Mechanical Business, May/June 2025

Also in this issue:

Alexander Brake:

Passionate

about energy efficiency Road Warrior

The benefits of thermostatic balancing valves

Measuring the results of energy retrofits Boost customer loyalty Understanding CO₂ refrigeration pressures Maintaining hot water tanks

29HEAT PUMP JOURNAL

Check out the first 2025 issue of the semi-annual Heat Pump Journal. Learn about technology and applications for geothermal, air to air, air to water, domestic hot water, the latest product offerings, and much more.

FEATURES

58JOBSITE JARGON

Test your knowledge of heat pump terminology for a chance to win.

70MANAGEMENT

Bundling services boosts customer loyalty

Provide an easy way for customers to stock up on accessories or plan for maintenance needs.

Jennifer Shooshanian

74SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

MCEE 2025: New technology and networking abound

Kerry Turner

76HUMAN RESOURCES

Doing your duty

Know and understand your obligations to your workforce.

Sue Sodek

78OH&S

Prioritize your hearing health Hearing tests are crucial for those at risk.

Katie Koebel

40ROAD WARRIOR

Alexander Brake has already seen how cold climate heat pump technology is impacting heating and cooling in harsher climates like Newfoundland and Labrador. Carolyn Cooper

Alexander Brake: Passionate about energy efficiency WHY THE HYPE OVER THERMOSTATIC BALANCING VALVES?

PLUMBING

Maintaining consistent hot water temperatures across these systems can be challenging, but there is an innovative solution.

Christine Tarlecki

6

61,62

80

MB SPECIALISTS

22 HIGH-PERFORMANCE HVAC

Measuring the results of energy retrofits – Part II

Tom Grochmal

Calculate the difference between energy use before retrofits and energy use after retrofits under the same conditions.

26 REFRIGERATION

Overcoming the fear of CO2 refrigeration pressures

Mike Squires

Understanding CO2 systems is the first step to building confidence when working on them.

Me and my A2W heat pump

Bob “Hot Rod” Rohr 42

Leader of the pack

Matthew Reid

Maintaining hot water tanks

Fred Bretzke

Commercial hot water tanks are worth the maintenance time due to the price point. 84 MARKETING

How to stand out in the heat pump market

Paul Bies

CircuitSolver thermostatic balancing valves automatically balance hot water recirculation systems. They ensure hot water availability and now come with an industry-leading 10-year warranty. For

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ThermOmegaTech

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May/June 2025 Issue

Published 6 times per year.

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WORTH A LOOK

Report details progress on retrofitting Canadian homes

Anew

By Carolyn Cooper

report from Green Communities Canada (GCC), 2025 National Progress Report on Retrofitting Canada’s Homes, analyzes five years of federal data from more than 600,000 retrofits documented with the EnerGuide Rating System. Retrofits include improving building efficiency through steps such as controlling air leakage and upgrading windows and doors; electrification, or switching from fossil fuel heating or water heating equipment to electric heat pumps; and adding renewable energy supplies such as solar PV panels.

This second progress report from GCC found that the Canada Greener Homes Grant (CGHG) launched in May 2021 “triggered an explosion in home retrofitting action that supported more than 600,000 home retrofits over a three-year period before it was abruptly cancelled in early 2024.”

Half a million Canadians – representing roughly five per cent of low-rise housing in Canada – had applied for the $5,000 grant by January 2024, and the federal government estimates the program has supported more than 75,000 jobs in the retrofit economy, including in manufacturing, construction, sales, auditing, and clean tech. The report did find significant regional differences in retrofits, partly due to the differing contributions from provinces or utility programs in various regions. For example, retrofit rates in the Atlantic provinces were higher than in Western Canada: 16.8 per cent in PEI, 11 per cent in New Brunswick and 11.2 per cent in Nova Scotia, compared to 3.3, one and 1.4 per cent in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba respectively.

However, home energy retrofitting activity has been significantly less since the CGHG was cancelled in February 2024, which means when the program’s retrofits are complete there will still be approximately 12 million homes in Canada that need retrofitting. As a result, the report recommends the launch of a new national retrofit program with three goals: to retrofit the remaining homes so they are low-carbon and resilient to climate change; to create a strong domestic retrofit economy; and to make home energy bills more affordable for all Canadians.

Green Communities Canada is a national non-profit charity which focuses on three key areas of climate impact: sustainable mobility, residential energy efficiency and EnerGuide, and green infrastructure. The organization received funding to launch its Deep Energy Retrofit Program in 2022, which aims to create educational resources, supportive training initiatives, and research products that increase momentum for retrofits, and give Canadian communities the tools and capacity they need to accelerate change.

The report can be downloaded at greencommunitiescanada.org

New science centre attraction announced for Thunder Bay, ON

Science North is building a net-zero science centre attraction in Thunder Bay, ON, that will be designed to the Canadian Green Building Council’s Zero Carbon Building Standard (V4). It will use green energy, including a heating and cooling system that uses geothermal power from Lake Superior. The federal government is investing up to $20 million in the centre, through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program.

BC announces more funding for heat pump retrofits

housing-infrastructure.canada.ca sciencenorth.ca

E MB RACING the past

NIBCO MUSEUM FEATURES HISTORY OF FLOW CONTROL PRODUCTS

Engineers Canada celebrates 100th anniversary of the iron ring

a newly-renovated 8,845-sq. ft. building that NIBCO will use as a training area for customers, distributors and employees. The museum features a historical perspective on the plumbing industry, as well as a look into future opportunities, with features such as a 14-in. copper-fitting water fountain that pumps 50 gallons through its reservoir, and an interactive hologram called a Plumbing Discovery House that shows the plumbing systems operating behind the walls of a home.

BC has announced $50 million in additional funding over the next two fiscal years through the CleanBC Energy Savings Program for home energy retrofits for low- to moderate-income households, including renters. The program was introduced in June 2024 and is funded by the province, the federal government and BC Hydro, and supports heat pump installation for income-qualified, single-family homes. It now includes individual suites in multi-unit residential buildings. Households in units in multi-residential buildings may be eligible for up to $5,500 for a ductless mini-split heat pump. BC will also expand its Energy Conservation Assistance Program through partnerships with BC Hydro and FortisBC to install heat pumps to the lowest-income households in single-family homes and in units of multi-residential buildings.

betterhomesbc.ca

By Carolyn Cooper

other collectibles and promotions.

“Our decision to build the NIBCO Interactive Museum and name it after my father is a tribute to his remarkable contributions to the plumbing industry and a continuation of a legacy that began with my great-great-grandfather in 1904,” said Ashley Martin, president and CEO of NIBCO. “This ambitious project was something I wanted to complete and dedicate on NIBCO’s 120th anniversary to make it extra special.

TSSA announces fee changes, violations reporting for boilers and pressure vessels

NIBCO products from the past are also featured, and include early foundry tools, fittings and valves, product blueprints from the 1930s, and other collectibles and promotions.

Other highlights are displays showing how NIBCO products are manufactured and operate, interactive educational kiosks, and a theatre. NIBCO products from the past are also featured, and include early foundry tools, fittings and valves, product blueprints from the 1930s, and

Engineers Canada is commemorating 100 years of the Calling of an Engineer ceremony. The first Calling of an Engineer or Obligation Ceremony, in which graduating engineering students receive the iron ring that is the symbol of engineering in Canada, took place in Montreal in 1925. The ceremony is unique to Canada, and is a reminder of the commitment engineers make to serving the public with integrity and ethics. The ceremony is overseen by the Corporation of the Seven Wardens on 28 camps (sections) across Canada. To mark the occasion, the ceremony has been modernized and made more inclusive to better reflect today’s world. The new ceremony was formally launched on April 25, 2025 in a virtual event honouring the legacy of the tradition.

engineerscanada.ca

The museum is not just about preserving our history; it’s about showcasing the profound impact we’ve had on the evolution of plumbing and our philanthropic efforts within the community.”

Martin added the company wanted to make the museum interactive to “create an engaging, hands-on experience that appeals to all ages, especially students. We want to make learning about plumbing, its importance, and the career opportunities it offers both fun and inspiring.” nibco.com

The Technical Standards & Safety Authority (TSSA) announced a fee change effective May 1, 2025. TSSA increased the fees for boiler and pressure vessel and operating engineers programs by 3.8 per cent, to align with the 3.8 per cent average CPI inflation rate for Ontario in 2023. In other news, insurance companies and third-party inspection agencies must now report specific violations found during inspection of boilers and pressure vessels through the Boilers and Pressure Vessel Certificate of Inspection (BPV COI) Portal for Insurers. There are 20 violations listed in the Director’s Order BPV-25-02, including 11 high-risk violations that require immediate compliance. Equipment owners must resolve high-risk violations before a Certificate of Inspection (COI) can be issued. The change is part of TSSA’s move to becoming an outcome-based regulator. Compliance data was not previously tracked or analyzed. tssa.org

Construction on the new facility is expected to begin in spring 2027.

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Société immobilière Bélanger launches decarbonization initiative

Société immobilière Bélanger (SIB) has begun a $5-million energy modernization and decarbonization initiative in 49 of its buildings, representing 1,340 rental units in Quebec City, QC. The initiative is supported by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation financing programs. All 49 buildings have undergone energy audits, and energy efficiency improvements are underway. Upgrades include installing more than 495 high-efficiency heat pumps; converting or optimizing 13 central heating and domestic hot water systems; replacing 2,500 fixtures with low-flow plumbing; and improving airtightness in 490 units. Roofs have also been insulated and apartments upgraded with energy-efficiency LED lighting. Because most of the buildings in SIB’s portfolio are more than 50 years old, SIB says aligning them with current environmental standards poses a significant challenge. The upgrades are expected to be completed by November 2025. sibelanger.com

Contractors’ guide to available energy retrofit funds

Green Communities Canada (GCC) offers a comprehensive list of energy retrofit rebates and incentives available through federal, provincial and territorial, municipal and regional programs. GCC has been designing and delivering home energy retrofit programs for over 25 years, including piloting the Government of Canada’s EnerGuide auditing program and designing the Province of Ontario’s first low-income retrofit programs. deepenergyretrofits.ca

Universities embark on clean energy projects

Climate institute will focus on sustainable technologies and energy

The University of Toronto is establishing the Lawson Climate Institute with the help of a $60 million donation from the Brian and Joannah Lawson Family Foundation. The multidisciplinary institute will focus on sustainable technologies, climate policy and real-world experiments with new climate solutions. One hundred scholarships will be offered each year to students researching climate solutions. The interim director is mechanical engineering professor David Sinton, who runs a research lab looking at converting carbon dioxide into other useful products. utoronto.ca

Hamilton, ON’s McMaster University and Ottawa’s Carleton University have undertaken decarbonization initiatives. McMaster University intends to replace natural gas heating at two of its buildings with air to water heat pumps. It will also use excess heat from the reactor as the main heat source for it’s A. N. Bourns Science Building. Carleton University received $1.6 million to replace a natural gas steam boiler in its central heating plant with an electric boiler. The two projects are expected to cut more than 2,600 tonnes of emissions in 2030.

canada.ca carleton.ca mcmaster.ca

Lennox launches 2025 Feel The Love Program

Lennox has opened nominations for its annual Feel The Love Program, sponsored by the LII Lennox Foundation. Under the program and in partnership with its dealer network in Canada and the U.S., Lennox donates and installs free HVAC units for deserving community heroes. Nominations will be accepted until August 31, 2025, and installations will be completed between October 3 and 12, 2025.

feelthelove.com

The mechanical room at 135 Grande Allee Ouest, one of the properties undergoing energy efficiency upgrades by Société immobilière Bélanger.

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St. John’s, NL community housing to receive deep energy retrofits

One hundred and one municipally-owned community housing units in St. John’s, NL will undergo deep energy retrofits through federal and municipal funding, while an additional 65 units will receive repairs. The project will include efficiency upgrades to the building exterior, as well as heating and lighting systems. Retrofits are expected to reduce energy use by more than 50 per cent, and greenhouse gas emissions per unit by more than 80 per cent. St. John’s will use the results of the project to compare the energy performance and cost of retrofitting different types of residential properties, and identify cost-effective retrofits for future initiatives.

Historic Winnipeg museum to receive energy efficiency upgrades

Winnipeg, MB’s Le Musée de Saint-Boniface Museum is undergoing a $4 million, multi-phase restoration project, which is expected to be completed by 2026. The museum is the oldest building in Winnipeg on its original foundation, and showcases the history and culture of the province’s Francophone and Métis communities. Upgrades include modernizing heating, cooling and potable water systems, restoring heritage windows, doors and siding, and enhancing the building envelope.

cmhc-schl.gc.ca stjohns.ca

Adapt™

housing-infrastructure.canada.ca msbm.mb.ca

National and provincial 2025 construction forecasts now available

BuildForce Canada has released the 2025 – 2034 Construction and Maintenance Looking Forward highlight reports for Canada and each province. The reports examine labour market challenges and opportunities in the construction industry across Canada, including labour market imbalances and trends in residential and non-residential investment activity. According to the national report, more than 1.6 million people were employed in the construction sector in 2024. Overall, growth in employment in the residential sector was nominal, but rose by two per cent in the nonresidential sector. buildforce.ca

PPI document looks at effect of artificial lighting on PEX

The Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI) has released a technical document with its suggested installation practices for PEX piping exposed to indoor artificial light. The document, PPI TN-72 Potential Effects of Artificial Lighting on Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Pipe and Tubing and Recommended Installation Practices, explains that both natural and artificial light can degrade materials over time. PPI recommends all types of artificial light sources be setback a minimum distance of 36 in. for residential and light commercial applications, and 30 ft. for industrial, manufacturing, warehousing and large commercial applications. plasticpipe.org/buildingconstruction

Movers & Shakers

A. O. Smith opens new R&D facility

A. O. Smith has officially opened its new Product Development Center in Lebanon, TN. The 60,000-sq.ft, state-ofthe-art research and development facility houses A. O. Smith’s North American Water Heating commercial engineering and platform electronics functions, along with Lochinvar engineering teams. hotwatercanada.ca

A. O. Smith’s Product Development Center in Lebanon, TN officially opened in mid-April, 2025.

Ferguson finalizes two acquisitions

Ferguson Enterprises, Inc. has finalized the acquisition of Toronto, ON-based National Fire Equipment Ltd. and National Fire Fabrication Ltd., and Independent Pipe & Supply Corp. National Fire produces fire and fabrication products and services for fire protection professionals, with seven locations in Canada. The company will continue to do business under the National Fire brand, and will be integrated into Wolseley Canada, a subsidiary of Ferguson. Canton, MA-based Independent Pipe & Supply Corp. distributes pipe, valves and other products for the commercial and mechanical professional markets. wolseleyinc.ca nationalfire.com

Bradford White purchases Bock Water Heaters

Bradford White Corporation has acquired Universal Technologies of Wisconsin, Inc., Bock Water Heaters, Inc., and Tank Technology, Inc., collectively known as Bock Water Heaters. The acquisition will expand Bradford White’s U.S. manufacturing capacity and capabilities. This is Bradford White’s fourth recent acquisition, following its purchase of Electro Industries, Heat-flo and FloLogic. bockwaterheaters.com bradfordwhitecorporation.com

RSL opens new Regina branch

Refrigerative Supply Limited (RSL) has opened a new Regina, SK branch, having long outgrown its original location, which first opened in 1995. The branch is located at Unit 10 – 905 Park Street, Regina, SK. Purpose-built to support its growing customer base, the facility features a 6,000-sq. ft. showroom with enhanced accessibility, expanded office space, a large training room, and a full 12,000-sq. ft. warehouse. Upstairs, there is 6,000 sq. ft. of dedicated meeting and training rooms. rsl.ca

A-Gas acquires Refrigerant Services Inc.

A-Gas has purchased Dartmouth, NS-based Refrigerant Services Inc., which does business under the RS Cool name. Bristol, England-based A-Gas, which has a Canadian office in Stoney Creek, ON, offers lifecycle refrigerant and fire suppressant management. RS Cool provides refrigerant collection, reclamation and disposal of surplus refrigerants and maintains a large inventory of refrigerant recovery cylinders. The leadership and brands of each company will remain intact. agas.com rscool.com

+osb warehouse moves locations

+osb has relocated its warehouse to 4 Winstar Road in Shanty Bay, ON just outside of Barrie. The new, state-of-the-art facility has double the space of +osb’s former warehouse in Oakville, ON, and will feature robotics and advanced operational equipment. +osb manufactures waste and overflows, traps, lavatory drains, tubular brass fittings and other plumbing parts. osb.ca

Calefactio expands U.S. distribution

Blainville, QC-based Calefactio Solutions has announced a partnership with P-M & Associates, Inc. that will expand distribution of its products in the U.S. Indianapolis, IN-based P-M & Associates, a sales and marketing agency, will distribute Calefactio products to markets in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Central-South Illinois and Kentucky.

calefactio.com p-massoc.com

IPEX opens $30-million Mississauga, ON facility

IPEX recently celebrated the grand opening of its new IPEX Centre for Advanced Research at 6760 Campobello Rd. in Mississauga, ON. The $30-million, 53,000+ sq. ft. facility is dedicated to accelerating product innovation, and will employ advanced technologies such as 3D printing and AI to streamline product development. The facility includes areas dedicated to testing new products and material formulations, as well as office space and a training and collaboration area where customers can co-create and experience new products. The facility also showcases IPEX’s commitment to developing top talent in STEM and skilled trades, with 30 per cent of the R&D team beginning as co-op students with the company. ipexna.com

The $30-million, 53,000+ sq. ft. facility is dedicated to bringing product innovations to market faster.

Master adds Hitachi residential products to its lineup

The Master Group now represents Hitachi residential HVAC products across Canada, expanding its partnership with Johnson ControlsHitachi Air Conditioning. The agreement adds to Master’s portfolio of HVAC products with Hitachi technology. Master has been a partner of Johnson Controls for more than 50 years.

jci-hitachi.com master.ca

LIXIL sells its bathing business to American Bath Group

LIXIL Americas has licensed exclusive rights to Savannah, TN-based American Bath Group (ABG) to produce and distribute bathing products under American Standard, DXV and Eljer brand names in North America. ABG will also acquire LIXIL’s Salem, OH manufacturing facility, and a portion of manufacturing assets from facilities in Monterrey, Mexico and Mansfield, OH. americanbathgroup.com lixil.com

Eddy Group opens Dieppe, NB branch

The Eddy Group Ltd. has opened its new branch at 1400 Hartnett Street in Dieppe, NB. The branch manager is John Bennett. Bathurst, NB-based The Eddy Group distributes electrical, plumbing, HVAC, industrial controls, hardware and building materials. It has 11 locations in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. eddygroup.com

Vipul Chandra, country manager, applied and distribution business, Canada at Johnson Controls, at Master’s booth at MCEE. In addition to sharing his expertise on the Hitachi airHome 600 heat pump system, Chandra was on hand to answer questions regarding Hitachi’s commercial system.

NTI Boilers receives community service awards

(L-R) Vanessa De

NTI human resources, and Fahad Khan, NTI plant director, accept the Newcomer Employment Champions: Engagement award on behalf of NTI

NTI Boilers has been awarded second place for Newcomer Employment Champions: Engagement in the Southwestern New Brunswick Newcomer Connections program. The program works with skilled professionals who have immigrated to Saint John. NTI works with Newcomer & Community Connections in a hiring cooperative that matches newcomers to Saint John with available NTI jobs that suit their skills. NTI has also received the Outstanding Business Partnership Award from the Saint John Newcomer Centre. ntiboilers.com

Salvo Pineda,

Boilers, Inc.

Movers & Shakers

Daikin Applied expands IAQ offerings

EcoPilot Canada wins innovation prize in BOMA Nova Scotia Awards

Daikin Applied has announced it is investing in air technologies provider Poppy. Poppy provides building owners and operators with real-time air tracing technology to maintain superior indoor air quality (IAQ), test air performance, reduce energy waste and lower carbon emissions. The company’s air tracing and ventilation optimization solutions are also built into ASHRAE Standard 241 through a new test method to help commercial building owners comply with IAQ standards and boost operational performance.

daikinapplied.com poppy.com

Wolseley commemorates World Water Day, World Plumbing Day

Wolseley Canada celebrated World Water Day by announcing a new charitable partnership with Living Lakes Canada and their work to identify and safeguard groundwater aquifers in southern Alberta. World Water Day is a United Nations observation day held annually on March 22 to highlight the importance of fresh water, and to advocate for sustainable management of water. The 2025 celebration was themed “glacier preservation.” Wolseley donated $5,000 to the Alberta Groundwater Program, which will help advance groundwater monitoring in the Oldman Watershed. In honour of World Plumbing Day, Wolseley also donated $10,000 to Water First for clean water initiatives in Canada.

waterfirst.ngo wolseleyinc.ca livinglakescanada.ca

Enviroair now reps The Whalen Company in Atlantic Canada

Enviroair Industries Inc. has expanded its partnership with Easton, MD-based The Whalen Company, and is now the company’s exclusive representative for Atlantic Canada. Enviroair already represents The Whalen Company in Quebec and Ontario.

enviroair.ca whalencompany.com

EcoPilot Canada is the winner of the 2025 Pinnacle Award for Innovation at the BOMA Nova Scotia Awards. Dartmouth, NS-based EcoPilot offers AI-powered energy efficient solutions for commercial buildings. The Pinnacle Award recognizes excellence and groundbreaking achievement in the Canadian commercial real estate industry. The BOMA Awards categories include the TOBY Awards, BOMA BEST Awards, Pinnacle Awards, Emerging Leaders Award and Accessibility Challenge Award. Qualifying entries advance through local, national and international BOMA association levels, with the final BOMA Canada National Awards announced at a gala during the BOMA 2025 conference taking place September 15 to 17 in Halifax, NS. ecopilotai.com

Pacific Clean Air rebrands as Pacific Supply House

Pacific Clean Air has changed its name to Pacific Supply House Ltd., reflecting the company’s growth and expanded services in HVAC, hydronics, controls and design. The Richmond, BC-based company will also relocate to a 14,000-sq. ft. facility on Vulcan Way. The larger location will allow Pacific Supply House to expand and increase its product portfolio. pacificsupplyhouse.com

Modine purchases AbsolutAire

Modine is acquiring Kalamazoo, MI-based AbsolutAire, a manufacturer of direct-fire heating, ventilation and make-up air systems. AbsolutAire will be integrated into Modine’s Heating & Schools IAQ product group within the Climate Solutions segment. The acquisition is part of Modine’s strategy to expand and differentiate its technology portfolio. The move also gives Modine access to a wider customer base in commercial, industrial, foodservice and warehousing applications. absolutaire.com modine.com

(L-R) Jennie King and Tobias Janes of EcoPilot Canada accept the 2025 Pinnacle Award during the BOMA Nova Scotia Awards Ceremony on April 22, 2025.

People in the news

Oatey Co. has appointed Keith Fawcett as general manager of Newmarket, ON-based Oatey Canada. Fawcett will oversee the strategic, operational and financial performance of Oatey Canada, as well as accelerating growth in the Canadian market.

Navien, Inc. has promoted Adam Wills to director, Canada. Wills has been with the company for more than four years, most recently as Canada national sales manager.

A. O. Smith Corporation has announced changes to its leadership team. Effective July 1, 2025, Kevin Wheeler (1) will step down as chairman and CEO to become executive chairman of the company. At that time Stephen Shafer (2) will become president and CEO and join the board of directors. Wheeler will continue to lead the board of directors and be involved in strategic development, mergers and acquisitions, investor relations and executive talent development. Shafer joined A. O. Smith in March 2024 as president and COO.

Mitsubishi Electric Sales Canada Inc. has promoted Brett Johnston to technical manager. Johnston has been with the company for more than 11 years, most recently as senior technical advisor –HVAC/VRF products.

The Master Group has promoted Jeff Petite (1) to business development manager –residential, Western Canada. Petite has been with Master since November 2021 as an outside sales representative. The company has also promoted Luis Quiroga (2) to the position of sales manager, business solutions BC, based in Vancouver. Quiroga has been with Master for almost five years, most recently as outside sales leader.

Michael Cyr has been appointed growth and business development manager for Senville. He will support customer relationship development, strategic planning, and content strategy across North America.

Daikin Comfort Technologies has hired Jim Weatherall (1) as branch manager for its Ottawa East location, Darryl Walsh (2) as branch manager for its Mississauga, ON location, and Ozan Celikel (3) as territory sales manager for the Greater Toronto Area West.

Stratford, ON-based Rideau Supply has promoted Mary Boyle to territory business manager. Boyle has been with Rideau Supply since April 2021 in a technical inside sales/hydronics position.

Rinnai Canada has hired three new employees: Nelson Menezes (1) as commercial sales manager, Jeff Richard (2) as territory sales manager for Southern Alberta, and Mel Campbell (3) in a sales position. Rinnai America Corporation has announced a new commercial business structure which will be led by James Woodruff (4), who has been promoted to vice president of its commercial business. Woodruff joined Rinnai in 2017 and was most recently senior director of commercial business. Rinnai has also hired McKinley James (5) as vice president, operations – North America, and as a member of the executive leadership team.

Pamela Calderone has joined Vaughan, ON-based Kinghome Canada as regional sales manager based in the GTA.

Burlington, ON-based Aqua-Tech Sales and Marketing has named Ryan Theisen project and technical coordinator. Theisen has been with the company for almost four years, most recently as technical sales representative.

Caroline Brunet has joined Maple Ridge, BC-based Equipco Ltd. as director of sales and business development for Quebec.

Cambridge, ON-based Summit Water has hired Kushbu Pandya as inside technical sales person, joining the Engineered Pump group.

Travis Militzer has joined Port Coquitlam, BC-based Barclay Sales Ltd. as a sales representative.

The American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA) has appointed Nancy Simoneau as its board chair. Simoneau is president and CEO of Montreal, QC-based Groupe Simoneau, and is the first woman and first international member to serve as board chair.

Next Plumbing and Hydronics Supply welcomes Mike Holjevac as outside sales representative.

XNRGY Climate Solutions has appointed Glenn Brandon executive vice president for mission critical solutions.

Oakville, ON-based +osb has named Edward Andria president. Andria’s strategic focus will drive innovation, strengthen relationships and lead the company into its next phase of growth.

Ritchie Engineering Company, Inc. has promoted Kristen Ritchie to president. Ritchie has been with the company for more than 20 years, most recently as executive vice president.

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People in the news

Wolseley Canada has hired Laureen Cushing as vice president, human resources. Cushing previously worked for Wolseley for 17 years in various HR roles.

Ryan McCammon has joined Pickering, ON-based Alltemp Products Co. Ltd. as national sales manager for HVAC/R.

Edmonton, AB-based Gregg Distributors LP has hired Lauren Fish as outside sales representative.

Calgary, AB’s James Electric Motor Services Ltd. has hired two new staff members. Tim Brommeland (1) joins the company as sales manager, with experience in industrial pumps, bearing and power transmission industries.

Alfredo Paz Ortiz (2), who specializes in electric motors, HVAC equipment, controls, and hydronic circulating and wastewater pumps, has joined the company as counter sales representative.

Kingston, ON’s JJB Building Supplies Inc. has hired Edward Tonelli as sales manager.

Danfoss Climate Solutions has named Dennis Appel divisional president of its newly established Controls and Thermal Management division. Appel has been with Danfoss since 2020

Gary Moore, executive vice president and chief revenue officer of Victaulic, has retired after 37 years with the company. Mark Gilbert, who has been with Victaulic for more than 30 years, has taken over as executive vice president of sales.

Mark Henley has joined Lennox as sales manager, Western Canada Mini-Splits.

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MEASURING THE RESULTS OF ENERGY RETROFITS:

Part II

At Trim Tab, our mission is to make homes and buildings more energy efficient. Sometimes we get asked “well, how do you really know?” To know if you are making progress towards this goal, you need to dig into the data. In this article, I’m going to discuss how to measure energy and cost savings to build credibility with customers. And I’ll bring it to life with an example of how Trim Tab has used utility data to validate the performance of its energy retrofit projects.

The basics

For most of us, energy consists of fuel and electricity supplied by utilities. Energy use is measured through utility meters. Based on the meter readings, we receive utility bills that show how much energy we have used in the past month. On our bills, the units of energy consumed are multiplied by utility rates to determine your variable costs. In addition, there is a fixed service charge on the bill. The combination of fixed and variable costs makes up the total bill. Refer to Figure 1 to see an example.

Units of energy consumed can also be multiplied by the appropriate greenhouse gas emission factor to determine the carbon footprint of a specific property over that timeframe. Environment and Climate Change Canada maintains a current list of GHG emission factors for fuels and electricity by province. For example, natural gas in Ontario in 2025 produces 1.921 kg of carbon dioxide equivalent (C02e) per m3.

You can’t

The electricity meter (left) measures usage in a billing period, which shows up on the bill (right). As shown in the bill, usage is multiplied by a rate to calculate variable charges. Utility bills also have a fixed charge.

directly measure “energy savings”

Measuring ongoing energy use is straightforward. Measuring energy savings is not, because it cannot be directly measured. Rather, you must calculate the difference between energy use before retrofits and energy use after retrofits under the same conditions. The problem is that the conditions before the retrofit are almost never the same as after. One reason is the weather, which is a major factor affecting energy use.

For example, imagine you are comparing (1) a home’s energy use over a mild winter before the retrofit to (2) the same home’s energy use over a cold winter after it’s been retrofitted. How much of the energy savings associated with the retrofit are offset by a colder winter? You don’t know, unless you can compare them under the same weather conditions.

Tom Grochmal is founder and CEO of Trim Tab Energy Retrofits (trimtabretrofits.com), an energy contractor with a mission to renew housing and inspire better living.

Figure 1 Making sense of a utility bill

Baseline models

To address the issue of needing common conditions to assess energy savings, it is common to employ baseline models. A baseline model is a calculator that predicts the preretrofit energy use for a building based on key inputs, such as weather. With it, you can predict the pre-retrofit, or baseline energy use using the same weather as post-retrofit energy measurements. Voila − you’re comparing apples to apples. Subtract the predicted energy use from the actual energy use, and you have a good estimate of the energy savings. Figure 2 provides a graphic depiction of this method.

To create a baseline model, you need some baseline energy data that you can feed into tools such as MS Excel, which will make a model of it. This work requires some understanding of statistics to ensure it is reliable and is best done by people who specialize in the field of measurement and verification. Look for the “certified measurement and verification professional (CMVP)” designation as an indication of expertise in this field. Do not ask ChatGPT.

Example: A/B testing of energy retrofits for row homes

Trim Tab has an ongoing project in Chatham, ON, of performing energy retrofits on duplexes and row homes when they are turned over. During this turnover process, Trim Tab seals, insulates, ventilates, and electrifies units to improve living conditions while lowering operating costs for both tenants and property managers. These turnovers happen quickly – typically over 30 to 45 days – and the results are transformative.

To measure energy savings, you need energy data for a baseline period prior to the “installation period” of the retrofit. After the retrofit is complete, savings are the difference between measured energy use, and adjusted baseline energy. The adjusted baseline energy comes from a baseline model that predicts what you would have used without the retrofit.

A/B testing

A simple alternative method is “A/B testing.” A/B testing compares the retrofit building to another building that hasn’t gone through a retrofit but is otherwise similar in key aspects affecting energy use (such as size, weather, occupancy, and end uses). In this case, the building that hasn’t been retrofitted is the source of baseline energy data. Collect utility data on both buildings and simply subtract the retrofit building’s energy use from the baseline building’s energy use to estimate savings. It’s simple because there is no need for mathematical models. Just make sure you have the consent of the owner/tenants to look at their energy use.

Because the turnovers happen within a complex of uniform housing, A/B testing is a convenient approach. Trim Tab’s first retrofit in this project was a twobedroom unit in a duplex. The adjoining unit in the duplex had the same dimensions, orientation, and number of occupants. With the consent of the tenants, we started collecting gas and electric utility data for both units in the duplex. For one unit, we are measuring baseline energy use, and in the other we are measuring post-retrofit energy use.

Table 1 on pg. 24 shows the results after only six months. As noted, total on-site energy use dropped by 21 per cent from fuel switching, GHG emissions are down by 49 per cent, and energy costs (paid by the tenant) are down by $187, which accounts for lower gas usage, higher electricity usage, and the elimination of rental water heater charges. It is good validation of a high-quality renovation, and the savings will continue to accrue over time. Energy efficiency is the gift that keeps on giving.

Figure 2 Measurement and verification – how it works

Business benefits

As a contractor, measuring the results of energy retrofits builds a body of performance data and a basis of facts. This is important to customers, who would certainly like to know if the project is achieving its goals. As a business owner, this should be important to you as well. Measured results provide proof of your value proposition and the quality of your work (see my previous MB article in the March/April 2025 issue on building envelope air tightness at mechanicalbusiness.com).

Energy savings are a useful metric because we can derive cost savings and carbon reduction from it. In the future, there will be more government push on measuring energy efficiency with metered data. It’s not too soon to start paying attention to it now. As an example, the province of Ontario has already laid the groundwork. Third parties (such as contractors) can now obtain easy access to a customer’s utility data through the Green Button data standard, provided you have customer consent. It’s a great opportunity to make contracting a data-driven business.

In future articles, I am going to continue showcasing a variety of energy retrofit projects where measured results − of both the energy and non-energy variety − provide clear, factual evidence of their value.

Baseline unitRetrofit unit

Can you spot the difference? These two units in the photo look the same from the curb, but the retrofitted unit is more energy efficient, environmentally friendly, and cheaper to operate. The proof is in the utility data. The results after six months are shown in Table 1. The cost savings will double over an entire year. These savings will pay for a lot of groceries.

Table 1 Utility data after six months

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Marissa and Jason Johnson of Johnson & Johnson Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing at their shop in Martinsburg, West Virginia, with their dog, Beau.

OVERCOMING THE FEAR OF CO2 REFRIGERATION PRESSURES

As the refrigeration world moves in a more efficient and environmentally-friendly direction, carbon dioxide or CO2 has become a refrigerant used in many mid- to larger-sized refrigeration plants. A naturally occurring gas, as a refrigerant CO2 has some key properties that are quite different from many synthetic refrigerants used in the past, such as R-12 and R-22, and even newer refrigerants such as R-448A and R-454B. One of the most notable differences that trans-critical (TC) CO2 has in comparison to many synthetics is its inherently higher pressures, which include stand-still pressures at common environmental ambient temperatures.

For starters, when CO2 is sitting idle in a system or in a cylinder at 22°C (72°F) the pressure in that system or cylinder is about 871 psi. This pressure is far higher than a refrigerant such as R-448A, which would have a standing pressure of 142 psi at the same temperature. With that being said, the care and use, and even the cylinders holding R-744/CO2 would be completely different. They would be heavyduty, high-pressure (HP) cylinders instead of the typical refrigerant duty cylinders. These HP cylinders need to be larger and a lot more robust to safely house the higher stand-still pressures, and to safely transport and hold the refrigerant.

The refrigeration system’s components and piping must also be equipped to handle the higher stand-still pressures that the system sees and must be designed to contain the refrigerant

Mike Squires

at all exposed temperatures. These types of systems can control and safely remove the CO from the system if pressures get too high.

Quite often systems have components not rated for the higher pressures. In that case designers and manufacturers commonly have strategically placed pressure relief valves (PRVs) to prevent a component or a pipe from bursting at extreme pressures. The PRVs often have different pressure ratings to protect the sum of components.

When a CO2 system is sitting idle or not powered up, the pressure of the CO2 will eventually rise to sit at a pressure that corresponds to the air temperature in the location it is installed. This could be the outdoor temperature, the indoor temperature or the cold space temperature that is being refrigerated.

High pressure CO2 cylinder and standard synthetic refrigerant cylinder.

For example, if a CO2 system is running a large freezer and suddenly stopped, the overall pressures will rise. If the outdoor temperature is 22°C (72°F) but the freezer box is at -20°C (-4°F), most of the CO2 in the system pressure could be

Mike Squires, RSE, is a graduate of the College of the North Atlantic. Mike is manager, solution strategy and business success with Copeland. He works with manufacturers. suppliers, contractors, and in-house staff. Prior to moving to roles with manufacturers, he was a service technician for a number of years.

limited to that temperature zone of the system. At that temperature, 200 psi would be a corresponding pressure. If that system has relief valves protecting the system at 650 psi it would take a while to get to that pressure relief point even though the ambient temperature outdoors would have a corresponding pressure of 871 psi. It is not very common for a CO2 refrigeration system to relieve all of its CO2 charge as soon as it stops − there is usually some time available before a relief event would happen.

The use of back up smaller refrigeration systems is also common, optionally or by code in some jurisdictions, to chill refrigerant typically located in the receiver/flash tank. This small refrigeration system chills the CO2 vapour keeping it lower than the relief pressure which prevents or slows down the process of venting through the relief to the atmosphere. Technicians can also use this system in times of maintenance to help keep the pressures lower in the event of maintenance or a specific service action.

LEARNING CURVE

Technicians who are working with refrigerants are generally familiar with the pressure differences these systems have. All vapour compression cycle refrigeration systems have a high-pressure side on the outlet of the compressor to the outlet of the condenser and a lowpressure side from the inlet of the evaporator to the inlet of the compressor. The high side pressures in a TC-CO2 system can be more than 1,400+ psi, which can be intimidating on first sight or exposure. With training and familiarization of the components, the fear or worry about the higher pressures of CO2 systems usually can be diminished sometimes quite easily.

A great way to ease learning or adapting to TC CO2 is experiencing and understanding that most components and parts of typical TC CO2 systems do not actually operate with unfamiliar high pressures. In fact, many of the components on these systems are rated for use in typical refrigeration systems with synthetic refrigerants such as R-410A, which are seen often. These typical systems have segregated pressure areas, there is the high-pressure side, which is typically rated at 1,740 PSI (120 BAR) and the remaining parts of the system at 650 psi (45 BAR).

As seen in the simple TC booster system shown in Figure 2, only parts between the outlet of the compressor discharge valves to the inlet of the high-pressure valve are components that need to be rated for pressures up to 1,740 psi. The remaining parts and components of the system would be part of the 650-psi pressure rated section of the system. These parts and components could be used in other types of standard synthetic refrigeration systems commonly seen and worked on by most technicians.

A point of caution around some older or legacy refrigeration parts; some older refrigeration parts were designed in the era when R-12/R-22/R-502 were common and system

Simple

Transcritical Booster Systems

designs rarely exceeded 500 psi. In the late 1990s and early 2000s many manufacturers were gearing components to be compatible with refrigerants such as R-410A, which has typical design pressures of 650 psi. Much of refrigeration parts manufacturing was geared toward this pressure target and parts were compatible with systems rated at 650 psi. With the requirements of components of parts designed for use with higher pressures of CO2 systems there are many redesigned parts or new parts required. For example, Figure 3 is a sideby-side image of a compressor valve plate cover showing the changes in the construction as the compressor discharge is rated for much higher pressures.

Today, stakeholders in the refrigeration industry are sharing knowledge and experiences with the public to assist with the learning curve to help equipment owners and technicians prepare for life with CO2. As more and more technicians gain exposure to and have experience with these systems, the greater the CO2NFIDENCE level will be.

Figure 2 Diagram of typical cycle showing the high-pressure component range

Figure 3 Valve cover differences

CO2

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HEAT PUMP

Arctic Heat Pumps

HEAT PUMP

HYDRONICS

ME AND MY A2W HEAT PUMP

Hot Rod shares design, installation and operation tips after installing an air to water system in his own shop.

Bob “Hot Rod” Rohr

WATER HEATING DECARBONIZATION OF A COMMERCIAL DOMESTIC HOT WATER SYSTEM

Prior to this project, domestic hot water for Vancouver’s Arthur Erickson Place was generated by different gas-fired boilers depending on the season.

ROAD WARRIOR ALEXANDER BRAKE: PASSIONATE ABOUT ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Alexander Brake enjoys working with heat pumps, especially as the technology continues to advance.

Carolyn Cooper

GEOTHERMAL LEADER OF THE PACK

Utilizing the power of the earth and constant underground temperatures makes efficiencies skyrocket, says Reid.

Matthew Reid

Editor’s Note: Be sure to check out Paul Bies’s MARKETING column on pg. 84 of this issue (May/June 2025). Bies discusses how to stand out in the heat pump market.

OTHER FEATURES

53WORTH A LOOK

Report seeks to change the messaging around geothermal energy

Carolyn Cooper

56EVENTS – HEAT PUMP SYMPOSIUM

The Heat Pump Symposium took place on May 6, 2025 at the International Centre in Toronto, ON. Kerry Turner

DEPARTMENTS

46-53PRODUCTS

A showcase of heat pump technology.

58JOBSITE JARGON

Test your knowledge of heat pump terminology for a chance to win a $150 gift card.

Everything you need, anywhere you are – scan to open the digital edition of the Heat Pump Journal.

Cover Photo: Scott Grant, RONiN photo

Me and my A2W heat pump AIR TO WATER HEAT PUMPS

Without a doubt air to water heat pumps (A2WHP) are all the buzz these days. You would be hard pressed to pick up a trade journal (or read the online version) and not see multiple articles and ads regarding this technology. Industry trade shows have been promoting A2WHP systems and offering trainings on sizing and installation.

Many of the big names in the hydronic industry are jumping onboard with product offerings. The long-established boiler manufacturers are starting to offer products and keying into a dual fuel option.

SURGE IN POPULARITY

The technology of pulling, or “pumping,” heat energy from the surrounding air is not new. This technology dates back to the 1960s. At least one manufacturer has been offering residential-sized five ton and under products for almost 20 years now.

Recent enhancements such as newer refrigerants, variable speed compressors, engineered fans, fan blades and enclosures have increased efficiencies. These upgrades also reduce noise levels and provide multi-zone applications. So, what drives the sudden and rampant growth in this technology? Many will point to the electrification movement as a prime driver. The talk of restricting fossil fuel availability is another contributing factor. For those of us involved in the hydronics world, it offers another opportunity to offer customers an option to fossil fuelled heating equipment, including boilers for the most part.

In my area there are a lot of residential photovoltaic solar systems (PV) being installed. So, covering some of the electrical energy needs with site generated power is yet another feature of an electric powered heating/cooling/DHW system.

Tighter than normal tube spacing allows for the lowest supply temperature, optimizing the heat pump efficiency.

Four inch black corrugated drainage piping protects the insulation from harsh UV, which breaks down exposed insulation.

A FIRST-HAND LOOK

I decided to jump in and install a system in my own shop to determine how these systems perform in real life. I got my system up and running in December 2024, so I was able to catch a few months of heating use data.

My system is a simple one zone radiant in slab, over about 800 square feet of shop floor area. When I built the shop in 2022, I made the decision to install the 1/2 in. PEX tube 6 in. on centre. This tighter than normal spacing allows for the lowest supply temperature, which leverages the heat pump (HP) efficiency.

Added bonuses of lower slab operating temperatures include lower downward heat loss and quick recovery. I started the system at a 46°C setpoint, and lowered it to 43°C part way through the season. I have yet to dial in the outdoor reset function. I will get that dialed in before next heating season.

The system I installed is a Viessmann Vitocal AM2V, with 20 MBH heating capacity and 1.5-ton cooling capacity. It includes a 20-gallon buffer. The fit and finish of the unit is top notch. With a single zone system sized close to the HP output, I may reconsider the need for the buffer tank. For redundancy I did keep my Lochinvar Knight boiler piped into the system.

HPJ

By Bob (“Hot Rod”) Rohr

Bob Rohr is a trainer with Caleffi, and was the recipient of the 2020-2022 Carlson-Holohan Industry Award of Excellence. He has 40+ years of experience as a plumbing, radiant heat and renewable energy contractor.

THE END RESULT

I was pleased with the operation this winter. The system never fell behind even at near design conditions of -15°C for this area. My electric bill went up from the previous year about US$100. Some of that was also a price increase for the kWh charge.

Maybe I went a bit overboard on the installation of the outdoor unit (ODU). I poured a concrete foundation, and concrete posts, and built an aluminum mounting frame to support the ODU, the goals being that the structure would be long lasting, maintenance free, and sound deadening. The ODU is extremely quiet when it’s running − much quieter than the AC unit at our nearby home.

I insulated the outdoor piping with 1 in. Armacell Tubolit non-particulating polyethylene foam and covered it with a piece of 4 in. black corrugated drainage piping. This protects the insulation from harsh UV, which breaks down exposed insulation.

ON TO COOLING

My next goal will be to see how much of the cooling load I can cover with chilled water running through the slab. I live in a very arid climate, so I think I have a good shot of covering a good portion if not all the load. Because it is my shop space, anything below the 38°C plus temperature I have experienced the past summers will be a win.

All in all, I feel the market and current product offering has evolved nicely. Inside the ODU and IDU is not a lot different than a modern mod con boiler. Large circuit boards manage the hydronic and refrigerant components. There is ample room to work on any of the parts if needed.

I run a 30 per cent mixture of Fernox Alphi 11 in the system. Inside the shop, I installed a brazed plate heat exchanger (HX) under the indoor unit (IDU), to separate the glycol from the water used in the radiant system. The “isolation” HX saved about 20 gallons of glycol, which I would have used if I had incorporated glycol into the entire system. The manufacturer’s tech support helped me use their online sizing software to select a generously sized HX to keep efficiency loss at a minimum.

The installation and start up was not unlike a hydronic boiler system. A 40 Amp circuit was required, which you do not typically require for a fossil fuelled boiler system. I was able to lock out the electric resistance back up element that is built into the indoor module.

“My electric bill went up from the previous year about US$100.” Some of that was also a price increase for the kWh charge.

PERFORMANCE COMPARISONS

I suggest you dig into the brands and features of A2WHPs. Find the job that matches the capacity of the heat pump. The outdoor temperature and the required SWT need to be considered. The lower the temperature that you run them, the higher the efficiency. Be aware that the output drops off as the outdoor temperature drops. The installation manuals have all the info, so find them online to make performance comparisons between brands and models.

I watched several training and installation videos online before I started the installation. Viessmann had a series of videos and I watched installers talk about their installations online via YouTube.

I really enjoy sharing my home project adventures with you. I imagine you too may experiment with cool heating components for fun, as well as work. Be sure to send me pictures and details of your homegrown heat pump systems!

every home

systems not only reduce your energy bills by transferring heat instead of generating it, but they also provide year-round heating and cooling. Imagine a home that stays consistently comfortable, no matter the season, all while reducing your carbon footprint. With quiet operation and a long lifespan, heat pumps are a smart, eco-friendly investment that pays off in both savings and peace of mind. Choose heat pumps for a greener, more comfortable future.

WATER HEATING

Decarbonization of a commercial domestic hot water system

Prior to this project, domestic hot water (DHW) was generated by different gas-fired boilers depending on the season. In the heating season, two large 3,077 MW (10,500 MBTU/hr) gas-fired boilers, dating from the original construction, were used for DHW production and also provided hot water for hydronic space heating. These large boilers were turned off during the cooling season and three smaller gas-fired boilers, ranging from 88 MW (300 MBTU/hr) to 147 MW (500 MBTU/ hr), were used instead. One of these three smaller boilers provided DHW for the tower and two were dedicated for the fitness centre change rooms. The DHW was stored in two large 1,325 L (350 US gallon) storage tanks, both original to the building.

The copper risers, running vertically through two mechanical shafts beside the elevator shaft, were also original to the building and had begun to leak on occasion. This signalled to Colliers that the risers were approaching the end of their long service life and required replacement.

The carrot

Each year, Kingsett Capital, one of the building owners, holds an Innovation in Sustainability competition for projects at their managed properties. For the 2020 competition, Kingsett indicated they were particularly interested in seeing submissions focused on cutting-edge technologies that have not yet scaled up to mass adoption, or are new to the Canadian or North American market. The award prize was a $50,000 contribution towards the winning project.

For its submission to the competition, Colliers proposed to combine the planned replacement of the aging risers with the electrification of the tower’s DHW system as a means to significantly reduce the building’s GHG emissions. The electrification project included decoupling the large boilers from the DHW systems, replacing the boiler serving the tower with two sets of all-electric, CO2-based heat pumps for year-round DHW generation, and installation of new DHW storage tanks. Electrification of the DHW system for the change rooms was not part of the proposal because the two boilers for this system were less than 10 years old.

The project won the internal competition, and was approved for some additional funding from the CleanBC Better Buildings program, and Colliers was tasked with implementing it.

The 26-storey office tower, Arthur Erickson Place, was constructed in 1968 and has a gross leasable area of approximately 33,445 m2 (360,000 ft2).

The Building

Arthur Erickson Place - 1075 West Georgia Street Vancouver, BC

Building Type: Office tower

Built: 1968

Estimated cost of GHG reduction: $146/tCO2e*

Reduction in GHG footprint: 40 tCO2e/year

The Team

Property manager: Colliers Canada

Mechanical consultant: SES Consulting

Mechanical contractor: Pacific Mechanical Systems Ltd.

Heat pump supplier: Small Planet Supply

Controls provider: ESC Automation

Right-sizing is critical

To begin, the DHW system was assessed by SES Consulting to ensure proper sizing of the new equipment. They began with an audit of all the plumbing fixtures to determine the number of fixtures and their flow rates. SES then used guidelines from the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) to approximate the size and number of heat pump water heaters and the number of water storage tanks required for the project. Because the ASPE guidelines can lead to oversizing of equipment, SES refined the sizing calculations with a third party-reviewed, manual calculation which took into account low-flow fixtures and time-of-day usage patterns for certain fixtures. This ensured that the equipment was more appropriately sized for the specific hot water heating demands of the building.

Because the tower’s DHW system is divided into two loops – one serving the upper 16 floors of the building and one serving the floors below, two separate right-sizing exercises had to be undertaken. It was determined that six heat pumps and four 450 L (119 US gallon) storage tanks would be required for the upper system. Four heat pumps and three 450 L storage tanks would be required for the lower system. Because the original boilers were retained to continue to provide space heating for the building, the new all-electric DHW heating plants required a new home. Non-tenanted space on the top floor and parkade level was converted to secondary mechanical rooms to accommodate the new equipment.

An important consideration for many electrification projects is the electrical service to the building and in particular the difference

Putting the plan into action

After receiving several bids for the scope of work, Pacific Mechanical Services (PMS) was selected as the mechanical contractor for the project. Similar to many older office towers, there was enough room in the mechanical chase to install a new riser while the adjacent existing riser was in use. This allowed PMS to install the equipment in the new secondary mechanical rooms and connect it to the new riser without disrupting the water supply to the building. Once the new system was tested and commissioned, it was tied into the existing branch piping outside of regular office hours because this part of the work involved shutting off the water supply to the building or several floors at a time. Because CO2-based heat pump water heaters require low supply water temperatures to maximize efficiency, the temperature of the hot water recirculation loops is maintained using one electric swing tank for each system (instead of the heat pumps). The swing tanks, installed in the secondary mechanical rooms, are equipped with an electric resistance coil to keep the temperature in the recirculation loop at 55°F (131°C).

between the peak demand and the maximum capacity. In this case, the typical peak demand was approximately 1,500 kW, representing less than 40 per cent of the available service. There was more than enough spare capacity for an electrification project that would add no more than 100 kW to the electrical demand. The panelboards to which the heat pumps would be connected also had spare capacity and as a result, did not have to be replaced.

Because the original boilers were retained to continue to provide space heating for the building, the new allelectric DHW heating plants required a new home.

According to PMS, a big advantage of the CO2-based heat pump water heaters is they can be installed by plumbers, rather than specialized refrigeration technicians because the CO2 refrigerant is sealed entirely within the heat pump units. This reduces the installation cost of the system, compared to systems where refrigerant lines are installed in the building.

Original gas-fired boiler.

CO2-based heat pump units.

WATER HEATING

The end result

The project is expected to reduce the building’s GHG footprint by approximately 40 tCO2e/year (at full occupancy). In addition to significantly reducing the building’s operational emissions, the refrigerant used for the heat pump water heater also reduces the risk of contributing to global warming should a leak occur.

Colliers is monitoring the energy consumption of the systems with dedicated submeters. In addition to providing specific energy consumption data for the DHW systems, the submetering should provide a means of detecting most

Hot water storage tanks and electric swing tank.

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operational issues as they occur. This will allow Colliers to maintain and repair the systems in a timely manner and as a result, maximize the service life of the heat pumps.

Based on an average run time and indoor installation (protected from precipitation and high humidity), the heat pumps are expected to have a service life of 15 to 20 years, with little more than annual or semi-annual maintenance. After the expected service life, it may be possible to simply replace wornout components rather than replace the entire heat pump.

Given how recently the project was completed (2021) and that the year-overyear difference in GHGs and electrical consumption values have been skewed by the pandemic, it is difficult to determine representative results. Assuming full occupancy and an increase in electrical consumption of approximately 60 MWh/ yr, Colliers expects the payback period for the electrification portion of this project to be approximately 15 years. The capital cost portion of the payback period calculation is based on the estimated difference in cost between a new gas-fired DHW system and the installed system, less the financial incentives. The corresponding GHG reduction cost is estimated to be approximately $146/tCO2e (taking into account the incentives but not including any reduction in maintenance costs).

Colliers and SES Consulting are now working with the building owners to develop a netzero carbon retrofit plan for the building as a whole, with the DHW project forming the first step on this journey.

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ROAD WARRIOR

Name: Alexander Brake

Company: Total Energy Solutions

Job title: Owner

Born in: Meadows, NL

Live in: Hughes Brook, NL

Age: 29

Pet: A Labrador/Shepherd mix named Sade

Alexander Brake: Passionate about energy efficiency

Growing up Alexander Brake knew he wanted to work in the skilled trades, but he was unsure which sector he preferred. “I knew I needed to do a hands-on career, something that challenges you, with your mindset as well as the physical aspect, and the trades are certainly where to go for that,” he recalls. It was after finishing high school, when Brake spent a year working with a local HVAC company doing residential ductwork, that he became hooked on the industry. “The first time they installed a heat pump system and I saw the gauges come out, that really piqued my interest,” he laughs.

Brake attended College of the North Atlantic and apprenticed with Dan Spence Refrigeration in Deer Lake, NL, working on “anything you could think of that heated up or cooled down.” He established his own HVAC company, Total Energy Solutions, in 2020 with business partner Roy Moores, at first servicing residential and commercial systems and eventually focusing on “heat pumps and home heating satisfaction,” he says. “When we got into that I kind of got drawn into the reaction of the customer when you put a new system into their home and you see the acknowledgement that they now have an energy efficient home that they can rely on. It’s kind of addicting. So, we kind of left the commercial side to the wayside.” The company also became a subcontractor of Toronto-

based 1Click Heating and Cooling, an electrification service provider operating across seven provinces, and in 2023 became a partner with 1Click. “We developed a shared interest, shared values and what we were trying to produce for the customer base,” says Brake. “1Click started off as a heat pump company, but everything right now is moving more towards electrification, so electrical upgrades, electrical equipment, battery backup systems, monitoring systems, anything to reduce loads in homes and the power grid as well. We’re going that route currently.”

Brake enjoys working with heat pumps, especially as the technology continues to advance, noting that “you’re not able to just stand by and watch this system or this industry develop, you have to be a part of it at all times. It’s a constant engagement with the equipment and with the industry that keeps you engaged all the time.”

Brake has already seen how cold climate heat pump technology is impacting heating and cooling in harsher climates like Newfoundland. “The first time we installed a heat pump system it wasn’t actually designed for our climate, the unit did not have a defrost sequence, so it completely froze solid with no way to defrost that ice or snow build up. It wasn’t designed for the humidity levels or the cold temperatures that we experience here

By Carolyn Cooper

in Newfoundland. Now the technology has improved dramatically, and not only the technology, but the industry itself. The producers of the equipment are listening to the techs in the field, getting proper feedback for certain areas and making adjustments to make sure that their equipment will work in any circumstance.”

With 12 employees, including eight technicians, the company covers much of western Newfoundland, and Brake anticipates expansion into eastern and central parts of the province with support from 1Click. “We do work with subcontractors in the other areas, and we’re basically developing those other regions to mimic the same reputation that we have on the west coast and the same reliability,” he explains.

“We’ve expanded within the last five years exponentially. And I think it all comes down to, again, the reputation and the quality of work that we hold ourselves to. Our work speaks for itself, and we make sure we do everything we possibly can to satisfy our customers.”

In the mechanical industry since: 2014

Schools and programs: College of the North Atlantic, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

Advice for young people considering entering the trades: Stay curious and remain open to learning. Find a mentor early on, someone who’s been through it and can help guide you. A strong work ethic, a willingness to adapt, and the right support can take you a long way in this field.

The current work ride: 2500 GMC truck

Service area: All of western Newfoundland

If you were granted one wish: I would wish for everyone to switch over to a heat pump. If people truly understood how much they could save, how energy-efficient these systems are, and the overall benefits they offer, more homeowners would make the switch. It would be amazing to see more communities embrace this technology.

Any area you like to get dispatched to, and why: I enjoy getting dispatched to remote areas because I’m able to help people who truly need it. In many of these places, access to reliable HVAC service can be limited, so it feels good knowing my work makes a real difference.

Favourite tool in your toolbox: My refrigeration gauge

The most useful tool in your toolbox: A debugger tool

Favourite parts of the job: Being able to help people, educate homeowners, and constantly learn new things. I take pride in knowing that I’m helping people make their homes more energy efficient, which contributes to a greener, more sustainable future.

Favourite music style: Country music

Favourite sports: Baseball and hockey

Favourite car of all time: 1985 Chevy 1500

Favourite season: Fall

Favourite food: Good pasta

Favourite snack: Flavoured chips

Favourite outdoor activity: Hunting

Hobbies: Hunting, fishing, and playing softball and hockey

Biggest pet peeves: A lack of craftsmanship and cold coffee. There’s nothing more frustrating than seeing work that’s rushed or done without care. And as for cold coffee, it’s just one of those little things that can throw off your day – nothing beats a fresh, hot cup to keep things going.

One place in the world you would like to visit: Alaska

One word or phrase that describes you: Resilient. Whether it’s in work or life, I believe in staying strong, adapting, and never backing down from a challenge.

Do you play an instrument? I play the guitar

Finish these sentences: My rule of thumb is ... work smarter, not harder. Automation and technology should enhance HVAC services, not complicate them.

When I was a kid, I wanted to be a ... garbage truck driver, because my Grandpa was one and I wanted to be just like him. He was hardworking, dependable, and someone I really admired.

GEOTHERMAL

By Matthew Reid

Matthew Reid is technical director – heating division at Enviroair’s Richmond Hill, ON office. He can be reached at mreid@enviroair.ca

Leader of the pack

Aco-worker recently asked me “What type of system is best?” I took that to mean which system is most efficient year-round and it really got me to thinking. Usually, I talk about one type of system at a time during presentations and discuss the features and benefits of that particular system, but the question had me considering what is actually the “best” type of system to heat and cool buildings.

There are numerous options with boilers, chillers, air handlers, heat pumps, and so on. Which system would come out on top if they were all thrown into an arena and had to duke it out? I believe the one that would win for best system for all intents and purposes would be geothermal or geo as it is sometimes referred to.

Geo has an exceptionally long history. The first documented commercial geo system dates back to 14th century France. They used wooden pipes and harnessed the power of hot springs. Perhaps this is not the geo power you are accustomed to with earth bore loops and heat pumps but it is still harnessing earth power to heat. It goes to show that when it comes to not freezing to death humans show great ingenuity when thinking of ways to stay warm.

Geothermal systems can usually be retrofitted for existing structures with the conventional system typically replaced with a geothermal heat pump and other equipment.

So, how does geo get incorporated into the modern world, and especially how does it get introduced to 30-storey towers in our cities? Not every site has hot springs or lava pools to pull heat from. That is where you will see the more traditional geothermal heat pump type systems we know of today. These systems require earth loops and heat pumps to either absorb or reject heat.

How do we get geo to a tower in the middle of a metropolitan city? The answer is an engineering marvel and comes down to one seemingly simple action: Drill baby, drill.

Before I continue, I will note that there are district geothermal utilities in many cities that buildings can tap into. These utilities are great at what they do and if you have the opportunity to partner, that is likely the easiest way to go about utilizing geo energy in a building, but that may not always be available in the area and that’s what I will focus on.

The most economical and simplest way to get a geothermal field incorporated into a tower is to put the geo field in place before the building goes up.

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GEOTHERMAL

DRILLING CONSIDERATIONS

The absolute best way to get a geothermal field incorporated into one of these buildings is to put the geo field in place before the building goes up. It allows the use of giant drilling machines that can go down 600 to 800 ft. to create a well. The number of wells will depend on the building heating and cooling load but it’s not uncommon to have from 50 to 200 holes depending on the building size.

There are a lot of considerations when drilling in any area such as existing underground infrastructure; including unconsolidated overburden sitting on top of bedrock where the boreholes may need to be cased during drilling to prevent collapse; and aquifers.

Adding geothermal wells to existing towers is complex. Drilling wells or ground loops under existing structures such as towers is generally avoided due to potential structural damage and safety concerns. If geothermal systems are needed, alternative solutions such as vertical ground loops or horizontal ground loops outside the immediate tower footprint are usually explored and all of the above drill considerations must still be reviewed. It is difficult to incorporate geo systems in this situation but it’s not impossible. After the holes are drilled and the piping for the geothermal system is run through the wells the more complex part of the system comes in when you have to tie everything together. Geo fields are often referred to as “the source” when talking in terms of geo mechanical designs.

It’s this source that makes geothermal such an efficient system. The source is constant and heat pumps love constants. Calculating heating and cooling outputs with a constant source temperature is a very reliable way to know what output loads can be year-round unlike air source which has a variable source (ambient outdoor air) temperature where the output can vary.

Why doesn’t everyone have GEO?

There is another consideration for a geothermal well. It’s one that we don’t talk about very often: the lifespan of the well and source field. That’s right, fields do come with a best before date and it is long but still finite. Geo wells last from 50 to 100 years. The longevity of the ground loop depends on the quality of materials used, proper installation, and the balance of heat extracted from and added to the ground.

A further drawback of geothermal systems is the upfront capital cost. You have the cost of drilling, which is all over the map

depending on soil make up, depth, and the equipment required. The piping can literally be miles of underground piping. Pumps are required to move the fluid medium through these pipes and through the heat pump. There is of course the heat pump itself. There are also controls and terminal units to consider. There is a tremendous number of components in a geo system and all of these will have a cost associated with them.

Geo is not cheap but it is the embodiment of pay me now or pay me later. Utilizing the power of the earth and the constant temperature of the underground makes efficiencies skyrocket. The higher the efficiency the lower the utility bill will be. Geo is something that should be considered when selecting what type of heating and cooling system to use in a building.

Ground source heat pump types defined

There are three types of ground-source heat pump: closed loop, open loop and direct expansion.

Open loop

This type of heat pump uses a lake, river or another body of water to exchange heat. The unit draws water directly to the heat exchanger, where heat is extracted. The system discharges the water either to an above ground body of water or back underground through a well.

Closed loop

Most closed-loop pumps circulate an antifreeze solution through a closed loop, usually made of plastic tubing, which is buried in the ground or submerged in water. A heat exchanger transfers heat between the refrigerant in the heat pump and the antifreeze solution in the closed loop. The loop can be in a horizontal, vertical, or pond/lake configuration.

Direct exchange

In this system, a refrigerant circulates through a continuous loop of copper tubing placed in the ground. It uses a relatively shorter and smaller set of buried tubing, reducing installation costs.

Source: NRCan

Wolseley

HEAT PUMP PRODUCTS

Side-discharge

The EcoNet-enabled Ruud Endeavor RD17AZ heat pump is compatible with nearly any existing HVAC system or as a universal replacement. As part of the Sound & Space Constraint Solution, it features a compact footprint making it a solution for applications where space is at a premium, with sound as low as 58 dBA.

www.

rheem.ca

Geothermal zone valve

Geothermal Heat Motor zone valves from Taco are made for high-head, open-system zone control, and provide a way to create individual zones or equipment isolation in a hydronic heating system. End switch design allows the valve to control the heat pump, allowing cold water into the coil before the heat pump starts. Twist-off head allows it to be serviced without disturbing system connections. Available in connection sizes 3/4 in. threaded, 3/4- and 1-in. sweat. www. tacocomfort.com

Easy service access

Arctic EVI air-to-water heat pumps are specifically designed for North American weather, with the ability to operate in as low as -22°F (-30°C) temperatures for hydronic heating and cooling. With a mono-block design and multiheat pump staging, the Arctic EVI has a COP of 3.1/3.2, and is available in three models offering 29,000 BTU, 48,000 BTU and 60,000 BTU respectively. The unit is WiFi enabled for full remote control, and offers ultra-quiet DC motor fans, intelligent defrost based on ambient temperature, and Blue Fin technology on evaporator and condenser fins for high corrosion resistance. www. arcticheatpumps.com

Cold temperatures

Designed for Canadian winters, the LG cold climate heat pump operates at temperatures as low as -35°C. It retains full heating capacity down to -25°C and functions at 70 per cent capacity at -35°C. Additionally, the heat pump incorporates a refrigerant cycle that prevents frost accumulation on the outdoor heat exchanger, for enhanced heating performance. The heat pump is also equipped with a high-capacity, highefficiency twin rotary inverter compressor that uses low GWP R-32 refrigerant; COP at -15°C for 9K BTU is 2.04 and 12K BTU is 2.05. www. lghvac.com

Universal heat pumps

The Daikin FIT offers cooling and heating with the energy-efficient power of a heat pump with adaptive inverter technology. It is a quiet, compact, smart and efficient HVAC unit for ducted homes. This all-electric system is designed to provide reliable, yearround performance without the noise or bulk of traditional units. This unit is five times quieter than non-inverter systems and less than 14 in. wide, and delivers up to 19.0 SEER2, 8.8 HSPF2 and 2 to 5 tons.

www. daikincomfort.com

All climate heat pump

The Midea EVOX delivers cooling in temperatures up to 47°C and heating down to -30°C. With dual-fuel compatibility and inverter-driven performance, it suits both new construction and retrofit applications. Enhanced vapour injection technology ensures year-round comfort, while the modular Block-n-Lock air handler simplifies installation in tight spaces. Featuring dualvoltage compatibility, flame-free flair fittings, and wireless Sub-1GHz communication, EVOX uses low-GWP R-454B refrigerant.

www.

midea.com

Cold climate mini split

Fujitsu has launched the AIRSTAGE Orion XLTH+ (Extra Low Temperature Heating Plus) cold climate heat pump as part of its H-Series R-32 heat pump line. The single-zone, wallmounted mini-split system works in temperatures as low as -30°C, with a SEER2 rating of up to 33.5, and 100 per cent capacity heating at -26°C and 90 per cent capacity at -30°C. Featuring a compact design and remote monitoring through the AIRSTAGE app and built-in WiFi connectivity, the system has sound levels as low as 23 dBA indoors and 44 dBA outdoors. Units are available in models with maximum heating capacities of 24,000, 27,300, and 28,000 BTU/hr.

www.

fujitsugeneral.com

Geothermal system

Side discharge

The Goodman SD is a split system, side-discharge air conditioner and heat pump designed to optimize space and performance. The inverterdriven, variable-speed units are a compact, high-efficiency solution for small spaces. With performance as low as 56 dBA and 45 dBA in quiet mode, SD air conditioners deliver up to 17.2 SEER2, with cooling up to 46°C, while heat pumps reach up to 17.5 SEER2 and 8.5 HSPF2, with heating down to -12°C.

www.

goodmanmfg.com

The 5 Series 3D residential system from WaterFurnace provides energyefficient forced air heating, cooling and hydronic heat for radiant floors and domestic hot water heating all in one unit. Units come standard with low GWP refrigerant and Aurora Advanced Controls for operating logic, troubleshooting and two-way communication between components for real-time remote system access. Other features include aluminum PinnaCoil with anti-corrosive properties, variable speed ECM motor, 27.8 EER and 4.7 COP.

www.

waterfurnace.com

Wall mounted unit

The Meridian wall mounted heat pump system from Moovair is now available in a mid-size 15,000 BTU. This A2L unit uses R-454B refrigerant and delivers up to SEER2 22.2 and HSPF2(V) 8.5. It includes a built-in multifunction board for auxiliary heat, a refrigerant leak sensor, and offers stable, high-efficiency heating performance down to -30°C.

www.

moovair.com

HEAT PUMP PRODUCTS

Automated temperature controls

The R-454B-equipped Climate 5000 ductless mini-split heat pump system from Bosch Home Comfort features Intelligent Eye infrared technology. When the room is empty, the Intelligent Eye eases off the compressor speed to conserve energy and control humidity. A factory-installed A2L sensor on the evaporator coil directly connects to the indoor unit’s control base. The condenser powers up to six indoor air handlers, and electrical, refrigerant and condensate drain lines connect outdoor and indoor units via a 3-in. diameter hole. A backwardscompatible universal-wired thermostat is included.

www. bosch-home.ca

Gas heat pump

Anesi’s gas heat pump delivers 80,000 BTU/hr heating capacity, and space heating down to -40°C without the need for backup. The unit is UltraLow Nox compliant, and its 140per cent AFUE lowers gas use and reduces CO₂ emissions. The sealed system contains R-717 refrigerant with zero GWP and no PFAS, and uses existing 120C/15A circuits. Other features include variable speed evaporator fan and 4:1 modulated burner, rear water and gas connections with built-in isolation valves, and remote system monitoring.

www. stonemountaintechnologies.com

Hybrid system

Weil-McLain introduces the ECO HP air to water heat pump, an electric heat pump designed for residential and light commercial applications. As part of the ECO hybrid dual-fuel hydronic system, it pairs high-efficiency heat pump technology with a traditional gas boiler. Made for maximum performance in all climates, the system features efficiencies up to 5.37 COP, R-32 refrigerant, and ultra-quiet operation.

www.

weil-mclain.ca

UNIX SERIES

HIGH-EFFICIENCY CENTRAL HEAT PUMPS WITH CASED COILS

Heat pump combination AHRI Certified for installation with ANY 3rd party furnace.

Eligible to financial incentives in certain provinces, contact us for more detail.

SPARE PARTS

TO FULLY SUPPORT OUR DEALER NETWORK

*GREE Canada is not responsible for warranty on units sold outside GREE Canada’s sales channel.

For more detail, contact our team at proservice@gree.ca.

HEAT PUMP PRODUCTS

Solar system

EcoSolaris hybrid solar air conditioning and heat pump systems cut energy costs while reducing environmental impact. Heat pumps can run on solar, grid, or both, offering flexibility for a range of applications, including residential, commercial, and remote settings. Certified by ENERGY STAR and Intertek, EcoSolaris systems use R-32 refrigerant, and can be controlled via WiFi by a smart phone. Heat pumps are available in 12,000 BTU and 18,000 BTU sizes.

www.

solarcooling.ca

CONFORTO

STAY COOL ALL SUMMER WITH CONFORTO

Conforto heat pumps keep your home refreshingly cool during the hottest days of summer—without compromising on energy efficiency. Choose the Cold Climate Centrally Ducted System for whole-home cooling or the Maximum Ductless Mini-Split for targeted comfort in any space. Both systems are whisper-quiet, ENERGY STAR® certified, and built to perform year-round.

Conforto Granby

Compact footprint

Samsung’s Hylex heat pump is a universal, inverter-driven solution that replaces traditional AC units without requiring a full system overhaul. It is compatible with existing coils and infrastructure, helping reduce waste and lower installation costs. It has a compact footprint (3.34 ft²) making it easier to move using a dolly and to get through gates, and requires less space on the installer’s truck. It is available in capacities from 2 to 5 tons, with SEER2 up to 18.5 and an operating range of -20°C to 51.7°C for cooling and down to -25°C for heating.

www.

samsunghvac.com

Self-cleaning coils

Hitachi airHome features R-32 refrigerant and energy-saving motion sensor technology. The H600 wall mounted indoor unit heat pump has an operating range for heating of -25°C to 24°C, and -18°C to 48°C for cooling. Units have WiFi with AirCloud Go, FrostWash 3.0 self-cleaning coils, and PM2.5 filtration. FrostWash technology freezes dust and dirt, melting it and washing it away.

www.

master.ca

HEAT PUMP PRODUCTS

A2W monobloc

The Versati IV air to water monobloc heat pump from Gree is an all-in-one solution for heating, cooling and domestic hot water production. Featuring inverter technology and Gree’s dual-stage inverter compressor, the unit can produce heat at outdoor ambient temperatures as low as -25°C. The Versati IV has a heating capacity of 54,598 BTU/hr, EER up to 11.8 and COP of up to 4.4, and sound power level of 60 dBA.

www.

gree.ca

Chiller heat pump

York’s YMAE inverter modular chiller and heat pump is engineered for commercial applications, using low-GWP R-454B and offering up to 20.01 IPLV and COPshc 8.1 in simultaneous mode. Modular two- or fourpipe configurations and inverter compressors (575V/3ph/60Hz) ensure installation flexibility, exceptional part-load efficiency, and reliable performance. www. york.com

Mini split series

Convectair introduces Legato, a mini split heat pump series designed for residential or commercial spaces in all seasons. Available in 9,000, 12,000, 18,000 and 24,000 BTU capacities for both indoor and outdoor models, the series offers a high-performance invertor compressor, Golden fin element coating, and 20 dB operation in Silent mode. Operating in temperatures from -29°C to 30°C, the units use R-454B refrigerant and are WiFi enabled using the Convectair Connect app. www.

convectair.glendimplexamericas.com

Ensure your HVAC/R appliances, equipment and components are certified to meet the latest regulatory requirements utilizing low global warming refrigerants. Intertek’s experts will help you gain compliance and certification for flammable refrigerants with speed to market.

Low-GWP R-32 refrigerant

Daikin Rebel Applied packaged rooftop systems are electricity-powered heat pumps, with lowGWP R-32 refrigerant and inverter compressors. An additional outdoor coil surface and a supplemental compressor kick in when temperatures drop. Energy recovery wheels, an optional feature, preheat air before it passes through the heating coil, extending the heat pump’s capacity once again. By using configurable circuitry, and isolating new loads to smaller and separate circuits, the systems eliminate or minimize electrical infrastructure modifications, trimming installation time and associated expenses. www. daikinapplied.com

Rooftop units

Lennox Enlight dual fuel heat pump is powered by the Lennox CORE control system, and offer energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and serviceable design with the flexibility to configure the product to your exact application. These heat pump and dual fuel configurations are available from 3 to 25 tons and meet a range of applications. The line has SEER rating up to 17 SEER2, and 12.7 EER2 and is available in 575v/460v 3ph and 208/230v 1ph/3ph

www.

lennoxcommercial.com

Multipoise design

The Conforto ducted heat pump offers 100 per cent heating capacity at -20°C and operation down to -30°C. It features advanced inverter technology, side-discharge design, and quiet operation. The heat pump is compatible with most third-party thermostats, and is ENERGY STAR certified.

www.

confortohvac.com

WORTH A LOOK

Air to air heat pump

Viessmann’s air to air ductless heat pump systems are designed for residential and light commercial applications. The systems use inverter technology which continually adjusts the compressor speed as conditions change to maintain consistent comfort while reducing energy consumption. The systems have powerful low ambient heating and cooling down to -30°C and as high as 50°C.

www.

viessmann.ca

HPJ

Report seeks to change the messaging around geothermal energy

Baseload

Capital has released a report highlighting the ways geothermal could transform the energy transition, but calls for unity in communication and collaboration to mobilize the geothermal sector.

“We must reshape the narrative using storytelling and visuals to make geothermal appealing and simplify the message,” says Kristina Hagström-Ilievska, CMO of Baseload Capital, a Stockholm, Sweden-based investment firm that funds the deployment of geothermal power plants worldwide. Hagström-Ilievska says that the global renewable energy capacity will need to triple within five years to power data servers and for other uses, meaning an additional 16,000 gigawatts of geothermal energy will need to come online.

“There is no crowd or competition in this race. There could be 100 more companies working in geothermal, and we could all be successful,” she says. Hagström-Ilievska also notes that like geothermal power, the solar energy sector faced similar challenges in terms of public perception but has been able to overcome them.

“[The solar energy sector] made an exponential leap from being very expensive to being affordable. How can we do that for geothermal? There is a lot to learn; from their business models to how they used advocacy and lobbying to get their voices heard.”

By Carolyn Cooper

She adds that there are “massive learning opportunities by looking at collaborative efforts with other energy sources,” and that communicating with end users will be vital to keep the geothermal sector strong and moving forward.

From 2022 to 2023 Baseload Capital joined with other stakeholders, including Geothermal Rising, the International Geothermal Association, ThinkGeoEnergy, and Ormat Technologies, to establish a foundation for continued work and long-term impact. They also established the Declaration of Communication for geothermal sector participants, which “explains why we need one united voice and offers clear, actionable steps,” says Hagström-Ilievska.

The company is also creating a resource hub at geothermaldoc.com, says Hagström-Ilievska, “where people working with geothermal and communication can access information and get inspired. We’re calling on ambassadors worldwide to join this energy revolution!”

baseloadcap.com

Say hello to the airHome series by Hitachi

Canada’s newest name in high-performance heat pumps.

NOW EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE AT MASTER

airHome systems are designed for all-season comfort with the smart features your customers want and the reliability you need.

• R32 refrigerant – low GWP, in use by Hitachi since 2013

• Built-in Wi-Fi with AirCloud Go™ app

• Reliable heating down to -30°C

• Motion sensor for smart energy savings

• FrostWash™ 3.0 self-cleaning coils

• Models: 400, 600, 800 & multi-zone

• PM2.5 active carbon filter – lab -tested for fine particles

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Heat Pump Symposium sees impressive growth in just three years

The third Heat Pump Symposium, held May 6 at the International Centre in Toronto, ON, featured 22 educational sessions and 80 exhibitors. Sessions addressed regulatory trends, financial and policy incentives, adoption barriers and opportunities, rebates available in Ontario, and the results of the Bridging the Skills Gap for Heat Pump Proficiency research project.

Case studies a popular draw

Alex Kalopsis, City of Toronto; Joanna Jackson, Minto; and Etienne de Muelenaere of Ecosystem walked attendees through a City of Toronto’s Deep Retrofits Challenge project in Yorkville. Minto’s 61 Yorkville is a mixed-use building combining 181 apartments, amenity spaces, and commercial space. In partnership with Ecosystem, Minto is undergoing a deep energy retrofit that is expected to reduce energy use intensity by 50 per cent and lower greenhouse gas emissions by 80 per cent. The session showcased real-world implementation and lessons learned from the project. A second case study presentation shared insights from Bondi Energy and Dream Unlimited about their latest retrofit of 723 Bloor St. West.

Coming soon

The event, which attracted 1,000 delegates, was hosted by The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI). The Atlantic symposium will be held September 23 in Halifax, NS following the 2025 HRAI Conference and AGM.

By Kerry Turner

The Atlantic symposium will be held September 23 in Halifax, NS following the 2025 HRAI Conference and AGM.

1. Opening keynote speaker Bryan Flannigan talked about the future of heat pump technology and shared specifics about heat pump uptake across Canada. Flannigan is executive director of the Building Decarbonization Alliance.

2. Virtually every heat pump technology was represented at the symposium with 80 exhibitors on the show floor

3. Gord Cooke, president of Building Knowledge Canada, discussed sales strategies for promoting heat pumps in a competitive market. He noted that customers need to be aware of energy efficiency and cost savings. Attendees also learned how to address customer concerns and boost adoption.

4. Closing keynote speaker Mélanie Auvray of the European Heat Pump Association provided insights into supply chain and competitiveness in the heat pump industry. The session highlighted international strategies for market expansion.

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Test your heat pump knowledge!

Match the terminology you hear in the field to the correct definition or function by June 27, 2025 and enter for your chance to win a $150 Visa gift card. This contest is open to Mechanical Business subscribers in Canada. Enter online at mechanicalbusiness.com or send answers to kerry.turner@mechanicalbusiness.com.

JOBSITE JARGON

EXAMPLE: 4) Single-zone K) A single compressor connected to a single air handler

Answer 4,K

Thank you for participating!

A) These indoor units are generally located on the floor or wall of an occupied space, and heat or cool the air in that space directly

B) Allows for a full range of operation, similar to the accelerator in a car, and automatically adjusts output for optimal efficiency

C) Performance testing standard for three phase air-source heat pumps

D) Component of a heat pump’s outdoor compressor unit that receives refrigerant in the form of hot gas from the compressor and cools it into a warm liquid

E) Also called dual-source or multiple-source, these heat pump systems combine multiple geothermal sources, or both geothermal and air source

F) Geothermal heat pump that collects thermal energy from a water source and transfers it either to indoor air (water to air) or to water (water to water)

G) A measure of heat pump capacity equivalent to 3.5 kW or 12,000 BTU/hr

H) Allows cold-climate heat pumps to improve performance in cold temperatures by allowing increased refrigerant flow into the evaporator coil

I) Establishes an electronic connection between all the different heating and cooling system components to optimize overall performance, efficiency and comfort

J) Geothermal heat pump that collects thermal energy from groundwater or water from a source such as a pond, lake, or well, and circulates it through pipe before depositing it back into the source

K) A single compressor connected to a single air handler

Senville

Hydronic Products

Press fittings

ASC Engineered Solutions has expanded its SCI carbon steel and copper press fittings lineup with a range of 302 SS alloy components for use in ASTM A312 stainless steel piping systems in 1/2 to 2-in. sizes. The SCI Press Stainless Steel System includes couplings, elbows, tees, adapters, reducers, caps, unions and flanges for use in commercial, industrial and residential market. Applications include hydronic heating, hot and cold potable water, rain and gray water, chilled water, and fuels and gases. www.

asc-es.com

Condensate neutralizer

Firetube water heater

Patterson-Kelley has expanded its SOLIS line with the W-Series of firetube condensing domestic hot water heaters. The units, for the commercial boiler and hot water heating markets, feature a 10:1 mechanical turndown, geometric design to optimize heat transfer, and efficiencies up to 96 per cent. Other highlights include ultra-low NOx emissions, removable hinged door panels for easy maintenance, and zeroclearance capability for side-byside installation. Models are available in 1,000 to 3,000 MBTU.

pattersonkelley.com

Wall-mounted convectors

Jaga Climate Solutions introduces Continuo, a series of wall-mounted hydronic convectors designed for seamless installation in commercial buildings, institutions and high-performance residential applications with low-temperature hydronic systems. Designed to prevent blocked grilles, the series offers two models: the Continuo, with a rectangular enclosure, and the Continua, with an angled top design, both of which include a range of wall trims, cabinets and filler and corner pieces for flexibility. Features include 2,718 BTU/hr heating capacity, 55 corrugated aluminum fins per foot, and dirtrepellent and dust-proof graphite grey lacquer finish.

www.

jaga-canada.com

Franklin Electric’s Little Giant brand has expanded its condensate removal product line to include a series of condensate neutralizing products. The products include an integrated condensate neutralizer media to treat acidic condensate before it gets into residential plumbing systems. The NC-2 Series tubestyle neutralizers feature integral unions with O-ring seals and snap-in brackets, and come in three models for horizontal and vertical installation and between 220,000 and 300,000 BTU/ hr of appliance input. Easy-to-install replacement media kits are also available.

www. littlegiant.com

Wall mount boiler

Mobile app

Triangle Tube’s Ionic wall mount commercial boilers and volume water heaters are compact, low NOx certified and designed for easy installation and maintenance. Features include an easy-to-read error history and full text control, standard Modbus connection and optional BACnet accessory. Models range from 299 to 500 MBH with modulation up to 6.5:1, and boilers offer an AFUE of 95.1 per cent, while water heaters offer 96 per cent thermal efficiency. Installers can cascade up to 16 boilers.

www.

triangletube.com

Hydronic Products

Bypass valve

ThermOmegaTech’s Thermal Bypass Valve with pressure relief regulates cooling water for radiators and heat exchangers by integrating temperature control and pressure relief. It is engineered to safeguard equipment from damage caused by excessive pressure, while remaining at optimal operating temperatures. When pressure exceeds a set threshold, the valve opens, sending flow through the bypass. The unit is self-operating and has few moving parts for reduced system wear.

thermomegatech.com

Electric boiler

The Amptron Series from Camus Hydronics is a fully electric boiler for hydronic heating in commercial applications. It can fit through a standard doorway and features optional PLC and HMI with integrated power monitoring module, optional SCR (silicone controlled rectifier) for infinite modulation, and a vertical heat exchanger with easily replaceable heating elements. Models range from 90 kW to 540 kW and are all available in 240, 480 or 600 volts. www.

camus-hydronics.com

Valve actuator

Belimo’s ZoneTight zone valves are made for efficiency in tight spaces and performance for pressure dependent and pressure independent zoning applications. With a zero leakage, two-way or threeway ball valve and electronic rotary actuator, the unit has an installation height of 4.33 in., in NPT or Sweat. The rotary actuator is controlled by standard voltage for on/off control, a modulating signal, or a floating-point control system.

www. belimo.com

TACO

By Fred Bretzke

PLUMBING

Fred Bretzke is a full-time pipe trades instructor with Calgary’s SAIT Polytechnic and the recipient of the 2024 Cadmus Teaching Chair. Fred also received the 2020-2021 Innovation of The Year Award: SAIT for digitizing the project-based learning approach apprenticeship training is known for. Fred’s new code book appendix, entitled It’s In The Code, has now been copyrighted and published with SAIT. He can be reached at fred.bretzke@sait.ca.

MAINTAINING HOT WATER TANKS

Backin the day, one of our most popular maintenance contracts was to manually clean commercial hot water tanks (HWT). The pH or potential hydrogen of water has always been an issue with plumbing fixtures. If the calcium magnesium content in the water is too high, you will notice a white light scale on piping, controls, and faucets. As pH levels are found on a scale of 14, it’s preferable to have a reading of approximately seven rather than 12 to 14, which would be too high or too alkaline. A water test that calculates out at four to five would be too acidic and would cause corrosion in the piping system. Now if you heat water it pushes up the temporary hardness in the water, thereby causing access calcium deposits to rest on the bottom of the HWT. With that quick lesson on pH levels, let’s go back to my story of manually cleaning hot water tanks. First of all, it was worth it to remove the access calcium in the bottom of a commercial tank to improve its longevity. If it were a residential tank and it was not cleaned every year from the beginning, it was usually a waste of time. The only way to clean or remove the calcium in a residential tank was flushing it through the 3/4 in. drain and that rocklike substance would not pass through it. Most plumbers did not even flush their HWTs as it was not worth it.

pH is a measure of how acidic/basic water is. The range goes from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. pHs of less than 7 indicate acidity, whereas a pH of greater than 7 indicates a base. pH is really a measure of the relative amount of free hydrogen and hydroxyl ions in the water. Water that has more free hydrogen ions is acidic, whereas water that has more free hydroxyl ions is basic.

Commercial hot water tanks were and are worth it due to their expensive cost, and they have a removable access panel built in the bottom side of the tank. It is quite simple to do: shut off the HWT; open the drain or hose-bib located on the bottom side of the tank; and open the temperature pressure relief valve (TPRV) by pulling the lever on it so it is perpendicular to the tank. This action disturbs the air-break, thereby helping the water purge out of the hose-bib.

Quite often you have to remove the hose-bib and poke a hole into the calcified rock that sometimes blocks the hole. Finally, once it is drained, you should be able to remove the access panel on the bottom side of the tank. The next step would be to insert a garden hose hopefully with a pressure nozzle on its end, so that it can pressure wash out all the loose calcium sitting on the bottom of the tank.

If the calcium is not loose, it is difficult to free it from the tank. I once tried to use a hammer and large slot screwdriver to loosen it up and I ended poking a hole in the bottom of the tank. Thankfully, I was able to talk them into a new tank.

Calcium buildup can create many problems such as causing the temperature pressure relief valve to stick open or shut. I once witnessed a customer actually plug off the TPRV when it was dripping; not a good idea as that would create a powerful bomb.

Access panel on the side of the tank.

Manufacturers would later come up with methods to achieve better mixing, such as HydroJet, in commercial hot water tanks. Water enters the tank causing a vortex movement that greatly reduces the sediment buildup on the bottom of the tank.

ANNUAL TESTING

Proper maintenance of a hot water tank includes annual testing of the TPRV. You could also check the anode rod located on the inside of the tank. It is also important to check to see if the tank is cold water bottom fed. If it is, it requires a vacuum relief valve installed at least six inches higher than the tank. It tells us this in NPC article 2.6.1.7. 8. If it is not

Residential application for an expansion tank on the cold line where it is also a closed system due to a check valve.

properly protected, the TPRV will blow off or the tank might even collapse. If the TPRV is continually dripping it might also be because there is a check valve in the system. In that case you would have to check to see that an expansion tank is installed properly on the cold inlet to the tank. The old way of helping with expansion and contraction on a closed system was to drill a 1/16 in. hole in the check of the check valve.

Instantaneous hot water heaters are great for continuous hot water but are very susceptible to calcium build up in the copper coils. It is recommended to use soft water to inhibit calcium magnesium buildup.

PRECISION DIELECTRIC WATERWAY® FITTINGS

THREAD X THREAD

The Precision Dielectric Waterway® fittings are Precision Plumbing Products new offering, it has a thermoplastic liner with pre-formed end shields.

Our Precision Dielectric Waterway® fittingsare available in thread x thread sizes 1/2” NPT, 3/4” NPT, 1” NPT and 2” NPT. More options will soon be available.

Assembled at our ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified-green factory.

Meets BABAA Build American Buy America Act and American Iron and Steel.

Precision Dielectric Waterway® fittings are designed to meet the requirements of ASTM standard F1545 for continuous use at temperatures of up to +225 oF (+-5 oF) and for pressures up to 300 psi.

Precision Dielectric Waterway® is listed by IAPMO/UPC.

PPP/Precision Plumbing

Industry Leaders in Product Quality, On-time Delivery, and Customer Satisfaction

PLUMBING

WHY THE HYPE OVER THERMOSTATIC BALANCING

Hot water distribution systems are a critical component of plumbing design, especially in large residential and commercial buildings. Maintaining consistent hot water temperatures across these systems can be challenging, but thermostatic balancing valves are a solution.

A thermostatic balancing valve is a dynamic device that automatically adjusts water flow in response to temperature changes within a domestic hot water system (DHWS). Unlike manual balancing valves, which maintain a set position, thermostatic valves continuously adapt to real-time conditions, optimizing water flow without manual intervention. These valves rely solely on sensing temperature to maintain a set temperature in the water lines instead of using pressure or flow calculations.

By ensuring hot water is distributed evenly throughout the system, thermostatic balancing valves improve energy efficiency, minimize water waste, reduce maintenance needs, and provide hot water on demand.

By Christine Tarlecki

WHY IS BALANCING A DHWS NECESSARY?

In any hot water recirculation system, water naturally flows through the path of least resistance. This often leads to uneven distribution, where branches or risers located farther from the hot water source experience reduced flow and significant heat loss.

Balancing valves counteract these issues by normalizing water flow throughout the system. Installed at the end of the branch or the top of each riser, these valves ensure sufficient flow and temperature in every branch or riser to offset the heat loss. Typically, the branches/ risers closest to the water source will require the least flow, and the ones further away will require more flow.

TYPES OF BALANCING VALVES USED TODAY

Several balancing valves are available today, each with its advantages and disadvantages.

Manual balancing valves

Manual balancing valves have traditionally been used in DHWS. They are an adjustable ball valve type with pressure ports used to determine the flow. While functional and inexpensive, they require iterative adjustment to balance DHWS because they are pressure-dependent flow devices.

Every time a manual balancing valve is adjusted, it impacts the setting of all the other valves in the system. This process can be timeconsuming and expensive, especially in larger systems, and often requires a journeyman or certified plumber to balance the system.

Thermostatic valves are temperature devices solving a temperature problem.

Fixed flow balancing valves

Also known as pressure-independent or automatic balancing valves, these devices have a constant flow rate based on a customer-selected cartridge. They utilize replaceable, flow-regulating cartridges, each with a set operating flow rate and differential pressure ranges, eliminating labour associated with manual balancing.

Fixed flow valves have static flow settings and are not dynamic, meaning they do not adjust the flow as conditions change within a system. Due to their small orifices and tight clearances, they may be prone to clogging in high mineral-content environments.

Electric balancing valves

Electric valves offer temperature sensing, motorized control, and integration with a building management system (BMS). While they provide advanced control and data monitoring, these valves are complex, expensive, and have intricate components. The use of these valves in DHWS has been minimal.

INFINITI® GS & GR TANKLESS GAS WATER HEATERS

Every contractor needs a go-to tankless that can tackle just about any job. That’s what we had in mind when we engineered the Infiniti® GS & GR tankless gas water heaters. They’re flexible and easy to install in many configurations.

• Residential and Commercial applications

• Robust stainless steel heat exchanger for longer life

• Cascade and common venting between standard and recirculation models

• Certified Green Product™ by the Green Restaurant Association

Bradford White

Thermostatic balancing valves

Thermostatic valves dynamically adjust flow based on real-time temperature changes. By sensing the water temperature, they automatically modulate flow to maintain a set temperature in the branch or riser, eliminating the need for manual calculations and adjustments.

Since the valve movement in thermostatic valves is automatic, manual adjustment is not required. This eliminates the typical testing and balancing procedure that is needed to adjust valves that restrict flow based on pressure differential.

HOW THERMAL BALANCING VALVES OPERATE

Thermal balancing valves use paraffin wax actuators to modulate flow based on fluid temperature. A temperature increase changes the wax state from solid to liquid, creating a maximum change in volume. The wax pushes on the diaphragm and extends a piston to adjust the amount of flow through the valve. As the temperature cools, the wax returns to a solid, and the piston retracts, allowing for more flow. This simple mechanism enables precise temperature control.

Key advantages include:

• No manual intervention: The valves adjust automatically as system conditions change.

• Energy efficiency: Consistent temperature control reduces heat loss and water waste.

• Reliable operation: The wax-based actuator has no shelf life and ensures long-term durability.

• Pump protection: Valves never fully close, ensuring adequate flow to prevent pump overheating.

FIXED VERSUS ADJUSTABLE THERMOSTATIC VALVES

Fixed thermostatic balancing valves are factory-calibrated for a specific temperature and cannot be adjusted in the field. A replacement kit can quickly change the actuator’s temperature set point, but they are set for a given return temperature. This tamper-proof design eliminates the risk of adjustment by nonqualified personnel and ensures consistent performance.

Fixed thermostatic balancing valves have a higher valve flow coefficient (Cv) than adjustable valves at 5°F below their set point because they go from fully extended to retracted over a 10°F lifespan versus 50°F for the adjustable thermostatic balancing valves. With a broader stroke range and higher Cv, fixed thermostatic balancing valves minimize pressure drops and simplify installation.

CASE STUDY

Location: Integrated University Health and Social Services Centre of the CapitaleNationale Mental Health University Institute of Quebec

The IUSMQ’s main pavilion was recently renovated with the renovation including an update to its domestic hot water recirculation system. It is a large building with total floor area of about 160,000 m².

The University Institute of Mental Health (IUSMQ) is a hospital specializing in psychiatric care. Hot water is heated and distributed from the hospital’s power plant throughout its sectors. Historically, the hot water was “overheated” at the power plant to account for the heat loss that occurred over its long recirculation lines. Standards and regulations have required the hospital to readjust the temperature of this water to an acceptable level.

According to building consultant André Renaud, this requirement resulted in the hospital experiencing a lack of hot water in some sectors. This lack of hot water needed to be rectified.

The Installation

Renaud reviewed the recirculation system to determine the required flow rate to counter the heat loss of the network and consider consumption. He found that the main recirculation piping could not withstand the flow speeds required to reach the hot water recirculation flow target due to risk of premature erosion of the copper piping.

Renaud eliminated the conventional method of using fixed flow balancing valves and installed 108 balancing valves in their place to resolve this issue. The self-actuating, in-line, thermostatic recirculation valve automatically and continuously adjusts flow to maintain the specified temperature at the end of each domestic hot water supply line.

The Result

Hot water is now available throughout the entire main pavilion on demand. When a branch is satisfied with hot water, the thermostatic recirculation valve automatically adjusts to a minimum flow, allowing the hot water flow to continue onto the next branch thus leaving recirculation flow available for areas that need hot water.

Christine Tarlecki is marketing coordinator with ThermOmegaTech, a manufacturer of thermostatic solutions.

Make the connection your way.

One trusted source for PEX piping systems to meet your needs. From expansion to crimp to push, whichever system you prefer, we make it. +10 YEAR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES WARRANTY

EXPANSION CRIMP PUSH

Bundling services boosts customer loyalty

It’s one thing to have a homeowner call you to fix a leaky pipe, install a dehumidifier, or quote a new heat pump. It’s altogether more profitable to have a homeowner choose you as their go-to service provider, providing recurring revenues through ongoing maintenance needs and other types of repeat business. The home service companies that can build this kind of customer loyalty tend to be the most competitive.

An effective way to generate this kind of loyalty is by making bundled service packages available to your customers, providing an easy way for them to stock up on accessories or plan for maintenance needs, all with a minimum number of transactions. When done right, bundled service offerings can benefit your bottom line, your team, and customer base equally, but successful implementation requires you to train and equip technicians properly.

To understand what makes bundled services worthwhile, consider these three questions: How can bundled services help increase business revenue? How can they improve team efficiency? How do they deliver more value to customers? This last question is essential when thinking about boosting brand loyalty.

• Bundled services benefit the business and its bottom line by increasing the average ticket value, thereby enhancing gross profitability

• Bundled services benefit technician teams by providing additional income potential, specifically when you connect bundled services to a sales performance incentive fund, or SPIFF.

• Bundled services benefit customers by providing them with financial savings on products and services and easy ways to tackle multiple home projects with fewer total transactions.

Getting started

Despite these clear benefits, bundled service offerings may be daunting to implement for several different reasons. One of the most common obstacles to implementing bundled service offerings is a lack of clarity about which services belong together; in other words, how do you build bundled packages? A smart way to tackle this challenge is by creating different bundles around different themes. For example:

• A bundle could be based on energy efficiency, combining smart thermostat installation with a duct cleaning plan.

• A safety bundle could emphasize water leak detection, freeze prevention, or thermostats with built-in cameras and door locks.

• A bundled service could also focus on breakdown prevention, encompassing standard maintenance and repair needs.

Companies with more bundled service package experience can evolve current offerings into a tiered program.

Bundled services should always include a maintenance component, providing customers with a cost-effective way to extend the life of their equipment while providing a new source of recurring revenue to the business.

Another consideration for companies with more bundled service package experience is evolving current offerings into a tiered program; think gold, silver, and bronze versions for each bundled theme, each with a different price point corresponding to the overall customer value.

Tips for successful implementation

Not all bundled service initiatives are created equal. There are several strategic points to consider. An important starting point is to create a solid list of products and services your business offers and brainstorm possible themes and groupings. It’s essential to involve technicians in this process, asking their input on which products or services they most want to promote. Their buy-in is critical; they won’t advocate for it effectively if they don’t care about it.

Technicians should also be involved with training for each featured product or service, learning how to articulate its benefits and perform installations and maintenance.

Creating marketing assets is a must. Videos can be powerful tools for communicating the contents and value of a particular bundle. It’s worth making a video library, including at least two videos for each product offering. One would be for technicians reiterating key training points, the other a more benefits-focused, consumer-facing video. For bundled service programs to succeed, incentivizing technicians is helpful, turning them into effective extensions of your sales team.

The bottom line

For home service companies pursuing higher recurring income from a loyal customer base, bundled services can be meaningful, but only when backed by the right strategy and ongoing investment in consistent technician training.

Jennifer Shooshanian is a senior service coach and trainer with Business Development Resources (BDR), a business training and coaching provider within the home service industry.

HVAC/R Products

Gas detectors

Conspec offers a range of gas detection solutions, including the Optio PGM, a parking garage CO/ NO2 dual gas and ventilation control system. The unit starts exhaust fans and/or alarms when unsafe levels of carbon monoxide or nitrogen dioxide are detected in enclosed parking areas. Easy to install and set up, the Optio PGM has a detection range of between zero to 500 PPM and seven-year lifespan for CO, and between zero and 20 PPM and a two-year lifespan for NO Remote sensors for NO2 can be set up to a distance of 100 ft. www.

conspec.ca ontor.com

Improved equipment selection

Armstrong Fluid Technology has a new capability within its ADEPT selection platform: the Integrated Designer, which simplifies the process of selecting and sizing pumps and accessories, from a single interface. Features include: integrated selection and system design in one workflow; real-time system performance estimates; and one-click export of equipment schedules and submittal packages. www.

armstrongfluidtechnology.com

Packaged rooftop units

Rheem has added to its Renaissance Line of commercial packaged rooftop gas/electric and air conditioning models with three- to five-ton models with two stages of cooling. The RACCYC and RGECYC units offer common piping and electrical connections, field-convertible airflow, and minimized weight for easy installation. With efficiency ratings up to 16.2 SEER2 and 12 EER2, the units are suited to commercial applications including schools. Other features include PlusOne HumidiDry for energy savings, Qwik-change flex-fit rack with up to 4-in. MERV 8 or MERV 13 filters, and Qwik-Slide Blower for easy removal of the blower assembly for servicing internal components. www.

rheemcommercial.com

Smart controller

Airzone Control has expanded its line of Aidoo Pro HVAC control bridges to include the Aidoo Zigbee, a controller for HVAC integration to Zigbee 3.0 smart home platforms; the Aidoo Pro Smart Thermostat Interface, a WiFi-based model designed to streamline integration between smart thermostats and inverter AHUs; and the Aidoo Pro Hub, a wired Ethernet controller. The units do not require complex modification to install, while enabling precise control over temperature set point, fan speed and mode from a smart thermostat, smart home system or building automation platform. www.

airzonecontrol.com

Canopy hoods

Stainless Steel Wall Canopy Hoods from HEMCO are made to collect and exhaust corrosive vapours, heat, steam and odours. Made of welded type 304 stainless steel, wall-mount models are available in 36-, 48-, 72-, and 96-in. widths, as well as custom sizes to fit design requirements. Units feature vapour-proof lights, switches, and side and rear enclosure panels to prevent cross drafts and improve airflow while containing chemical spills. www.

hemcocorp.com

Drain line maintenance

Cool Air Products introduces the Combat P-Trap, an HVAC condensate drain line maintenance system to prevent blockages through a treatment tablet dispensing method. The Combat P-Trap prevents blockages of condensate drain lines due to buildup of bacteria, slime, rust, scale, sludge, airborne dust, silt and algae. The unit is adaptable for universal applications, works with all chlorine tabs on the market, and helps to reduce noise by decreasing reverberations of airflow and draining condensate. www.

coolairproducts.net

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

New technology and networking opportunities abound

The winners of the New Product Competition were announced on the opening night of the recent MCEE Show, which took place April 24 and 25, at the Palais des congrès de Montréal, QC.

Best Product winners by category included:

• Devices and components for heating, hydronic air treatment and domestic hot water production – Sunamp’s Thermino heat batteries, which was also the Best Product in Show overall winner.

• Plumbing fixtures and taps – The Crista Flush Guard toilet from FGI Canada.

• Devices and components for heating, air conditioning and forced-air ventilation – Daikin’s Rebel Applied direct expansion and heat pump.

• Pipework, devices, tank and accessories – Gripple Canada for the TecLoc pipe support.

• Tools, machines, protective and equipment – FLIR’s CM276 measuring device.

• Software, controls and related components – The ReliaHome Smart Panel from ABB.

• Indoor and outdoor lighting – Ledalite’s ArcForm Duo light fixture.

• Commercial, institutional and electrical products – Eaton’s Smart panel for Evolute charging.

(L-R) Olivier Bernier of Le Groupe ITC Technologies accepts the New Product award for the Daikin Rebel Applied direct expansion and heat pump from Charles Côté of Corporation des maîtres mécaniciens en tuyauterie du Québec.

Accepting an award on behalf of FGI Industries in the 2025 New Product Competition are (L-R) Helene Boucher, business development manager; Chris Faulds, VP wholesale sales, North America; and John MacNeill, creative services director, North America.

By Kerry Turner

Product experts were on hand on the tradeshow floor to share their expertise. At the Mechanical Business booth plumbing columnist and SAIT instructor Fred Bretzke demonstrates his It’s in the Code, a new way of conveying the National Plumbing Code using QR/3D. The book is available in digital and manual form from the SAIT Book Store.

Industry leaders share career pointers

The 2025 MCEE also featured a CIPH Women’s Network evening event where Barbara O’Reilly of Rheem Canada Ltd. and Julie Storey of Boshart Industries recounted their careers and provided advice to women in the mechanical industry.

O’Reilly, who joined Rheem in 1980 as the inside sales supervisor when there were far fewer women in the industry, is vice president and general manager of Rheem Canada Ltd. O’Reilly was awarded the first CIPH Women of Distinction award in 2022. Interestingly Storey’s career path wasn’t much different than O’Reilly’s – both women remained with the same company and made steady progress careerwise. Storey joined Boshart 30 years ago in an inside sales position for Ontario after returning to work following a maternity leave. Her territory expanded over time to cover Ontario East to Newfoundland. Storey later moved into a sales management position that covered Ontario East and parts of the U.S. After being in the roles of vice president of sales and marketing, senior vice president of sales and marketing and sitting on the Boshart executive team, she was promoted to president in 2020.

The audience was captivated by the women’s histories and took away some very valuable guidance for their own careers.

Created in 2016, CIPH Women’s Network supports the professional development of women within Canada’s plumbing and heating industry. The Women’s Network will hold a similar event in Vancouver on November 5, 2025 at CIPHEX West.

(Centre left) Julie Storey of Boshart Industries and (right) Barbara O’Reilly of Rheem Canada Ltd. discussed their careers at the CIPH Women’s Network event at MCEE 2025.

Your Trusted Mechanical Piping Partner Since 1850

For over 170 years, Flocor has been the name professionals trust for quality, reliability, and innovation in mechanical piping. Proudly Canadian-owned and operated, we continue to deliver a full spectrum of solutions tailored to your needs.

Flocor – Your Complete PVF Solution. Experience excellence. Experience Flocor.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Doing your duty

What’s a manager to do when a worker isn’t working? In the old days, more than likely, you would have fired them, and that would have been that. Nowadays, employers have a legal and ethical duty to ensure the well-being of their employees, and I’d like to think, a slightly more compassionate mindset. Employers have a duty of care to their employees that now includes considering employees’ psychological safety and mental well-being.

A critical aspect of your responsibility to workers is your duty to inquire, which is a legal obligation to work with and offer supports to a worker in distress. This duty is particularly relevant in cases involving mental health concerns, which have increased exponentially in the years since the COVID pandemic. It’s critical that you know and understand your obligations to your workforce and have a plan of attack in place before the first signs of trouble.

If you’ve noticed some warning signs, before rushing to termination, start with a conversation:

Inquire: If an employee has been showing signs of mental or physical distress, then you must try to communicate with them. A gentle approach is best here: Start by mentioning you’ve noticed some changes in them, and ask your employee how they are. Listen openly, preferably without offering solutions yet, and allow them to guide the conversation.

Note – this may be as far as you get, and that’s ok. As long as there are no immediate safety concerns, let the person know you’re open to talking further and allow them to end the conversation. Keep notes of what’s said in the employee file, and continue to monitor the situation.

Offer Support: If the employee is open to talking and able to articulate their needs, ask them if there is anything you can do to help them. Let them know what resources or accommodations you might be able to provide. Let them lead the conversation and know not every person can clearly name their needs, nor will every problem have an easy solution.

Accommodate: Once you’re aware of the employee’s needs, work with them to plan and implement an accommodation. Small changes might be all that is needed to help get things back on track.

Employers have a duty of care to their employees that extends beyond simply ensuring their physical safety at work.

When does the duty to inquire arise?

When you’ve recognized some clear indicators that an employee may be struggling with something beyond their day-to-day work, the duty to inquire kicks in. If you’re seeing signs, or you are made aware by others that there could be an issue, you then have a legal obligation to initiate a conversation with your employee and find out what’s what, preferably in a supportive and non-confrontational manner.

A quick but crucial disclaimer is that compassion and a duty of care do not automatically override your need to successfully run your business, and a genuinely bad employee can still be terminated. You are a manager, not a doctor. You’re not expected to diagnose your people, nor should you be on constant high alert for subtle signs that someone might be struggling. Gather information before you make your decisions.

Signs an employee could be struggling include frequent absences, a decline in work performance, sudden changes in behaviour or mood, or visible signs of distress or impairment.

By Sue Sodek

The legal framework

The duty to inquire is grounded in federal human rights legislation and provincial occupational health and safety laws. Various codes mandate that employers must accommodate employees with disabilities, including mental health conditions, to the point of undue hardship. Employers must engage in an interactive process when they become aware − or ought reasonably to be aware − of an employee’s need for accommodation

The fine print

Two terms come up frequently when speaking about employer responsibilities – the duty to accommodate, and undue hardship. Frustratingly, both of these are ill defined in the legislation, which can leave employers vulnerable. Briefly, duty to accommodate varies depending on the specific circumstances, the employee needing the accommodation, and the business. You cannot accommodate without first understanding the individual’s needs, and should never make suggestions prior to investigating and getting the root of the problem. Undue hardship is more of a financial term and also varies widely,

Duty to accommodate can involve small things such as allowing an employee to take time off to attend appointments or providing additional PPE, or big things such as restructuring a job, or holding a position open for months while someone takes stress leave.

based on the requested accommodation, the needs of the employee and the size of the organization (for example, a small to medium-sized sole proprietorship would not be expected to have the budget of Shopify or Magna). If an employee says gold plated lockers in the change room will solve their stress, you can say no. But be warned, the courts look very closely at businesses that fail to provide reasonable accommodations while claiming undue hardship. The best strategy is always going to involve strong policies, open communication with the employee involved, and documentation of all the steps along the way.

Consequences of failing to inquire

Failure to fulfill your duty to inquire can lead to injuries, lost productivity and lost revenue – not to mention serious (and expensive) legal repercussions if you are hit with claims of discrimination or failure to accommodate. It’s not surprising to learn that employers who consistently disregard the needs of their workforces see more absenteeism, higher turnover and lower workplace morale. Coupled with the potential for discrimination lawsuits, this is a step you can not afford to ignore.

The bottom line

It’s clear − prioritizing employee well-being will benefit both your workers and your business as a whole. Your duty to inquire is a fundamental part of running a responsible, ethical business. By being proactive, supportive, and legally compliant, you can create a more productive workplace for all of your workers and mitigate your own legal risks

Sue Sodek has over 20 years of human resource and consulting experience across a variety of businesses and currently manages HR for UCEL Inc. in Uxbridge, ON. She can be reached at sue.sodek@gmail.com.

Prioritize your hearing health

Hearing health is a vital concern for HVAC professionals, who are regularly exposed to high levels of noise in their work environment. In the HVAC industry, noise exposure is a constant threat, with sounds often reaching dangerous levels, such as 85 decibels (dB) and higher.

Prolonged exposure to these noise levels can lead to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), with severe consequences including difficulty understanding instructions, decreased safety awareness, and long-term health issues. Recognizing and mitigating these risks is essential.

What is a decibel?

A decibel (dB) is a unit used to measure the intensity of sound. The scale is a logarithmic one, meaning that a 10 dB increase in sound level corresponds to a tenfold increase in sound intensity (though to the human ear, the perceived difference in loudness is only twofold).

THE DANGERS OF NOISE EXPOSURE

Noise can reach dangerous levels quickly. Sounds above 85 dB are unsafe to listen to for a full eight-hour work shift, with long-term exposure causing hearing loss. This often starts

with symptoms such as tinnitus (ringing in the ears or head). Sounds above 140 dB, such as a jet engine, can cause immediate and profound hearing loss − the louder the sound, the less time it needs to cause noiseinduced hearing loss. While doing HVAC work, several situations can result in exceeded safety thresholds, including working inside a mechanical room with chiller, compressors, or with pumps with bearing wear.

Aside from large equipment, some tools can impact hearing:

• Electric drill: 100 dB

• Welding and cutting equipment: 85 dB

• Large power tools: 85-90 dB

With noises reaching and exceeding these levels, hearing protection and education on NIHL are vital for HVAC workers and their managers to understand the daily risks to hearing health.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HEARING LOSS

NIHL often starts slowly and gradually, with early symptoms including having difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments and asking people to repeat themselves multiple times. It can also include tinnitus. If you start to experience these symptoms, you should book a hearing test or consultation with a hearing care professional to understand the state of your hearing health. This may lead to the need for hearing protection, or investing in hearing aids.

Like many acquired disabilities, NIHL can have negative emotional outcomes. Individuals may socially withdraw as they struggle to communicate in public settings or during regular conversations.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

When at risk for NIHL, taking preventive measures will be the best way to preserve your hearing. One way people can protect themselves is by using hearing protection such as earplugs or earmuffs when exposed to louder noises. There’s a variety of hearing protection on the market. Find the product that works best for you and fits correctly. An incorrect fit could mean it doesn’t work as well as advertised.

Protecting your hearing

All hearing protection products will have a noise reduction rating (NRR), which is the number of decibels they can reduce a sound by. If a sound is 100 dB and a pair of earplugs have an NRR of 20, that means the sound that reaches your ears will be 80 dB, bringing it slightly below the threshold for hearing loss. Most hearing protection products will have an NRR of between 20 and 35, with electronic earmuffs often having the highest rating.

It’s essential you consider what works best for your needs, considering the amount of noise reduction you require, your comfort, and how the hearing protection will fit with other personal protective equipment.

By Katie Koebel

Hearing conservation programs

In workplaces with a high average level of noise, employer-provided hearing conservation programs (HCPs) can help improve employee morale and health outcomes. HCPs often include education and training on the risks of NIHL and the noise levels within the workplace. These programs also provide employees with regular audiometric testing to benchmark their hearing health over time.

Prioritizing hearing health is crucial for mechanical professionals, given the high noise levels they may encounter regularly.

Early detection and management

Detecting and managing NIHL early can keep it from getting worse and can improve overall employee health outcomes. Getting a hearing test in person at least once a year is crucial for people in jobs with a high risk of NIHL.

Further, using these products properly is important to protecting hearing. Wearing earmuffs but only covering one ear, for example, won’t protect your exposed ear. Ensuring proper fit and compliance with using them will ensure you get the most out of your hearing protection.

There may be some trial and error involved in selecting the right hearing protection for your needs and preferences.

A hearing care professional can help individuals benchmark their hearing should it change in the future, and provide clear recommendations to mitigate potential issues and offer proactive solutions. Reactive recommendations might include hearing aids, which can even help with early symptoms such as tinnitus.

Noise-induced hearing loss can develop gradually, making it essential to recognize early symptoms and take preventive measures. In that way HVAC professionals can safeguard their hearing, continue to perform their duties effectively, and enjoy their daily lives without the burden of hearing loss.

Katie Koebel is the senior manager of audiology at HearingLife, which has over 350 locations across Canada. She is a hearing care professional registered with the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario and has been providing hearing health care with HearingLife for over 17 years.

PLUMBING Products

Instant hot water

New Instant Hot SIP faucets and Instant Hot Tank from Moen offer customized hot water solutions right from the spout. Paired together the products offer an efficient way for homeowners to access boiling water instantly. Faucets feature an insulated spout to prevent them getting too hot, as well as hands-free filling and two-step activation to prevent hot water being turned on accidentally. The Instant Hot Tank heats water to between 60⁰C and 87⁰C, and maintains the temperature to deliver more than 9 L of hot water per hour. ww.

moen.ca

Water heater

The EZ Series PRO form Noritz is an upgraded line of residential condensing tankless water heaters providing improved efficiency with a 0.98 UEF rating and Bluetooth connectivity with a built-in remote. Available in three models, including the EZ71 with a range of 12,800 to 160,000 BTU/ hr, the series supports residential and light commercial installations with indoor and outdoor options, multiple venting configurations, and top-mounted water connections. ww.

.ezseries.noritz.com

PERFORMANCE UNDER PRESSURE

HYDROSTATIC TEST PUMPS

Press tool

The RIDGID RP 251 Press Tool features a 360-degree head swivel to reach tight spaces from practically every angle, SlimGrip handle for one-handed overhead use, and a brushless motor capable of over 60,000 press cycles requiring no scheduled maintenance. The RP 251 can press up to 1 1/4 in. (32 mm) on copper and stainless steel; up to 1 1/2 in. (40 mm) on PEX tubing; up to 1 in. (25 mm) on carbon steel; and up to 1 3/8 in. (35 mm) on copper tubing in refrigeration. It is compatible with the company’s compact series jaws, rings, and actuators.

www.

ridgid.com

WiFi enabled

Gen-Eye video inspection systems from General Pipe Cleaners are WiFi equipped, and include the Gen-Eye POD, Gen-Eye X-POD Plus, Gen-Eye USB-P, and Gen-Eye Micro-Scope3. Each “all-in-one” unit combines a camera, reel, monitor and Gel-Rod video cabling in one compact package, with options such as the Gen-Pack battery adapter available for selected systems for operation in remote locations with limited access to power. www.

drainbrain.com

STUFF YOU NEED

Plane laser

Climbing lifts

PowerMate’s Motorized Electric Stairclimbing Handtruck operates as five machines in one, including as a power stair climber, power tailgate lift, loading dock leveller, power lift and dolly. The units feature a motor that provides 100 per cent of the lifting to move loads in a fraction of the time. Available in a range of models up to 1,500 lbs capacity, the units offer an automatic braking system, variable position strap bars, and a maintenance free 12 V rechargeable battery. Some models also include automatic load elevation. www.

Milwaukee Tool’s M12 Green 360⁰ 3-plane laser with automatic alignment and receiver offers users faster, more accurate layouts. The laser includes a Bluetooth receiver that allows users to automatically align it up to 125 ft., with an accuracy rating of =/- 1/8 in. at 33 ft., and pivot on point for easier set up. With 70 per cent brighter lines than Milwaukee Tool’s previous M12 laser, the new tool delivers up to 10 hours of runtime or six hours in boosted mode, when paired with a M12 REDLITHIUM XC 4.0 extended capacity battery. The laser comes in a kit with a charger, batteries and carrying case.

www.

milwaukeetool.ca

Automated answering service

Genius Answering from Workiz is a field service management after-hours answering service that automates personalized customer engagement and office support 24/7. Jessica, Genius Answering’s smart AI dispatcher, streamlines operations to enhance overall efficiency for all call management tasks, from customer support to appointment booking. Genius Answering delivers tailored communication designed specifically for the field service industry, and can handle any volume of incoming calls. www. workiz.com

Truck rack

The Trazer Truck Rack from Ranger Design is an all-aluminum, forklift loadable rack built for professional use. The corrosion-resistant rack combines lightweight strength with functionality and durability in a customizable design. Features include an over-thecab extension to haul ladders, piping and other large materials. The rack is available in multiple sizes to fit popular truck models, and offers convenient, no-drill installation.

www.

rangerdesign.com

www.bradfordwhite.com www.cehvac.ca www.hrai.ca

www.hotwatercanada.ca www.aaon.com www.aquatech-canada.com www.arcticheatpumps.com www.daikincomfort.com

www.confortohvac.com www.contracplumbing.com www.flocor.ca www.dristeem.com

CIPH Annual Business Conference June 28 – July 1 Mont Tremblant, QC ciph.com

National Backflow Prevention Day August 16 North America watts.com

RE+

September 8 – 11 Las Vegas, NV re-plus.com

NADCA Fall Technical Conference

September 12 – 14 Minneapolis, MN nadca.com

CHES National Conference

September 14 – 16 Calgary, AB ches.org

NSC Safety Congress & Expo

September 15 – 17 Denver, CO congress.nsc.org

HRAI Annual Conference & AGM

September 21 – 22 Halifax, NS hrai.ca

WoodRise

September 22 – 25 Vancouver, BC cwc.ca

Atlantic Heat Pump Symposium

September 23 Halifax, NS heatpumpsymposium.ca/halifax

IEQ Conference

September 24 – 26 Montreal, QC ashrae.org

ASPE Tech Symposium

September 24 – 28 Orlando, FL aspe.org

Canadian Hydronics Conference

September 30 – October 1 Montreal, QC ciph.com

Electricity Transformation Canada October 6 – 8 Toronto, ON electricity-transformation.ca

Canada Home Energy Justice Conference October 8 – 9 Ottawa, ON energyconferencenetwork.swoogo.com/ CHEJ2025

AIM/R 53rd Annual Conference October 20 – 23 Scottsdale, AZ aimr.net

RETA National Conference October 20 – 23 Spokane, WA reta.com

2025 CALENDAR OF EVENT S

BUILDEX Alberta October 22 – 23 Calgary, AB buildexalberta.com

ASHRAE Building Decarbonization Conference

October 22 – 24 Chicago, IL ashrae.org

CGA Energy Nexus & Annual Technical Conference October 28 – 30 Calgary, AB cga.ca

The Engineering Conference November 3 – 4 Collingwood, ON ospe.on.ca

Greenbuild

November 4 – 7 Los Angeles, CA informaconnect.com/greenbuild

CIPHEX West + Electrical Learning Expo West November 5 – 6 Vancouver, BC ciphexwest.ca

NEBB Annual Conference November 6 – 8 Memphis, TN nebb.org

How to stand out and win in the heat pump market

The heat pump market is booming. As more homeowners seek energyefficient, eco-friendly solutions, heat pumps are becoming a top choice. But with this increased demand comes fierce competition. As a contractor in this field, you might feel like you’re one in a sea of professionals all claiming to offer the best service, the most reliable systems, and the highest energy savings. The truth is, potential customers are overwhelmed by all the options. So, how do you stand out?

1. Showcase your expertise and educate your customers

Today’s customers are very wellinformed. How do you become their go-to expert? Start by positioning yourself not just as a contractor, but as a knowledgeable advisor. Guide your customers through every step − from selecting the right heat pump for their needs to ensuring it’s properly installed and maintained for peak performance.

The key is differentiation. It’s not just about offering a product or service − it’s about making your expertise and value crystal clear. By doing this, you build trust with customers and establish a reputation that drives long-term success. Let’s explore the most effective ways to carve out your niche in the heat pump market, and provide lasting value to both your customers and your business.

You can create valuable content such as blog posts, videos, and case studies to explain heat pump technology. This builds trust with potential clients, showing them you’re transparent and committed to their understanding. When customers feel informed, they make confident decisions, which in turn means more high-quality leads and increased satisfaction.

2. Highlight the importance of proper installation

One of the best ways to set yourself apart is by emphasizing proper sizing and installation. Heat pumps require precision. Poor sizing and/or installation leads to inefficiency, breakdowns, and a reduced system lifespan. Customers want to save on energy bills but also avoid costly repairs. Clearly communicate the risks of improper installation and show how your attention to detail minimizes these risks. Share testimonials, before-and-after photos, and examples that demonstrate the quality of your work.

Paul Bies

Customers have access to a wealth of information about heat pumps, from efficiency ratings to installation procedures.

By positioning yourself as a contractor who prioritizes correct installation, you help protect customers from future issues and establish yourself as a trusted professional. This leads to greater loyalty, more referrals, and long-term satisfaction.

3. Offer personalized solutions for every customer

Every customer’s needs are unique, whether it’s for their home, business, or budget. Offering tailored solutions is one of the most powerful ways to stand out. Instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach, assess each customer’s situation and recommend the heat pump best suited to their application.

Paul Bies, co-founder and president of Mystique Brand Communications (mystique.ca) in Toronto, ON, brings a wealth of marketing expertise to his role as Mechanical Business marketing columnist. His mission is to empower businesses and to share insights that provide valuable perspectives for their success. As the son of an HVAC entrepreneur, he understands the business landscape and is committed to helping MB readers thrive.

heat pumps

By focusing on personalized service, you demonstrate that you care about their comfort, long-term savings, and environmental impact. This approach fosters a deeper connection with your customers, turning one-time clients into repeat customers and generating positive referrals.

4. Leverage technology and innovation

Customers are increasingly seeking cutting-edge solutions that promise better efficiency, lower costs, and a smaller environmental footprint. By staying current with the latest advancements in heat pump technology, you can stay ahead of the competition. Learn about the most energy efficient models, smart home integrations, and advanced features. For example, some heat pumps offer WiFi connectivity, allowing customers to control their systems remotely. Highlighting these tech-forward features will appeal to a more tech-savvy audience. In addition, adopting innovative practices in your business – such as improved scheduling, online booking systems, or a customer portal − can enhance the customer experience and set you apart from competitors.

showcasing how your installations have improved comfort and reduced energy costs provide concrete proof of your success. Sharing these success stories will show customers why choosing your services is the smart choice.

Take advantage of industry training opportunities, and attend trade shows where you’ll find the latest technologies.

7. Offer maintenance packages and long-term support

5. Provide exceptional customer service

Great customer service is always a differentiator. In the competitive world of heat pumps, it’s not just about installing a system − it’s about the entire experience. From the first phone call to the final inspection, each interaction matters. Ensure your team is well-trained, knowledgeable, and responsive. Customers want to feel heard, and they expect quick, thorough answers to questions. When you’re reliable and transparent at every step, you enhance your reputation and improve customer satisfaction.

6. Use social proof and testimonials

Word-of-mouth marketing still holds immense power. Leverage customer testimonials, case studies, and online reviews to solidify your reputation. Positive reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook can influence potential customers and establish trust. Case studies

Heat pumps require regular maintenance for optimal performance, and many customers appreciate the convenience of a service provider they can rely on for ongoing care. Offer service packages that include annual check-ups, cleaning and filter replacements, and performance inspections. This not only ensures customers’ systems continue running efficiently but also creates a recurring revenue stream. Additionally, it strengthens your relationship with customers.

Final thoughts

In a market flooded with competitors, it’s the contractor who offers real value that ultimately stands out. By focusing on what truly matters to your customers − expert advice, flawless installation, personalized solutions, and outstanding service − you’re not just competing for their business, you’re earning their trust. Position yourself as the expert they can rely on for every step of the process, and the business will follow. With the right approach, you won’t just meet expectations − you’ll exceed them, building a loyal customer base and a sustainable, thriving business.

CLEARING THE AIR

84

Canada’s ranking out of 100 in air quality, according to the Fraser Institute’s Air Quality in Canada and the OECD.

8th

Where Canada ranks in air quality compared to the top OECD countries. Iceland came in first place, and Italy in last place.

FRESHWATER FROM GLACIERS

70

Per cent of the Earth’s freshwater that exists as snow or ice, according to the United Nations. 2 billion

Approximate number of people worldwide who the UN says rely on water from glaciers, snowmelt and mountain run-off for drinking, agriculture and energy production.

600+

Amount in gigatons of water glaciers lost in 2023, the largest mass loss recorded in 50 years.

2 BILLION+

FAUCET FIXATION

89

Per cent of designers in the 2025 NKBA Bath Trends Report who believe faucets are a key visual element for adding personal style to baths.

52

Per cent of respondents who believe a faucet’s main goal is to create a design focal point.

CHANGING VIEWS ON PUBLIC WASHROOMS

86

Per cent of respondents in Bradley’s January 2025 Healthy Handwashing Survey who agree public restrooms in high-traffic locations should have a display showing how many stalls are available.

53

Per cent of respondents who said they don’t like the idea of a timer showing how long a stall has been in use.

80

Per cent of respondents who would like touchless fixtures in public washrooms, including toilet flushers, soap dispensers and faucets.

CONSTRUCTION IN CANADA

6.6

Per cent that total Canadian construction starts grew by in 2024, according to ConstructionConnect, or 11.8 per cent year over year.

2.9

Per cent decline in Canadian construction starts forecast by ConstructionConnect for 2025, with residential starts growing and non-residential shrinking.

Number of beverage containers returned in Alberta in 2024, making it the number one province and the number two jurisdiction in North America for recycling.

1975 - 2025

Great products. Great service. Trusted for 50 years.

We are Canadian!

2025 + beyond

Great products. Great service. Trusted for 50 years. Still Canadian!

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