LT load itself, system. Without a sight-glass at this location of course, the dedicated subcooling compressor will have to have a wide one could always compare the temperature of the liquid capacity control range. This of course can be accomplished line to the saturation temperature that corresponds to by using a variable frequency drive or a mechanical capacity the pressure. control approach where the unloading allows the compressor to unload down to as low as 10 per cent.

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Smart plumbing system

PLUMBING

Products

Tankless heater Powered by Keltech, commercial and industrial electric tankless water heating products by Laars Heating Systems feature a PID indefinitely modulating control to hold temperature. The Incoloy 800 low-watt density element enhances durability, heat transfer and scale resistance.

The compact units come in four models and configurations, including wall-mounted, floor mount or skid mount kit options.

www. laars.com

Pipe freezing kit The Cold-Shot pipe freezing kit from General Pipe Cleaners repairs operating water systems without having to drain lines, sprinkler arrays, or hot water systems before cutting pipe or tubing.

The Cold-Shot freezes liquids in steel, copper, cast iron, aluminum, or plastic pipes between 1/8-in. and two-inches in diameter using CO2 in dip-tube cylinders. The lightweight device distributes CO2 evenly around the pipe.

Zurn’s Connected plumbSMART product line allows managers to monitor plumbing remotely, avoiding potential leaks or flooding. Plumbing is integrated into smart building systems using faucets, flush valves and backflow preventers. A series of sensors monitor performance and water use, giving users the ability to alyze data in real tim analyze time.

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PLUMBING

Products

Tankless Water Heater

Hands-free faucet Moen is expanding its line of U by Moen Smart Faucets with additional design options and four new styles: Belfield, KURV, Sinema and Sarai. The line offers users a precise way to control their kitchen faucet, including through voice control, a wave sensor, or through the Moen smart phone app. Voice-activated capabilities include metered dispensing of water, temperature control, and a new wash hands command that pauses for 20 seconds while the user scrubs their hands.

Glow Brand Manufacturing has released its next generation residential tankless water heater, the T150. Available in natural gas and propane, the T150 is a smaller version of the Glow Brand T180. The T150 offers reliable performance, onboard storage, making it an option for new construction or retrofit applications.

www. glowbrand.ca

CO2 Heat Pump Water Heaters Aegis from Lync by Watts is the first line of commercial CO2 heat pump water heaters in North America. Available in air and water source models, Aegis produces hot water up to 185° at air temperatures as low as -4°F with Aegis A (air source) and to 14°F with Aegis W (water source).

The Aegis A air source model is available with an advanced defrost cycle with electric coil to eliminate the need for reverse operations to defrost.

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Outdoor shower Effluent pump The Little Giant 12E Series ½ HP effluent pump from Franklin Electric is suited to deep vault effluent applications, and can be used for dewatering, water transfer and septic wastewater removal. Each pump features a cloverleaf intake, allowing for high flow with ¾-in. diameter solids handling, a rugged cast-iron impeller, and heavy-duty, epoxy-coated cast iron housing. The units are available with either a manual (12E-CIM) or automatic (12E-CIARF) switch option.

Prier Products offers a freezeless outdoor shower. The C-108SH1 is fully compatible with the C-108 hot and cold freezeless hydrant from Prier, and is suited to cottages, pool areas, campgrounds and athletic facilities. The shower kit, which features a stainless-steel riser, is self-draining and comes with everything needed for installation, including a standard MPT shower head and mounting hardware.

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www. franklin-electric.com

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COVER STORY

By Kerry Turner

“I think you’ll see a lot of HVAC companies coming up for sale in the next five to 10 years...”

David Chilton

SHARING A WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE

Photos Cassidy Crowe Photography

It’s been a decade since David Chilton was interviewed by Mechanical Business and since then the television personality, author, speaker and entrepreneur hasn’t slowed down.

When he did the initial interview his book The Wealthy Barber Returns was about to be released, and David was in the whirlwind that went along with that.

“The normal life that goes with book launches, the interviews, the travel and all of the speeches, made it a very busy 12 months, but it didn’t last as long as it normally would with a book like that, because I started doing Dragon’s Den,” says David.

He would remain a panellist on the show for three seasons, juggling the demands of his business and speaking engagements while committing the time and attention to the show that it required.

“Dragon’s Den was all time consuming. If you take it very seriously, if you actually do

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all the due diligences and close a lot of the deals, it’s pretty overwhelming in terms of the demands, in a good way too though. It was fun,” notes David.

“The last few years, I’ve done a lot of different things, I’ve kept speaking, I will always keep that a part of my life. I started a third book, although it’s been coming very slowly. I am trying for the first time to write part-time, and I’m not really very good at that,” says David.

On the sell side of life David’s new business in the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) space, Chilton & Associates, seems to be a perfect fit.

Doggone Smart King Rico joined the Chilton family about 10 years ago. He’s a retriever lab cross and David thinks there may be a couple of other breeds in there too. “We got him at the pound. He is an unbelievable dog. I’m so lucky to have that dog. He’s so smart, it’s absolutely crazy. I’ve had some really good dogs in my life, but he’s so much smarter than any of them. And the funny thing is that it makes the relationship different when they know so many words and they can pick up patterns so quickly. I’ve found owning him not only to be a pleasure, but I’ve actually found it quite fascinating because of his pattern recognition,” muses David.

“We’re on the sell side, that’s gone very well. I enjoy that immensely because it’s matched up to my background so well.

And I love the entrepreneurs in that space. It’s a lot of fun, it’s a lot of detail work, and you have to do a great job. You can’t give people 90 per cent, you have to give them 100 per cent because for them it is the most important transaction of their lives. And you have to honour that by throwing yourself right into it,” emphasizes David.

Chilton & Associates was originally going to be a unique mix of businesses. In the end M&A and memorabilia sales made the cut.

Memorabilia remains a small part of the business. Helping people to sell their businesses has become the core focus for the company.

“We got very charged up about buying businesses, and then during that process we ended up getting really excited about what we could do to help the sell side. We can bring a lot to that table because of my experiences. We could put the right team together and focus on the marketing end of things, and it’s gone really well. I think our clients would testify to that as well,” says David.

With the exception of tech, Chilton & Associates tends to be industry agnostic, dealing with traditional businesses ranging from trades companies, to engineering firms in the $2- to $10-million enterprise value space.

“We have a lot of files right now that are quite a bit larger than that. But that range has been our focus on the marketing end of things. And there are so many of those companies where the owner/entrepreneur is in her or his 60s, in some cases 70s, and if there’s no succession plan in place then obviously they’re looking to sell,” notes David.

“I think you’ll see a lot of HVAC companies coming up for sale in the next five to 10 years, because many of the owners are at an age where they’re going to consider that. And a lot of them have done so well through this construction boom over the last few years.”

Many of these businesses will be sold to an outside interest, rather than remaining in the family. David contends that the younger generation is not so interested in following in their parents’ footsteps.

Positive Viewpoint “The one slight positive that may come out of all this [COVID-19], I think it makes us all less likely to take a lot of the simple pleasures for granted going forward. When we get together with friends for a backyard beer, or when we go to a ball game, or when we do similar types of things, we’re more likely to appreciate them to the extent we should, and realize these really are the best moments in life.” DC

“Interestingly, even when the younger generation is entrepreneuroriented in their hopes and desires, they often want to start something themselves, or they don’t want to necessarily play in the same industry. I think we’re seeing fewer companies passed on generation to generation as a percentage than we used to.”

Case in point, David’s son and daughter have struck out on their own. “They’re both entrepreneurs. Nobody will hire any of us clearly, because we all work for ourselves. But they had no interest in working with me whatsoever. They really didn’t. They wanted to set out on their own and do things that they’d love or were passionate about,” says David.

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COVER STORY

Serendipitous Opportunity As someone who enjoys people and sharing knowledge, David says the sudden cancellation of in person speaking engagements was tough. “I’d spent my whole career on stage at night, or at a charity event, or at a gala, or on a plane. When I wasn’t speaking and I had young kids, I was obviously doing kids’ things. And suddenly you’ve got night after night where you are not doing that. It’s like holy smokes, what do people do at night?”

He still shares his knowledge and receives feedback, albeit in a much more limited way, after a chance encounter with an RBC Wealth Management executive resulted in David writing short articles and producing videos for RBC. Aside from the kudos these generic gems have generated, the videos are an opportunity for him to reach out to people.

“The videos have been so well received that we’re doing nothing but the videos now,” says David. “It sounds corny, but I like when things are impacting. You’re not just doing them and they’re going over well, but they’re actually impacting. We’ve had so many people say ‘Hey, I updated my will,’ or ‘Hey, I did make a few changes,’ or even ‘I didn’t really understand what you’re talking about with trusts, etc.’ I like the fact that they’re actually changing people’s mindsets, making them more open to things, and reminding them they have to get in and take care of things.”

THE

He believes that “COVID helped the pick up on the videos. I think it made us all think ‘Who knows what can happen in life?’ There are dramatic unexpected surprises. And that mentality makes people more likely to pay attention to estate planning and wills.

I think one of the reasons they’ve gone over so well was COVID drawing attention to the fact that stuff happens in life.”

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www.airsolutions.ca

By Fred Bretzke

Fred Bretzke is a full-time pipe trades instructor with SAIT Polytechnic in Calgary. He can be reached at fred.bretzke@sait.ca.

PLUMBING

GETTING A GRIP ON PIP JOINING A

fter years of soldering dering pipe grees with varying degrees of finesse and success, I wondered when a better pipe joining technology would appear, especially in service work where water in the pipes is a problem and pipe freezing isn’t an option. You just can’t get a proper he solder joint or raise the temperature enough to melt solder.

There was an old Red Seal question: how do you solder with water in the line? Thee answer was to push a chunk of bread (fresh soft bread rolled into a ball worked really well) into the line to temporarily absorb the water while you soldered the pipe. After it was soldered, the bread would dissolve in the system and shoot out the taps.

That was all we did for 30 years or so.

You know you are getting old when the only joining methods you’ve done are soldering 50/50 (now used only on DWV, due to the high lead content), ABS gluing, some lead and oakum, and poly-B crimping. More recently, there are new alternative methods with press connection tools as well as heat fusion on thermoplastics.

When manufacturers came up with a new way of pressing metal pipe and fittings together, we took a wait and see stance at SAIT. Our philosophy is to let a product work out its bugs before really using it in class.

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TAKING IT TO THE PEOPLE TAKIN I investi investigated the press method on the internet, and a an da asked questions in the industry and in the cclassroom: cl ass Do you like using a press tool? Is it easy e as to use? Does it hold up to pressure? Are there many leaks from it? Can you use it with the th different d if pipes? Is it used commercially and re es residentially?

Is it expensive? Does it last? Can yo o rent the tools? Would you buy the tools? you W i this method solve leaks with water in it?

Will W il it save time?

Will W hat was said?

What You stil Yo still have to prepare the pipe, deburr and clean afte clean cle after cutting it. Then it’s pretty easy, place the jaw ja ws over th jaws the bead of the fitting and press the trigger and an d it will crimp it. It’s quick and easy. those who responded is that it holds up to The consensus among th Th the same types of pressure as typical soldered copper joints.

I posted an inquiry on my SAIT fourth-year apprentice plumber/gasfitter Facebook site of which there over 600 journey person members.

Most people liked it, except one reporter of a leak who admitted that he either did not properly deburr or crimp it.

The applications for press connections include ½-in. to two-inch PEX, ½-in. to four-inch copper, and ½-in. to four-inch carbon steel and stainless steel. There are different jaws depending on the type of pipe.

0 8 . 2 1

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PLUMBING

Cont’d from pg. 42

Press connections can be used for both residential and commercial applications, however they seem to be used more frequently on commercial new construction.

Press connection tools and fittings can be pricey, also a reason why this technology is more prevalent commercially. In some areas the tools can be rented. Cost is also relative to time saved, which in some cases would make it more affordable.

Do the tools last? Time will tell, but press tools do seem to have decent warranties.

After all this investigating, I went to A&B Plumbing g & Heating’s shop to ask them about press technology a nd to see a demonstration. and A As a service company they are impressed with press technology. Managers Dean Campbell and Brennan Schumaker say that their servicemen use press connection tools daily.

B Io only wish I had one back in the day when I was fixing leaks with solder and a bag of bread.

WHAT SOLDER HAS JOINED TOGETHER LET NO FORCE PUT ASUNDER When I first apprenticed in 1977, the coolest thing to learn was soldering. This marriage of pipes through melting 50/50 (50 per cent tin and 50 per cent lead) solder would begin to melt at 421º F, with a working en solidify at range of 60º F, it would then 0º F 361º F. It was during that 60º ked solvent stage that you worked wonders. Using approximately tely the circumference measurement of the pipe in solder, you would heat up a copper fitting and pipe, which was properly prepared using sand cloth and flux, and the silvery substance of solder would slide into the joint.

I became quite good at soldering. It was like an artt form to me when I used just st the minimum of solder to seal a joint, thereby not wasting g solder and creating a clean joint. ade, I took a After about a year in the trade, couple of years off and wentt tto E Europe. U Upon my return, t I decided to take up plumbing again and the first job I worked on was a multi-unit townhouse structure. They put me on the copper water sizing crew. It just happened they put me with another apprentice who had prepped something like 20 units by assembling the copper pipe (sand clothing, reaming and fluxing). As I was soldering the pipe, many joints did not seem right, the solder just didn’t flow in a way I was used to. I ended up using lots

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of solder and many joints were like solder blobs on the fittings.

Being young and under the gun, I felt I should just get it done. This ended up being very embarrassing, as there were as many as two to three leaks per unit after figured well, if you can’t solder testing them. I fig you shouldn’ shouldn’t be a plumber. It was then that I disc discovered the other apprentice had not sand clothed many fittings and u used too little flux. I resolved to n never let anyone else prep my copper when soldering. cop After that experience I was Aft hired by a service company. hir went with another plumber, Iw Paul Andrews, for a couple Pa of days of field work. He was very entertaining as we drove ver around arou Calgary fixing plumbing problems.

I couldn’t help myself so proble I began to boast about my soldering skills, tryin trying to impress him. Sure enough, the next service call was an old inner city that had a copper leak house in the inne just downstream of the main on the water service ju shutoff. h t ff It was iin a clothes l th cupboard in the basement.

Andrews turned the water off, started to drain the system and prepared the fitting properly. I barged in and said let me solder it. He accepted my offer and handed over the acetylene torch. I commenced to heat up the valve and applied the solder until it melted. I built up a cold bead on it just in case.

He turned the water on and it looked good, until a fine spray of water sprang out the back of the valve.

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Marketing with DOUG MACMILLAN

Digital marketing takes the wheel post COVID-19 I

n the May/June 2021 marketing column five marketing and branding trends were identified that are expected to take root as we emerge from this pandemic. This is the first of a series, which will build out those five trends with more research and insight.

Up first: your digital marketing. It is no secret the pandemic lit a bonfire under consumer digital behaviours, establishing fresh habits that will likely result in permanent shifts in how people find, vet, communicate with, and evaluate businesses.

If digital marketing isn’t sitting in the front seat of your business plan, there is a good chance your company will be left behind. Note that I said business plan and not marketing plan. Marketing, sales, service, quality control, planning and inventory are all interconnected in the mind of the customer. The challenge is continuing to engage with them digitally beyond the call-to-action click by using digital media throughout the entire customer journey.

If you’re already well on this digital path, stick to it.

Keep in mind that due to the immense number of businesses and industries leaning on digital efforts, people are becoming immune to the standard online marketing techniques. The challenge lies not only in reaching people to generate a click or a call, but to create content and strategies that help your company stand out as genuine and service-focused, communityminded and honest.

Ranking of websites and digital ads Let’s get into search engine optimization (SEO). Most people today understand the term: when you search for something in Google, the results that appear are ranked based on a number of factors, many of which are within your control. Search engine optimization is very important for ranking your company’s website or digital ads. By determining which keywords work appropriately, and the algorithms of SEO, you can effectively target digital efforts.

One growth area is voice search, which is becoming more popular as technologies such as Amazon’s Alexa are used more often in the home. SEO will perform quite a bit differently with voice search versus typical keyboard search that tends to rely on only a few words. This is why it’s important to wrap your head around a modern keywords strategy and to incorporate both short and longer, more specific keywords.

Let’s look at an example: If someone is searching for the best plumber to service a septic system north of Toronto, the typical Google search might include “septic plumber Toronto,” however, if you are speaking the inquiry, you’ll use a full sentence: “Alexa, find me plumbers north of Toronto that specialize in septic systems.” SEO simply looks for the best match in both occurrences: adding content to your website such as blogs, and longer search terms in an AdWords campaign, will rank you well with the voice searcher, as well as the keyboard searcher.

If the pandemic has taught us one thing, it is that humans are capable of adapting, and quickly. Some people may never go back to working the way they were, shopping in person, or actually communicating face-to-face. Why is that? It is because they don’t have to. The resources are there for them digitally, so why go back? This demonstrates the importance of having digital marketing tactics in place.

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“It’s nice to hear what people liked about your product or services, but it’s also a great opportunity to adapt in areas that could be improved.”

We’ll wrap with the ultimate digital word-of-mouth tool: online reviews. Reviews and testimonials have been a part of business for years, but with recent digital the way reviews are utilized and the trust behind online reviews has changed. Consumers are relying on the web for insights about products and services in a new manner, trusting complete strangers’ opinions to make decisions.

We could dive into a full column on reviews, but for now here are some key points to help you incorporate reviews into digital marketing efforts moving forward. The first step: ask. Then, engage with positive and negative reviews to create connections and keep trust with customers. It’s nice to hear what people liked about your product or services, but it’s also a great opportunity to adapt in areas that could be improved. Having many positive reviews, primarily through Google, boosts SEO.

Doug MacMillan is president of The Letter M Marketing in Guelph, ON. To reach him, email doug@letterm.ca.

The appeal of the “homemade” Another tool that utilizes SEO is video marketing. As noted last issue, video consumption was up 120 per cent through COVID and many businesses turned to lower budget, personable videos to help communicate genuine messages. This trend may be one of the most important tools in marketing over the next 10 years. Seventy-two per cent of businesses say video has improved their conversion rates. It has also become a way to connect with and educate their audience about products or services, and especially to provide quick tips, demonstrations, customer comfort (meet “Joe” so you’ll recognize him at the door), and so on.

In the old days, creating videos meant big budget. Today, videos need to be well-planned and offer valuable content, but they do not need to be top-quality, professionally edited, expensive videos. In many ways, a “homemade vibe” may prove more genuine and less intimidating. Google ranks sites or feeds with videos higher, partly due to SEO, driving more organic traffic than solely text webpages.

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T E C H N O L O G I E S AUGUST 2021

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CONTENTS A P P L I C A T I O N S

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64

FEATURES

OTHER

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68METERING

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T E C H N O L O G I E S

BOILERS: OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW When is the right time, or the best time, to consider a boiler plant upgrade?

Bob “Hot Rod” Rohr

FEATURES

Targeting actual energy use.

Rick Ellul

70MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR PUMPS: TAP POTENTIAL ENERGY AND COST SAVINGS WITH A PROPER ASSESSMENT As the savings potential associated with optimizing pumping systems generally far exceeds other cost-savings approaches, companies would be wise to embrace the value of assessments and make them a regular part of maintenance.

Michael Licastro

All about circulator couplings.

Paul Erb

DE P AR TME NTS

60-62PRODUCTS ROAD WARRIOR: THE PUZZLE MASTER Eric Cameron, foreman at Nu-Mun Contracting in Calgary, says fitting a mechanical room together is a bit like putting together a puzzle.

Carolyn Cooper

Cover Photo Credit: Dan MacDonald, Purple House Photography

A showcase of hydronic technology.

66JOBSITE JARGON

This contest marks the launch of Jobsite Jargon, a regular MB feature. Match the correct definition or meaning to the terminology you hear in the field and enter for your chance to win.

SYSTEM DESIGN

By Bob “Hot Rod” Rohr

Photo Milani Plumbing Drainage & Heating, Vancouver, BC

Modern boiler plants offer space and performance efficiencies.

Out with the old, in with the new

When is the right time, or the best time to consider a boiler plant upgrade?

I

n many cases, in fact too many cases, boiler plant upgrades happen when there is a catastrophic failure. Rarely does this happen at a convenient time and replacement jobs in this circumstance are often rushed, ill-planned and expensive.

As is the case with all mechanical system installations, a proper load calculation needs to be performed on the building as it stands. The equipment you discover when you show up on the job is often not accurately sized for the application. This can be seen in residential and commercial installations.

The use or occupancy of a building can change, too. In some cases, energy upgrades have been performed that can have a significant impact on replacement equipment sizing.

I would also apply this rationale to domestic hot water (DHW) systems. Over the years, faucet flows have been reduced by water conservation regulations, which affects the amount of DHW required. Pipes, pumps and heating appliances may be able to be downsized on a replacement job. Knowing this allows you to show the building owner your professionalism and save replacement costs as well as ongoing energy costs.

Use this bid and proposal step to educate the customer on an appropriate design and component selection. Ignoring this critical “first step” can lead to inefficient operation of the heating plant, excessive cycling wear, and a lifetime of callbacks. If you are unsure of the calculations, consider subbing out that portion of the job to a qualified engineer or designer with the software and experience to properly spec and document the system. In many cases a stamped engineered design is required to permit a system change out.

Selecting equipment and components With the numbers in hand, the next step is selecting the equipment and components. There is a large product offering available to select from these days − everything from the boiler or chiller plant down to the piping material itself. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the options. Be sure the components match the requirements of the application in terms of pressures and temperatures.

For closed loop hydronic piping, I would highly recommend you stick with tubing with an oxygen barrier. Rarely a week goes by that I don’t see an example of premature system or product failure directly related to ignoring the oxygen ingress issues.

Ensure components meet pressure and temperature requirements.

Photo Viessmann

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24 x 32

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Cont’d from pg. 52

The energy sources for the application should also be considered.

Natural gas, LP, oil, electricity, solar, bio-fuels or a combination of these may be desirable. Local availability and pricing plays into the fuel decisions.

A steel vessel that was destroyed Hybrid or multiin 18 months after being attached fuelled systems to a high temperature, non-barare becoming rier radiant tubing system. Rust never sleeps! popular with the uncertainty of fuel availability and costs. Hybrid systems may also combine condensing and non-condensing equipment. The concept is to prioritize running the condensing equipment when return temperature conditions allow peak efficiencies and bringing on the non-condensing equipment when temperature requirements exceed the ideal condensing range of the mod cons. This can save some equipment costs for the owner, and provide some redundancy, as shown in the design shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1

Future proofing designs Future proofing is a term I first heard from our industry friend John Siegenthaler.

Basically, you want to design heating systems to use the lowest possible supply water temperatures (SWT). This allows for the highest boiler Al Anderson Memorial Outdoor efficiencies and also enables Swimming Pool, Langley, BC, you to morph to heat pumps, installed by Ainsworth Inc. should fossil fuels ever go away or be legislated away. If electrification does become the mandate, you want to design around heat pump efficiency sweet spots.

Matching the correct low temperature heat emitters is part of that exercise.

We have available to us a good, proven selection of high-efficiency components. This includes not only the heating and cooling sources, but also pumps, control valves and controls and automation systems that can constantly adjust the system’s operation to the very best efficiency point.

One last but very important suggestion is to check into local and national government requirements. In many areas, efficiency standards have been developed and must be followed. In some cases grant or rebate money is available for system upgrades. This could include energy assessments before you begin your design or proposal. Look to nrcan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/energy-efficiencyregulations/guide-canadas-energy-efficiency-regulations/6861.

You can also find fuel cost comparison spreadsheets online.

Whether mandated or not, it is a good idea to offer the highefficiency option when replacing or upgrading mechanical systems.

Following these steps will be time consuming. Many hours can go into assessing a building’s mechanical systems. Upgrading to highefficiency heating appliances could involve new and different venting. Gas piping may need to be upgraded, drains for condensates need to be provided. New control wiring may need to be added.

On a large job, it can be hard to reconcile doing this review and design step at “no charge.” So, I suggest you charge for your design services.

You deserve to be paid for your expertise, and for assembling the necessary information prior to starting the job. Assure the owner that you are looking out for their best interest by doing an up-to-date design.

So, out with the old, in with the new, and as you do … keep an eye to the future!

Photo IBC Technologies Inc.

SYSTEM DESIGN

Bob “Hot Rod” Rohr has been a plumbing, radiant heat and solar contractor and installer for 30 years. A long-time columnist and trainer, he is manager of training and education with Caleffi North America. You can reach Hot Rod at bob.rohr@caleffi.com.

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PUMPS Michael Licastro

Tap potential energy and cost savings with a pump system assessment THOROUGH ASSESSMENTS IDENTIFY ENERGY-EFFICIENT SOLUTIONS FOR LONG-TERM SAVINGS Walk through any commercial building today, and there is a good chance you will find multiple pumping systems in operation to manage the day-to-day thermal comfort, health and safety needs of the occupants. Heating, cooling, municipal water pressure boosting, potable hot water recirculation, and ground or waste water management are the most common examples.

With the commercial building sector consuming approximately 15 per cent of all energy in Canada, and the fact that pumping systems account for approximately 25 per cent of the energy used in a commercial building, a closer look at how these systems are performing may uncover some real opportunities to save energy and increase reliability through operational efficiency improvements.

During the design phase, safety factors are often built-in leading to flow requirements being overstated, resulting in oversized pumps. This requires the use of valves, variable speed drives and controls to compensate and correct. Add in the fact that a typical commercial building pumping system will operate at less than full design load 90 per cent of the time, and you get Figure 1 Estimated life cycle significant opportunities not only to improve in a commercial building the overall system performance, but also to lower maintenance costs, increase uptime and 2% 1% extend the equipment life expectancy. Many 3% facility owners assume as long as the system 5% is running, and there are no occupant complaints, everything is good. As pump 7% professionals, we know “good” is defined differently depending on which facility stakeholder you speak with. Performing 10% a detailed pump system assessment 62% is a cost-effective way to analyze all key aspects of the life cycle cost of ownership for a pumping system, and 10% will provide a roadmap for meaningful corrective action by which all facility stakeholders can collectively decide if the pumping systems are as “good” as they can be.

cost of pumping

Energy Installation and Commissioning Environmental Purchase Cost of Pump System Operation Decommissioning and Disposal Maintenance and Repair Downtime

• By far the greatest cost is energy Courtesy of the Hydraulic Institute and Pump Systems Matter, www.pumps.org

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Organizing the team As with any major project, the pump and system optimization process begins with creating the assessment team. The individuals chosen should include representatives from the facility’s maintenance, building operations, and budget and finance departments, all working with a team leader who is a qualified professional. As there are over 30 key knowledge requirements to conduct a thorough assessment, engaging a certified pump system assessor is critical in identifying and communicating opportunities for improvement and achieving desired outcomes. In the absence of an experienced assessor, owners and operators may focus on pumping systems that have low operational hours, consume minimal energy or do not serve a critical function in the building.

The Hydraulic Institute, through Pump Systems Matter, is one organization that provides a certification program. Created in 2017, the Pump System Assessment Professional (PSAP) certificate program teaches the essential processes, steps and proven methodologies to manage and conduct complex pumping systems audits and identify high-value optimization opportunities in industrial or commercial applications. A list of current PSAPs can be found at www.pumps.org.

Levels of assessment Once specific pumping systems have been chosen, the next step is a detailed evaluation. Depending on the building requirements, selecting the correct pump system assessment level is important to meet the project goals.

Figure 2 Levels of Pump System Energy Assessment – (ISO/ASME 14414)* Level 1 assessment is a qualitative review with possible quantitative elements intended to determine the potential for significant energy savings based on further assessments and to identify specific systems that merit a greater level of attention.

Level 2 assessment is a qualitative review with possible quantitative elements intended to determine the potential for significant energy savings based on measurement of a single steady-state operating condition requiring a single set of measurements.

Level 3 assessment is a qualitative review that takes varying system demands into account by monitoring the system over a time span long enough to capture the various operating conditions which require their own set of measurements.

Courtesy of the Hydraulic Institute and Pump Systems Matter, www.pumps.org *ISO/ASME 14414 is available at iso.org

Data collection Collecting data is essential to a detailed evaluation. That includes reviewing energy costs, pump curves or submittal data identifying design conditions used for pump selection, maintenance records and pump operation history to detect an imbalance between measured and required system conditions.

Focus on the entire system Many studies have concluded that when focusing on a single system component, the impact to overall system efficiency and reliability can be minimal. Examining system interactions means looking beyond the individual components to identify inefficiencies.

With commercial buildings often having multiple pumping systems and minimal maintenance staff, the opportunity for frequent equipment failures and downtime always looms. The repairs are treated as an emergency situation, which results in a quick fix without identification of what caused the problem. This is where a thorough pump system assessment pays for itself relatively quickly. To identify the systems with the greatest savings potential, a prescreening walk through is a key first step. The objective will be to look for common symptoms such as: • Highly throttled flow control valves • Frequent pump cycling “on/off” or changes in rotating speed • Cavitation noise within the pump or system components • A pump system with no means of measuring flow, pressure or power • A pump system that has experienced a change in function with no modifications

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PUMPS

Cont’d from pg. 57

To obtain additional “pump condition” information, the assessor should have the correct tools, such as:

• Digital multimeter • Vibration meter • Infrared laser thermometer • Stroboscope or tachometer • Decibel meter and stethoscope • Litmus paper or a colorimeter • Ultrasonic flow meter • Audio and video recording device Once the assessment process is complete, an assessment report is compiled, listing recommended system improvements, cost savings and other benefits. The report should include a detailed action plan and calculate life cycle cost impacts.

Overall, the key to a successful assessment is customer commitment. Decision-makers from the company’s key operations areas should be involved in the entire process, and have input on prioritization of recommended corrective actions, and ownership in implementation of those plans.

www.roth-america.com

DOUBLE WALL HEATING OIL STORAGE TANKS with 30-Year WARRANTY

X-PERT S5® Radiant and Snowmelt PE-RT Pipe with O2 Barrier NEW! AQUAPERT PLUMBING TUBING

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Lifetime Limited Warranty

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100% Recyclable

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Ease of installation

x

Lightweight, durable, leak-free

x

Meets PEX tubing performance req.

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Although most companies initially conduct pump system assessments because of failures or reliability issues, pump system optimization should not be a one-time effort. As the savings potential associated with optimizing pumping systems generally far exceeds other cost-savings approaches, companies would be wise to embrace the value of pump system assessments and make them a regular part of their maintenance, operational and management culture.

Michael Licastro is training and education manager, commercial building services and HVAC, for Xylem Bell & Gossett. He brings more than 25 years of experience in system knowledge and training with a focus on the CBS/HVAC market. For 13 years, Licastro has donated his time and experience as an instructor at the Western New York Steam and Pipe Fitters union hall.

THE BEST IN

FIRETUBE TECHNOLOGY Avenger

• Two pass fully condensing stainless steel boiler & water heater • Models ranging from 1,000 MBH up to 4,000 MBH • Turndown of up to 25:1 • Up to 95% thermal efficiencies

Valiant-FT

• Fully condensing stainless steel boiler (for floor or wall mount) • Models ranging from 80 MBH up to 399 MBH • Turndown of up to 10:1 • Up to 97% thermal efficiencies Visit www.camus-hydronics.com for more info

HYDRONIC PRODUCTS Firetube boiler The Valient-FT high efficiency firetube condensing residential/commercial boiler is suited to systems at working pressures of up to 80PSI. It offers low water mass design, convenience of access, and a seven-in. colour HMI touchscreen control display with easy-toread graphical information. With low operating noise, and maximum operating temperature of 200° F, the unit has a 10:1 turndown ratio.

www. camus-hydronics.com

Magnetic separator Spirotherm’s Spirocombi Magnet available from Ontor is a combination air and dirt separator that includes magnets and a rotating universal connection to separate ferrous and non-ferrous debris. It can be installed in horizontal or vertical piping, and is available in a variety of sizes with threaded, sweat and press fit connections.

www. spirotherm.com

Comparison tool Taco Comfort Solutions and The Hydronic Industry AllianceCommercial have upgraded The Building Efficiency System Tool (BEST), an interactive commercial building HVAC system efficiency comparison tool. BEST 5.0 allows designers to select the most appropriate system based on realtime information such as cost, budget, and energy efficiency, as well as consumption and energy data for domestic water heating systems, and per-square-foot energy load based on building occupancy. The tool can also be customized to include labour, and cost of different energy sources such as water, air or refrigerant.

www. tacocomfortsolutions.com

ontor.com

Wall-mounted boiler The Brute FT Wall Hung combination wall-mounted residential boiler is powered by an advanced fire tube heat exchanger for a quick heating response, and features fast hot water delivery, higher flow rates (4.8 gpm at a 77°F rise), full output on both heat and hot water, all in a space-saving, wall-mounted unit. It is available in 80 to 210 MBH sizes.

www. bradfordwhite.com

Check valves Webstone’s inline spring check valves for Pro-Connect Press connections for potable and hydronic systems feature a self-automated design that prevents backflow via a stainless-steel spring with soft seats. They are made from lead-free dezincification brass and can withstand temperatures up to 250°F and up to 200 CWP. They are available in ½-in. to two-in. sizes.

www. webstonevalves.com

Sizing & selecting software Belimo SelectPro is now integrated into the company’s website. SelectPro is a tool for sizing and selecting actuators, valves, sensors and replacement solutions. Users can choose products, add to a schedule or put them directly into their cart to buy. Features include tools to save multiple contact profiles, generate quotes and store all relevant information.

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HYDRONIC PRODUCTS Boiler fill fitting The model RBFF residential boiler fill fitting from Watts provides a solution to comply ply with boiler manufacturers’ piping requireirements and provide ease of service for expansion tanks and water pressure regulagulator valves in closed loop hot water heating ating systems. Using a unique three-way balll valve design, the RBFF eliminates up to twelve lve ½-in. fittings in a compact package.

Hydronic convector system

www. watts.ca

The Strada hydronic convector from Jaga Climate Systems for schools, healthcare facilities and other public spaces, features a slim profile and painted aluminum grill. It comes equipped with Jaga’s Low H20 technology to provide immediate heat with minimal energy consumption.

Heating capacity is up to 36 MBH.

Condensing tankless water heaters The NPE-2 high efficiency condensing tankless water heaters from Navien are available in four standard (NPE-S2) models and three advanced (NPE-A2) models up to 199,900 BTU/H. Features include a turndown ratio up to 15:1, EZNav advanced multi-line control, two-in. PVC venting length up to 75 ft., a cascade capability up to 32 units and common venting capability up to 12 units.

www. jaga-canada.com

h www. navien.com eatlink.com

Circulator pumps

High efficiency condensing boiler RTC-80 high efficiency condensing boilers from Riello are available in 1,000 to 5,500 MBH input and offer up to 98 per cent thermal efficiency, a turndown ratio of 10:1 with a maximum 80 psi pressure rating, and a working temperature of up to 194°F. Designed for retrofit and new construction projects, the units feature large heat-transfer surfaces, a counter-flow heat exchanger design, and dual inlets for different water temperatures to optimize condensation.

h www. riello.com

The Grundfos ALPHA2 26-99 is a medium-size, high-efficiency ECM variable speed circulator pump designed for a wide variety of heating and cooling applications.

It features eight different operating modes including constant pressure AUTOADAPT and proportional pressure AUTOADAPT. The Grundfos ALPHA circulator is ideal for almost any application.

www. grundfos.com/ca

Wall-mounted boiler The Vitodens 100-W space heating or combi boiler series from Viessmann is designed for condominiums and other homes that require a reliable, compact heating solution. Rated input is 21 to 125 MBH. The 100-W is equipped with a stainless-steel heat exchanger for lasting performance and reliability, plus a fully modulating MatriX Plus cylinder gas burner. Other features include low-NOx, 10:1 turndown ratio, zero clearance to combustibles, quiet operation, and multiple venting options.

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HYDRONIC PRODUCTS Boiler gauge Winters Instruments manufactures TTD Series tridicators for hydronic applications.

The TTD is dual purpose, providing temperature and pressure on the same dial.

Pressure is in psi/kPa, and temperature is in Fahrenheit and Celsius. The TTD Series is available in 2.5-in. (63 mm) and three-in.

(90 mm) sizes. Process locations are bottom or back, and stem lengths vary from short, to standard and extended. The Winters TTD Series is compliant to ASME Boiler Code Section IV HG-612.

Mixing panel

www. winters.com

Foam board stapler Malco’s FBSN PEX Foam Board Stapler is designed for in-floor radiant heating installations.

This easy-loading manual stapler, with magazine feed, operates from a standing position to secure a layout of PEX pipe to a foamboard base. Malco’s ergonomic stapler design offers maximum control for comfortable one-handed, one-stroke staple insertion. The stapler head holds the PEX in place as staples are fed.

HeatLink's pre-fabricated residential three-way mixing panels include all the components necessary to control a home’s radiant heating system supply water temperature. The TMP 3-Way Mixing Panel’s primary application is as a single-zone mixing device where there are no flow requirements in the primary loop. Intended to be used with domestic hot water tanks as a heat source, the PLC is programmed with a 24-hour timer for potable applications.

www. heatlink.com

www. malcoproducts.com

Hydronic boiler Cleaver-Brooks ClearFire-CE (CFC-E) fully condensing hydronic boiler helps customers achieve their sustainability goals of energy efficiency and emissions reduction. Featuring high-mass firetube construction with AluFer technology, this compact unit is up to 99 per cent efficient. Available in capacities ranging from 500 to 6,000 MBH, the CFC-E is engineered for use in variable-flow pumping systems, enabling system design flexibility.

www. cleaverbrooks.com

Reversible R ibl h hydronic d i h heatt pump p The Climaveneta NX-N reversible hydronic heat pump line from Mitsubishi Electric features hermetic rotary scroll compressors, axial fans and plate heat exchanger. A desuperheater provides partial heat recovery while producing chilled water to meet cooling demand. All models meet ASHRAE 90.1 minimum efficiency requirements when operating in cooling mode.

www. climaveneta.ca

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Watertube condensing boiler and water heater The Torus watertube condensing boiler and water heater from RBI are AHRI-certified at 97.5 per cent for boilers and 98 per cent for water heaters, and is available in sizes from 1250 to 4,000 MBH. Features include options of both NG/LP or dual fuel on all sizes, and a burner door system for easy access.

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ARRAY SE HIGH EFFICIENC Y CONDENSING BOILER

E ASE OF COMMISSIONING & MAINTENANCE

DEDIC ATED BOILER PUMPS

CA SC ADE UP TO 8 BOILERS WITH A TURNDOWN R ATIO OF 320:1

PERFEC T FOR NE W INSTALLATION AND RE TROFIT PROJEC T S

BUILT IN REDUNDANC Y

T HE ULT IMAT E IN HIGH EF FICIENC Y, HIGH P ERF ORM A NCE & UNQUE S T ION A BL E R EL I A BIL I T Y The Riello Array SE is a stainless s teel condensing, fan-induced, fully-modulating f loor st anding boiler. It is the newest addition to Riello’s innovative Array boiler lineup. With a single heat exchanger inside, the Array SE is a single plat form designed for easy installation and simple commissioning. It is the per fec t solution for s tand alone installation, or in cascade of up to 8 boiler s for larger input applications.

The Arrays SE has a compact design full of innovative features including an onboard circulating pump, vor tex analog f low meter, 7” color graphic touchscreen display, separate dedicated ser vice/ commissioning display, univer sal vent adapter s (f it s mos t common venting materials), Modbus RS485 communication and proprietar y plug & play cascade sof t ware. It is a true example of high per formance in a compac t design.

The Array SE utilizes a low emission pre-mix burner with high turndown (10:1 per boiler or up to 80:1 s ystem turndown in cascade). Combined with Riello’s patented heat exchanger design (legendar y for it s reliabilit y & ultra-high ef f icienc y), the Array SE set s the new standard for high ef f icienc y, per formance and reliabilit y.

A Carrier Company / www.riello.com

ROAD WARRIOR Eric Cameron

In the mechanical industry since: 1998

The most useful tool in your toolbox: Olfa knife

School: John G Diefenbaker, 1998, and SAIT, 2004

Your favourite tool in your toolbox: ‘Frangelica’ my 18-in. flat jaw adjustable Knipex pliers

Best teacher: Mr. Kang, my junior high math teacher Favourite class: Spare

Tool that you wish you had? More Knipex pliers or a 12V mini bandsaw

Best advice you’ve ever received: Happy wife, happy life

Last book you read: One Summer: America, 1927

by Bill Bryson

The current work ride: 2016 Dodge Ram

If you were granted one wish: Erase COVID from history

Kilometres per day: 50 to 100 Average time behind the wheel per day: One to two hours Service area: Calgary and area Where you like to get dispatched to: Any place close to home Favourite part of the job? Working in a mechanical room

Pre-Pandemic Trip Plans

Best concert you ever attended? Hopefully Rage Against the Machine in 2022 Favourite magazine: Mechanical Business of course!

My rule of thumb is … everything is better with a scotch and a Guinness If I had a million dollars … I’d buy our forever home When I was a kid, I wanted to be … in the KGB or a marine biologist If I had a super power it would be … flight Favourite TV show: The Wire Favourite movie of all time: The Fifth Element

Photography: Dan MacDonald, Purple House Photography

Favourite sport: NHL and NFL

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Favourite car of all time: Lamborghini Countach Favourite food: Pasta P Pre-pandemic, d i Cameron C and d hi his wife if K Karii were planning a seven-month trip to South America. “We were planning on doing the longest trip we’ve ever done, so we had to cancel the whole thing,” he says. “Now we’re just waiting to see when it’s going to be safe to take off somewhere. Norway is probably highest on my list right now, but we’d love to travel anywhere.”

ou Three albums that you’d take with you to your desert island: 1. 10,000 Days by Tool 2. Madvillainy by MF DOOM 3. Bob Marley’s Greatest Hits Favourite outdoor activity: Snowboarding Hobbies: Snowboarding, surfing, golfing, working in my greenhouse.

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By Carolyn Cooper

Name: Eric Cameron Nickname: Erock Company: Nu-Mun Contracting Job title: Foreman Born in: Calgary, AB Lives in: Calgary, AB Age: 40 Spouse: Kari Pets: Lucy, a German Shephard cross; and two cats Luna and Leelu (the smart one)

Eric Cameron:

The puzzle master F

itting a mechanical room together is a bit like putting together a puzzle, says Eric Cameron. “You get a blueprint that has equipment on it, but there’s no drawing on how to run everything, you basically have to figure that all out yourself.”

That’s one reason Cameron, foreman at Calgary’s Nu-Mun Contracting, says working in mechanical rooms and running heating is his favourite part of the job. “There’s more of a challenge, you have to plan and think a lot more when you’re working on the hydronics side, such as having to sort through which pump you can use on what size of a line, and checking flow rates of piping systems, planning how everything’s going to fit in a confined space.”

Growing up, Cameron knew he wanted to be a plumber like his father, and following high school he attended Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), graduating in 2004 as a journeyman plumber and gas fitter after completing his apprenticeship with Calgary’s Mystique Mechanical. It was at Nu-Mun, which he joined soon after, that he trained to work on hydronics.

“When I was apprenticing hydronics wasn’t its own code yet, so we covered it a bit in school, but not a lot. So most of it was on-the-job training with Nu-Mun, working on custom homes and high-density residential buildings. At

Nu-Mun in particular we’ve done fusion welding piping, both Aquatherm and aquatechnik, which are polypropylene piping systems that use an iron to heat the pipe and fitting to about 450°F and welds the pipe by heat, so it’s a lot cleaner to work with and you don’t have to worry about fires with a soldering kit.”

Some of his most memorable work projects include the Upten, a 40-storey tower in downtown Calgary with one floor of commercial space and the rest residential units, for which Cameron planned and ran the main floor and top floor mechanical rooms. “And then we did a residential conversion, one of the first in Canada, which was a seven-storey office tower in downtown Calgary that was converted into a residence,” says Cameron. “It was gutted and the entire mechanical system was redone. I ran that whole project, which was a challenge because of the post tension cable system they had. If you snap one of those then the whole building comes down!”

Cameron says the people and the variety of projects are what has kept him at Nu-Mun Contracting for almost 17 years, and, he says it allows him to indulge in his passion for travel. “I tend to work pretty solid for two years and then my wife and I go away for three months and travel,” he says. “So all my work is basically just leading up to my next trip.”

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JOBSITE JARGON

WIN!

This contest marks the launch of Jobsite Jargon, rgon, a regular MB feature. Match the terminologyy you hear in the field to the correct definition or function. Send your answers to kerry.turner@mechanicalbusiness.com by September 15, 2021 and enter for your chance to win a Milwaukee M12 Fuel Surge e 1/4” Hex Hydraulic Driver 2 Battery Kit www.milwaukeetool.ca valued at $240.

EXAMPLE: 1 Hydronics H) use of water as heat-transfer medium in heating/cooling systems ¨ Answer 1,H A) heat flow through various combinations of building materials

1) Hydronics

B) relative measurements of outdoor air temperature used as an

2) Delta T

index for heating energy requirements

3) BTU

C) stabilize variable flow hydronic systems

4) Expansion tanks

D) your favourite read

5) Controls and control valves

E) amount of energy (heat) required to raise one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit

6) Test ports

F) pipes used for radiant heating and cooling systems, water piping

7) Fill valve and backflow preventer

G) rating used to match the boiler’s capacity to the heating load H) use of water as heat-transfer medium in heating/cooling systems

8) CFM

I) required when the water source introduces makeup water into

9) DD

the hydronic system J) regulate a well-designed and installed system

10) 6PT

K) keep pressure constant to assure controls operate as designed

11) 6PV

L) automatically adds water as needed to the system

12) EER

M) Temperature Guided Head Setpoint

13) INPUT

N) Delta Pressure Variant O) measurement of equipment cooling “efficiency” at a given

14) IBR or Net

operating point, where a larger value is better when measured

15) PEX

in BTU/H P) air or gas flow, cubic feet per minute

16) PRV

Q) acts as a gate, opening and closing to allow water to flow

17)

through each circuit R) design temperature drop that the system water will experience

18) U Factor 19) Pressure independent control valves 20) Actuator

as it delivers the design load S) allow you to insert probes into the system water stream T) rating of amount of heat produced at the burner, expressed as MBH on gas units

Congratulations!

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The winner of the Test Your Hydronics IQ in the first 2021 edition of Wet Heat was Ethan Foley. Foley is with Carmichael Engineering.

METERING

By Rick Ellul

Targeting actual energy use - PART I

Rick Ellul is the regional sales manager for Central and Western Canada at Belimo Aircontrols Canada Inc. He is also a member of the CSA 900 Technical committee for Thermal Energy Meters.

Rick can be reached at rick.ellul@ca.belimo.com

T

hermal energy meters (TEMs) are becoming more and more important in buildings, particularly in smart buildings. LEED, BOMA Best and other buildingg energy efficiency programs, along with standards such as ASHRAE 90.1, have brought to light the importance of knowing how much energy we are consuming and where we are consuming it. TEMs, which are also known as BTU meters or heat at meters, measure the thermal energy in a fluid. In the case of the HVAC industry,, the fluid for the most part is water. The devices allow us to target with great accuracy where energy is being consumed and at what rate.

We can’t know how buildings are performing unless we measure. We have been measuring electricity and gas consumption for years. It’s only more recently that we have started to utilize TEMs in North America to inform us what is happening with the energy in the fluids we move around buildings to heat or cool them.

Thermal energy meters are found in all types of buildings, including ICI and multi-unit residential buildings. We also find them in some production facilities such as commercial growing operations and beer production.

What is a thermal energy meter?

How many of you recall being in trade school, college or university and studying thermodynamics? Remember how much fun thermodynamics was? I bet you do and yet you are still here in the industry!

Sometimes the TEM is a standalone device, or it could be combined with a control valve.

Do remember the formula for calculating energy for a liquid?

Q= 500 X GPM X 6T

How are TEMs Used?

500 is a constant for water that allows us to get a rate of change i.e. BTU/H. It represents one gallon of water at 8.33 lbs x 60 minutes in an hour.

The GPM is self explanatory as gallons per minute of the fluid.

The 6T is the temperature difference of the fluid.

With this formula we can figure out how much energy is moving through a heat transfer device, such as a coil or heat exchanger, in BTU/H. A TEM measures flow of a fluid and has two temperature sensors to measure supply and return temperature so we can determine the temperature difference.

It also needs a calculation to take the flow and delta T and turn it into a measurement of energy.

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There are three main uses for TEMs today that will grow exponentially in the coming years. The first is energy monitoring and energy control. In this scenario the energy is measured continuously at the point of use and the data from the device is used either by the building’s management system, or a third-party analytics tool, to make decisions on how to control the energy usage in a specific area or areas of a building.

As an example, TEMs installed on all of the air handling units in a hospital would be used to measure the energy used at the chilled water

TYPES OF METER MEASUREMENT coils or heating Exhaust coils. This could Air be done with a Relief standalone meter or Damper a combination TEM and control valve.

Return Fan

In the case of a Return Damper combination TEM Outside Air and control valve there are extra Outside Air Damper benefits of having one device that Supply Fan can measure and record the thermal TEMs installed on all of the air handling units in energy. In addition, a hospital would be used to measure the energy the combination used at the chilled water coils or heating coils. may offer extra functionality to optimize the energy transfer, provide fault detection and diagnostics of the device, receive updates from the Cloud, and also communicate with the building’s BMS system.

An example of the intervals of an ultrasonic flow meter.

TEMs must measure flow as part of their way to calculate the energy. There are several ways to measure the flow of water. The more common types are turbine, vortex, magnetic and ultrasonic.

The turbine meter has a propeller or paddle wheel that spins and counts as it rotates.

The counted rotations measure volume.

The vortex meter uses an obstruction in the flow to create a swirl or vortex that a flexible sensor can sense as an oscillating frequency, thus creating an output that can be used to calculate the flow.

Magnetic flow meters utilize a magnetic field, which measures the speed of the fluid passing through a pipe. As the fluid passes through the magnetic field a voltage is created. If the velocity increases so does the voltage. The voltage is converted into a flow volume that is used by the meter to show the flow measurement.

TEMs allow for the allocation of energy costs to tenants in an office tower.

Photo Nailor Industries

The second scenario is allocation of energy costs to tenants. For example, in an office tower with a central chiller system we want to know how much the tenant on the sixth floor is using every month so they can be billed for what they really use. This could also be done with a standalone TEM, or with a combination TEM and control valve. This type of application provides transparency to both the tenant and building owner.

LIQUID FLOW

Direct billing is enabled by a TEM on the fancoil in each suite.

The third application is direct billing of energy costs to tenants. For example, a new condo in downtown Halifax, NS, has a meter on the fan coil in each suite. The meter gathers the data on the usage of thermal energy in that suite and it shares the data directly out to the Cloud where, on a monthly basis, the total usage is aggregated and then billed directly to the tenant either by the property management company or the metering service provider.

An ultrasonic meter measures the sound travelling between two transmitters. One pulse is measured downstream with the flow and the other upstream against the flow. The difference in transit time is used to calculate velocity and the meter then uses that velocity to calculate volume. Since it is sound that is travelling the condition of the water is irrelevant.

These meter types can measure the volume of water, but with varying degrees of accuracy and longevity. Note that only magnetic meters and some ultrasonic meters can measure water with glycol.

Part II of this article in an upcoming issue will discuss metering standards and regulations, and how TEMs share data.

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MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR

By Paul Erb

All about circulator couplings C

irculator couplings connect the motor to the pump and allow for power to be transferred from the motor to the circulator pump.

These couplings compensate for several types of minor misalignments between the motor shaft and the pump shaft as shown in Figure 1.

Types of Circulator Couplings There are many different types of circulator couplings on the market, but the three highlighted here are commonly seen in the field.

Cast iron four-spring circulator coupling The cast iron spring style circulator coupling is the one you will find on a circulator pump when it is purchased.

It is designed with two cast iron pieces that connect to the motor and the pump and are connected with a rod and four springs. There are many moving parts on these couplings, which wear out over time.

Flexible insert circulator coupling The flexible insert type circulator coupling provides quiet operation. They are similar in design to drive couplings used for larger HP pumps and are long-lasting, maintenance-free and require no alignment.

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Figure 1

Coil spring circulator coupling Coil spring type couplings are commonly used as an after-market replacement for the four-spring a cast iron coupling used by original equipment manufacturers (OEM).

Coil spring couplers’ friction-free design dampens vibration and eliminates chatter providing silent operation in both start-up and running modes. The single spring acts as a universal joint with three-dimensional flexibility that compensates for any degree of shaft misalignment, protecting bearing assemblies from damage by broken couplings. Its flex reduces the torque load on bearings and seals. The one-piece design has no connecting parts to produce the friction that causes noise, wear and eventual failure associated with n four-spring cast iron couplers. Three models of coil spring type couplers can replace up to 24 OEM replacement parts.

Coil spring couplers are said to be easier to install, especially in awkward locations because once it is secured to the motor shaft, the coupling can slip onto the pump shaft eliminating the need of a third hand to achieve alignment.

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MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR

Cont’d from pg. 70

Sizing and selection Couplings need to be sized properly to both the horsepower of the pump motor, and the shaft size of motor and pump shaft. Some couplings can be used or 1/2-in. or 5/8-in. shaft sizes. This is achieved by having a brass insert, which reduces the bore size on the coupling connections from 5/8-in. to 1/2-in. The brass inserts are left in the coupling to ensure a proper fit to the shaft when installing on a ½-in. shaft. The set screws tighten directly onto the shaft through holes in the brass insert. When installing on a 5/8-in. shaft the installer removes the brass insert to use the 5/8-in. bore size. This provides a more universal coupling to cover a wider range of pump brands and sizes.

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CONSIDER PUMP MOTOR HP AND SHAFT SIZE Prevent premature failure If a coupling fails you should check the motor and pump to see if there is another issue aside from misalignment that caused the coupling to fail. Circulator couplings can handle some misalignment; we find that the root cause of coupling failure is often worn motor mounts causing shaft misalignment.

This must be corrected to avoid premature failure of the new coupling.

Paul Erb is research and development manager with Boshart Industries. He can be reached at paul.erb@boshart.com.

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BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

By Tracy Robinson

10 Steps to calming an upset customer

De-escalating frustrated customers H

ave you ever purchased an item from a store and discovered it was broken when you got it home? Or picked up your car after a service call, and discovered that the issue wasn’t fixed? Let me guess, you probably called the company to complain, or find solutions.

We are all consumers, and we all understand how frustrating it can be when our expectations aren’t met. In our company, we have customer experience representatives (CSRs) to field complaint calls and be there for our customers. Generally, the CSRs are helping customers when they’re frustrated, and the techniques they use help de-escalate tensions so that calls don’t become contentious.

When a customer is not happy with the service they’ve received, they may call your company in an agitated state. You, your CSRs, or your frontline team, must navigate these situations and guard your company’s reputation. You must be prepared to help address customer concerns of all kinds. Before you pick up the phone, review these 10 simple steps to better customer service.

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1)

Stay calm; it’s not personal.

You are there to help, and need to keep your work hat on at all times.

The customer is likely not upset with you personally, but for now, you are the voice and ears of your company. Let the customer know right off the bat with your tone and demeanor that they are dealing with a calm professional who’s here to help.

2)

Empathy is key. There is power

3)

Acknowledge the customer’s concerns. Be an active listener

in empathy, but it can’t be faked.

Use inflection to demonstrate how much you care and want to help your customer resolve their issue. An empathetic response to an angry customer can help soothe emotional moments. Remember, most customers just want to be heard.

for your customers. Sometimes in customer service, the most effective part of communicating with a customer is simply listening. After the customer has shared their concern with you, make sure to repeat back what you heard. This way, both you and your customer will be on the same page when it comes to resolving the problem.

4)

Reassure the customer. Tell the customer

you have their back, and are there to support and assist in any way you can. Reassure your customer that you are there to help set them up for success.

5)

Focus on the facts. When facing a tense customer interaction, it’s very important to focus on the facts, and keep emotions in check.

This helps show the customer just how much you have been listening and keeps everyone on track. If the conversation veers away from the reason the customer called, bring it back by focusing on the facts.

6)

Be authentic and be human.

People are being replaced by automatic voice service systems in all fields of work.

When customers make the effort to call your company, keep in mind they wanted to talk with a real person; they wanted an actual service provider to help fulfill their needs. That need for human connection is an important way to build trust with a company. Be mindful that your customer can take their money and do business with anyone, but they decided to give your company a chance. Here’s your opportunity to show them just how wonderful doing business with you can be! Be genuine and empathetic.

7)

Allow the customer to express themselves. No one likes to be cut off or

8)

Offer proactive solutions. Have multiple

management team to research and help build more options. When talking to clients, focus on expressing what you can and will do, rather than what you can’t.

Try language like, “Mr. Smith, what I can do for you today to resolve this concern is…”

9)

Jot down the customer’s suggestions. Sometimes there are answers

right in front of us, and sometimes the customer will answer their own questions. When you connect and converse with people, it’s easy to focus on being the “information provider,” but you can also collect new ideas from others. Maybe a web developer is a customer of yours, and has a few suggestions on improving your site.

Maybe a frequent buyer has a great idea for a special your company could run. Keep an open mind and a working pen to jot things down.

10)

Maintain a positive attitude. Generating and

maintaining a positive attitude is at least 80 per cent of the work that goes into being successful in customer service. When you go into your day with a positive attitude, you are less likely to internalize stressful calls.

With a positive mindset, chances are you will go into each customer interaction with the intention to resolve their concerns. With a great attitude and can-do mindset, you’ve already won most of the day!

interrupted when they’re angry. The more you interrupt a customer while they’re explaining what’s wrong, the less they will trust your company, and the people within it. Customers do not want to repeat themselves; they already had to carve out time to call you, and they want things resolved. You may be on your 55th call of the day, but your customer has only called your company once, and deserves your undivided attention.

options for resolving issues to a customer’s satisfaction. Connect with peers or your

Tracy Robinson is customer experience manager with Nexstar Network.

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75 7

LOOKING AHEAD

Victor Hyman is executive director of ClimateCare, a member-owned for-profit cooperative.

By Victor Hyman

THE CARBON TAX CHALLENGE

I

n the May/June 2021 issue of Mechanical Business I discussed why increases to the federal carbon tax should be getting us thinking about low-carbon heating solutions such as heat pumps and hybrid heat pump systems. Understanding the federal government’s plan for the carbon tax and what it will mean for consumers will make it clear why it is worth investing in lower carbon heating solutions now.

Part of the carbon tax challenge is that it is largely invisible − it’s hidden in the cost of all goods since all goods have some carbon intensity. As shown in Figure 1, it is more visible on natural gas bills.

The federal government gave the provinces until September 1, 2018, to put their own plan to “price carbon” in place. British Columbia, Quebec, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador complied with the request and have their own carbon pricing schemes. Ontario, New Brunswick, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta did not commit to implementing carbon pricing schemes, so the federal government did it for them.

The overall concept is that carbon is taxed when used – when you fill up your gas tank or burn natural gas for example. A portion (the federal government claims up to 90 per cent based on family size) is returned to you when you file your taxes each year. The idea is to create a disincentive to use carbon that is relatively revenue neutral. That 10 per cent difference is supposed to be invested in low carbon technologies and incentives to reduce carbon emissions.

How is carbon priced?

The carbon tax is most visible when you pay for fuel. “The fuel charge applies to 21 fossil fuels including gasoline, light fuel oil (e.g., diesel), and natural gas. It also applies to combustible waste (e.g., tires). The fuel charge rates reflect a carbon pollution price of $20 per tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) as of April 1, 2019, rising by $10 per tonne annually to $50 per tonne as of April 1, 2022. The rates are based on global warming potential factors and emission factors used to report Canada’s emissions to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

Applying the fuel charge at higher rates over time will help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support clean growth. It sends a signal to markets and provides an incentive to reduce energy use through conservation and efficiency measures.” As of today that adds 8.84 cents to a litre of gasoline and 7.83 cents to an m3 of natural gas. But it keeps climbing by $15/tonne per year after 2022 so that in 2030 the carbon tax will be $170/tonne. That will add 37.57 cents to a litre of gas and 33.235 cents to an m3 of natural gas in 2030 − three times the cost of a m3 of natural gas today.

https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/climate-change/ pricing-pollution-how-it-will-work/greenhouse-gas-annual-report-2019.html#toc6

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Need a few good reasons to trust RLS refrigerant press fittings?

We have

10,000,000!

One only has to look at their latest natural gas bill to see what is about to happen. Assuming that the price of natural gas itself remains stable at around 11 cents per m3, the carbon tax will be more than the fuel itself in 2023. In 2023 my $91.70 April/May gas bill will be $99.75, and in 2030 it will be $144.03, assuming none of the other charges increase. That’s a 57-per cent increase in nine years.

CHARGES FOR NATURAL GAS April 06, 2021 - May 05, 2021 Customer Charge Delivery to You Transportation to Enbridge Federal Carbon Charge Gas Supply Charge Cost Adjustment Charges for Natural Gas HST* Total Charges for Natural Gas

$21.83 $18.15 $7.36 $14.25 $21.75 $2.19 CR $81.15 $10.55

More than 10,000,000 fittings installed since 2015.

In the last six years, RLS flame-free press connections have been proven millions of times in HVAC/R projects around the world, with a level of durability and reliability that’s beyond a doubt. But there are also many other great reasons to use RLS press fittings (formerly sold as ZoomLock ): • Connects in 10 seconds • Huge time/cost savings • Rated to 700 psi • Works in tight spaces

• No fire hazards • No burn permits • No nitrogen purging • CRN Approved (#0A22551)

We designed RLS fittings specifically for high-pressure HVAC/R systems.

Our patented double circular press results in two 360° metal-to-metal connections, creating a permanent mechanical joint with no leak paths.

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In 2020 my modest Toronto home used 2,479 m3 of natural gas. In 2030 the carbon tax on that level of consumption will be $825 in addition to the cost of the fuel itself. This should clarify why we need to be talking to customers now about how they will heat their homes over the next 10 to 15 years. Going for the lowest installed cost furnace and air conditioner today will likely involve some buyer’s regret in about five years.

In an upcoming issue we will look at modelling that has been done so you can show customers why investing in a lower carbon heating system today will be worth it in the long run.

Original. Patented. Proven.

ZoomLock is a registered trademark of Parker Intangibles LLC, which is a subsidiary of Parker-Hannifin Corporation.

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PLUMBING | By John Cardiff

Add water treatment solutions to your offerings M

unicipalities treat water to meet government guidelines, which they should. Disinfection chemicals such as chlorine or chloramines are added to the water when it leaves the treatment plant to protect the water from harmful bacteria and viruses as it travels through the kilometers of distribution pipes.

Chlorine, used for decades as a disinfectant for water, can create disinfection by-products such as trihalomethanes (THMs), when it comes into contact with certain organics in water. THMs are a known carcinogen and are regulated by the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality.

Chloramine was introduced many years ago as a disinfection chemical for drinking water. It is a combination of chlorine and ammonia. This chemical has gained in popularity over the last couple of decades because it tends to create lower levels of THMs when organics are present in the water. This makes it easier for municipalities to meet the MAC (maximum acceptable concentration) guideline for THMs, however, it is now being discovered that chloramine could create other potentially harmful disinfection by-products. More studies are being done on this and the affect on the human body.

Aging infrastructure also plays a big role in water quality issues across Canada. Boil water advisories are ever increasing and typically are a result of water main breaks due to aging infrastructure. High levels of lead are caused in part by lead service lines feeding older homes.

To upgrade these water mains is a huge undertaking let alone the expense. With aging infrastructure and a host of emerging contaminants and by-products from disinfection chemicals, it is up to the consumer to treat the water once it enters their home.

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Whole home carbon filtration and water softener with reverse osmosis drinking water system.

HOW DO WE TREAT WATER ECONOMICALLY? Increased levels of these disinfection chemicals used by municipalities is causing consumers to want to remove these chemicals after the water enters the home. They are experiencing everything from minor issues such as taste and odour, to major issues including leaks in plumbing systems from high levels of these chemicals. Granular activated carbon (GAC) in whole house point of entry (POE) treatment is a common method used to treat water. GAC is used for the reduction of chlorine and catalytic carbon is used for the reduction of chloramines.

When looking for carbon filtration products, ensure they are designed properly and to manufacturers’ specifications. POE carbon filtration is a little different from point of use (POU). Carbon requires a certain 0 8 . 2 1

amount of contact time for the removal of these disinfection chemicals, so proper design of the filtration system is key to providing a quality product to the consumer. Look for a POE carbon filter that is third-party certified for performance under NSF/ANSI 42 standards for chlorine removal.

Not only will these carbon filters remove the chlorine or chloramines from the water, they will also reduce many other contaminants such as THMs, lead, pesticides, VOCs, organics, phenols, tannins, mercury and disinfection by-products.

GAC is also used in most POU drinking water systems as well. Reverse osmosis systems incorporate GAC as a pre- and post-filter. Pitcher filters and under sink filters pretty much all use GAC as a base for their filter media.

In POE systems, we just use more of it to filter the water in a home. This is important because the disinfection chemicals can degrade he p lumb lu mbin ing g rubber components off tthe plumbing p ppers in system such as the flappers eals toilets, O-rings, and seals in faucets.

Chloramines can be more aggressive to the point of eating holes through copper pipe if the level is high enough.

Off gassing of these chemicals also happens in the steam from a shower, so they can be inhaled as easily as ingested.

Car washes require soft water for detergents to be effective and reverse osmosis systems are used to provide the spot free rinse feature at all car washes.

WHO SHOULD OFFER THE SOLUTION? In many cases, the plumber is the first person the consumer calls to repair their plumbing system. Many plumbing system failures are caused by poor water quality. Whether it is scaling in water heaters and pipes caused by excessive hardness, leaking toilets and faucets or pinholes in copper pipes, the plumber should not only repair the issue with the plumbing system, but also identify the root problem causing the issue and offer a solution to fix it.

Commercial applications are no different and, in some cases, water quality is even more important. Commercial dishwashers and water heaters require soft water to operate properly. Coffee shops and restaurants require quality chlorine/chloramine free drinking water to serve to their patrons. These are just a few examples of opportunities plumbers should get involved with in the commercial space.

Again, in many cases, the plumber is there fixing or replacing components of the plumbing system that have failed due to poor water quality. Plumbers should take it one step further and offer water treatment solutions to these commercial businesses to protect their investment and provide a higher quality product or experience to their customers.

The residential and d ccommercial water treatment market will continue to grow. chemicals Emerging chemica ls are in the spotlight right now. As mentioned before, by-products from chloramines are under the microscope. Lead is disinfection by-pro d water a big drinking wate er topic, and forever chemicals (PFAS chemicals) are also an contaminant. emerging contamin na Awareness around POE and POU drinking water quality Where will it end? A Aw grow is only going to gro ow into the future and as the trusted advisor, the plumber should be poised tto o provide quality water treatment products to the cconsumer. Watch out for products that make claims that are not substantiated, or third-party tested and certified.

A reputable company will offer products that are certified for performance. In North America, the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) is the organization that creates standards around food and water safety. There are many third-party organizations that certify products to the NSF standard, so look for this certification when choosing products to treat the consumer’s water. p

John Cardiff is executive vice president business development at Canature WaterGroup Inc., in Cambridge, ON.

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STUFF YOU NEED Rain jacket The Kensington women’s jacket from Helly Hansen is waterproof and windproof, offering two layers of protection from the weather. The jacket features a fully taped construction, detachable hood, extended back, and articulated sleeves for better mobility and comfort. Safety measures include reflective details on the elbows, as well as drawstrings and multiple pockets.

www. hhworkwear.com

Insulated screwdrivers rs

Malco Products’ Eagle Grip line of professionalgrade locking handle tools are made of American steel to deliver strong, reliable performance.

Backed by a lifetime satisfaction guarantee, the locking pliers have extra sharp precision broached teeth for gripping power, and come in seven- and 10-in. curved or straight jaw models, with or without a precision wire cutter.

www. malcoproducts.com

Knipex Tools introduces a full line of insulated screwdrivers (98 series). The series offers 13 SKUs and includes slotted, Phillips and square tip screwdrivers. The tools are made of chrome vanadium molybdenum steel and feature an anti-roll away handle design with extra gripping performance, as well as a hang hold to make storage easier.

www. knipex-tools.com

Plier line

Gasket remover Work gloves Dura-Knit work gloves feature 3D printed, breathable knit, which moulds to the hand to create second-skin fit.

With durable synthetic leather and grip enhanced palm, the gloves are safe to use with tools and small parts. The gloves also have fewer seams along the fingers than other gloves to give greater control and comfort. They are available in large and extra large.

www. firmgrip.com

Worn gaskets from hoses are easy to remove and replace with the gasket remover from Yellow Jacket. The sharp, angled pick is long enough to pull the gasket from deep inside the hose, while the notch on the opposite end of the pick is for placing the depressor inside the hose. The tools can be stored inside a case, along with five CH20 gaskets for protection and safety.

www. yellowjacket.com

Pricing software The New Flat Rate has added a building science indoor air quality secti section ware off (IAQ). The software offers contractors an automated way to price IAQ h d services during the discovery phase of projects. With market specific editions for HVAC, plumbing and electrical contractors, the software also helps technicians bundle and upsell by providing service, repair and equipment replacement menu options for consumers to choose from.

Mthenewflatrate.com e c h a n i c a l B u s i n e s s

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NUNATSIAVUT ENERGY PROGRAM ADDRESSES HEAT INSECURITY

HVAC

The initiative includes the installation of 240 OPNO LMÄJPLUJ` ^VVKZ[V]LZ V]LY [^V ÄZJHS `LHYZ

By Carolyn Cooper

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With the help of $2.8 million in federal funding, the community-led initiatives will also reduce reliance on fossil fuels for heat and power, while supporting new economic opportunities and creating a sustainable energy system for Nunatsiavut.

“One of the key findings of the Nunatsiavut government’s energy security strategy, which was approved by our legislature in 2017, was that heat insecurity, what we defined as access to clean, affordable and reliable heat, is by far the most pressing energy-related challenge facing the Nunatsiavut Inuit,” says Nick Mercer, regional energy coordinator with the Nunatsiavut government. “It suggested that upwards of 60 per cent of people in the land claim area are living in inadequately heated homes.”

Photos by Jessica Winters

he Nunatsiavut government is undertaking several clean energy projects to bring heat and electricity to remote Inuit communities along the northern coast of Labrador.

Hopedale, one of five communities in Nunatsiavut.

Nick Mercer, regional energy coordinator with the Nunatsiavut government, says households typically require about seven cords of wood throughout the winter.

About two thirds of people in Nunatsiavut currently use wood as their primary source of heat, with oil furnaces as a secondary source, followed by baseboard electric heating. The communities also rely on diesel generators for electricity, which Mercer says when combined with stove oil amounts to about seven million litres of diesel fuel per year.

completed by an HVAC contractor in the fall and early winter once the job has gone to tender. “It has been a very in-demand program and we’ve received a substantial number of applications,” he says.

In May, the Nunatsiavut government launched the High Efficiency Wood Stoves Replacement Program to help address the issue. Under the initiative, the government will purchase and install 240 high-efficiency woodstoves (beginning with 100 this year) in the territory’s five communities, replacing old, inefficient units. Once applications close in July there will be mandatory house inspections to ensure it is safe and cost-effective to proceed, and according to Mercer, installations will be

“These stoves typically reduce wood consumption about 33 per cent, so they make a major dent in the quantity and supply of firewood that’s needed to fuel them,” says Mercer. “And they’re EPA certified, so they make a major difference in local air quality in terms of the amount of particulate matter that they’re emitting.”

Through public tender the government has chosen Mount Pearl, NL-based Venture Vacuums and Fireplaces as its preferred vendor and is purchasing 95 Blaze King 40s, and five Blaze King Sirocco 30.2 catalytic freestanding woodstoves.

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with Roger Grochmal

What to do with the business – Part II S

Roger Grochmal recently retired from his position of CEO of AtlasCare in Oakville, ON. Email Mechanical Business Magazine’s editor, Kerry Turner, kerry.turner@mechanicalbusiness with questions about your company, business practices, or the industry in general.

elling your company is one of the most important decisions you will make in your business life. In the May/June 2021 issue of Mechanical Business, I wrote about the things you can and should do to establish the highest value for your company, whether you intend to sell or not. Once you have decided to sell your company, it will take discipline and commitment to make it a reality and to get the full value for the hard work you have invested over the years.

The first question you need to answer is: do you want to walk away when the deal is done or continue working? This is important for two reasons. The first is that most contracting businesses are built around the skills of the owner and when you walk away, much of the value in the business walks away too. This will impact the price someone is willing to pay.

A purchaser will usually want you to stay involved for a period of time, often two to three years.

If your business is large enough a second opportunity may present itself. Your business could be of interest to a private equity buyer looking for an anchor company around which to expand from.

STEP 1 - WHO DO YOU SELL TO? There are four classes of buyers. You can sell to family, employees, a financial buyer, or a strategic buyer such as a competitor.

Selling to family is complicated for a number of reasons. Family dynamics play a big role, especially if there are children who are not in the business. How do you establish a price that is fair for your legacy to all of your children without saddling the next operator with so much debt that the business is unable to grow? Do you have the resources to be the “Bank of dad”? To sort all of this out estate planning can become quite complicated.

Selling to employees can be equally challenging, as very few have the financial resources and they, like your children, will look to the owner to provide the bulk of the financing.

In either case, will you be able to completely retire from the business when your money is on the line? A good shareholders’ agreement that clearly sets out responsibilities along with dispute resolution mechanisms is essential for all parties.

Most of the activity is occurring in the last two buyer categories.

Businesses with good recurring revenue (service agreements) or very sticky customers are attractive to financial players.

Competitors look to acquire businesses so that they can become more attractive to financial buyers.

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STEP 2 - FINDING A BUYER The first step in the sales process is to quietly look for a buyer on your own, or advertise your intent to sell to a targeted group of potential buyers using a business broker or investment banker. Make sure you have a clear understanding of their fee structure and what you expect them to do for their money.

Once you have identified potential buyer(s), the work begins.

All parties need to sign a Confidentiality or Nondisclosure Agreement. Confidentiality is paramount. Once employees find out the business is for sale, all of their energies become focused on rumours as to what their individual futures hold.

You will want your lawyer or accountant to set up a virtual data room to upload a good range of confidential information such as financial statements and key performance metrics for the business. It is important for you to control this process so you can limit who has access to confidential data.

This is where I put in a plug for lawyers and accountants. Buying and selling businesses is not something our regular lawyers and accountants do every day. Find the best people experienced in mergers and acquisitions that you can afford. If your transaction is large enough, you may also want to avail yourself of tax experts who focus solely on the tax implications of selling businesses.

STEP 3 - COMING UP WITH A SHORT LIST After potential buyers have looked at the preliminary data you provide, you need to narrow the field down to a short list of serious buyers. Now you can have a series of meetings to negotiate the price and terms for the deal. Key considerations at this point are shares versus assets. Buyers like to buy assets to limit exposure to warranties and other business problems that might arise down the road.

Sellers like to sell shares usually to take advantage of generous capital gains allowances in Canada. If you are in no real hurry, structure your business ownership to take advantage of this opportunity. This legal structure needs to have been in place for at least two years before the transaction takes place to be allowable by the Canada Revenue Agency.

Are you looking for a fixed price or doing a formula?

Even a fixed price transaction will have formulas attached, since everything is based upon information you provide at the beginning of the process that may change by the time all the dust settles and the transaction closes. Ensure all formulas are as well defined and detailed as possible.

Once all of these matters have been agreed to, the next step is to sign a nonbinding Letter of Intent (LOI). It is nonbinding because the buyer at this stage still does not know much about your business and if something material is discovered, they may choose to walk away. Among other things it will include future details of purchase and adjustment formulas, your employment, noncompetition if you leave, and holdbacks to be taken.

STEP 4 - NO PAIN, NO GAIN This takes us to the next and most painful step and that is “due diligence.” The buyer will usually request every bit of information possible about your business including everything that could create liability down the road. This includes copies of every contract you have ever signed, information about customers, suppliers, employees, inventory, warranties, service agreement programs, and so on.

You, and they, will know more about your business than you have previously known. It is crucial that you hold nothing back. Failure to disclose something may cost you big time if it comes to light, as you will be required to provide substantial “reps and warranties” against all of these future events.

This is a full-time job. The expectation in the LOI is that you will continue to manage the business in its regular course while all of this is happening in the background. It takes a lot of time. In our case, my son continued to manage the business while I looked after fulfilling the due diligence requirement. Even then, it still took us three months, which I was told was quite quick.

STEP 5 - THE FINAL LAP The final step is for the lawyers on both sides to draft and agree on a definitive Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA). This is another place where good legal expertise is required as those of us who operate HVAC/R and plumbing businesses will never understand the many nuances.

The virtual world has actually made this process less onerous. It is a lot easier to maintain confidentiality as no one needs to traipse around the building asking questions of your staff. Secondly, signing electronic documents is easier than physically signing multiple copies of multiple documents. It is a daunting journey, but when you see the money in your bank account at the end, it will definitely be worth it.

Watch for Part III in the September/October issue where Roger will reflect on his years in the industry.

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BTN

Compiled by Mechanical Business

BY THE NUMBERS

LAND OF LAKES 20 Percentage of the world’s fresh water located in Canada.

3/5 The amount of fresh water in Canada that drains northward into the Arctic Ocean and Hudson Bay.

NOW THAT’S HOT

5,542

15.3°C The average daily maximum temperature for Victoria, BC, the warmest city in Canada, also known as the Garden City.

The area of Nettilling Lake on Baffin Island Nunavut in sq. km. It is Canada’s largest freshwater ecosystem. It is the world’s largest lake on an island.

49.6°C The highest temperature ever recorded in Canada happened on June 29, 2021 in Lytton, BC. Tragically, most of the town was destroyed by wildfire the following day. Many areas of BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba topped 40°C during the historic heat wave.

56.7°C The highest recorded temperature on earth, recorded on July 10, 1913 at Greenland Ranch, Death Valley, CA.

EYES ON AIR QUALITY 51 Percentage of homeowners who say they plan on spending more time inside their homes in coming months.

60 Percentage of homeowners who say they are prioritizing good air quality in their homes more now than a year ago, according to a Lennox survey.

GRILL IT UP 43 Percentage of Canadians surveyed in 2019 who said steak is their favourite barbecued food. Other top favourites, by rank, include hamburgers, ribs, sausages and hotdogs, vegetables, fish and seafood, and chicken.

NATURAL HOT TUBS

8 in 10

60°C

Number of Canadians who own a barbecue. The most popular barbecues are gas (64 per cent), charcoal (44 per cent) and electric (nine per cent).

Temperature the tidal water can reach at Hot Water Beach in Coromandel, New Zealand. Visitors flock to the beach for its geothermal activity, which draws pockets of hot bubbling water up from under the white sand at low tide.

42°C TO 52°C

86 114

72 Percentage of people who say their number-one reason for barbecuing food is flavour. Other reasons include lifestyle (52 per cent), entertainment (40 per cent), convenience (33 per cent) and health (18 per cent).

The temperature range of the Liard River Hot Spring, Canada’s largest natural hot spring.

The spring is part of the Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park in Muncho Lake, BC.

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The Red Drain

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