OCTOBER 2026
Road Warrior:
BRENT MOONEY
Building a lasting legacy
• LEGIONELLA: OUR PROBLEM, OUR SOLUTION • PLUMBING PRODUCT SHOWCASE • THE SECRET TO SERVICING OLD CPVC • COMMERCIAL FAUCET TRENDS • DIAGNOSING WELL PUMP SHORT CYCLING • COLLECTING AND TESTING WATER SAMPLES
TF 2026 THE FLOW FINAL LOOK.indd 1
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C O N T E N T S TF supplement
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10.26
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September/October 2026 Issue Published annually.
OTHER FEATURES
48
52PUMPS Top 5 signs a sump pump system needs an upgrade John Doner
60MANAGEMENT Home sweet home: Developing a maintenance plan Fred Bretzke
44
68COMMERCIAL FAUCET TRENDS Performance plus New technology, connectivity and design elements are making commercial faucets more than an afterthought Carolyn Cooper 70QUATTRO’S CORNER Take a look at those pipes Andrew Quattrociocchi 74PUMPS Diagnosing well pump short cycling Jesse Runciman
80RESOURCE
44
LEGIONELLA OUR PROBLEM, OUR SOLUTION Matthew Reid
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WATER QUALITY WHAT IS YOUR WATER TELLING YOU? Todd Wiggins
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ROAD WARRIOR BRENT MOONEY: Building a lasting legacy Carolyn Cooper
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TUBING THE SECRET TO SERVICING OLD CPVC Marty Silverman
New PEX plumbing systems guide The Plastics Pipe Institute
HIGHLIGHTS
62-67PRODUCTS
Watch Episode 6 of MechBiz Studio as industry experts discuss Legionella and perform a live test with results no one expected! Youtube.com/@ MechBizStudio
THE FLOW Supplement - On Demand! Everything you need, anywhere you are – scan to open the digital edition of the THE FLOW Supplement.
A showcase of plumbing technology
79JOBSITE JARGON Test your plumbing know-how for a chance to win
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Cover Photo: Peter Holst Photography
2026-10-01 11:33 AM
TF LEGIONELLA
PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY Marty Silverman, Vice President, Marketing, General Pipe Cleaners
Our problem, our solution I
remember where I was the first time I heard “Just” by Radiohead years after the song actually came out. I was at a friend’s house and we were sitting around watching music videos. There is a line in the song that haunted me then and it haunts me now: “You do it to yourself, and that’s what really hurts.” Legionella, although naturally occurring in nature, is a bacterium we didn’t really give much thought to prior to the first “recorded” outbreak in 1976. That said, we did know what it was. Research on it goes back to 1943, kind of. We obtained specimens from that timeline but we didn’t really know what we were looking at until many years later when those specimens were tested. Similarly, the first real outbreak was in 1957 in Minnesota at a meat packing plant although we didn’t know it was Legionella until testing was done decades later. An understanding of what we were dealing with came about in 1976 during the Philadelphia Legionella outbreak at the American Legion convention, although at first it was thought to be a terrorist attack. So, the question then begs to be asked: If this bacterium is naturally occurring why did it take until the 20th century to start outbreaks in the first place? The answer to that question is us. We are the ones causing the outbreaks.
It was years before specimens were tested.
THE BREEDING GROUND
MILES TO GO
Legionella is a lot like us. It needs food, shelter and warmth to not just survive but thrive. It needs food such as amoeba where it takes over the cell and reproduces, a lot and quickly. It needs shelter. Although it is waterborne it doesn’t like to be turbulently flung around in water and instead prefers to hang out in biofilms or any areas with little to no water movement.
Cooling towers usually force air over water creating a fine mist that evaporates and takes heat with it as it is rejected. The water used to cool can come from a basin within the cooling tower that has been sitting idle providing the optimum growing conditions for Legionella. This contaminated water then travels through the air as a mist for miles. Then one small droplet makes its way in the air stream to about five feet off of the ground.
Finally, it needs warmth. The ideal temperature for growth is between 70°F and 120°F. Those two numbers should sound familiar to you. The first being room temperature and the other is the standard temperature we tend to supply at in domestic hot water (DHW) applications. For the most part our DHW systems and cooling tower systems are the perfect home for Legionella to grow. But don’t worry, it gets worse. Let’s say you had a big glass of water and in that water was millions of Legionella bacteria. You could drink that glass of water and you would be fine. However, if you were to aspirate at all during the drinking of that water you’d be in trouble. Legionella doesn’t infect through consumption. It infects through inhalation. It has to get into the lungs for things to really go bad. That happens a few ways, such as aspiration, but also through tiny water droplets you have no choice but to breath in, in the shower or in the hot tub. Or there is also the coup de grâce of transmission − cooling towers.
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You just happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time and are breathing Legionella from a building located miles away from where you are. That’s the hard part − trying to determine where the bacteria came from. Cooling towers are a likely culprit but not the only cause. Which leads us to the point of all of this, if we did it to ourselves, can we stop it ourselves? Absolutely we can. Here’s a few helpful things to be done by building managers or anyone who wants to take on the initiative. Keep cooling towers inspected and cleaned.
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Matthew Reid Matthew Reid is technical director − heating division at E.H. Price Solutions’ Richmond Hill, ON office and co-host of the MechBiz Studio podcast and video series. He can be reached at mreid@ehpricesolutions.ca.
The building owner is liable for their building equipment and keeping it in good order for both the building and the surrounding area. If a gas boiler blew up and blew up the neighbour’s building, the original building owner would be liable for both. Legionella is more or less the same. Cooling towers should be inspected regularly, let’s say at least a few times a season but it should also be known that Legionella reproduces extremely quickly. We can go from one bacterium to 1,000,000 bacteria in two to four days. Keep an eye on things or if you’re specifying equipment, there are other types of cooling towers, such as adiabatic systems, which create a much smaller risk. If this isn’t an option keep the water in the cooling towers clean using chemicals, pump and dump often, fire, whatever. Just keep it clean.
Adiabatic systems provide a smaller risk of Legionella.
OTHER THREATS In the plumbing systems inside of buildings it is statistically more difficult to get Legionella but not impossible. As I mentioned, it can come from showers or even decorative fountains. In plumbing, temperature and flow are king to kill Legionella. It’s the reason we store hot water at 140°F, which kills Legionella rapidly. In the cold water loop the temperature is usually around 40°F to 50°F but if that cold water line sits stagnant, such as in a dead leg or an unused part of the building, that temperature will eventually rise to 70°F indoor temp and we’re back in prime reproduction temperature again.
The bacteria can come from showers or even decorative fountains.
Your best case for cold water lines is to use them. If you can’t use the line at least flush the line. Turn it on and let it run for five minutes. This will bring the temperature down and also kill the stagnation which leads to biofilm that Legionella love to live in.
In short, you can do a few things.
1
Keep the hot water hot and keep the cold water cold.
2
Keep it moving. Legionella doesn’t want to move around. It’s lazy. Don’t give it a chance to get comfortable.
3
Keep it clean. Chlorine added to most city water is a good way to stop things before they start but it’s not foolproof, especially in cooling towers, so chemically treating may be your best solution.
We did it and we can fix it but you must stay vigilant.
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TF WATER QUALITY
PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
What is your water telling you?
By Todd Wiggins Todd Wiggins is with Watts Water Technologies in the role of regional sales manager, Canada. He works closely with Watts’ partners across Canada, supporting and growing key product lines.
T
he condition of the water moving through a commercial plumbing system can directly affect equipment performance, efficiency, reliability, and service life. Whether the concern is scale, corrosion, an ongoing service issue or a potential warranty claim, getting useful answers starts with collecting a representative sample.
WHY DOES WATER QUALITY MATTER? When we think about water quality, we often think about whether water is safe to drink. In a commercial plumbing system, however, water can meet drinking water requirements and still create challenges for the equipment. Water contains dissolved minerals, chemicals, gases and small particles. Depending on their concentration and how they interact, these can contribute to scale, corrosion and premature equipment failure. As water is heated, some of these concerns can become more noticeable. Minerals may fall out of solution and collect on heat-transfer surfaces, while certain chemical conditions can increase the risk of corrosion. Over time, this can reduce efficiency, increase maintenance costs and shorten the life of water heaters, storage tanks, piping and other components. Water testing gives us a better picture of what the equipment is being exposed to. Before collecting a sample, we first need to understand why the water is being tested. Are we investigating scale inside a water heater, signs of corrosion or discoloured water, or a component that failed earlier than expected? We may also establish a baseline for a new system. It is important to document the building type, water source, equipment, operating temperatures and any existing water treatment. This includes whether the water is softened, filtered or chemically treated. Providing this background helps the laboratory interpret the results and better connect the water conditions to the issue being investigated.
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A comparison showing the effects of leaving water untreated.
WHERE SHOULD THE SAMPLE BE TAKEN? There is no single sampling location that works for every situation. The correct location depends on what we are trying to learn. Figure 1 on pg. 50 shows a multi-unit commercial domestic hot-water system with storage and recirculation. Samples could be collected from the incoming cold-water service, before and after any water-treatment equipment, near the water-heater inlet, from the hot-water supply or from the building’s recirculation return. Comparing samples from multiple locations can help identify where a condition may be developing. If the incoming water is acceptable but another sample is not, the piping, treatment equipment or system operating conditions may need a closer look.
What a commercial water-filtration system could look like in a building.
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TF WATER QUALITY PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
Cont’d from page 48
HOW DO WE COLLECT USEFUL SAMPLES?
Courtesy PVI
In many cases, the equipment manufacturer will provide specific instructions for collecting water samples. They may send a sample bottle, explain where the sample should be taken, identify the information that needs to be recorded and provide shipping or storage instructions. It is important to follow these requirements Figure 1 A multi-unit commercial domestic hot-water system. carefully, as the results may be used to help diagnose an ongoing equipment issue or determine whether water quality may be a factor in a WHAT HAPPENS AFTER TESTING? warranty situation. The more accurate the Water testing is not sample and supporting information are, a treatment plan the easier it will be to understand what on its own. The may be happening within the system. results may point There are several useful water-quality toward softening, parameters to test, including pH, filtration, corrosion hardness, alkalinity, total dissolved solids, control, changes to chlorides, free chlorine and turbidity. chemical treatment Iron and copper can also provide helpful or another solution, information, especially when corrosion is but the treatment suspected. needs to match the Testing should not always be viewed as a Each parameter tells us something one-time exercise. actual condition. different. Hardness helps indicate scaling It is also worth remembering that water quality can change. Municipal potential, while pH and alkalinity help treatment, seasonal conditions, building renovations and adjustments describe the water’s chemical balance. to on-site treatment can all affect the water entering and circulating Chlorides can increase the risk of pitting through a system. For that reason, testing may not be a one-time and corrosion in certain materials. exercise. Turbidity indicates suspended material, Collecting and testing water gives us information we cannot get by while elevated iron or copper may point looking at the equipment alone. It helps us better understand the to source-water conditions or corrosion conditions the system is operating under and identify factors that may within the system. be contributing to scale, corrosion, reduced efficiency or premature It is important not to look at one result by component failure. itself. Water temperature, system materials Testing can also help determine whether existing water-treatment and operating conditions all play a role. equipment is working as intended or if adjustments may be required. Results should be compared with the By reviewing the complete water profile, we can move beyond equipment manufacturer’s requirements simply treating the visible problem and start identifying what may be and reviewed with a qualified watercausing it. treatment professional.
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TF PUMPS
By John Doner
PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
John Doner is director of sales & business development with Metropolitan Pump Co. Limited in Cambridge, ON.
Top 5
signs a sump pump system needs an upgrade Key considerations when replacing a pump Duty point alignment:
01 Frequent overload trips
Overload trips are a telltale sign of a pump nearing the end of its life. If the system keeps shutting down due to overloads, and you’ve ruled out blockages in the discharge pipes, it could mean the pump is struggling to keep up. Common causes include: Excessive starts and overheating: Pumps that cycle too often can overheat, leading to higher power draw. Locked rotor or jamming: A jammed impeller causes a spike in amperage, triggering an overload trip. Free spinning impeller: While rare, this could occur in older systems if the impeller is missing or disconnected.
• • •
PRO TIP
Regularly monitor the system’s amperage draw.
02 Repeated pump failures
If the pump has failed and needs replacing, don’t just swap it out blindly − investigate the underlying cause. Pumps that fail prematurely may not have been properly sized for their duty point. Oversized or undersized pumps can result in inefficiencies and shorter lifespans.
Ensure the pump matches the actual operational requirements, including flow rates, distance, and chamber depth.
Oversizing issues: Overly conservative designs often lead to oversized equipment that runs inefficiently and fails faster.
Warranty checks: If the pump is still under warranty, determine if improper sizing or installation caused the failure.
PRO TIP Always verify the sizing and design before replacing a failed pump.
03 Float failures
Floats play a critical role in pump system operation, signaling when to start and stop pumping. Over time, floats can fail due to prolonged inactivity or heavy use. Signs of float failure:
• Infrequent operation: High-level floats that remain in one position for extended periods are more likely to fail. • Stop/start wear: While regular operation causes wear, it generally prolongs the lifespan compared to idle floats. PRO TIP 52
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Inspect all floats annually to ensure they’re functioning properly and replace any worn or damaged components promptly.
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TF PUMPS PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
Cont'd from page 52
04 Control panel issues
Control panel failures can disrupt the entire pump system. While installation errors or debris inside the panel often cause immediate issues, wear and tear over time are more common culprits. What to look for: Magnetic motor starter wear: These are typically the first components to fail in a control panel. Loose connections: Inspect for solid contact on all connections to prevent electrical issues. Short circuits: Check for blown fuses or faulty relays that may require testing or replacement.
• • •
PRO TIP
Regular maintenance and inspections can prevent costly control panel failures and extend the life of the system.
05 Groundwater intrusion
A compromised basin or improperly sealed system can allow groundwater to seep into the pump chamber. This can lead to increased wear on the pump, inefficiencies, and potential system failure. Preventing groundwater issues: Install risers or new lids: Properly graded lids and risers can keep water from entering the system. Patch compromised tanks: Address any visible holes or cracks immediately. Improve drainage: Ensure surrounding areas are properly graded to direct water away from the basin.
• • •
PRO TIP
Investing in maintenance/repairs now can prevent significant expenses later.
When to upgrade If the system is experiencing any of these issues, it’s time to evaluate whether an upgrade or replacement is the best course of action. Modern pump systems offer improved efficiency, reliability, and features designed to minimize wear and tear.
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TF ROAD WARRIOR
PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
Carolyn Cooper
Brent Mooney:
Name: Brent Mooney Company: Hashtag Plumbing Job Title: Owner Born in: Surrey, BC Lives in: Coquitlam, BC Age: 44 Spouse: Chloe Children: Carter (20), Blake (17), Jubilee (9) Pets: Timber, a Basenji/ Staffordshire mix, and Willow, a Dachshund/Chihuahua mix
Building a lasting legacy “W
e built the company to make better plumbers,” says Brent Mooney, owner of Coquitlam, BC-based Hashtag Plumbing. “Our main goal in the company is that all of our plumbers are very well rounded, that everybody’s very knowledgeable. So, one thing we focus on heavily is making sure if you’re employed by us, you are signed up for school,” he says, adding the company will pay for apprentices to finish their schooling, with higher payments if they receive higher grades. “People need to take on more apprentices. And you never know who’s going to be great. In the next 12 months, we actually have four different employees getting their Red Seal. Multiple guys who have got their ticket through me now run their own companies.”
Photographer: Peter Holst
Mooney explains that his apprenticeship “was really convoluted,” and he moved between companies while completing his training. “I had a hell of a time in my apprenticeship having companies be okay with me taking time off to go to school. It was not an easy thing.” At the same time, he says, the different companies allowed him to experience a wide range of plumbing work, one reason he believes the company he began in 2015 has remained so successful.
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With 17 employees – including Mooney’s son, who is a second year plumbing apprentice, and his wife Chloe, who runs the office – Hashtag Plumbing focuses on residential and commercial projects rather than servicing. That includes everything from building retrofits and high-end homes, to bars, restaurants and commercial kitchens, as well as remote homes on the Discovery Islands off Vancouver Island. “I’m usually on the [jobs] that are very confusing. I love problem solving,” says Mooney. “If it was just T H E
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me by myself, I would probably only do really highend homes. I like seeing houses I never see normally, like ones with multiple pools and kitchens bigger than my entire house. We do a lot of pool systems that are hooked up to houses, and we’ll run them off the main boiler of the house instead of putting an exterior boiler out. “The homes on the waterfront are also always really cool. We did one where the basement is actually below water level. The owner wanted a threestorey house with 10- and 12-ft.
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ng
(17),
w, ix
ceilings, but they were only allowed to build it so tall. They had to find a way to go extra far into the ground. I think they did 18 in. of concrete, and then we had to do all our plumbing above the concrete, or the hydraulic pressure of the ocean would lift the house.
Last book you read: Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time by Brian Tracy If you were granted one wish: Enough money to be comfortable
“Everything we finish, I want to be top quality,” he adds. “I have a very high standard. I’ll tell my guys, a pipe in the wall is not straight enough. Cut it out and fix it. I want the company that comes in 10 or 20 years from now to look in the wall and say that was done really well.”
Favourite band/performer: I really enjoyed N.E.R.D. when they were around
In the mechanical industry since: 2003 Schools and programs: BCIT, graduated 2014 Favourite class: Math Biggest pet peeves: Having to explain myself more than twice One place in the world you would like to visit: Antarctica
Best concert you ever attended: The first Pemberton Fest Most used App on your phone: Discord Favourite magazine: Mechanical Business Favourite book: The 10X Rule: The Only Difference Between Success and Failure by Grant Cardone Favourite TV show: King of the Hill
Any mentors who have been important to you: All the father figures in my life growing up, from biological to chosen
Favourite movie: Radio Flyer
Advice for young people considering entering the trades: Jump into every situation with both feet – you will never learn to be great from the sidelines
Favourite athlete of all time: Mike Tyson
The current work ride: Ram 2500 truck Service area: Lower Mainland BC Any area you like to get dispatched to, and why: More affluent neighbourhoods as you never know who you might meet Favourite part of the job: Jobs that are said to be impossible – with plumbing and heating everything is possible
Favourite sport: Football
Favourite car: 1996 Dodge Viper Favourite video game and preferred gaming system: Final Fantasy Tactics, PlayStation Favourite season: Spring Favourite food: Lobster Favourite outdoor activity: Sitting in the pool Favourite place to be: Home with the family
The most useful tool in your toolbox: Picquic multi-bit screwdriver
Hobbies: Warhammer
Your favourite tool in your toolbox: The M12 Brushless 2-in. Milwaukee Copper Tubing Cutter
3 albums you would take with you to a desert island: 1. 2 Fast 2 Furious soundtrack 2. Why Am I So Happy – Spose 3. Montevallo – Sam Hunt
Tool that you wish you had: The Milwaukee M18 Compact 1-ton Chain Hoist
Favourite website: ChatGPT
“Everything we finish, I want to be top quality,” he adds. “I have a very high standard.” T H E
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EXPANSION
PUSH-TO-CONNECT
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PEX PRESS
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TF
MANAGEMENT PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
Fred Bretzke 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 code book appendix, entitled It’s In The Code, is available from sait.bkstr.com. He can be reached at fred.bretzke@sait.ca.
Home sweet home: Developing a maintenance plan
KEY MECHANICAL PLAN ISSUES OR POINTS
I
recently bought a new car and this time I bought the six-year extended warranty covering windshield replacement and oil changes, amongst other things. I have never really been treated properly by any warranty; it seems similar to insurance in that the thing you want covered is usually not. I’m hoping this time I’m wrong and I will be satisfied as long as I keep up the maintenance.
• Trust is a key factor between the contractor and home owner
• Contractor transparency − the customer needs to hear the 3 Ws, (why, when, what)
• Will a maintenance plan extend the life of the device?
• How much will it cost? Some solutions require replacement rather than maintenance before extensive damage occurs.
That is the key − do you offer a maintenance plan for your customers’ mechanical and plumbing devices? Which plumbing or heating devices require ongoing maintenance? Will this make them last longer than their warranties? Is it cheaper to maintain or replace items? These are questions you and your customers need to discuss when pitching a maintenance plan.
SPECIFIC PLUMBING CONCERNS 1
2
3 60
Poly B piping has no oxygen barrier built into it. If your customer’s home has it there’s no real maintenance that can be done, it should be replaced. If your customer prefers the healthiest plumbing, filtered water for drinking and bathing is something to consider. Options include faucet activated carbon filter, reverse osmosis (RO) system, shower water filter. RO filters, automatic shut off and RO diaphragm tank should be checked periodically to limit water wastage. Leaking faucets can eventually add up wasting a huge amount of water.
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Sometimes it’s cheaper to replace a normal tap as opposed to repairing them. All washer type faucets should be checked (seats and washers).
4
In Alberta, we install toilets with wax seals to prevent sewer odour. They should last at least five years; it’s a simple remove toilet and replace seal and re-install toilet.
5
If toilets don’t flush properly, it is sometimes the result of calcified rim holes in the bowl. They should be poked open with a wire and vinegar applied.
6
Shower water savers may be installed in the shower head to save water, or conversely removed to improve the shower experience.
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7
Hot water tank (HWT) maintenance. If the customer’s HWT is drained from the hose bib drain every year from day one, it should increase its life span. This means you are removing the calcium sand before it solidifies.
8
Water softener maintenance is usually checked by water softener company specialists. However a plumber can still run it through a cycle to see if it is regenerating every three days.
9
The PH (potential hydrogen) of the household’s water can be tested. It’s a quick test, to see if water is at a good PH level, usually 6.5 to 8.5.
10
These are required now if the homeowner wants their insurance to cover basement damage due to a sanitary backup. Some jurisdictions offer rebates.
13
Lawn underwater sprinklers can be blown out every winter to ensure they don’t freeze.
14
Interior hose bibs can be turned off during winter months. Interior frost free hose bibs can be checked to make sure outside hose is disconnected.
15
Mechanical room floor drains water levels can be checked or refilled.
Underground water leaks require a special water leak locator. Fixing these leaks can be very expensive. If its under the basement floor, it is usually covered by insurance. If it’s outside of the house it is not usually covered by insurance.
16
Dishwasher drain hose can be checked to see if the hose is clipped up under the counter.
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Bathtub or shower tiles can be checked for cracks in grout for possible hidden leaks.
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Interior and exterior underground broken sanitary or building sewer lines can usually be located by video inspection equipment. A repair can be costly.
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Old homes sometimes don’t have a normally open backwater valve on the main building drain.
All of the above items could be at least quickly checked in a few hours (depending on the amount of items checked). After this check, a proper maintenance plan could be estimated and explained to the customer.
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TF PRODUCTS
The latest innovations and must haves
TF All-in-one toilet The Crista toilet from Contrac is made from durable white vitreous china. It features Flush Guard overflow protection, a 17-in. Plus Height ADA elongated bowl, and siphon jet flushing. A 3-in. flush valve and 2-in. fully glazed trapway deliver clog-resistant performance. Designed for a standard 12-in. rough-in, no special plumbing is required for the overflow feature. An extra-large footprint helps conceal existing floor marks.
www. contracplumbing.com
TF Tankless water heaters Bradford White introduces the Infiniti GS and GR 150,000 BTU/hr models, both of which include stainless steel heat exchangers, and can be installed indoors or outdoors for use with natural gas or propane. The units are suitable for residential and commercial applications. Features include built-in recirculation pump, dedicated recirculation connection to eliminate hot water wait times, multiple venting material and diameter options, and accessible air filter and inlet water filter for servicing.w
TF Bath waste system The 2-in-1 Total 1 Bath Waste system with offset and direct waste configurations from +osb is available in one bag, with no wasted parts, to cover key configurations. The system allows plumbers to save installation time. Products are available in ABS and PVC models, in multiple kit types and closure mechanisms.
www. osb.ca
www. bradfordwhite.com
TF Heat pump water heater The Navien NWP500 features a corrosion-resistant stainless-steel tank and aluminum refrigerant coils. Available in 50-, 65-, and 80-gallon capacities, the NWP500 offers top and side connection options, and an intuitive LED control panel with built-in setup wizard for easier installation. It is demand response ready with EcoPort (CTA2045), and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity via NaviLink. The water heater operates with an ambient range of 5°C to 45°C and supports five operation modes.
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ACO Environment
TF Oil-water separator Oleopator P Series
The ACO Oleopator P is a ULC-listed oil-water separator designed to remove petroleum contaminants from stormwater and industrial wastewater. Built from corrosionresistant polyethylene, it combines advanced coalescence technology with an integrated sludge trap. Its compact, modular design simplifies installation, while removable internal components provide easy access. Applications include parking garages, vehicle service centres, fuel stations and industrial sites.
Polyethylene Body Coalescing Oil-Water Separator
www. acocan.ca
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TF PRODUCTS
The latest innovations and must haves
TF Condensing water heater AERCO’s Innovation 1600-2000 gas-fired condensing water heater is available in 1600 and 2000 MBH. It combines a compact footprint with up to 99 per cent thermal efficiency, advanced Edge Controller, integrated multi-unit sequencing, and AERtrim oxygen control technology. A duplex stainless steel fire-tube heat exchanger and dedicated recirculation connection help maximize efficiency, system longevity, and hot water reliability.
www. aerco.com
PERFORMAX Torch For use with MAP-Pro
A high intensity trigger start torch with a 360-degree swivel burn tube, and adjustable flame control. This torch comes with a continuous flame lock, allowing finger free use and is pressure regulated for consistent performance when inverted. The Max-Power flame from The Ambro Pro-Max Torch, available delivers fast heat transfer, making this torch ideal Ontor, is a high-intensity trigger start torch for use with MAP-ProTM in multiple lower demand with a 360 degree swivel tube, adjustable applications including brazing up to 1”burn diameter, soldering heating.and continuous flame lock for flame and control,
TF Trigger-start torch
TF Tube Cutter
The TubeSpin360 BPTS360 is a batterypowered tube spinning cutter designed Product No. 1811185for tradespeople that allows users to make consistent cuts on tubing from 1/4-to 1 1/8-in. 17” OD for specified materials and unit models, and up to 5-in. OD with optional 4-in. chuck. Powered by a cordless drill/driver (not included), the tool offers up to 500 RPM on low speed, and up to 110 ft./lb of torque, and is compatible with Milwaukee, DeWalt, Ryobi and other makes of cordless drills. Users can control speed with a foot pedal for hands-free operation. Included ER40 collet set makes the tool ready to cut out of the box.
www. tubespin360.ca
finger-free use. The unit is pressure regulated MAX POWER FLAME for consistent performance when inverted, 360 DEGREE SWIVEL BURN TUBE and features instant on-off ignition, and an INSTANT ON-OFF aluminum alloyIGNITION body. The torch is suitable for use withFLAME MAP-Pro CONTINUOUS LOCKin multiple lower demand applications such as brazing up to ADJUSTABLE FLAME 1-in. diameter, soldering and heating. It is also PRESSURE REGULATED FOR CONSISTENT suitable for use with propane.w PERFORMANCE WHEN INVERTED
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TF Supply outlet box
AMBROCONTROLS.COM
BrassCraft’s Supply Outlet Boxes are available in a variety of configurations for both washing machine and ice maker installations. The outlet box, mounting brackets and faceplate create a clean, compact finish without exposed piping. Predrilled brackets allow for location adjustment of the outlet box on the stud. The 1/4-turn brass ball valves offer quick water supply control.w
www. brasscraft.com
TF Electric water heater The OSO Saga Xpress electric water heater is built from premium 444 special alloy stainless steel. Its compact footprint simplifies installation. By storing water at elevated temperatures and using an integrated mixing valve, the unit delivers 40 per cent more usable hot water than standard tanks of equal volume. Dual alternating heating elements recover hot water faster.
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TF Recirculation pump The Grundfos ALPHA 26 range is designed to simplify residential and light commercial heating system replacements. It replaces over 65 legacy applications through retrofit kits and adapters. Built-in AUTOADAPT technology optimizes performance while lowering energy consumption. Features include serviceable components, including field-replaceable control boxes and pump heads; Bluetooth connectivity; real-time diagnostics; guided commissioning; and digital reporting through the Grundfos GO app. grundfos.com
TF Digital water
mixing valve
Lync’s DigiTemp 2 provides hot water temperature control in commercial and institutional applications. It is also available as the DigiTemp 2S, a factoryassembled and pre-piped package solution. DigiTemp 2 maintains outlet temperatures within ±2°F in accordance with ASSE 1017 and includes hightemperature sanitization capabilities to support water safety programs. A fullcolour touchscreen, BACnet and Modbus integration, and Nexa connectivity provide enhanced visibility, monitoring, and control of DHW systems.
www. lyncbywatts.com
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TF Compact water heater PVI’s Durawatt Mini is a compact electric water heater designed for commercial DHW systems. Available from 12 kW to 54 kW, it can serve as a primary water heater, booster heater, backup heater, or dedicated recirculation heater. AquaPLEX duplex stainless steel construction provides resistance to corrosion while eliminating tank linings and anode rods. Features include solid-state modulation, durable Incoloy-sheathed heating elements, Modbus connectivity, and a wall-mountable design.
www. pvi.com
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TF PRODUCTS
The latest innovations and must haves
TF Commercial water heater The A. O. Smith Cyclone Flex is available in inputs from 100,000 to 500,000 BTU/hr and delivers up to 97 per cent thermal efficiency. It features AIQ adaptive gas technology, allowing fuel selection through the onboard touchscreen without a conversion kit. A 7-in. colour display, built-in iCOMM connectivity, integrated leak detection, and powered anodes simplify installation, monitoring and maintenance.www.
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TF Elastomer gaskets Elastomer gaskets available exclusively through Master Plumber are offered in bowl to floor, tank to bowl, and urinal. The sticky elastomer material ensures a tight seal and compresses for a custom fit. The gaskets are stackable, flexible and repositionable to help with adjustments during the installation process. The gaskets are available in a variety of thicknesses and as an installation kit.
www. masterplumber.ca
TF Drain cleaner General Pipe’s Flexi-Rooter flexible-shaft drain cleaner now offers a longer 75-ft. shaft to allow greater reach when tackling clogs in commercial and residential drain lines. The stiffer flexible shaft with integral variable-speed motor allows operators to clean 2- to 4-in. drain lines and cut through roots in larger lines. The motor delivers 1,500 to 2,400 rpm speeds, and is operated with an air-actuated foot pedal.
www. drainbrain.com
TubeSpin360
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TF Booster pump
TF Dual-finish collection
The TridentBoost booster pump system from Taco is designed for ease of use in commercial and industrial water pressure boosting applications. The unit features a 10-in. HMI colour touchscreen with intuitive user interface and startup wizard. The rotatable control panel includes a fan-forced cooling system that meets ASHRAE 90.1 energy efficiency standards. The newly designed skid supports end suction pumps and vertical multistage pumps.
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Bélanger’s new Symbio bathroom tacocomfort.com collection includes an 8-in. widespread lavatory faucet, a TF monohole lavatory faucet, a threepiece roman bathtub faucet, a floorAQUA ALERT WiFi connected app from Novo mounted tub filler, and shower delivers real-time performance data, salt-level kits and matching accessories. monitoring, leak alerts, service reminders Each faucet is available in three and system diagnostics to the homeowner’s dual-finish combinations: polished smartphone. The app can identify potential chrome with brushed chrome issues, including when more salt needs accents; brushed nickel with to be added, or a lost Wi-Fi connection. polished nickel accents; and matte Homeowners can even initiate a manual black with gloss black accents. The regeneration remotely, making it easy to collection also includes universal manage their softener from anywhere. pop-down drains in matching www. finishes.wbelangerfaucets.com novowater.com 22_0470_Tape_Quad_HalfHoriz_US_MXsp Mod: January 12, 2026 4:33 PM Print: 09/09/26 page 1 v2.5
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TF COMMERCIAL FAUCET TRENDS PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
C
ommercial faucets have always been built for reliable performance and long-lasting durability. Now, however, faucet manufacturers are increasingly looking at residential trends to meet consumer expectations for hygiene and convenience, while continuing to meet the needs of facility operators for easy installation and maintenance. As a result, commercial faucets now feature thoughtful design elements, touchless and connected technology, and features that save operators money and time.
Carolyn Cooper
Performance plus
New technology, connectivity and design elements are making commercial faucets more than an after thought
Bradley’s Elvari Collection won a 2026 Red Dot Design Award for its integration of aesthetics with high-performance functionality.
INSPIRED DESIGN
balancing aesthetics, ease of maintenance, and long-term “Commercial faucet design is becoming much more durability.” coordinated with the overall restroom aesthetic. Rather than selecting faucets as standalone components, specifiers are “We’re also seeing aesthetics play a larger role in commercial design looking for fixtures and finishes that complement and align with decisions,” agrees Anny Ang, director of wholesale marketing for soap dispensers, accessories, and mirrors to create a cohesive Moen Canada, “which is why we at Moen have introduced more environment,” says Kris Alderson, senior marketing manager style choices into our commercial faucet offerings.” for Bradley Company, a division of Watts Water Technologies. “We’re seeing continued interest in modern finishes beyond traditional chrome, including matte black, brushed stainless, TOUCHLESS TECHNOLOGY bronze, brass, and nickel – particularly “Sensor and/or touch activated faucets are now well established, in environments where design especially in kitchens and commercial environments, driven by helps shape brand perception hygiene and convenience,” says Benoit Morneau, senior director of and user experience. At the products at BARIL. “BARIL introduced touchless infrared sensors in same time, durability and 2023, designed for both wall and counter installation. Activated by low maintenance remain a simple hand movement, these sensors deliver seamless control critical, so finishes that resist of water flow, enhancing accessibility – an essential component of fingerprints, corrosion, and modern, inclusive design.” water spots are in demand. Over the next year, we expect continued convergence The M-DURA chrome two-handle kitchen faucet from Moen offers solid between design sophistication cast brass construction, quarter turn ceramic disc cartridge with brass and product shell, and internal stops to prevent misalignment and ensure complete performance, shut-off. It includes a vandal-resistant torque screw to discourage with fixture tampering. Aerator is limited to 1.5 gpm max (5.7 L/min). selections moen.com/commercial
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Touchless faucets aren’t just being added to high-end facilities. “Healthcare, education, airports, retail, hospitality, offices, and public venues are increasingly specifying these solutions because they support hygiene, improve operational efficiency, and align with evolving user expectations. Looking ahead, smarter maintenance features, such as service alerts, refill indicators, enhanced sensor reliability, and broader integration with connected facility management technologies, will continue gaining traction,” says Alderson.
The BARIL PRO line includes the two-piece bathroom faucet with hand shower, part of the O15 Collection. The tub spout includes a built-in diverter, one-spray hand shower, 1/2-in. MNPT connections with flexible stainless steel braided connectors, and two check valves. Available in chrome finish, the faucet features adjustable installation 4 to 14 in. barilpro.com
Zurn’s AquaSense Z6920 series was created with the healthcare industry in mind. The Z6920-XL has a 0.5 gpm aerator and 30-second timeout feature. Other flow control options include non-aerated and laminar flow with flow rates as low as 0.35 gpm. Its gooseneck spout extends to a height of 7 7/8 in. from the deck mount and stretches outward 5 3/8 in. zurn.ca
Smart connected backflow prevention technology is designed to protect potable water systems in commercial and institutional facilities by providing continuous monitoring and real-time insights into water pressure, flow, and discharge.
MULTIUSE FEATURES Commercial restrooms often now offer multiuse faucets combining water and soap dispensers, or drying systems connected to faucets. Bottle fillers are also becoming more popular, as are stand-alone hydration stations in public spaces such as hospitals, schools and shopping centres. “Commercial washrooms are being designed more holistically, with growing emphasis on amenities that improve hygiene, convenience, accessibility, and overall user perception,” says Alderson, adding that the faucet and sink should be viewed as a system in commercial settings rather than independent choices. “Poor pairing can create maintenance headaches, and user frustration – not to mention a clumsy or cluttered appearance. That’s why integrated lavatory systems continue to gain interest. All-in-one faucet and sink combinations can improve performance, simplify installation, and deliver better long-term maintenance outcomes. Specifiers are looking beyond core plumbing fixtures to create environments that support both operational performance and a better user experience.”
SMART CONNECTIVITY
Bradley’s WashBar is an all-in-one touchless handwashing fixture that combines soap dispensing, water delivery, and hand drying in a single deckmounted unit. The fixture helps reduce touchpoints, minimize countertop clutter, and keep water contained within the basin to improve maintenance and user experience. bradleycorp.com
Connected technology in commercial restrooms is being used to lower operating costs, minimize downtime, and reduce maintenance. “Smart connected backflow prevention gives facility teams clarity and control they simply didn’t have before,” says Emily Simpson, director of general sales and marketing for Zurn Elkay Canada. “By combining real time monitoring with predictive insights, organizations can protect their water systems, reduce operating risk and make smarter decisions before a small issue becomes a costly disruption.” The technology also provides operators with insights into the complete water system, with data on long-term water consumption trends that support sustainability efforts.
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TF QUATTRO’S CORNER
PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY Marty Silverman, Vice President, Marketing, General Pipe Cleaners
Take a look at those pipes Black, light grey, dark grey, white, red, blue ... the list of pipe colours goes on and on. Before we get too deep into the world of plumbing materials, let’s start with the basics from the most important part of Ontario Building Code, Part 7.
PIPE VS. TUBING Sentence 7.2.1.4.(1), Division B states: “Where the term pipe or piping and fittings is used, it shall also apply to tube or tubing and fittings unless otherwise stated.” While the Code may treat pipe and tubing the same for many purposes, it is important for Code users to understand they are not sized the same way. One of the most common misconceptions in the plumbing industry is that pipe and tubing are identical products. Although both are used to convey water, waste or air, they are Figure 1 Just because an installation looks manufactured, good doesn’t mean it is compliant. measured and identified differently. Pipe is sized using Nominal Pipe Size (NPS), which is a standardized designation rather than an actual measurement. For example, a NPS 1/2 PVC pipe has an outside diameter of approximately 0.840 inches. The stated size is simply a trade name used throughout the industry. Tubing is sized by its actual outside diameter (OD). A 1/2-in. copper tube has an actual outside diameter of 5/8 in. PEX, PE-RT, and copper water tube are common examples of tubing. This distinction becomes important when selecting fittings, reviewing plans, or conducting inspections. A fitting designed for 1/2-in. copper tubing will not fit a 1/2-in. PVC or steel pipe, even though they share the same nominal size designation. From an inspection perspective, understanding whether a product is pipe or tubing helps verify that: the correct fittings are being used; the material is approved for the intended application; the proper standard is referenced on the product; pressure and temperature ratings meet Code requirements; and the installation complies with the Ontario Building Code.
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READ WHAT’S WRITTEN ON THE PIPE Now that we have a better understanding of the difference between pipe and tubing, let’s focus on what to look for during an inspection. The installation shown in Figure 1 involved a sanitary building drain connecting to a septic tank. The workmanship was excellent. The slope was correct, the pipe was well supported, and the installation looked neat and tidy. But something seemed off. The pipe was clearly marked PVC 4” (100 mm) ASTM D2729. That marking immediately raised a red flag. Article 7.2.5.9. of Division B specifies the standards applicable to plastic pipe used underground outside a building or under a building in a drainage system. One of the acceptable standards referenced is CSA B182.2 - PSM Type Polyvinylchloride (PVC) Sewer Pipe and Fittings. The Ontario Building Code further requires that plastic pipe installed underground in these applications have a minimum pipe stiffness of 320 kPa, unless specifically exempted elsewhere. Why does that matter? Pipe stiffness helps resist: soil loads; vehicle loads; frost movement; settlement; and long-term deformation after burial. The manufacturer’s information for ASTM D2729 pipe showed the published pipe stiffness values were approximately: 3 in. pipe = 131 kPa; 4 in. pipe = 76 kPa; and 6 in. pipe = 55 kPa.
Let’s do the math: 320 kPa - 76 kPa = 244 kPa
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By Andrew Quattrociocchi Andrew Quattrociocchi is the Chief Building Official for the Township of King, and a licensed plumber with more than 25 years of experience in building regulation, inspections, plumbing systems and code enforcement. A Certified Building Code Official (CBCO) who is actively involved in industry education and professional development, he serves as director of Region C for the OBOA, an OBOA instructor, conference speaker, author, and columnist in Mechanical Business magazine and OBOA Journal.
The 4-in. ASTM D2729 pipe shown in Figure 1 falls approximately 244 kPa short of the minimum stiffness requirement. Another way to look at it is that the ASTM D2729 pipe has only about 24 per cent of the stiffness required by the Code. In my world, that’s a failed inspection and a remove-and-replace situation.
COMBUSTIBLE PIPING IN NON-COMBUSTIBLE BUILDINGS Let’s move on to another area that often creates confusion. Part 3 Buildings. Article 3.1.5.1. requires buildings or portions of buildings that must be of non-combustible construction to be constructed with non-combustible materials, subject to specific exceptions. One of those exceptions is found in Article 3.1.5.19., Combustible Piping Materials. Some immediately assume because a building is noncombustible construction, any plastic piping must meet both Flame Spread Rating (FSR) ≤ 25 and Smoke Developed Classification (SDC) ≤ 50 but take another look at Sentence 3.1.5.19.(1)(b). The requirement for both the flame spread and smoke developed limitations only applies where combustible piping is used in buildings described in Subsection 3.2.6. (High Buildings). That’s a very important distinction. Several products are specifically designed to meet these requirements for high-rise applications. There is another situation where combustible piping must meet both the FSR and SDC requirements. Plenum spaces.
Article 3.6.4.3.(1)(a) requires materials located within certain concealed spaces used as plenums to have: • Flame Spread Rating not more than 25 • Smoke Developed Classification not more than 50
ASK YOURSELF THESE THREE QUESTIONS The next time you’re inspecting combustible piping in a non-combustible building, ask yourself:
1
Is the pipe material combustible?
2 Am I in a high building? 3
Is the pipe located in a plenum space?
If your answer is No to the second and third questions, the combustible piping only needs to satisfy the flame spread requirements applicable under the Ontario Building Code. Unfortunately, many inspectors automatically assume every non-combustible building requires 25/50-rated piping. That misconception can lead to unnecessary costs for owners, contractors and municipalities alike.
Not every Part 3 building requires the more expensive 25/50 piping products.
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TF QUATTRO’S CORNER PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
Cont’d from page 71
Just like DWV piping, PEX tubing is heavily marked with information that tells a story.
DON’T FORGET ABOUT PEX
UNDERSTANDING PIPE COLOURS
The same principle applies when inspecting PEX water distribution systems. Most major manufacturers produce PEX products that satisfy both flame spread and smokedeveloped requirements. However, those determinations should always be verified during both plan review and field inspection. (For more on PEX plumbing systems see pg. 80.)
One of the most common misconceptions in plumbing and drainage systems is that the colour of a pipe automatically determines its intended use. While colours can provide a helpful visual indication, they are not a substitute for reading the markings printed directly on the pipe. For example, two pipes may look nearly identical but have significantly different strength, pressure, or stiffness ratings. A pipe that is the correct colour but manufactured to the wrong standard may not be acceptable for the intended installation. The printed standard determines whether it is code-compliant. Before installing, approving, or purchasing any piping product, always take the time to read the markings printed on the pipe and verify it meets the jurisdictional Code requirements and the applicable referenced standard. Those markings tell you whether the product is approved, what standard it conforms to, where it can be used, and how it is intended to perform.
PRECISION DIELECTRIC WATERWAY® FITTINGS THREAD x THREAD and THREAD x GROOVE 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® fittings are 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 temps of up to +225 oF (+-5 oF) and for pressures up to 300 psi. Precision Dielectric Waterway® is listed by IAPMO/UPC.
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TF PUMPS
PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
By Jesse Runciman Marty Jesse Silverman, Runciman Vice is thePresident, owner operator Marketing, of Superior GeneralWater Pipe Cleaners & Wells, a company providing well pump repair and water system services in Ontario’s Thunder Bay District. He is a licensed well technician and certified water treatment installer. Runciman can be reached at jesse@superiorwaterwells.ca.
Diagnosing well pump short cycling
A
well pump should run long enough to refill the pressure tank and then remain off while the stored water is used throughout the home. When a pump starts and stops repeatedly within a short period, the system may be short cycling. Short cycling is more than an annoyance. Every pump start places additional stress on the motor, pressure switch and electrical components. In a properly operating system, water stored inside the pressure tank supplies the home between pump cycles. As the water is used, system pressure falls gradually until it reaches the pressure switch’s cut-in setting. The pump then starts and runs until the pressure reaches the cut-out setting. A typical system may operate at: 30 PSI cut-in and 50 PSI cut-out, or 40 PSI cut-in and 60 PSI cut-out. When the pressure tank cannot store the proper amount of water − or when the system is losing pressure − the pump may start after only a small amount of water is used. In severe cases, the pump may click on and off every few seconds each time a small amount of water is used. Some other signs include: water pressure surges at faucets or showers; the pump cycles continuously while a toilet is filling; the lights dim each time the pump starts; and the pressure tank feels unusually heavy. Short cycling should be investigated before replacing the pump. In many cases, the pump itself is not the original cause of the problem.
1
INCORRECT PRESSURE-TANK AIR CHARGE One of the first things to check is the pressure tank’s air pre-charge. For most bladder-style pressure tanks, the air pre-charge should be set approximately 2 PSI below the pressure switch’s cut-in setting. Common pre-charge settings are 30/50 pressure switch: approximately 28 PSI, and 40/60 pressure switch: approximately 38 PSI. The pump must be turned off and all water pressure must be drained from the system before checking the tank’s air pressure. When the air charge is too high, the tank may contain very little usable water before the pressure falls to the pump’s starting point. Possible symptoms include: a sudden drop in pressure; a brief interruption in water flow; very little drawdown from the tank; frequent pump starts; and rapid pressure changes. If the air pressure is equal to or higher than the switch’s cut-in
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Deep water well set up complete with water pressure gauge and storage tank. pressure, the tank can empty before the pump starts. A low air charge can also reduce the tank’s proper operating capacity. Possible symptoms include: frequent cycling; poor pressure performance; excessive movement of the bladder; reduced tank drawdown; and premature tank wear. The air precharge must match the pressure switch setting − not simply the number printed on the side of the tank.
FAILED OR WATERLOGGED PRESSURE TANK A failed pressure tank is one of the most common causes of short cycling. If the bladder or diaphragm inside the tank ruptures, the water and air are no longer properly separated. The tank may gradually fill with water and lose the compressed-air cushion required to store usable water. A waterlogged tank provides very little drawdown. As soon as a fixture is opened, the pressure drops quickly and the pump starts. The pump then reaches cut-out pressure rapidly
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TF PUMPS PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY because there is very little air space to compress. This creates a repeated cycle of: pressure drops quickly, pump starts, pressure rises quickly, and pump stops. If you see water coming from the tank’s air valve the internal bladder has likely failed and the tank normally requires replacement.
3
PRESSURE TANK IS TOO SMALL
A pressure tank may be working properly but still be too small for the pump and household demand. The size printed on the tank is not the amount of usable water it stores. A pressure tank contains both compressed air and water. The actual usable water between pump cycles is called drawdown. A tank with insufficient drawdown may cause the pump to start frequently during heavy or prolonged water use. The tank should be sized according to the pump’s flow rate, minimum recommended run time and the pressure-switch settings. A larger pressure tank does not increase the pump’s pressure, but it can allow the pump to run longer and start less often.
4
A CLOGGED PRESSURE-SWITCH NIPPLE
The pressure switch must sense the water pressure inside the system. It normally does this through a small threaded nipple or passage connected to the tank tee or pump piping. Iron, sediment, rust and mineral deposits can partially block this small opening. When the pressure switch cannot sense system pressure properly, it will impact pump performance. The small pressure connection should be clean and unrestricted. Replacing a pressure switch without checking the nipple beneath it may leave the original problem unresolved.
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A FAULTY OR IMPROPERLY ADJUSTED PRESSURE SWITCH
The pressure switch controls when the pump starts and stops. Inside the switch are electrical contacts, springs and mechanical components that respond to water pressure. Over time, the contacts may become compromised due to corrosion, wear, contamination or damage resulting from rapid cycling. A switch can also operate incorrectly when its settings have been adjusted without properly testing the complete system. The pressure switch should be matched to the pump’s pressure capability; the pressure-tank pre-charge; the plumbing system; the intended cut-in and cut-out range; and the pump’s voltage and motor load.
6
Installing a 40/60 pressure switch on a pump that can barely reach 60 PSI may cause the pump to run continuously rather than short cycle.
A LEAKING CHECK VALVE OR FOOT VALVE
A check valve or foot valve is intended to prevent water from flowing backward when the pump shuts off. If the valve leaks, system pressure may fall even when nobody is using water. Once the pressure reaches the pressure switch’s cut-in setting, the pump starts again and rebuilds the pressure. If the check valve or foot valve is leaking the pump may cycle when no fixtures are operating.
A pump designed to run for longer cycles may be started dozens or hundreds of extra times when the system is short cycling. Correcting the cause early is usually far less expensive than replacing a damaged well pump.
Other signs include: the pressure gauge slowly drops after the pump shuts off; a jet pump repeatedly loses prime; air appears in the plumbing; the pump starts unexpectedly overnight; and the pressure falls with the main house valve closed. However, a falling pressure gauge does not automatically prove the check valve is the problem. The pressure loss could also be caused by a leaking waterline, plumbing fixture (such as a running toilet) or well component. The system should be isolated and tested before replacing parts.
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7
WATER FLOWING BACK INTO THE SUMP OR STORAGE SYSTEM
In systems involving cisterns, storage tanks or transfer pumps, a leaking check valve may allow water to return after the pump shuts off. This can cause the float switch or pressure switch to reactivate the pump repeatedly. The correct diagnosis depends on whether the pump is controlled by a pressure switch; a float switch; a pump-control panel; an electronic water-level sensor; or a combination of pressure and level controls. Understanding which control is actually starting the pump is essential before troubleshooting the system.
8
PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
PUMPS
TF
PUMP OVERSIZED FOR THE PRESSURE TANK
A pump that produces a high flow rate can refill a small pressure tank very quickly. The pump may reach cutout pressure after running for only a few seconds. Although the system may still supply water, frequent short operating cycles can increase wear on the motor and electrical components. A properly designed system should provide enough tank drawdown to allow the pump to run for an appropriate length of time. The solution may involve: installing a larger pressure tank; adding additional tank capacity; correcting the existing tank pre-charge; reviewing the pressure settings; installing an appropriate pump-control system; and confirming the pump is properly sized for the application.
Ensure the pump is properly sized for the application.
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2026-09-23 5:56 PM
TF TUBING
By Marty Silverman
PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
Marty Silverman is vice president of marketing for General Pipe Cleaners.
The secret to servicing old CPVC
H
ave you ever crushed or shattered old CPVC tubing while doing service work? Well, you’re not alone, and there is a fix for that. It’s a fact that CPVC gets brittle as it ages and because of that most people assume that it’s no longer effective. However, it turns out that isn’t the case. According to research by FlowGuard Gold, CPVC’s pressure bearing capacity actually increases as it ages and you can avoid repair problems simply by using the correct tool for the job. A recent survey of more than 1,500 tradespeople about the proper way to service and repair CPVC tubing showed that many plumbers and contractors are operating on outdated information or failing to fully account for important differences in material characteristics, both of which could lead to unwanted problems on the job. One of the first things you learn when entering any trade is to always use the right tool for a particular job. According to the survey, that isn’t always happening. When it comes to cutting tubing, it’s not only a matter of matching the right tool to the right material but also, in the case of CPVC, you must also take into account the age of the material you’re working with. Over 60 per cent of the survey respondents didn’t know the correct tool for cutting into an existing CPVC system. New CPVC is relatively flexible. But as it ages, it becomes more rigid. The pressure bearing capability of the material increases with age, contradicting the perception among some plumbers that CPVC that appears brittle is weak or compromised. It is not, but it does require special handling and a different tool for cutting. If you use ratchet or scissor-style plastic tubing cutters on older CPVC, you may end up cracking or damaging the pipe. When servicing older existing CPVC choose a plastic tubing cutter that allows you to close the gate around the pipe and apply even pressure as you rotate the cutter. The cutting blade should quickly slice through the plastic tubing in as little as one rotation without crushing or damaging it. When you are done, you should have a clean square cut with no burs. This is true regardless of whether the tubing is brand new, fresh and pliable, or old and rigid. So, don’t give up on existing or older CPVC; its pressure bearing capability actually increases with age. Using the appropriate tool will save you time and money, and help you to exceed your customer’s expectations.
CPVC Applications
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What is CPVC? CPVC is a high-temperature plastic pressure piping system introduced for potable plumbing in 1959. It has also been used extensively in fire sprinkler systems since 1985. This material is also used for many industrial and process piping applications. CPVC pipe is approved in all model plumbing and mechanical codes across Canada. In addition, CPVC pipe and fittings from select manufacturers are listed for light hazard fire sprinkler systems, as defined in NFPA 13, 13R and 13D standards. CPVC tubing comes in nominal sizes ranging from 1/2 to 2 in. copper tube size (CTS), and pipe sizes ranging from 1/2 to 24 in. (Sch 40/80) iron pipe size (IPS). CPVC tubing is SDR11 (1/2 to 2 in.) with standard hydrostatic pressure ratings of 400 psi at 73°F (2,750 kPa at 23°C) and 100 psi at 180°F (690 kPa at 82°C). CPVC tubing and pipe are sold in straight lengths. Courtesy Plastics Pipe Institute
• Hot and cold water plumbing distribution, residential and commercial • Fire protection: One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes (NFPA 13D), Low-Rise Residential Occupancies (NFPA 13R) and Light Hazard Occupancies (NFPA 13) • Reclaimed water piping (purple pipe) • Chilled water piping • Hydronic piping and distribution • Suitable for many industrial and process piping applications
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JOBSITE
JARGON CHALLENGE YOURSELF. STAY SHARP. WIN.
TEST YOUR PLUMBING KNOWLEDGE! Match the terminology you hear in the field to the correct definition and enter for your chance to win.
WIN A $150 VISA GIFT CARD
JOBSITE JARGON EXAMPLE:
7) Polyethylene E) A flexible plastic pipe used for applications such as water mains and service lines Answer 7, E
MATCH THE TERM
MATCH THE DEFINITION
1
Turbidity
A
Often added to water systems to prevent corrosion. However, these chemicals can also contribute to scale formation
2
Drawdown
B
Moveable part of a toilet flush valve that releases the water from the tank into the bowl when the toilet is flushed and seals the valve shut when the toilet is not being flushed
3
Alkalinity
C
Actual usable water between pump cycles
4
Cross-linked polyethylene
D
Commonly used to fasten PE pipe, made to standard ASTM-D2239, also used to secure a range of hoses to hose fittings
5
Leach
E
A flexible plastic pipe used for applications such as water mains and service lines
6
Total hardness
F
PEX pipe often used in applications where both hot and cold water is needed, hydronic heating, and residential fire sprinklers
7
Polyethylene
G
Indicates the concentration of calcium and magnesium salts
8
Orthophosphates
H
Refers to the process of dissolving a soluble component out of a constituent material at a wetted surface
9
Flapper
I
Measures the concentration of carbonate, bicarbonate, and dissolved CO2 in water, contributing to TDS and the potential for scale formation
10
Gear clamp
J
Measures the amount of suspended debris or dirt in the water
Submit your answers by November 18, 2026.
Email: kerry.turner@mechanicalbusiness.com Online: mechanicalbusiness.com T H E
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TF RESOURCE
PLUMBING APPLICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY Marty Silverman, Vice President, Marketing, General Pipe Cleaners
New PEX plumbing systems guide published
T
he Plastics Pipe Institute, Inc. (PPI) has published its new PEX Plumbing Distribution Systems Design and Installation Guide, the third edition of an industry handbook first published 20 years ago. It provides information and resources necessary to design and install crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) hot- and cold-water plumbing distribution systems in residential, multi-family and commercial buildings. A joint industry publication from PPI, the Plastic Pipe and Fittings Association (PPFA) plus Home Innovation Research Labs (HIRL) with support and input from IAPMO and ICC, it is available on PPI’s Building and Construction Division website. This 156-page third edition includes updates to reflect the advancements in PEX materials such as tubing, manifolds and fittings; updates to code acceptance for PEX plumbing systems; new design recommendations; and revisions to installation techniques. The Guide also includes a new chapter about water service line applications, with specific installation instructions. “Since the second edition of this guide was published more than 10 years ago, many aspects of PEX plumbing systems have evolved,” said Lance MacNevin, P. Eng., senior director of engineering for PPI’s Building & Construction Division. “In addition to being the most common hot- and coldwater distribution material in residential plumbing, PEX tubing is now widely used in commercial plumbing applications due to its flexibility, resilience, proven performance and potential time savings during installation. With so much new information to share, as well as the knowledge learned from over 30 years of North American plumbing applications, PPI members felt it was time to do a total re-write of this guide, while also including many more pictures and graphics to make it easier to follow.”
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PEX tubing used as hot- and cold-water distribution.
According to PPI, crosslinking technology for polyethylene was pioneered in Europe in the late 1960s, with the first PEX radiant heating systems installed in 1972. Since then, PEX has had a 50-year history of successful use around the world for a variety of demanding applications. It was first adopted in the National Plumbing Code (NPC) of Canada in 1995. The PEX Plumbing Distribution Systems Design and Installation Guide is available on the PPI website as a free download. Printed copies will be available for sale.
plasticpipe.org/buildingconstruction
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A NEW TWIST IN
SYSTEM PROTECTION
NEW SEDIMENT FILTER PATENTED TECHNOLOGY
• Protects system from rust, dirt, sand, gravel, and other suspended particles in the incoming water supply • Spin-down design with multi-mode handle filters, bypasses, cleans, and stops flow • Twist-to-clear feature loosens debris for flushing through integrated hose drain • Includes both 100 and 50 mesh stainless steel filters, suitable for well and municipal sources • Can be oriented to accept flow from either direction • Dual-scale pressure gauge installs into O-ring sealed ports on either side of the unit
INCLUDES MOUNTING BRACKET AND SERVICE TOOL
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