April 2008 - Plumbing & HVAC

An electronic lavatory faucet aimed atthe residential market.Hands free, page 14Volume 18 Number 3 April 2008These hydronic panels are smallerand lighter.Tread softly, page 21Canadian Mail Sales Product Agreement #40063170. Registration 10796. Return postage guaranteed NEWCOM Business Media Inc. 451 Attwell Drive, Toronto, Ontario M9W 5C4INSIDE■ High fuel prices causing pain■ Housing starts remain steady■ Calgary contractor tackles Indonesia project■ Diligent hiring practices pay dividendsCircle Number 100 for More Informationwww.ridgid.comCircle Number 101 for More InformationMEET2008Show Issuewww.drainbrain.comCircle Number 102 for More InformationHelp your customer save energy withthese rooftops.Chilling news, page 25The craftsman will enjoy theseunique soldering products.Get inspired, page 27

Circle Number 103 for More Information

MEETShow IssueIn This IssueDepartmentsHot Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11Coming Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32People & Places . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33Marketplace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34Literature Showcase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34Products & TechnologiesFaucets & Fixtures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Pipes, Valves & Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21Hot Water Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22Refrigeration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24Tools & Instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26Pain at the pumps 7Contractors struggle withsoaring fuel costsThe low-flow challenge 12Reducing flow withoutanyone noticingAlternate heat sources 23Keeping an eye on emergingtechnologiesSure, we could tell you about Mr. Slim ductless systems, and how ourmulti-splits are Energy Star qualified, and are available up to 23SEER, and how this translates into significant energy and costsavings for your customers. Heck, we could even tell you about ourLong distance project 24Calgary contractor does Indonesiapulp millindustry-firstTechnology, which automatically findshot or cold spots by detecting the temperature at floor level andadjusting the airflow to compensate. But, when all is said andUPTOAN INDUSTRY-FIRST23 SEERdone, we have to admit that it’s much easier to install and enjoy aMr. Slim system than explain it. So to learn more go to smarthvac.ca.And for restaurant and light commercial applications enlistthe power of Mr.Slim P-Series, with TECHNOLOGYwhich provides heating down to -25°C.Cover photo: Getting gas to downtownHalifax wasn’t easy. Please see ourarticle on page 19. (Photo by Art Irwin)Circle Number 104 for More Informationwww.plumbingandhvac.ca April 2008 – Plumbing & HVAC Product News 3

Go ahead,TIGHTENup your schedule.Installation is as simple as:Lube it Stab it Join it Drive itEasier install. No loose components. A safer work environment.Discover the advantages of the new Style 107 QuickVic TM rigid couplings.To meet today’s tight deadlines, contractors like you need faster, more reliable solutions. You need QuickVic rigid couplings — the nextgeneration of pipe joining technology from Victaulic. They feature the patented installation-ready technology, so there is no need todisassemble. There are no loose components to drop or lose. And no noxious fumes, flame or welding to contend with. QuickVic rigidcouplings reduce material handling and allow for consistent field installation to meet or exceed project schedules and decrease the riskof on-site injuries. They can be used in a wide range of applications and services. And are rated up to 500 PSI working pressure andfeature the proprietary Grade EHP high performance gasket.Visit www.victaulic.com/quickvic to learn moreabout this revolutionary product.905.884.7444 • www.victaulic.com/quickvicCircle Number 105 for More Information

Hot SeatApril 2008Volume 18, Number 3ISSN 1499-5271Too green, too fast?Few people who work in this industrywould have failed to notice thatthe “green” bandwagon is pickingup speed. And most would agree thatconserving water and heating fuel,along with the adoption of environmentallyfriendly refrigerants, will makethe world a better place for our children.But we have to be careful not tomove so fast that we ignore the fundamentalsof how things work. Suchappears to be occurring with the moveto low-flow showerheads.Considerable research is currentlyunderway to determine how showerheadsthat flow as little as 1.6 gallonsper minute (gpm) affect shower valvesthat are designed, tested and certified toflow 2.5 gpm.There’s a serious safety concern.Changing the flow through the showerheadmay affect the anti-scald functionof the shower valve. And in some situations,particularly with electric ondemandDHW tanks, the hot water maysimply shut down, leaving the userstanding in a cold shower.Research is ongoing and none of thisis fully understood. Manufacturers havedetermined that certain shower valveswork better with reduced flow showerheadsthan others. Thermostatic valvesare affected differently than pressurebalancing valves.As a result, some manufacturers haveput a lot of work into developing lowflowshowerheads that work and matchingthem with shower valves that theirresearch has demonstrated also work. Itpays to follow their recommendations.Other manufacturers simply do notoffer a water miser shower.And then, of course, there are cheapshowerheads on the market that flowless water but don’t work very well – likesome early six-litre flush toilets wheremanufacturers simply put a small tankon a standard toilet.Some municipalities are even givingout reduced-flow showerheads as awater conservation measure, understandingneither the science nor thesafety issues. A plumbing system willwork properly only if all the componentsare designed to work together.This all points to the urgent need fora national conservation plumbing standard,something the Canadian Instituteof Plumbing and Heating (CIPH) hasbeen working towards for three years.Not only must manufacturers, engineersand plumbing contractors wrestlewith the showerhead issue, but they alsostruggle with a myriad of differentwater conservation rules across thecountry. Manufacturers often end upcustomizing their product for the particularregion or municipality.A conservation plumbing standardcould put an end to these challenges. Ifit set the maximum flow rate for showersat 1.8 gpm, for example, this wouldmake the lives of manufacturers considerablyeasier because they would nowhave a specific target to design and testtheir products to. And, with both theshowerhead and shower valve designedto flow 1.8 gpm, the current safety andcomfort issues could easily be solved.If we want the green bandwagon toroll smoothly, we have to build theroad first.EditorSimon Blake(416) 614-5820sblake@newcom.caContributorsRon ColemanRoy CollverBarry CunninghamEd GravelleArthur IrwinBruce NagyPublisherMark Vreugdenhil(416) 614-5819mark@plumbingandhvac.caNational Sales ManagerMartyn Johns(416) 614-5826martyn@plumbingandhvac.caRegional Sales ManagerJordan Chong(416) 614-5832jordan@plumbingandhvac.caDesign and ProductionTim Nortonproduction@nytek.caCirculation ManagerPat GlionnaCorporate ServicesAnthony EvangelistaPLUMBING & HVAC PRODUCT NEWS Magazine ispublished eight times annually by NEWCOM BusinessMedia Inc. and is written for individuals who purchase/specify/approve the selection of plumbing, piping, hotwater heating, fire protection, warm air heating, airconditioning, ventilation, refrigeration, controls andrelated systems and products throughout Canada.Head OfficeNEWCOM Business Media Inc.451 Attwell Drive, Toronto,Ontario, Canada M9W 5C4Tel: (416) 242-8088Fax (416) 242-8085YOU HAVE A CHOICE.USE THERMO-PAN...or KEEP THROWING MONEY AWAY!Thermo-Pan is the high quality, no-noise alternative forreturn air ducts that cuts install costs in half.When you use Thermo-Pan for return airducts, the install requires one man and a staplegun. And it’s less expensive than sheet metal.ICC LEGACYREPORT 95-41.01ICC LEGACYREPORT 5398Fire-Resistant Thermo-PanAlso AvailableVisit us at CMX Booth #1010Availablein SIX SIZESRanging from16”x47.5” to39.5”x32”THERMO MANUFACTURING INC. (888) 678-3709POSTMASTER: Send all address changes and circulationinquiries to: Plumbing & HVAC Product Newsmagazine, 451 Attwell Drive, Toronto, Ontario, CanadaM9W 5C4. Canadian Publications Mail Sales ProductAgreement No. 40063170. Postage paid at Toronto,ON. Annual Subscription: $34.00 plus $1.70 GST,single copy $5.00 plus $0.25 GST in Canada;United States $40.00 U.S. One year subscriptionin U.S.: $40.00 US, One year subscription foreign:$65.00 U.S.Copyright 2008. The contents of this magazinemay not be reproduced in any manner without theprior written permission of the Publisher.We acknowledge the financialsupport of the Government ofCanada through the Publications AssistanceProgram toward our mailing costs.PAP Registration No. 10796A member of:Canadian Institute of Plumbing & HeatingCanadian Circulation Audit BoardMechanical Contractors Assoc. of CanadaOntario Plumbing Inspectors AssociationAmerican Society of Heating Refrigerating &Air Conditioning EngineersHeating Refrigeration and Air ConditioningInstitute of CanadaRefrigeration Service Engineers Society of CanadaCircle Number 106 for More Information

Circle Number 107 for More Information

Industry NewsIn BriefVentilation code changesoughtIn April, the Standing Committeeon Housing and Small Buildingswill review a joint code-changerequest submitted by the CanadianHydronics Council (CHC) and theCanadian Home Builders Association(CHBA). The goal is to improvethe National Building Code’sdefinition of mechanically ventedequipment. This has caused a lotof confusion in Alberta where theprovince has take the definitionliterally, adding substantial ventingrequirements for atmosphericand power-vented equipment, reportsCHC manager Jason Bourque.Hazardous goods changesChanges to the federal Transportationof Dangerous Goods Actshould make life easier for contractors.One of the key changesis that the 150 kg Gross MaximumExemption now permitscontractors to transport mostClass 2 gases and exempts somedangerous goods handlers fromthe documentation, dangerousgoods safety marks, means forcontainment and training, reportsthe Heating, Refrigeration andAir Conditioning Institute ofCanada (HRAI). The amendedregulation can be viewed athttp://www.tc.gc.ca.Ontario sales stagnateSales by Canada’s plumbing andHVAC/R wholesalers increased inall regions of Canada exceptOntario and the West in February,compared to the same month ayear ago, reports the CanadianInstitute of Plumbing & Heating.However, except for Ontario, allregions are up in year-to-date salescompared to 2007. Total year-todatesales are up 3.3 percent over2007 for a total of $671.2 million.Ontario is down one percent.Ont. budget boosts skillsThe Ontario governmentannounced a massive three-year$1.5-billion “skills-to-jobs” planto boost training and apprenticeshipsin its March 25 budget.While details were sketchy at presstime, much of this is reportedlyaimed at retraining unemployedautomotive and manufacturingsector workers – sectors that havetaken a beating due to the slowdownof the U.S. economy.Pain at the pumpsContractors struggle with high fuel pricesBy Bruce NagyThe sun is gently warming your winter-wearyface. The snow is melting.The birds are singing. It must bespring. Let’s see, fuel costs are soaring –yup, definitely spring.Back in March of 2002, after languishingbetween 50 cents and 70 centsfor a few years, the average Canadianretail price for a litre of gasoline pushedpast 60 cents and just kept on rising. ByMarch, a year later, it was 80 cents; andby spring 2005, above 90 cents. Anycomplaints from contractors were metby little else than more snow from coldheartedMother Nature.Contractors adaptBlack & MacDonald in Monctonchanged the way it inspects vehicles andbeefed up job cost tallies versus recovery.“We did a study,” said Scott Hue.“We found out how much we could saveby taking 100 kilos out of our trucks.”At A&E Plumbing in Calgary, BrianChatland started converting trucks topropane. He could save about one thirdon his monthly fuel bill. In Guelph,Ont. Art Lodder got serious about customerpricing. Fuel costs would have tobe reflected. Now every October thecompany reviews expected future costsand adjusts pricing.Companies seem to be managing,but things are changing quickly again.The average price at the pumps was$1.12 in March and most experts thinkwe’re just heading up the ramp onto arather unpleasant highway. Some arepredicting $1.40 per litre this summer.For 28 years, until 1973, crude oil was$10-$20 per barrel. Then OPEC pushedit to $40. Mideast tension followed.Now it’s more than $100.Oil-price.net, which has been rightbefore (including $100 per barrel), ispredicting $133 per barrel in a year.That could mean $1.49 per litre at thepump next spring.Last month we asked contractorsacross the country how they wouldcope. Most said they’ll pass the increasesalong, but that’s how recessions accelerate.Everyone puts pressure on customersat once and spending paralysissets in.No reliefIn 2005 energy author Matthew Simmonsmade a famous $2500 wager with a cynicalNY Times columnist, saying crudewill average $200 per barrel in 2010.Oil billionaire Boone Pickens predictedthis year’s $100 per barrel price,and now says crude prices will declinein the second quarter then go ever higherin late 2008.Few economists think crude will everagain dip much below $100; most thinkit is headed in the other direction, butfaster than before.Contractors in many parts of Canadaare still enjoying a construction boom.They’re dealing with personnel shortages,high turnover and growth. Somehave created a fuel surcharge.“Everyone in B.C. is doing this,” saidJohn Fornari of Altac Services inVancouver. “We serve customers all overB.C. and Alberta. We’re putting 300,000km on our vehicles in four years.” Thecompany splits the huge fuel billbetween a flat rate truck charge andmaintenance contract price increases.“We may move to an allowance ratherthan leased employee vehicles,” he said,adding that this is tough because themarket for skilled trades people is competitive.Company vehicles help attractand retain people.“We’re looking at the possibility of asurcharge, but probably not a flat charge,”said Hue in Moncton. “A flat charge isn’tfair to someone located right down thestreet. We will probably look at somethingbased on kilometres travelled.”Association programs“As the economy tightens, customerswill only absorb so much. Contractorscan save by joining our fuel program,”said Judy Nagus, provincial manager forthe Mechanical Contractors Associationof Saskatchewan. The association alsooffers dispatcher training, includingideas such as using GPS technology,Peter Yates of Enbridge Gas Distribution runshis truck on, surprise, natural gas.better trip planning and managing customerexpectations. Other organizationslike the Mechanical Contractors ofCanada (www.mcac.ca), the Heating,Refrigeration and Air ConditioningInstitute of Canada (www.HRAI.ca)and the Canadian Oilheat Association(www.coha.ca) offer similar programsfor their members.Regular maintenance can save about13 cents per litre. Following speed limitsand moderate acceleration also helps.More and more, fuel efficiency isplaying a role in vehicle choice.Chatland has been burned before:“Hybrids aren’t sized correctly and GMis not making the Astro and Safari(small vans) anymore. Minivans won’ttake the weight, so it’s difficult.” Heeventually abandoned propane conversionsbecause fuel injection causedproblems and savings were volatile.Alternative fuelsThere is renewed interest in natural gasvehicles. A few months ago a Departmentof Energy report compared energyequivalents for fuels. It showedpropane costing 38 percent more thangasoline and Ethanol-85 costing 23 percentmore. Diesel and biodiesel-B20were a few percentage points higher;but natural gas was 36 percent cheaper.Converting a vehicle to natural gas inCanada costs about $3000, less incentivesin some provinces up to $1000.Gas utilities like Enbridge, Terasen andContinued on page 9Unauthorized oil furnacesUnderwriters Laboratories ofCanada is warning contractors notto sell or install oil furnaces manufacturedby INOV8 InternationalInc. of La Cross, Wisconsin.These units – Models F125,Continued on page 11Circle Number 108 for More Informationwww.plumbingandhvac.ca April 2008 – Plumbing & HVAC Product News 7

Your best friendat 2 am.Make short work ofservice calls with the 00103-Speed Service Pump.Why waste time looking for the rightreplacement pump? Put our 3-SpeedService Pump in the truck and you’llalways have the right pump. It replacesthe most commonly used circulators,and the universal 4-bolt flangesimplifies change-out of any pump,regardless of style, type, or age.How easy is that?Performance and convenience.The 3-Speed Service Pump has an extralarge Integral Flow Check (IFC®)to maximize flow, and a customhigh tension spring to preventgravity flow, even in the tallestbuildings. An extra roomy capacitorbox and dual electrical knock-outsmake wiring a snap.Try one on for size.Get the pump that’s built for servicewith 00® reliability. Stop by yourwholesaler for a first-hand look.You’ll find it’s just your speed.TACO CANADA LTD.6180 Ordan Drive, Mississauga, Ontario L5T 2B3Tel. 905-564-9422 Fax. 905-564-9436www.taco-hvac.comiSeriesMixing ValvesSoftwareRadiantMixing BlocksCirculators Air Eliminators ElectronicControlsHot Water ProFit Parts Mixing Valveson D’MAND ®Circle Number 109 for More Information

Industry NewsHousingstartsremainstrongHousing starts remained strong in2007 with a total of 228,343 unitsbuilt, reports the CanadianMortgage and Housing Corporation(CMHC). That number is expected todip somewhat in 2008 to 211,700 units,but nevertheless 2008 will mark the seventhconsecutive year that housingstarts have exceeded 200,000 units.“Housing starts are expected to decreasein 2008 mainly due to recentincreases in house prices, which willpush mortgage carrying costs higher forhome buyers,” said Bob Dugan, chiefeconomist for CMHC.That being said, so far 2008 looks likeanother strong year for housing with theCanada Mortgage and HousingCorporation (CMHC) reporting actualstarts for January and February up 8.1percent over the same period last yearand seasonally adjusted starts of 222,700units in January and 256,900 in February.(Seasonally adjusted annual rates aremonthly figures adjusted to remove seasonalvariations and multiplied by 12 toreflect annual levels.)“The robust results achieved thismonth are mainly attributed to increasedcondominium starts, whichreflect strong condominium sales overthe past year or two. Despite this sizeablegrowth in February, we continue toexpect that the trend in housing startswill decrease gradually between now andthe end of 2008,” said Dugan. Housingstarts increased in B.C., Ontario, Quebecand the Atlantic provinces.Questioning yourShower Exhaust?Ont. apprenticeship overhaul urgedPain at the pumps...Continued from page 7others are renewing efforts to makeeverything related to natural gas vehicleseasier for businesses.Jeff Ellis from AB Mechanical inSydney, Nova Scotia may focus on workthat requires less driving. “We may getout of service altogether. We make moremoney on installs.”Many economists think the 86 millionbarrels of oil produced daily is ator near the world’s production maximum,that reserves are overstated andthat demand will continue to grow byabout 700 million barrels each year.All of these developments support thecase for significant increases in thecost of fossil fuels every year fromnow on.Is it time to take a harder look atvehicle alternatives? Spring 2009 will behere before we know it; and there justmight be less sunshine.Toronto-based writer Bruce Nagycovers the “green beat” exclusively forP&HVAC. He can be reached atbruce.nagy@rogers.com.The Canadian Federation of Independent Business iscalling for Ontario to overhaul its apprenticeship programsafter the group’s Help Wanted report showed arecord shortage of skilled labour.In 2007 the national long-term vacancy rate increased to4.4 percent from 3.6 percent in 2006. In other words, 309,000jobs went unfilled. Ontario’s rate jumped to 3.5 percent from2.6 percent.“One part of the solution is getting people trained tomeet the needs of the marketplace. Business owners andyoung people tell us the rigid journeymen/apprentice ratiosfixed by government limit or prevent companies from takingon apprentices, said Satinder Chera, CFIB Ontariodirector.Ontario regulations require each company to employa certain number of journeymen before they can qualifyto train apprentices. In some trades, the number can beas high as seven journeymen to one apprentice, saysChera.“Other provinces are moving ahead of Ontario inaddressing the shortage of qualified labour,” Chera said.“It’s time for this province to step up to the plate and helpyoung people get the training they need for the jobs that aregoing unfilled.”Average retail gasoline prices in Canada1999 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..582000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..722001 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..692002 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..692003 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..732004 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..81BUILD IT GREENKEEP IT GREENSELF-CLEANINGBACKWASH WATER FILTERFOR USE IN:® Residential High-Rise Residential Industrial Commercial Institutional2005 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..922006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..982007 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.022008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.07 (12 weeks)Source: MJ Ervin & Associates at mjervin.comSEE IT WORK!For the filtration and removalof all physical impuritiesin the water supplyANSI/NSF 61/CSA-B125Aeroflo has the answers!The AeroLight Exhaust Grille combines a designer grille with a dimmable 50 watthalogen lamp. Designed for mounting directly in a shower, the AeroLight provideselegant lighting, quiet operation and superior ventilation when combined witheither an AXC in-line or EXT external mount fan.Aeroflo offers a superior line of ventilation products and air purification systems,providing .....better AIRFLOW by DESIGN! TMProtects the longevity of ALL Mechanical / Plumbing equipmentUpholds water conservationEnsures and protects the optimal performance of plumbing productswhich helps promote and obtain LEED project ratingsEnvironmentally friendly - AN INTEGRAL part of "Green Buildings"Innovative & leading edge technologies for better building practicesWATER CULTURE @ ITS BESTTel: 905-890-6192Toll: 800-779-4021Web: www.aeroflo.comCircle Number 110 for More InformationJUDO Water Treatment Inc. · 2060 Steeles Ave. West, Unit #4 · Concord, Ontario L4K 2V1 · Tel. (905) 761-1555 · Fax (905) 761-3335 · E-Mail: service@judo-online.com · www.judo-online.comCircle Number 111 for More Informationwww.plumbingandhvac.ca April 2008 – Plumbing & HVAC Product News 9

Take Clogged Drainsby StormNow availablewith optionalvariable speedreel controllerJ-2512TYPHOONGeneral’s water jetters giveyou the power, flow, and toughness you need.The J-2512 Typhoon trailer jet blows awayblockages in big lines and long runs. 12 gallonsa minute storm down the line at a powerful2500 psi to blast lines clear of grease, sedimentand debris. A 200-gallon holding tank carriesenough water to handle remote applicationswhere access to water is limited.The Typhoon features a 24 hp Honda engine,400 ft. jet hose reel and 150 ft. supply hose reelmounted at the rear of the unit, and a lockabletool box with engine controls mounted inside.Standard equipment includes electric brakes,safety strobe light, rearfold-down stabilizer jacks,retractable hose guide arm,and antifreeze system.J-2512TYPHOONWith it’s 3000 psi, 5.5 gpm pump, the J-3055has the thrust to pull the hose downlong runs, the pressure to cutthrough tough grease depositsand the flow to flush themaway. In fact, the J-3055 hasJ-3055the highest flow rate availablewithout requiring a holding tank.The J-2900 is light, maneuverable, and deliversa strong performance at a very reasonableprice. This compact, rugged unitdelivers 3000 psi at 4 gpm. AllGeneral’s jets have Vibra-pulse ®on-demand to help slide thenozzle around tight bends andpropel the hose down longer lines.J-2900For more information on all of our water jets,visit www.drainbrain.com or call us at 800-245-6200or 412-771-6300.© General Wire Spring 2006Circle Number 112 for More Information

Industry NewsIn BriefContinued from page 7F200 and F450 – “have not beenevaluated for safety by UL or ULCand bear unauthorized UL and/orULC marks for the United Statesand Canada.”Best practices guideThe National Trade ContractorsCoalition of Canada (NTCCC) hasagreed to adopt a Best PracticesGuide for Trade Contractors thatwas originally produced by theVancouver Regional ConstructionAssociation. The two-page guideoutlines best practices in tendering,contracts, project responsibilitiesand other details that ensurethe sub-trade and general contractorare on the “same page.” Formore information, call (416) 232-0492 or visit www.ntccc.ca.Controls trainingHRAI has launched a web pagethat details available controlstraining across Canada. Developedby the Canadian Controls Council,which is made up of HRAI membermanufacturers and wholesalers,a link to the controls schedulecan be found at the bottom ofthe HRAI web site at www.hrai.ca.LettersCondensing oil furnace defendedDear Editor,I want to join many of the manufacturingrepresentatives to welcome the 85percent AFUE rating to qualify for theEnergy Star rating for all oil fired furnacesin October, 2008. It is one of themany steps in the right direction toensure that we help oil heating customersbenefit from better efficienciesand reduce green house gas emissions atthe same time. The oil heat industry islagging behind the natural gas andpropane sector and it is nice to see theGovernment of Canada is moving thestandard along to ensure we are as cleanburning as we can be.In your article in the March issue(Energy Star rating boost for oil furnaces):while Mr. Spencer of Kerr mayhave done his research to show thateven high carbon steels like 316 won’tstand up to the acidic condensate (fromhigh sulfur fuel oil) resulting in thepotential rotting out of heat exchangersand other components when a furnacecondenses, we want to point out thatthe Adams oil-fired condensing furnacedoes not use 316 Stainless Steel in itssecondary heat exchanger where thecondensation process takes place.The Adams unit has already gone toeven more exotic materials that havebeen proven to withstand the condensate.In fact, “The main point for us tostress is that what we use does hold upin thousands of furnaces we have soldover the past 22 years,” says MartinSchonberger, President of AdamsManufacturing Company of Cleveland,Ohio.The current Adams condensing furnaceis a significantly improved versionwith R&D support from NORA(National Oil Research Alliance) thathas been in the market since 2003. It hasaddressed all the major past design inefficienciesand concerns. This new versionhas since been successful in manyCanadian markets including the highArtic such as Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk.Many of you may have read the mostrecent report authored by Mr. WilliamGould, chairman of Canadian Oil HeatAssociation, New Brunswick Chapter.This report summarized their experienceof a model home with this newcondensing furnace since 2004 and it isavailable from the COHA web site(www.coha.ca).My past four years experience shows(the reliability of) a condensing furnaceis down to human factors such as propersizing, use of electronic instrumentationand following manufacturer’sinstructions and the CSA B-139 standardin the installation and commissioningprocedure.We believe the patented oil-fired condensingfurnace technology is here tostay because it eliminates the potentialcondensate corrosion of chimney systemswith the upper mid efficient oilfiredfurnaces.Thank you for the opportunity toclarify our points and, once again, I welcomethe rating increase for the EnergyStar standard.Kai TaoDragon Fire Distribution Inc.Markham, Ont.Letters PolicyPlumbing and HVAC Magazine ispleased to accept letters. All lettersshould include the writer’s name,title, business name, location and acontact number for verification.Letters should be sent to the addresson Page 5. P&HVAC reserves theright to edit for length and clarity.Circle Number 113 for More Informationwww.plumbingandhvac.ca April 2008 – Plumbing & HVAC Product News 11

Faucets & FixturesThe low-flow challengeOr how to conserve water without anyone noticingBy Simon BlakeLow-flow faucets and showerheadsare quickly becoming the standardin new homes across Canada. Andwhile the “green” movement bears considerableresponsibility, there are otherforces at work that will see water use bythe average Canadian family squeezedeven further as time goes on.It’s likely that in a few years all faucetsand showers will be low-flow, says TimMcDonough, vice president, wholesalemarketing and brand development, forMoen Canada, Oakville, Ont. “I thinkit’s following the same path of the watercloset. Low-flow eventually becamecode.” And he expects that, like toilets,the maximum allowable water flow forfaucets will be reduced in steps. “Withfaucets, they will take it as low as theypossibly can...”Municipal and provincial governmentsare bringing in water conservationmeasures, with many builders willinglyor unwillingly also on the conservationbandwagon.“In a lot of cases now, for us to win ajob we’ve got to meet a certain low-flowrequirement,” notes Price Pfister’sAdam Findlay.Making it feel goodThe challenge for manufacturers is notjust to reduce water flow from the CSAmaximum of 2.2 gpm for faucets and2.5 gpm for showerheads, but also toreduce it without the user being awareof it. This is relatively easy in lavatoryfaucets where flow isn’t that critical.“You can shut the flow down to 1.75 or1.5 (gpm) and still have a pretty goodflow rate,” remarked McDonough.Patent PendingHowever, it’s more difficult withshowerheads where the user can actuallyfeel the difference or in kitchenswhere the user is trying to achieve a particulartask, he added. Scrubbing pots,washing vegetables, or filling potsrequires a good steam of water – a “hardstream” rather than a “soft stream.”As a result, part of the strategy formany manufacturers is to go to low-flowon products where it is relatively easilyachieved, remarked Findlay. When thecompany introduced a trough-stylefaucet in its new Ashfield line, making ita low-flow (1.5 gpm) was a no-brainer.A trough-style faucet is one of the fewdesigns where style dictates flow – it hasto be low-flow to avoid sending a jet ofwater across the room. “I think a lot ofpeople that buy them are not aware thatthey are low-flow,” he added.Where homebuilders have a certainflow requirement for the entire home, thecontractor can often opt for low-flowfaucets and water closets, but go with astandard showerhead and still meet therequirement, notes Findlay.Manufacturers face a patchwork ofdifferent flow rates across the country.“The requirements change by region. Ifthere was one North American standardthat required under 1.5 gallons perminute, we could make that change prettyquickly,” remarked Findlay.The result is that manufacturers spenda considerable amount of time customizingtheir products for each individualproject and market. “With a lot of ourfaucets, you can change out the aeratorand make it flow at whatever rate is beingspecified for the job,” says Findlay.85% Water SavingsDo you have a project that wouldbenefit from 85% water savings?Zurn EcoVantage Pint Urinal Systemsprovide clean, odorless operation anddeliver water and money savings.The Pint is ideal for hospitals, schools,institutions, and many other ICI projects.The Delta Lahara bath faucet flows a miserly 1.5 gallons per minute.Low-flow showersMaking a low-flow showerhead feelright to the user isn’t easy. The last thingthe homeowner wants is a showerheadthat just kind of dribbles.“We try to test our showerheads sothat they don’t lose the performance of a2.5 gallon per minute unit, so we measureour low-flow showerheads against ourcurrent showerheads,” said McDonough.The other problem that manufacturersface is that women and men oftenhave different ideas about what makes agood shower. Research has shown thatwomen tend to prefer a softer showerthan men, said Sally Remedios, managerof product compliance for DeltaFaucet, Indianapolis, Indiana.“Everybody’s view of what constitutesa good shower is different. It’s verydifficult to come up with performancetests that show what is a good showerand what isn’t.”Different manufacturers have differenttest parameters. Both Delta andMoen look at coverage, heat loss and theforce of a shower, among other things.Many prototypes are tried before ashower reaches the market. There are anumber of ways to improve performancewhile decreasing flow includingreducing the number of nozzles, reducingthe number of holes in each showerheadand/or decreasing the size of theholes, said McDonough. Even a veryslight change to the size of the holes canmake a dramatic difference to the waythe shower feels.Once Moen, for example, feels that itis close to the finished product, it conductsa “friends of Moen field test” withanywhere from 50 to 500 volunteers –employees, relatives, customers, etc. –who install the new product in theirhomes.Researchers study hours and hoursof film of people taking showers, usingfaucets, etc. This is a more effective wayto see if it actually works for peoplethan simply asking them, althoughthey do that as well, said McDonough.“We truly believe in first-hand researchand we believe consumers have a hardtime talking about their showers afterthey’ve showered and articulating theirthoughts.”However, not all manufacturers goto these lengths to ensure their waterconserving equipment works well.Low-flow showers are very much “aconsumer beware thing,” warnedin a Pint SizedRemedios, both from the standpoint ofContact Zurn for more information on aperformance and unintended consequences.Like some of the early low-special offer for an installation sample.Packageflow toilets that just didn’t work, thereSend an e-mail to pintpromo@zurncanada.comare a number of poor performingReference the promo code “Pint85” with your inquiry.low-flow showers and faucets on thewww.zurn.commarket these days.For the contractor, it is well worthtalking to manufacturers and even tryingfaucets and showerheads in theirZURN INDUSTRIES LIMITED 3544 NASHUA DRIVEMISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO, CANADA L4V 1L2PHONE: 905/405-8272 FAX: 905/405-1292own homes to make sure their customerswill be happy. The time investedwill be well worth it because, asMcDonough says: “Water conservationis not going to go away.”Circle Number 114 for More Information12 Plumbing & HVAC Product News – April 2008 www.plumbingandhvac.caHighPerformance,Low Maintenance

Too much change,too soon?By Simon BlakeThere’s more to reducing water flowthan simply supplying less water. Asgovernments across Canada introducewater conservation measures andincentives, manufacturers and otherindustry experts are becoming increasingconcerned about safety. Componentslike showerheads are being changed outwith little thought to how this affects theplumbing system as a whole.“There are health and safety issues ifyou go below (the current minimumflow rates),” remarked Ralph Suppa,president of the Canadian Institute ofPlumbing & Heating. “There are variationsin outlet temperatures that are notexperienced with existing 2.5 gpm flowrate showerheads.”“Our concern is that it’s all very well toconserve water, but other aspects of theplumbing system also need to be considered,”adds Sally Remedios, manager ofproduct compliance for Delta Faucet,Indianapolis, Indiana. “Automatic compensatingvalves, which are required forall showerheads, are particular. Theyneed a certain pressure and a certain flowrate to operate properly.Programs like LEED (Leadership inEnergy and Environmental Design)you get more points,” noted Remedios.Shower valve woesAutomatic temperature compensatingshower valves are designed to operatewith showerheads that flow 2.5 gpm.When the flow is reduced, there arethree key problem areas:First, reduced flow at the showerheadresults in reduced flow through theshower valve, which may cause it to shutdown if someone – or a washingmachine – turns on a cold water tapelsewhere in the house.Secondly, reducing the flow throughthe showerhead results in back pressurethat can also cause the valve to malfunction.The third problem occurs with ondemandtankless water heaters. Theyrequire a certain amount of flow beforeOne of the major problems…is the lack of a national standardfor water conservation.the heating element switches on, to protectthe element. If the showerhead doesn’tflow enough to trigger the switch, thehomeowner is in for a cold shower.Manufacturers have done considerableresearch and, for the most part,understand these issues. They’ve determinedthat “you really need to matchthe specific size of the valve to the flowwhere we know how to communicatethis relationship to the consumer. Wedo know that there are valves out therethat have a problem and there are valvesthat perform better.”The problem gets worse the more theflow is reduced. But there is no rule ofthumb as to how low it can go.There is also a difference in the waydifferent valves react to reduced flowshowerheads. “It looks like thermostaticvalves have a harder time compensatingfor lower flow than dopressure balancing valves,” saidRemedios.As a result, Delta Faucet has onlyone low-flow showerhead in itsproduct offering and it is sold with amatching shower valve that has beentested at the reduced flow rate.Differing conservation standardsOne of the major problems that anymanufacturer faces in developing waterconserving faucets and showerheads isthe lack of a national objective inCanada for water conservation.“We’ve been trying for the better partof three years to get a uniform Canadawideconservation code for plumbingproducts to applicable CSA standards,”reported Ralph Suppa, president of theCanadian Institute of Plumbing andHeating.“You have several jurisdictions with apotential lack of water and in creatingtheir own bylaws they override the currentstandards, not recognizing thepotential problems,” he adds. “You havepolitical pressures in provinces that aremandating green initiatives and they areall over the map… You’ve got Built-Green, you’ve got LEED and so on; theyare not all the same.”CIPH has been encouraging the creationof water conservation objectives inthe National Plumbing and BuildingCodes. It has written letters and met withregulators, chief plumbing inspectorsand the various government ministriesacross Canada. It has worked directlywith municipalities like Calgary that haveexperienced water shortages and foundworkable and practical solutions.However, adds Suppa, “Today the codeis strictly health and safety based. Theywill need to revise the objectives before(water conservation can be added).”As well, CIPH has also been pushing forthe universal adoption of six-litre waterclosets, something that many municipalitieswould likely welcome, by requestingthat the CSA B45 series of standards referenceonly six-litre or lower water closets.“It will probably take away the rebate programsthat you currently have becausethat’s all there’s going to be. This will savecities the millions of dollars they invest inthese campaigns,” said Suppa.416-638-411110 Kodiak Cres., Unit #100Toronto, M3J 3G5www.patinstitute.caWE ARE YOUR HUMAN RESOURCES AND TRAINING DEPARTMENT!OUR GRADUATES COME WITH:• Hands on practical experience in “real world”conditions• Industry tools• Safety equipment and training(WHIMS and Fall Protection)• Training tailored to your company’s specialization• Our Pre-Apprentices do not fall under yourcompany’s ratiosMoen went to great lengths to ensurethat its low-flow showerhead didn’tfeel that way to the user.Other services provided through thePre-Apprenticeship Training Institute include:• Payroll, book-keeping, GST & WSIB requirements• Pre-exam courses for journeymen licensing• Corporate training (safety and trade specific)A trough-style faucet, like this Ashfield model from Price Pfister, is low-flow bynecessity.We supply well trained, screened individuals for the following trades:• Construction & Maintenance Electrician• HVAC/G3 and ODP• Pre-Apprenticeship Plumbing• Security Systems Network Technician• Network Cabling Technicianexacerbate the problem because they of the showerhead… They are interrelated,”said Remedios.grant a certain number of points tobuildings for water savings – thus However, they are concerned that the We invite all contractors to visit our facility.prompting engineers and architects to message isn’t getting to engineers, architectsand consumers and that differentat maureend@patinstitute.ca or call 416-638-4111.For more information, please contact our Employer Relations Coordinator, Maureen Denniespecify products with reduced flowrates. “If you use a showerhead that’s 20 messages from different manufacturerspercent less than 2.5 gpm you get points may be confusing the issue.EMPLOYERS CHOICE FOR SKILLED TRADESThe Toronto Transit Commission’s Choice for Technical Trainingand if you use one that’s 30 percent less “We haven’t really got to the stage yetCircle Number 115 for More Informationwww.plumbingandhvac.ca April 2008 – Plumbing & HVAC Product News 13

Faucets & FixturesElectronic bathroom faucetThe ShowHouse Collection Destinyfaucet from Moen is a hands-free electronicfaucet designed exclusively forthe powder room. Like commercialhands-free faucets, infrared sensorsdetect motion to start and stop the flowof water, ensuring it runs only whenneeded, limiting water waste and aidingin conservation. And without handles,Destiny offers a hygienic solution inlimiting the spread of germs and bacteriato the next user. The Destiny handsfreebath faucet meets ADA requirementsfor the physically challenged.Moen Circle no. 300Water efficient faucetsThe new Lahara bath suite from Deltabrings eco-friendly elegance into thehome. The lavatory faucets feature a 1.5gallon per minute (gpm) aerator flow.Delta’s “smart water delivery system”maximizes water savings without sacrificingperformance. Customers have theoption of a single lavatory with optionalfour-inch centre escutcheon, twohandlefour-inch centreset, four-inchmini-widespread, or the six-inch up to16-inch widespread deck-mountfaucets. Roman tubs, coordinating accessoriesand a comprehensive showeroffering round out the collection.Masco Canada Circle no. 301Timeless lookThe new Oldare faucetfrom Elkay brings thelook of a farmyardpump to themodern kitchenwith the benefitsof today's watersaving technology.A ceramicdisc cartridge limits flow to2.2 gallons per minute. They are constructedfrom solid brass and availablein a variety of finishes, includingantique brass, chrome, brushed nickel,old English brass, polished brass, polishednickel, pewter and oilrubbed bronze.Elkay Circle no. 302Low-flow showerMoen’s new Water Saving showerheadshave a flow of 1.75 gallons per minute,offering a 30 percent water savings fromthe industry-standard 2.5 gallons perminute showerheads. However, unlikesome low-flow showerheads that simplyTemperaturehumidity testerrestrict the water flow, an optimizedspray pattern preserves the powerfulstream that consumers are accustomedto from full-flow showerheads. Innovativespray formers increase the velocityof the water streams hitting thebody, treating users to a full, envelopingspray. Additionally, this showerheadallows contractors/builders to receivemaximum LEED points for waterreduction.Moen Inc. Circle no. 303AirflowmeterTrue-RMS HVACclamp meterHVACPro IR contactthermometerHVACmultimeterTen HVAC and airquality measurements.One tool.Find it. Fix it. Fast.The new Fluke 975 AirMeter is theperfect tool for managing energy costs andventilation settings while ensuring optimumoccupant comfort. With the Fluke 975 youcan take all the measurements you need tooptimize HVAC system performance and meetASHRAE 62 recommendations, including:• Control systems operation• Ventilation rates• Air flow and velocity• Carbon monoxide and dioxide leaks• Duct transversalsFor more information call 800-36-FLUKE orvisit www.flukecanada.ca/air.Fluke. Keeping your worldup and running.High-volume pot fillerThis pot and kettle filler from Fisher isdesigned for quick filling. A 100-gallonsteam kettle fills in just 2.5 minutes.Swivel hosefittings reducestress andkinks. Threeplyfood gradehoses withstand250 psipressure and250°F watertemperatures.Wall or deckmountedversionsare available with single or dualcontrol valves.Fisher Circle no. 304Pull-down kitchen faucetThe Allora pull-down spray kitchenfaucet from Delta magnetically connectswith the spout when it’s not in usefor a clean look. Standard kitchen andsmaller bar/prep models are available.The kitchen model alternates betweenstream and spray with one touch, whilethe bar/prep features stream-only.ParticlecounterRugged and reliabletest tools for HVACprofessionals.All in the Fluke family.Circle Number 116 for More InformationVisit www.flukecanada.ca/air to download any ofthe following HVAC and air quality measurementapplication notes from Fluke’s free library:• Evaluating relative humidity: keyfactors and measurements• Investigating residential humiditycomplaints• Troubleshooting the HVAC/Rrefrigeration cycle for mechanicalproblemsFinish options are chrome and Delta’sBrilliance stainless steel.Masco Canada Circle no. 305www.plumbingandhvac.ca

©2008 Uponor, Inc.“Every residential fire sprinkler system has to meet code requirements.I install the one that meets my requirements.”Uponor Residential Fire Safety Systems. Fewer fittings.Greater profits. That’s Uponor Logic at work.Formerly WirsboCircle Number 117 for More Information

With Uponor, you can install peace of mindwith peace of mind.Uponor Residential Fire Safety Systems were designed with Uponor Logic tocombine unmatched safety with state-of-the-art efficiency and reliability. Usingproven Uponor PEX-a tubing and ProPEX® fittings, our systems install with easeand confidence. And thanks to the patented ProPEX fittings, Uponor systemshave durable, watertight connections that actually grow stronger over time,without any glues, solvents, torches or mistakes.Uponor PEX-a is stronger, more flexible and installs easier,with fewer connections, than CPVC or copper pipes.Profit from our experience.When you install Uponor systemsyou’re adding to the more than12 billion feet of our PEX in servicein North America. By integratingthe fire sprinkler system into theplumbing, you can save about 30%on installation costs, and becauseyour plumbers and contractors arealready onsite, it’ll even streamlineconstruction time.For more information aboutUponor Residential Fire SafetySystems, call 888-994-7726 orvisit www.uponor.caUponor Residential Fire SafetySystems, together with smokedetectors, increase survivalrates by 97%.Formerly WirsboThe advantages of being flexible.Uponor PEX-a tubing is more flexible than other PEX tubing so it’s easier andfaster to install. Compared to CPVC and copper, PEX-a requires fewer connections,uses less tubing and resists aggressive water. With today’s liability concerns,it’s nice to know that not only does AQUAPEX® have a life expectancy of over100 years, but it comes backed by our 25-year warranty, too.All Uponor systemsuse proven Uponor PEX-atubing and ProPEX® fittings.Circle Number 118 for More Information

VentilationSelkirk upgradesSaf-T Vent lineSelkirk has replaced its Saf-T VentCI product line with its Saf-T VentCI Plus line.Saf-T Vent CI Plus features a oneinchairspace, allowing for reducedclearance to combustible materials.Unlike the CI product, CI Plus can befully enclosed in a combustible chaseprovided the proper clearance is maintained.CI Plus incorporates a built-ingasket for diameters through 16.” Thiseliminates the need for field-appliedRTV. CI Plus also has a patented closuresystem that is stronger and easier to use,reports the manufacturer. The companyhas added a four-inch diameter CI Plussize to support this change.Selkirk has received feedback frominstallers that using CI Plus can save asmuch as 30 percent on installation time.Orders for Saf-T Vent CI will nolonger be accepted after the end ofApril. However, the company will continueto carry CI parts needed to supportthe single-wall product line (supports,penetrations, etc).Selkirk made the move to focus itsequipment, material, and warehousespace on CI Plus. This will help bettercontrol costs and lead-times going forward,the company reports.Selkirk Circle no. 306Product ProfileImprove IAQ withhumidity controlLennox won an Innovation Award in the IAQ category forits new Humiditrol dehumidification system for splitsystems at January’s AHR Expo in New York City.The system is designed to improve indoor air qualityby offering space dehumidification without overcoolingin one system.“The Humiditrol system makes it easier than ever toimprove humidity control and reduce the spread of allergens,”said Jeff Hartnett, Lennox product manager forcommercial split systems. “High humidity levels, ratherthan room temperature, activate the dehumidificationcycle to help improve indoor air quality.”If a room or building’s humidity level exceeds thesystem’s setpoint, the unit’sLennox SignatureStat controlactivates the Humiditrolsystem, which works with theheating and cooling system toremove excess moisture byreheating cooled air. Byreducing humidity, thispatented reheat designhelps control the growth ofThe Lennox Humiditrol isnow available as a fieldinstalledaccessory.mold, mildew and dust mites that have been linked toallergies and asthma.Based on the Humiditrol dehumidification system originallydeveloped for rooftop units, the new system is asecondary coil installed downstream of the evaporator.Now available as a field-installed accessory, the Humiditroldehumidification system can be matched with threephaseS-Class and T-Class three to five-ton R-410Acommercial air conditioning or heat pump split systems.Lennox Circle no. 309follow the leaderFlexible ductA new “bend-and-stay” type of flexibleplastic duct from Flexhaust featuresinter-locking construction that letsusers change the inside diameter up to25 percent by simply twisting it.Pliaduct is arigid, self-supportingPVCduct with ribbon-lockconstructionthat isideal for spotcooling applications.It is offeredwith plain ends in two to six-inch diametersizes in standard 25’ lengths andeight to 12” dia. sizes in 10’ lengths. Thisgray (white optional) PVC duct ischemical-resistant and operates from -10°F to 150°F.Flexhaust Circle no. 307Bathroom vent/lightThe AeroLight and AeroGrille fromContinental Fan provides elegant lightingand superior ventilation for modernbathrooms and shower enclosures.When combinedwith ContinentalFan’s AXCor EXT remotemounted fans,they deliverquiet efficientexhaust. Featuresinclude: whisper quiet operation,steel mounting collar and optional integralbackdraft damper. It fits standardfour or six-inch round duct.Aeroflo Circle no. 308Honeywell has been making the world a cooler place to live formore than 50 years.And for over a decade we ve invented and brought to market more newfluorocarbon technologies that cool our environment than anyone else. Only aworld leader can say that. In the air conditioning industry we invented R410-A,the new global refrigerant standard for use in commercial and residential air conditioners around theworld. And when appliance manufacturers were faced with a phase out of a key raw material we werethe first to commercialize a fluorocarbon, non-ozone depleting replacement, helping reduce cost whilemaintaining energy efficiency. In the automotive industry we were the first company granted a patent forultra-low, global-warming refrigerants that can meet tough new European regulations. These innovationsare backed by a $200M investment in capacity – ensuring a secure future for our customers. Andnothing is cooler than that.For more information about Honeywell Genetron , ® visit www.honeywell.com/genetron or www.410A.com© 2008 Honeywell International Inc.Circle Number 119 for More Informationwww.plumbingandhvac.ca April 2008 – Plumbing & HVAC Product News 17

Canada’s Largest Circulationto the Mechanical Trades★ MOST REQUESTED MAGAZINE ★by Contractors★ MOST REQUESTED MAGAZINE ★by Wholesalers★ MOST REQUESTED MAGAZINE ★by Government & UtilitiesGet your free subscription nowAdvertise Today416/242-8088www.plumbingandhvac.caCircle Number 144 for More Information

HeatingNatural gas comes todowntown HalifaxGetting it there was no easy task!By Art IrwinGetting naturalgas to thedowntownHalifax Peninsulawas no simple task;in fact, it wouldprobably have beeneasier for HeritageGas Limited workers to climb MountEverest and install a gas pipeline ontheir way to the top. Unlike the prairiesor many provinces with flat terrain,trenching for gas lines in Nova Scotiaencounters new hurdles almost fasterthan they can be crossed.Those who fell beforeFor starters, one of the largest and mostexperienced natural gas companies onthe continent tried and failed. Onewould assume this would scare off others,but not so. Let’s go back a step andlook at the challenges encountered bythe previous gas company.Sempra Energy, based in San Diego,is a Fortune 500 energy services holdingcompany with 2006 revenues of nearly$12 billion. The Sempra Energy companieshave 14,000 employees and servemore than 29 million consumers in theU.S., Europe, Canada, Mexico andSouth America.In December, 1999 Sempra Atlanticwas awarded a 20-year franchise to distributenatural gas in Nova Scotia. Thecompany agreed to spend $1 billionmaking gas available in at least 78 percentof the homes in all 18 countiesacross the province within seven years.In June 2001, just two years later,Sempra Atlantic advised the NovaScotia Government that it was surrenderingits franchise. After many constructiondelays, the company indicatedit had no option but to take this action.The Sempra move was partlyprompted by the Nova Scotia government’sdecision to prevent the companyfrom using the shoulders of rural roadsto carry high pressure transmissionpipe.Sempra also encountered resistancein converting oil-fired heating equipmentto gas equipment. Consumerswere not pounding down their door forthis new fuel as they had expected.A new entity is bornHeritage Gas president Ray Ritcey,born, raised and educated in NovaScotia, comes from a family dating back253 years. Ray gained his experience inthe gas industry in Ontario withTransCanada, Ontario Hydro, andEnbridge.Heritage Gas is a Nova Scotia-basedcompany established for the purpose ofobtaining and operating a full regulationnatural gas distribution franchisefor Nova Scotia. The new company hasstable backers with extensive experiencein natural gas distribution and in doingbusiness in Nova Scotia.SaskEnergy Inc. is the majority shareholderwith 50.1 percent, ScotiaInvestments Ltd. owns 25 percent andAltaGas Utility Holdings (Nova Scotia)Inc. owns 24.9 percent.In this hare and tortoise example, thehare arrived with great gusto and, inpaying little attention to the nuts andbolts, the machine disintegrated. Thetortoise had focus and determinationand, seeing what happened in the past,knew what it would take to achieve success.In February, 2003 the Nova ScotiaUtility and Review Board awarded a 25-year franchise to Heritage Gas. Thecompany plans to spend $120 million inthe first six years of development andexpects to bring natural gas to 20,000homeowners and 6,500 businesses inNova Scotia.Service technician Chris Deion, left, of Direct Energy, Dartmouth, and MichaelBorys, supervisor of operations for Heritage Gas, Dartmouth, test ten WeilMcLain gas boilers at the Delta Halifax Hotel.No easy solutionBut company officials knew it wasn’tgoing to be easy. Getting natural gasfrom Dartmouth to the Halifax Peninsulawas the challenge of challenges.The first option was to trench throughthe Dartmouth Industrial Park, throughthe town of Bedford, Birch Cove acrossstreams, many streets and under a railline. In short, the company faced 32 kilometresof expensive problems.The second option was to drill underthe harbour. It would not be permissibleto lay the pipe on the harbour floorbecause of the busy shipping, ship’sanchors and massive rubble at the harbourbottom.Drilling experts Michels DirectionalCrossings and the Mears Group werebrought in and the engineering designwork finalized by Heritage. A 20-inchdiameter hole was drilled through solidbedrock approximately 60 metres belowthe harbour floor. Fortunately, the onekilometredrill across Halifax Harbourwent very well.The work crew then pulled a 12-inchsteel pipe through the 20-inch drillhole, a process that took less than 24hours. The pipe at the Halifax end hadbeen previously laid and it was merely acase of making the connection. In reality,directional drilling turned whatwould have been a very difficult projectinto something that was relativelystraightforward.Establishing a customer baseHeritage Gas has gained strong supportfrom downtown customers. High oilprices have no doubt helped. By the fallof 2007, approximately 80 per cent ofthe downtown office complexes and theCapital District Health Authority’sQueen Elizabeth II Health SciencesCentre had committed to conversion tonatural gas.The 296-room, Delta Halifax was oneof the first customers on the HalifaxPeninsula. Following several hours ofpressure testing, the actual connectiontook place at 1:00 a.m. on a Sunday morningto avoid any disruption in the foodservice and hotel operation in general.Heritage Gas had done its homework.To ensure consumers have access toproducts and service in each area gas isbeing installed, commercial authorizeddealers have been signed up for eacharea. For example, in Amherst NovaScotia, ten companies have been named.In New Glasgow there are seven. InHalifax Regional Municipality – fifteen.These lists will grow as the customerbase grows.Similar to many areas in NorthAmerica, gas pipelines carry the fuel forgreat distances. The natural gas thatcomes through a gas meter at a consumer’shome in Halifax began its journeyunder the floor of the Atlantic Oceanoff Nova Scotia. The gas is piped ashoreand travels through miles of trenchingand under another body of water in theHalifax Harbour and eventually cooksyour eggs in the frying pan on yourkitchen stove. It serves its purpose verywell, thanks to Ray Ritcey and company!Arthur Irwin operates Irwin EnergyConsulting Services in Halifax. He can bereached at irwin.a@ns.sympatico.ca.www.plumbingandhvac.ca April 2008 – Plumbing & HVAC Product News 19

HeatingProduct ProfileHigh output heater forlow clearance applicationsA new infrared heater offers a much broader and moreeven heat than previously available units.Superior Radiant Products recently received CSAapproval for a unique higher input L-Series infraredheater configuration. The 100,000 btu/h infrared tubeheater provides 50 feet of even heat with end-to-endvariance of less than 15 percent.The L-Series infrared heater principle advantage is thesoftening of the radiant output over a much longer lengthof tube. The bottom clearance was tested to be only 36This new infrared heaterconfiguration can heat awide area.inches. This unit is designed for low ceiling, commercialand agricultural applications.Superior Radiant Products has been designing andmanufacturing infrared heating equipment for the NorthAmerican and international space heating markets since1995 at its facility in Stoney Creek, Ont.Superior Radiant Circle no. 310Unique environmentsThe EEZ duct-free high wall split systemby Carrier is designed for unique heatingand cooling environments such as sunrooms, home theaters and historic renovations.The slim, compactcabinet design mounts easilyon to walled surfaces,blending discreetly on tomost interior designs.Ranging in capacities from18,000 btuh to 60,000Btu/h with Puron refrigerant,motorized louvers allow the user tocustomize their comfort with an easy-touseremote control. The outdoor unitfeatures a small footprint.Carrier Circle no. 311On-demand DHWState Water Heaters has announced a newline of on-demand gas water heaters, featuring16 different interior and exteriormodels for residential and commercialapplications. These units offer a digitaltemperature controller, direct electronicignition, and on-board diagnostics andsafety monitoring. When installed inhigh-demand commercial applications,units can be connected using simplecables. All indoor models feature directvent sealed combustion. There is a 12-year warranty on the heat exchanger.State Water Heaters Circle no. 312THE NEWEST TOOL OF THE TRADEGIVE YOUR BUSINESS THE EDGEREHAU EDGE SM is a new, multi-faceted program designed to provide heating andplumbing contractors like you with all the knowledge, support and materials youneed to get the job done fast and done right. During local, regional and nationalevents, you’ll network with REHAU EDGE team members, fellow contractors, merchandise, design services, tools and training. There are no membership fees more heating and plumbing systems. It’s time to give your business the REHAU EDGE.Visit http://na.rehau.com/ht4www.rehau.comCircle Number 121 for More InformationConstructionAutomotiveIndustryFlexible water tubeThe HE-RV series of forced draft gas-fired“flexible water tube”boilers from Bryan Steamoffer a guaranteed efficiencyof 85 percent. Thisresults from a uniquelydesigned integratedsurface heat extractorfor a total of seven sq. ft. ofheating surface per boiler horsepower.They operate at normal operating temperatureswithout the need for specialventing and/or condensing material. Theyare available in eight models with inputsfrom 3,500 MBH to 8,000 MBH.Bryan Steam Circle no. 313Efficient boilerThe Munchkin stainless steel sealedcombustion high efficiency boiler fromHeat Transfer Products achieves anAFUE efficiency rating of 95.1 percentby combining condensingtechnologywith a modulatingnatural gas burner.There are five modelswith inputs as low as18,000 Btu/h and ashigh as 199,000 Btu/h.Heat Transfer Products Circle no. 31420 Plumbing & HVAC Product News – April 2008 www.plumbingandhvac.ca

Pipes, Valves & FittingsExpanded pump lineTaco has added eight new models to itscompact-sized 1400 Series high capacitycirculator line. Available in both castiron and bronze (B) versions, they arethe 45, 50/2, 65 and 70/3. These quietmaintenance-free pumps are designedfor a wide range of medium to high flow/head systems. The 1400-45 is equippedwith a 1/3HP motor and provides a performancerange up to 42 feet of headand 55gpm. The 1400-65 uses the same1/3HP motor and provides maximumflows up to 120 gpm. The 1400-70/3model is designed with a larger 3” flangeand provides flow up to 150 gpm.Taco Inc. Circle no. 315Primary-secondary headerThe new Bell & Gossett primary-secondaryheader is a combination air separatorand manifold thatcreates independent primaryand secondary circuits.This low-loss headerincludes a purge valve,allowing users to removedebris. The valve also allowsan air vent to releaseair trapped in the system.It features an epoxy-coatedsteel body in seven sizes, brass air ventsand drain valves.ITT Circle no. 316CPVC hangerThe Tolco double offset CPVC hanger andrestrainer for plastic fire sprinkler pipe isdesigned to ease installation by eliminatingthe need fora wood blockextension andallow retro-fitattachment ofthe hanger to thesprinkler pipe. It mounts with two screwsand is available for 3/4” and 1” pipe sizes.Nibco Inc. Circle no 317PVC repair kitA new kit from the Malcolm Companyincludes everything necessary for repairingSchedule 40 and 80 PVC pipingsystems quickly and without glue. TheMalcolm Plastic Piping Welding Kit featuresa programmablehot air toolwith adjustableheat and airflow,a pipewelding nozzle,and twopounds ofPVC, PE, or PPwelding rod.Malcolm Co. Circle no. 318Product ProfileSimplify and add lightnessThat’s a mantra for aircraft designers, but it couldeasily apply to Uponor’s re-designed proPanel hydronicmixing panels. These new units are half the size of theversions they replace and feature several innovationsto speed installation, improve control and simplifysetup for radiant heating and cooling systems.Fully assembled and wired with Cat5 or RJ45connectors, the four new proPANEL units are modular.Connecting multiple panels to a single hydroniccontroller is a simple “plug-and-play” operation.These new Uponormixing panels aresmaller and lighterthan earlier versions.“The new panels do not have an actual control inside them,” explainedMark Hudoba, Uponor senior product manager, heating and cooling. “Instead,the panel is equipped with a control interface that allows easy wiring ...”Four models are available:• proPANEL 90: single-zone pump without mixing;• proPANEL 90M: single-zone pump with mixing;• proPANEL 90Z: dual-zone pump without mixing;• proPANEL 90MZ: dual-zone pump with mixing.Because they do not feature mixing, the 90 and90Z models can be used in stand-alone applicationswith a low-temperature water source. “We removed theprimary piping from these panels to allow the installerto connect them directly in a smaller system or as asecondary source in larger systems,” says Hudoba.All the new panels are designed for a maximumRemoving the coverreveals the newsimplicity on these“plug-and-play” units.target of 90,000 Btu/h and are fed with a one-inchtubing and 3/4" secondary connections. Measuring only26"H x 18"W x 7"D and ranging from 26 to 37 pounds,they are light enough to allow one-person installation.Uponor Circle no. 319Circle Number 122 for More Information

Hot Water HeatingAlternate heat sourcesContractors need to keep an eye on emerging technologiesBy Roy CollverThe last two featurearticles Iwrote were discussionsof hybrid(mixing air, radiators,floor heat,DHW, etc.) hydronicheating systems.Now I want to talk about adding differentheat sources into the mix – specifically,the alternate heat sources we arestarting to see gain in popularity.Different parts of the country are seeingsolar, geothermal, solid-fuel, waste heatrecovery, off-peak thermal storage, andother technologies (including way-outthere stuff like Stirling Engines, co-generationplants with Btu metering andmore) gain the interest of consumers.Selling alternative heat sources hasone significant challenge – the fact thatthe up-front cost is usually so high thatlife cycle studies show no payback, orsuch a long payback that the beancounterstypically advise against them.But the times they are a’changing, asBob Dylan once sang.We are fast approaching a tippingpoint, where the cost of fossil fuels willstart to outstrip the cost of alternates.As result, the savvy hydronician (Nowthere’s a new word!) should start workingwith this stuff sooner than later inorder to be ready. As time goes on, I cansee multiple alternates combined in asingle system to move heat aroundFig. 2: Roy skulks around an Italian boiler room with a storage tank behind.Fig. 1: It is better to start working with new technologies sooner rather than later.Keeping Youin ComfortNewmac has a reputation for developinghigh efficiency furnaces and boilers that ourcustomers demand. Our multi-fired units arecompetitively priced and built under strict ISO9001 standards to ensure years of dependability.All units are backed by the best warranties inthe business and Newmac offers technicalsupport that you can count on. Call todayor visit our website for more information.where and when it’s needed. Fig. 1shows some of the possibilities.Thermal massWhat is going on in this drawing? Thefirst thing you notice is the big orangethermal storage square. Almost all alternateheat sources have some degree ofintermittent supply ability, particularlysolar (only contributes when the sunshines), solid fuels (only contributewhen you stoke them up), and off-peakelectrical (only contribute when electricityis cheapest). You have to have alarge thermal mass in order to suck upthe heat when it is being produced, andthen bleed it into the system later whenit is needed.Traditionally, large tanks of water havebeen used, although other large thermalNL/NV SERIES Low Boy Oil Fired Forced Air Furnaces*Features• Firing range 77,000to 326,000 btu/h• Sealed Vent approvedto 177,000 btu/h• A.F.U.E. rating up to 86.1%• Ceramic fiber corbelcombustion chambers• Direct or Belt Drive models*Highboy and horizontal models availableBenefits• High combustion efficiency• No chimney required• Reduced installation timeNBR SERIES Oil Fired BoilersFeatures• Firing range 90,000to 300,000 btu/h• Sealed Vent approvedto 155,000 btu/h• Wet base and wet back• 12 ga SS Chamber A.F.U.E.rating up to 86.7%• Swing mount burner doorNew!Emerson UltraTechªVariable Speed Motor• Better efficiency thanexisting PSC motors• Improved comfort inre-circulation mode• A large selection of CFM points,for improved cooling andheating comfort• Long term air filtration atminimal energy consumption• Smooth reliable startingcharacteristics ensure the motorstarts and turns in the right directionBenefits• High combustion efficiency• Reduced fuel consumption• Easy installation of piping• No chimney required• Ideal for large or small homes• Ease of servicingmasses like radiant slabs are beingemployed. The neat thing about largewater volumes is that you only have toturn on a pump to either load them upor bleed them into your heating system.The down side is that they take up alot of real estate, so architects anddesigners must make provision to housethese beasts. The next photo (Fig. 2) wastaken during a recent visit I made toItaly to learn more about solar applications(courtesy of the nice people atCaleffi). The big orange tank you seebehind me is a 5000-litre (1,300 USgal.) tank for the solar collectors. It isapproximately ten feet high and six feetin diameter. There were three of themin this boiler room – huge footprint!To the left we have a variety of heatproducing appliances that you mayencounter in these types of systems. Aheat pump can supply warm to hottishwater from a ground loop, air-to-water,and water-to-water. They may or maynot feed into our thermal storage tank.We are fastapproaching atipping point,where the cost offossil fuels will startto outstrip the costof alternates.Head OfficeP.O. Box 9, DebertNova Scotia, B0M 1G0Phone: 902-662-3840Fax: 902-662-2581Email: newmac@ca.inter.netOntario OfficeP.O. Box 545, WoodstockOntario, N4V 1P8Phone: 519-539-6147Fax: 519-539-0048Email: newmac@ca.inter.netw w w . n e w m a c f u r n a c e s . c o mCL SERIES Combination Wood/Coal and Oil Furnaces*Features• Firing range 86,000to 170,000 btu/h• Preheated combustion air• Thermostatically controlledForced Draft Fan• Ceramic fibrecombustion chamber• Large firedoors• Single flueBenefits• Ideal for new or old homes• Increased combustion efficiency• Easy servicing• High air filtering capacity• Easy loading• Single Chimney connection• Power failure operation*Add-Ons and boilers also availableEnergy Star designation applies to theCL 86/96 C/G OnlyAn intermittent heat source can supplyhot water and use solid fuel (wood, coal,garbage), digester gas, or waste heatfrom other sources such as refrigerationplants or industrial processes.They usually have to feed into thethermal storage tank because they canproduce far more heat than the systemcan use at any given time, so we have toCircle Number 123 for More Information22 Plumbing & HVAC Product News – April 2008 www.plumbingandhvac.ca

park it somewhere. If things really getout of hand, you can dump heat intoyour geothermal field, but this isbecoming less of a problem with someof the more modern solid fuel burners,particularly wood pellet boilers.Solar energyUp above, we have our solar collectors.The same system I looked at in Italy thathad the big storage tanks had both flatplate collectors for making hot waterand photovoltaic collectors for generatingelectricity. You can see in the nextphoto (Fig. 3) flat plate thermal collectorson the right, PV on the left. Inmany Western European countries youcan sell your excess electricity back intothe grid for far more money that itwould cost you to burn gas for heat.However in many North Americanjurisdictions, the utilities don’t give youthat option. So if you can’t use up theelectricity, dump it back into your thermalstorage tank courtesy of an electricresistance heater – the same one you useto take advantage of that cheap(er) offpeakpower.Why do I show the solar thermal collectorsdumping heat into the ground?When the sun shines, it sometimesshines too much. In the summer whenyou need it the least, you get it the mostand your storage tanks are never bigenough. One of the many things Ilearned from the Caleffi people is thatyou have to know when to fold ‘em. Youcan easily fry solar collectors if youdon’t take away the heat.This is what killed most of the systemsinstalled in North America back inthe late Seventies during the first wave ofsolar installations. Panels and componentscan reach temperatures exceeding300°F if they stagnate and serious damagecan occur. Two jobs I looked at hadhydronic propeller-type unit heatersmounted outside the building so theycould dump excess heat in the summer –a good solution, but if you have a geothermalfield, why not dump the heatthere so you can recover it later?As far as district heat is concerned, itwill grow in popularity, giving you yetother options for drawing heat from, orselling heat back, to the district heatingsystem.This is by no means an exhaustivestudy of this topic. There are manyother possible options not explored andsome not even invented yet. Get yourselfthinking ahead a few years and tryto learn as much as you can.Not every option will work in everygeographical area. You will have to starteliminating some of these technologiesas being impractical where you do yourwork and favouring those that make themost sense. Go to trade shows, go to thelibrary, and go online to see what variousmanufacturers have to offer both asproduct and as training literature. Ithink you might be surprised at how farsome of these technologies have comein the last few years.Fig. 3: This Italian roofline features photovoltaic panels on the left and hydronic solar collectors on the right.Ads tocomeRoy Collver operates MechanicalSystems 2000 in Calgary. He can bereached at royc@ms-2000.com.www.plumbingandhvac.ca April 2008 – Plumbing & HVAC Product News 23

RefrigerationContractor builds coolingunits for jungle pulp millBy Ed GravelleBack in 1999 Igot a call fromone of myclients saying thatthey had won a contractto supply some175 tons of air conditioningequipmentfor a pulp mill in Indonesia. Twoof the items were to be electrical roompressurization anddehumidifier packagedunits.They weren’t ableto pin down a manufacturerat the timeand just made anallowance for this.However, armed withan order they nowhad to get seriousabout filling it, but still weren’t able tofind a supplier who made one.The specifications called for 2500A look inside the completed unit.CFM to be delivered to each electricalroom to pressurize them with chemicallyclean, filtered, cool and dry air.Hot and humidThe outdoor summer conditions couldbe as high as 95°F at 100 percent relativehumidity. Outdoor air, if allowed toenter the electrical rooms untreated,would quickly eat out sensitive circuitThe units were built andtested in Calgary duringthe summer…boards as well as other equipment in theroom.To make matters more interesting,the only power availablewas 360-volt three-phaseat 50 cycles.After discussing thepower nature with compressorand motor manufacturesthey concludedthat 440 volt 60-cyclemotors and compressorswould run OK on360/3/60 50 cycle as longas they were derated 20percent.The client owned ametal fabrication plantHeat Transfer Coils &Corrosion Protection CoatingsThis Indonesian pulp mill proved a real challenge because of extreme heat andhumidity combined with 360-volt three-phase power.and I suggested we design and build thedehumidifiers from scratch. The designwas fairly simple. We would pass filteredair through a deep coil, cool to as closeto 35°F as possible and then reheat tolower RH, air and deliver it to the electricalroom.Reheat was just a matter using compressorhot gas. However instead ofswitching hot gas with a three-waydiverting solenoid, as some manufacturersdo, we used a system similar tothat used on air-cooled condensingunits when subject to low ambientoperation. Liquid backup.Smooth controlUsing a liquid line solenoid at the outlet■ New Coil Applications■ Exact Coil Replacements■ Rapid Delivery■ Heresite Protective Coatingsof the reheat coil provided the means ofbacking up refrigerant into the reheatcoil; this provided a simple and smoothcontrol of leaving air temperaturerather than erratic cycling of a largerthree-way solenoid at the inlet. The liquidline solenoid controlled by a leavingair thermostat provided excellent controlof reheat.The units were built and tested inCalgary during the summer, with360/3/50 power supplied by a portable440/3/60 generator set slowed down toprovide 50-cycle power to handle the30-ton, 35 hp hermetic compressor andfive horsepower fan motor.I visited the site a few years later andwas pleased to see a steady stream ofwater draining off the units.Reaching the mill proved a long journey.It took three days to travel fromVancouver to the mill site – fromVancouver to Singapore and then on toBorneo.More about the mill can be found atwww.Kiani.com.Former contractor (Coast Refrigeration)Ed Gravelle is a consultant onrefrigeration, air conditioning and heatingsystems based in Brentwood Bay, B.C.He can be reached at epgco.08@shaw.ca.Madok Manufacturing is theCanadian licencee forHeresite Protective Coatings Inc.Manitowoc, WIMANUFACTURING LIMITED50 Morrell St., Brantford, Ontario N3T 4J5Tel (519) 756-5760 Fax (519) 756-5768mail@madok.com www.madok.comThirty-ton dehumidifiers had to becustom-made in Calgary.Circle Number 125 for More Information24 Plumbing & HVAC Product News – April 2008 www.plumbingandhvac.ca

LetterCompressor stalls on startupEditor’s note: Ed Gravelle received the following letter:Dear Ed:I read your article about pipe sizingin Plumbing & HVAC magazine (Nov/Dec., 2007). This brings to mind aninteresting problem I am having withheat pumps and would like to knowwhy it happens. Split heat pumps andcooling-only splits with long or oversizedliquid lines stall the compressorwhen they start. The stall is because therefrigerant mixes with the oil and floodsthe crankcase. The cylinder is full ofliquid and the compressor either breakssomething or trips the breaker or cycleson its overload.I first found this many years ago whenthe company I worked for installed aCarrier 60-ton split. They changed compressorsuntil I watched the refrigerantrise in the sight glass and suggested theyinstall a suction accumulator with morecapacity than the one shipped. They didand the problem went away.I have always installed a suction accumulatoron cool only systems thathave long or oversized lines. When Iinstalled GE heat pumps in the 80’s Iinstalled a couple of accumulators astheir manuals recommended it. I havenever figured out the physics of it. Perhapsyou could shed some light on this.All these systems had crankcase heaters.Ray LapshinoffWest Bay Mechanical,Victoria, B.C.Ed responds: Applying an accumulatorin this case may be needed not onlybecause of the long oversized line, butpossibly there being a case where theevaporator stayed warmer than the suctionline or crankcase with a trappedsuction line (not down hill all the wayto the compressor). I would suspect thiswas a case where the suction line, withsome oil in it, cools off to a temperaturebelow the evaporator and crankcasetemperatures and refrigerant migratesfrom the flooded evaporator to the suctionline and condenses (dew pointmigration) because the suction line iscolder than the evaporator or crankcase. Refrigerant in the flooded coil, (ifthere was no liquid line solenoid topump the evaporator down) wouldmigrant to the cold oversized suctionline and accumulate there during a longoff times.The oil and accumulated refrigerantin the suction line would return violentlyand cause compressor startupproblems (a slug of oil and refrigerantcausing a bang-up). The accumulatorwould catch this and prevent the slugfrom passing in to the compressor.The way to look at a piping system is tolook at what is happening while runningand also when it is not running.Small heat pumps and other splits don'talways have the starting torque theyneed if all they have is a Run capacitor.Long piping runs may also mean longwiring runs. Voltage drop may be stealingthe torque needed to get the compressorup to speed. I often install ahard start kit where the unit isn't closeto the distribution panel.Regards,Ed GravelleTURN TO QUALITY. TURN TO DAHL. TMSystem flushThe Qwik System Flush from MainstreamEngineering is a biodegradablerefrigeration and air conditioningequipment flush.This non-toxic andnon-flammablesubstance is designedfor removing system-damagingresidualoil, moisture andacid.Mainstream Engineering Circle no. 320No Tools. No Leaks. In No Time.Environmentally friendlyNordyne recently converted its Mammoththree-phase packaged heat pumps, airconditioners and gas/electric packs toozone-friendly R-410A refrigerant. Inthe process, thecompany alsoincreased efficiencyto 13SEER. Availablein sizes from three to five tons, the convertibleMammoth packaged line can beinstalled on a rooftop or on a slab. Plus,the units are quiet with low vibration,easy to install and have speciallydesigned access panels for easy servicing.Nordyne Circle no. 321Introducing QUICK-GRIP TM . A newDahl mini-ball TM valve pipe connectionthat simply pushes on. With nospecial tools. In next to no time.• Completely modular withall our mini-ball TM valves• Every valve tested• Guaranteed Dahl Quality• American Brass and Teflon ®• Manufactured in North AmericaEfficient rooftopsMcQuay evaporative condenser rooftopsystems, sized from 75 to 150 tons, aredesigned to save as much as 40 percenton condensing energy compared to aircooledsystems. They use the coolingeffects of evaporation to lower condensingtemperatures and reduce compressorwork. Electrical service to the unitscan be sized for lower amps, thus reducinginstalled costs.McQuay Circle no. 322RELIABILITYCall for the complete Dahl lineup 1.800.268.2363 US 1.800.268.5355 CAN www.dahlvalve.comTeflon ® is a registered trademark of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and CompanyCircle Number 126 for More Informationwww.plumbingandhvac.ca April 2008 – Plumbing & HVAC Product News 25

Tools & InstrumentsProduct ProfileHVAC/R troubleshootingwith thermal imagingNew thermal imaging equipment from Fluke is built specifically to withstandharsh job site environments. Models Ti25 and Ti10 offer a complete, effectiveand easy-to-use thermal imaging solution for everyday troubleshooting andmaintenance of HVAC/R equipment, electro-mechanical equipment, processequipment, electrical installations, and other industrial and electricalequipment.Both models incorporate the company’s IR Fusion technology thatintegrates infrared and visual (visible light) images in full screen or picture-inpictureviews for enhanced problem detection and analysis. IR-Fusion helpsusers recognize image details and better identify problem areas by quicklyscrolling through different viewing modes.The Ti25 and Ti10 are designed to make the use of thermal imagingaffordable and effective for day-to-day troubleshooting and maintenance tasks,featuring the ability to record and save voice comments with every imageThank Youtaken (Ti25 only), a three-button menu designedfor intuitive operation and navigation with thepush of a thumb, and on-screen emissivitycorrection (Ti25 only).These heavy-duty units are tested towithstand a drop of two meters (6.5 feet), andare IP54 rated to withstand water and dust.With a widescreen full colour LCD display,optimized thermal sensitivity, and a temperaturemeasurement range of -20°C to +350°C for theTi25 and -20°C to +250°C for the Ti10, they aresuitable for most industrial, electrical andcommercial applications, allowing users tooperate from a safe distance and still see smalltemperature differences.Both include Fluke SmartView software – aThank you on behalf of the CIPH Charity Committee and the CIPH Board of Directors to allCIPH members who supported the 2008/2009 Fundraising Campaign in Support of Habitat forHumanity Canada.Together, we surpassed our goal and were successful in raising over $1,599,644 for Habitat forHumanity Canada. Your donations of both cash and product will help over 1,000 Canadianfamilies move into simple, decent and affordable homes.A special thank you to our 2008/2009 Major donor—who contributed at least $25,000 in cashand/or product (at least $5,000 of which was in the form of a cash donation)The Fluke Model Ti10thermal imager is designedfor HVAC/R applications.modular suite of tools for viewing, annotating, editing and analyzing infraredimages. It enables users to edit images in five viewing modes and generatecustomizable, professional looking reports in a few steps. Each thermal imagerincludes free software upgrades for the life of the product.The imagers include a 2 GB SDmemory card that will store at least3,000 basic infrared images (.bmpfile format) or 1,200 fully radiometric(.is2 IR Fusion file format)infrared and linked visual imageseach with 60 seconds of voiceannotation, as well as an SD cardreader (USB) for downloadingimages into a computer. Eachthermal imager comes with a ruggedhard carrying case and a soft transportbag, an adjustable hand strapfor right or left-handed use, rechargeableinternal battery and ACpower supply/battery charger(including mains adapters).Fluke Electronics Canada Circle no 323Torch for tight spacesThe new LENOX Mobile Torch Systemis designed for plumbers that work intight spaces. Its heavy-duty moldedcase provides storage,accessibilityand protectionof gascylinders,torch tips, solderand accessories.The dualgas container stores two MAPP orpropane cylinders. The 12.5-foot hose(with metal strain relief) features a selfignitingtip with replaceable burn tip,tip handle and new all-brass regulator.Lenox Tools Circle no. 324Lightweight welderThe Miller Passport welding machineintroduces an inverter-based MIG arcwelding power source, wire feeder, selfcontainedshieldinggas systemand gunall in a singlepackage. Theunit weighs45 lbs. (56 lbs.with an 8-in.spool of wireand 12 oz CO2 shielding gas), and provides25 minutes of welding time (25 ft.295 The West Mall, Suite 330, Toronto, Ontario M9C 4Z4.info@ciph.com, Fax. 416-697-0450, www.ciph.com, Tel. 1-888-ASK-CIPH (275-2474), 416-695-0447. of weld on 3/16-in. thick material withone cylinder of gas) and has a 30 to 180-amp current output range.Miller Electric Circle no. 325Circle Number 127 for More Information26 Plumbing & HVAC Product News – April 2008 www.plumbingandhvac.ca

Heavy-duty pliersKlein Tools has added a new model ofside-cutting pliers with multiple designfeatures to the Journeyman line, whichalready includes pliers, cutters andother hand tools. These side-cuttersinclude a built-in channel that pullssteel fish tape without damaging thetape. These multi-tasking pliers, withheavy-duty cutting knives, cut screws,nails and most hardened wire.Klein Tools Inc. Circle no. 326Anti-fog safety glassesThe V50 safety glasses from Kleenguardfeature a fog and particle shield and allaroundcomfortable foam surroundingthe lens. The newV50 provides comfortableprotectionwhile reducing foggingby 50 percentover traditional safetyglasses when worn with an industrialrespirator, reports the manufacturer.The V50 also contours to the face, providinga better, more customized fitwith the performance industrial workdemands. Features include: ratchetedtemples, scratch-resistant coating andimpact resistance, along with an adjustablelens angle to suit individual preferences.Kleenguard Circle no. 327New HVAC toolsKlein Tools recently added 33 new toolsto its HVAC product line. These includetube cutters, tube flaring/swaging tools,tube benders, seaming/folding tools,crimping tools,cutting/notchingtools, duct stretching/slitting tools,hammers and sheetmetal accessoriesand fasteners. Theseare all detailed inthe company’s new 28-page HVACminiature pocket-sized catalog.Klein Tools Circle no. 328Beautiful potsWe are not sure if any plumbing orHVAC/R contractor out there can usethese, but we couldn’t resist printing itdue to the beautiful photo. This newline of solderpots is designedspecificallyfor usewith most leadfreesolder alloysused fordip solderingand pre-tinningapplications. American BeautyIndustrial Solder Pots for use with leadfreesolders feature gray cast iron cruciblesthat are highly resistive to the solventpowers of tin. Ideally suited for dipsoldering and pre-tinning applications,the operating temperature of these potsshould be 100-150°F above the liquidtemperature of the solder alloy and ifkept below 800°F will be unaffected bythe higher levels of tin found in leadfreesolders.American Beauty Circle no. 329Rotary hammerNew Hilti TE 2 Rotary Hammer Drillsare ideal for a variety of applications,including installation work on concreteand masonry, as well as drilling in metal,wood and gypsumboard or plastic.They offer highdrilling performanceover the entiredrilling range of 3/16 to 1/2-inch.This unit weighs only 5.3 pounds, makingoverhead work easier and reducingfatigue. The compact, ergonomic designalso adds to working comfort.Hilti Circle no. 330Product ProfilePremium thread sealerThis thread/gasket sealercan be usedin manyapplications.Premium PLS 2 thread and gasketsealer from Gasoila Chemicalsprovides a tough seal in industrialsettings.This non-hardening, non-toxicsealant adheres readily to iron,stainless steel, aluminum, Monel,plastics and synthetic rubbercompounds. The opaque graypaste is lead free and can be usedsafely with refrigerants, steam,natural gas, heating oil, diluticacids, aliphatic solvents, ammonia,dilute caustic alkali, chlorine,diesel fuel, gasoline, kerosene, jetfuel, LPG, petroleum solvents,hydraulic oils and more, reportsthe manufacturer. It is effectivefrom -100ºF to 600ºF (-74 C to318 C). It seals liquids up to10,000 PSI and gases up to3,000 PSI.PLS 2 is available now inseveral sizes and containersincluding a two-ounce tube, onequarterand one-pint brush top jar,and five-gallon pail. It is approvedby CSA and classified by UL andULC.Gasoila Chemicals Circle no. 331Not wearing Imagewear?Your company could lose more than the tournament.For company golf tournaments, or whatever work you do, Imagewearhas the clothing you need. It’s all at imagewear.ca, where companieslike yours get dressed for work.1.800.663.6275 imagewear@erequest.caJoe Hardware Centre is a fictitious company. Any resemblanceto a real company is unintended and coincidental.Imagewear.ca is a division ofwww.plumbingandhvac.caCircle Number 128 for More Information

Shop ManagementDo you own your business ordoes your business own you?Getting off the complacency plateauBy Ron ColemanMost people makethe mistake ofthinking they canmanage their way tomaking more money andhaving more time off.The idea is that if we work harder wewill build up sweat equity and then wewill have lots of money and then we cantake more time off. However, not onlydo we manage the business, but we doall the detail stuff as well. We price thejobs, we install the work, we chase thecash flow etc. etc.I gave a client a blank organizationchart showing the different tasks thatneeded to be done in a typical smallcontracting business and asked him toinsert his name in each of the areaswhere he did some or all of the work.There were 10 boxes – one for generalmanager; two in sales; three in operations;four in admin and accounting.Out of the 10 areas of work, he was regularlyinvolved in eight.Managing anything usually meansgetting sucked into it and making ithappen. While this may be the route tomore money it is certainly not the routeto getting more time off. You end uptrading your freedom for the financialreward. You get to a ComplacencyPlateau.That is the point where you can justabout handle all your tasks (only droppingthe ball from time to time) in areasonable fashion. The business gets toa positive cash flow; you are workingflat out. You can’t stop or the cash flowmight dry up. You can’t grow becauseyou can’t cope with any more work. Youhave a job and it is almost impossible toturn it into a business because, from dayone, you have been on the wrong foot.Freedom or wealth?To be really successful you should nothave to trade your freedom for wealth.Imagine lying on a warm sandybeach with a long cool drink and justchecking your emails once every coupleof hours in order to keep your finger onYOUR MOST VALUABLE RESOURCEMEET (Mechanical Electrical Electronic Technology) is the ideal marketplace for today's busyindustry professional. In the span of a few short hours you can meet suppliers from across NorthAmerica, see new technology, comparison shop and be educated about the latest trends and bestpractices in your industry. The MEET Show is definitely time well spent.SEMINAR PROGRAM - MEET's four sponsoring associations will present a widerange of seminars featuring relevant and cutting edge topics. Please visit www.meet2008.ca forthe complete up-to-date seminar schedule.Skills CanadaNew Brunswick CompetitionMEET 2008 will once again host the Plumbing and Electrical Wiring portions of the Skills CanadaNew Brunswick Competitions (Compétences Canada N.-B.). These competitions bring studentstogether from across New Brunswick to complete projects which will be judged based on skillsand accuracy. These industry related contests are an incredible display of hands-on expertise,talent, and determination showcasing the many promising futures to be found in trades andtechnology. www.skillscanada.nb.cathe pulse. Imagine spending moreleisure time with family and friends.Imagine having the time for yourgrandchildren that you didn’t have foryour own children.I recently tracked the performance of10 residential HVAC contractors whoall made good profits over the past sixyears. In a previous article I identifiedwhat they did to generate their success.In a nutshell, they managed theirbusinesses in a very "hands-on” manner.They had trade backgrounds andbuilt their business on their technicalexpertise. They knew how to price a joband how to make sure it was installedproperly and this applied to service andretrofit. They had each amassed severalmillion dollars in earnings over theiryears in business and will enjoy a financiallycomfortable retirement, once theymake the decision to let go.Without exception they had all failedin one area – they had created jobs forthemselves, not businesses. They are allsuch integral parts of their businessesthat they are finding it very difficult totake time off. Now that they are older(in their 50’s and 60’s) they want to havemore free time. But because they havenever learned the fine art of leadershipand delegating the management of theirbusinesses, they have to do it all themselves.When they sell their businessesthey will get a lot less than they should.Okay, you now know what youshouldn’t be doing so how do you getoff the Plateau?Here’s the approach we took and youcan follow a similar process. Howeveryou need to tailor the speed at whichyou make the changes to suit your cashflow. In an ideal world, you would invest$100,000 in new management and systemsand take at least a year to get backinto a positive cash flow. If you don’thave a spare $100,000 in cash, you needto take the longer route. However, youWhile this may be the route to moremoney it is certainly not the routeto getting more time off.must stick with the process and not letother activities force you off track.First of all, track what you really dowith your time. Then identify thesimpler tasks, develop processes forthem and delegate them to others.You may have to start hiring or subcontractingout. For example, youshould not be doing any accountingor bookkeeping. You should not bedoing collections or payments. Theseare tasks that others can do far moreeffectively than you. At least, if youhave to do “day-to-day” work, do thework that you have the training andskills for. I see more screwed upbookkeeping than you can possiblyimagine. It doesn’t save you money; itcosts you money. Then look at simple,repetitive tasks such as collectingdrawings, following up with clientson basic items or the other “boring”but essential tasks that need to bedone. Delegate them.I know I’ve used this before, but: “Atypical project manager spends up to 70percent of his time reacting to minoremergencies, correcting errors, trackingdown answers to simple questions andexplaining the obvious. Hardly a productive,or effective, use of a professionalmanager’s time.” So says the AllianceProject Management ManualGet out of this rut!Your job is to work yourself out of ajob. Become a teacher and teach othersto do what you do – one step at a time.It could easily take you three years toturn your “job” into a business, butwhat alternative do you have?Out of the whirlpoolContrast that with one of my HVACcontractors here in British Columbia.Four years ago he bought himself afancy RV and told me he wanted to takesix weeks’ vacation. We went out andSHOW HOURSVISITORS! Take Advantage of Our head hunted a manager and he has nowSpecial Online DISCOUNT worked himself out of a job. This yearWednesday, May 7 • 10am – 6pm Register online and save 50% off your admission price. he will take six months’ vacation (that’sThursday, May 8 • 10am – 5pm Go to www.MEET2008.ca to register andnot a misprint, I said months, notsave $5.00 (Registration at the door will be $10.00)weeks). I did a valuation of his businessand we agreed that it was worth fourVisit us online @ WWW.MEET2008.CAtimes annual earnings. He has just sold Ronald Coleman is a Vancouverbasedaccountant, management con-his business for six times annual earnings.Why? Because he worked himself sultant, author and educator specializingout of a job. He developed processesin the construction industry. Hisand systems that replaced him.web site is www.ronaldcoleman.caThat’s the difference between leadershipand he can be reached by e-mail atand management.info@ronaldcoleman.ca.Circle Number 129 for More Information28 Plumbing & HVAC Product News – April 2008 www.plumbingandhvac.ca

Diligent hiring practicesresult in stable work forceBut nobody said the process was going to be easyBy Simon BlakeRecruiting good long-term employeesis a skill that has to belearned and success requires followingparticular steps every time, saidChrista Hale, president of PeopleFX, ahuman resources consulting firm in St.Catharines, Ont.Failure to do the right things inevitablyends in high employee turnoverand puts the company in a never-endingtraining mode – hardly the key toprofitability.“Companies spend large amounts ofmoney on new business systems, software,etc., but very little on the peopleside… That strategy is prone to problemsdown the road.”The attitude of job seekers haschanged dramatically in today’s tightlabour market. “People are just as selectiveabout where they want to work asyou are as to who you want working foryou,” she remarked to members of theHeating, Refrigeration and Air ConditioningInstitute of Canada (HRAI)during a presentation at the group’sannual conference in Victoria lastSeptember.A job interview should include questionsabout how the prospectiveemployee would handle a certain situation– an irate customer, for example.“Their answer will give you a good ideaof how they think.” However, employersshould be careful about asking aboutthings that don’t directly relate to thejob, she cautioned.She noted that it’s critical that contractorsask the prospective employee toshow any required trade licenses beforehiring and that references are checked.The best questions for references, again,revolve around how the prospective employeehandles certain stressful situations.they are doing. “Coaching and feedbackis important and should be ongoing.You tell them regularly what is workingand what isn’t… Employees want toknow how they are doing from yourperspective.”Coaching the employeeIf the contractor is dissatisfied aboutcertain areas, it is important to let theemployee know. “It may get confrontational,but you are the boss and at leastyou talked about it.”WHEN AREMULTIPLEPOINTS…TOO MANY POINTS?She advised the contractors presentto separate salary reviews from performancereviews – in fact to keep themat least several months apart. Thisallows both the employer and employeeto focus on job performance issueswithout creating salary expectations.She added that employees tend to bemore loyal if they know they are appreciatedand have opportunities toadvance within the company. In fact,the number one reason that people citefor leaving jobs is that “the companyExtra effort in interviewing and hiringemployees will pay off, says ChristaHale.doesn’t care …”Hale is developing a module onhuman resources for the Heating, Refrigerationand Air Conditioning Contractorsof Canada (HRAC) PeerExchange Program (PEP group).Checking referencesReferences may not always be reliable,Hale added. “People aren’t always truthful;they are afraid of getting sued.” Ifthe contractor isn’t happy with theanswers, it is fair game to ask theprospective employee for additionalreferences.One of the reasons that diligent hiringpractices are so important isbecause “the law looks at an employmentrelationship as lasting forever, likea marriage,” she says. “The courts arevery much in favour of the employee –that’s just the way it is.”As a result, Hale recommended havingeach employee sign an employmentcontract that concisely and clearly statesthe conditions and expectations ofemployment. This should be done atleast three-to-five days before they startwork so they have time to read it. “Ifyou do it on the day they start work, itwill be viewed as coercion,” she added.Once a person is employed, theemployer needs to let them know howNEVER…when it comes to sealing agas piping installation.With the Gastite XR2 fitting you can depend on thepatent-pending multi-point seal. The new XR2 fittingis the only fitting of its kind in the industry. Thesealing surface does not utilize the cut end of thetubing, so even the most unsightly cut will yield atight seal. What's more there are no o-rings orgaskets, so the reusable brass components provide areliable metal-to-metal installation.There's nothing fishy about it, just pure innovation.Call 800-662-0208 to take advantage of Gastiteflexible gas piping and the new XR2 fitting.FEATURES & BENEFITS:• Compact Size & Reduced Weight• Patent-Pending Multi-Point Seal• No O-Rings or Gaskets• Less Torque Required• Minimal Threads to Travel• Metal-to-Metal Seal• Patented Jacket Lock ®• Reusable ComponentsCircle Number 130 for More InformationMetal-to-MetalMulti-Point Sealwww.gastite.com/XR2XR2@gastite.com • (800) 662-0208

TrainingA solid startProgram gives boost to trade newcomersBy Bruce NagyThis is a different kind of classroom.The books and desks are crowdedinto one corner because they’reonly used 20 percent of the time. Therest of the classroom is alive with actionas about 15 students in hard hats andtool belts busy themselves with blueprints,PVC elbows, duct brackets andvoltage meters.Given the high level of activity onboth the upper and lower levels, it issurprisingly quiet, with plans discussedWe’re putting thein low tones between much longer periodsof doing.Occasionally a power tool or someclanging highlights the otherwise lowbuzz.Students are mostly between the agesof 20 and 30, but there are no wisecracksor horseplay. These people areserious. There’s a lot at stake. They arelearning the basics of a trade that willbecome their livelihood and they are ontrial every minute of the day.back in wholesaler.Rui Cuhna believes trade education should be very similar to what students willface in the real world.They’ve signed up for a three-monthstint at the Pre-Apprenticeship TrainingInstitute in northern Toronto. They areguaranteed a paid three-month jobplacement on completion; but the guaranteecomes with conditions. Theymust maintain a 75 percent average orthere’s no placement. They must attendevery class; if they miss two days, nolose him for an extra dollar per hour.We’re trying to change that.”Manpower solutionThe Institute was born a few years ago,along with numerous other suchschools across the country, after provincialgovernments realized the loomingmanpower crisis in the trades.We know that if we focus on quality,in five years our graduateswill be hiring from us.Introducing the Emerson Authorized Full-Line Wholesaler.It’s your source for the whole package.+ The full line of best-in-class Emerson ® products to meetall your HVACR needs+ The full support from experts with answers to help youget it right the first time+ The full commitment to keep you in the know with the industry’smost comprehensive trainingThe words Full-Line in the sign mean a whole lot to you.Look for it today.placement. They must arrive on time. Ifthey are late four times, no placement.“On time and on task,” that’s ourmotto, says Rui Cuhna, the school’sdirector of operations. “It’s not onlyabout what you learn, it’s aboutemployability. It’s about focus, commitmentand responsibility. It’s difficult tofind and retain good people. Employersinvest four years in someone and thenProvinces have been passing legislationand introducing programs to attractmore young people, making it easier forthem to become pre-apprentices orapprentices, and trying to increase theirlikelihood of success. Universities, colleges,technical schools, and unions haveestablished pre-apprenticeship trainingfor skilled workers.Cuhna expects 35 to 50 percent ofCopeland ® brand products + White-Rodgers ® + Browning ®Emerson ® Flow Controls + HVACR Motors + VentilationProud Partners:Calgary, AB Independent Supply Company 403-214-2134Edmonton, AB Independent Supply Company 780-451-4744Burnaby, BC Independent Supply Company 604-298-4472Fredericton, NB Kerr Controls Ltd. 506-452-9090Moncton, NB Kerr Controls Ltd. 506-857-3233Cornerbrook, NL Kerr Controls Ltd. 709-634-5323St. John’s, NL Kerr Controls Ltd. 709-753-1670Dartmouth, NS Kerr Controls Ltd. 902-468-7077Halifax, NS Kerr Controls Ltd. 902-455-7248Sydney, NS Kerr Controls Ltd. 902-539-2660Truro, NS Kerr Controls Ltd. 902-895-9285Hamilton, ON Eastern Refrigeration Supply 905-547-8300Kitchener, ON Independent Supply Company 519-748-0961North Bay, ON Independent Supply Company 705-476-0800Ottawa, ON Independent Supply Company 613-742-0083Ottawa, ON QuéMar Refrigeration 613-725-9376St. Catharines, ON Independent Supply Company 905-988-1724Windsor, ON Independent Supply Company 519-251-9925Charlottetown, PE Kerr Controls Ltd. 902-566-5377Québec, QC QuéMar Refrigeration 418-681-2333St-Laurent, QC QuéMar Refrigeration 514-744-6751EmersonClimateContractor.com/Full-LineDesks occupy only a small part of the classroom.Circle Number 131 for More Information30 Plumbing & HVAC Product News – April 2008 www.plumbingandhvac.ca

Students work under the watchful gaze of the instructor who plays the role ofjob-site foreman as much as teacher.trades people will retire in the next 10years. According to Statistics Canada,since 1997, the number of apprenticesin the mechanical and electrical tradeshas been increasing, but the number ofpeople actually completing their apprenticeshipsis a different matter.New apprenticeship registrations forindustrial and mechanical were aboutsteady at 29 percent for four years andthen declined to 26 percent and 23 percentin 2002 and 2003. Completions followed asimilar pattern at about 15 percent, then11 percent in 2001 and eight percent forthe next two years. The ratio of completedapprenticeships therefore went from onein two, down to one in three.On the electrical side, new registrationswere increasing, but completedapprenticeships were just five or six percentand slightly declining. Only one infour of those starting an electricalapprenticeship completes it.“Less than forty percent of apprenticeshipsare completed and those whoquit do so early on,” according toCuhna. He says that the success rate forgraduates of his school is much higherat 95 percent.Working with industryIt’s a bold claim, but there are signs histeam is succeeding. He mentions theschool’s connections to a trade associationand a government department. Henames several large plumbing andHVAC contractors who recruit onlythrough the PAT Institute. “We conduct‘pack meetings’ with groups of employersto discuss curriculum needs.” Theschool provides 80 percent practicaland 20 percent theoretical instruction,“...which means we’re on client job sitesa lot. We get to know customer needs.”The screening process for the schoolincludes a personal interview, resumereview, employability assessment, referencesand criminal background check.Only about 10 percent of applicants areadmitted. If an applicant doesn’t meetthe admission requirements but expressesa desire to be trained anyway, theschool may oblige, but without the subsequentplacement guarantee.The main programs are plumbing,HVAC and electrical. As well, there areevening and weekend courses in alarmsystems and structured cabling.A different approachCuhna tries to differentiate the PATInstitute from a limited field of competitors,mostly technical schools.There is one instructor for every 15students. “We use a foreman-styleapproach much like job site conditions.Our program is more practical and realworld.Our instructors must be licensedin the trade, have at least 10 years tradeexperience and must complete a mentoringprogram.”Training director Tony D’assisi spent10 years as an electrician and eight as ateacher. He and Cuhna started theschool after Cuhna left McDonald’sRestaurants of Canada, where he wasresponsible for mechanical systemsinstallations for 15 years.At McDonald’s he worked on a programto motivate employees to contributeto corporate innovation; andquickly understood today’s challengeswith recruitment, morale and training.At the same time he learned about theshortage of apprentices and abandonmentrates. “We decided there was anopportunity to bridge that gap.”So the school tries to select seriouscandidates and reinforce responsibility.Non-traditional workersThe Institute also helps promote thetrade among non-traditional segments.Women are increasingly attracted.Constance Estepa is the school’s posterchild, returning every six weeks to speakat their open houses about how, afterone year on the job, she had proven herselfand was put in charge of all the electricalsystems for a 12,000 square footcustom-built home.As well, some of the students at theInstitute have left other careers to beginan apprenticeship.Cuhna believes a trend is beginningwith brokers, accountants and bankersswitching from high stress jobs to somethingthat provides, perhaps, a moreimmediate sense of accomplishment.No matter where the candidatescome from, at the PAT Institute they’llhave to take employability seriously.“We teach that the first year is difficultand no matter how well-trained theyare, they may have to sweep the floor orclean-up after other technicians. We sethigh standards for capability. We knowthat if we focus on quality, in five yearsour graduates will be hiring from us.”If the other pre-apprentice institutesacross the country are this sincere, perhapsapprentice success rates will beginto rise. Cuhna’s strategy sounds like itcould make sense with today’s marketneeds and challenges. And it sounds likea different kind of classroom.For more information on the PATInstitute and its programs, contactMaureen Dennie at (416) 638-4111, e-mail maureend@patinstitute.ca or visitwww.patinstitute.ca.Bruce Nagy is a freelance writer basedin Toronto. He can be reached atbruce.nagy@rogers.com.Circle Number 132 for More InformationCircle Number 133 for More Informationwww.plumbingandhvac.ca April 2008 – Plumbing & HVAC Product News 31

Coming EventsBiggest MEET showContractors attending AtlanticCanada’s leading mechanical tradeshow will likely see more of theindustry’s latest technology than everbefore. By late March, over 360exhibitors had booked space, up fromthe last MEET (Mechanical Electrical,Electronic Technology) Show, reportsshow manager Jeff Lacey.This year’s event – the 18th MEETShow – will take place May 7-8 at theMoncton (N.B.) Coliseum Complex.“Because it happens only every twoyears, it’s become the show for AtlanticCanada,” remarked Lacey.Exhibitor’s will display and, in somecases, demonstrate the latest in plumbing,heating, hydronic heating, controls,ventilation, air conditioning, tools, software,and other related equipment.And, as the show occurs in the heart ofCanada’s largest oil heating region, it’s apretty fair bet that manufacturers willdisplay a number of innovations in oilfurnaces, burners and controls.“It is the place to learn about newproducts and probably the only place tospeak directly to the manufacturer,” saidLacey. “That’s pretty rare, given the waythe supply chain is set up.”A number of technical seminars willalso occur. While primarily electrical,they do include sessions on green buildingsand solar DHW.MEET 2008 will also host theplumbing and electrical wiring portionsof the Skills Canada NewBrunswick Competitions. The alwayspopularIndustry Dinner returns onWednesday, May 7. Unfortunately, thisyear’s event, with comedian Derek Edwards,is sold out.The Canadian Institute of Plumbing& Heating (CIPH), the AmericanSociety of Heating, Refrigeration andAir Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE),the Illuminating Engineering Society ofNorth America (IESNA) and the ElectroFederation are partners in the MEETshow.Show hours on May 7 are 10 a.m. to 6p.m. and on May 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.For more information, call 1-888-454-7469 or visit www.meet2008.ca.MEET offers a rare opportunity to seenew technology, speak to manufacturersand catch up with old friends.An educationin oilheatingContractors and dealers that attend thisyear’s Canadian Oilheat Association(COHA) conference are in for a reallearning experience.Scheduled to take place at the BrookstreetHotel in Ottawa (Kanata) May28-30, Oilheat 2008 will mark the organization’s25th anniversary with astrong lineup of speakers – some industryrelated and some not.TMSafety Isn't Just Skin Deep...Chief among those in the “not” categoryis Leonard Lee, chairman of LeeValley Tools. He will speak on“Innovation and Customer Service” andhow dedication to customer satisfaction,integrity and treating the customerlike a friend have made his company theplace to go for specialized woodworkingand garden tools.On the other hand, Dr. ThomasCorrosionButcher is very much at the cutting edgeResistantCheck ValveSingle AccessTopof the oilheating industry as the technicalleader of the oilheat research pro-ConstructionCoverMounted Straight Tube PatentedCheck Stainless Steel Linkagegram and head of the Energy ResourcesRetainer Body DesignDivision of Brookhaven National Laboratoryin New York. He has been involvedwith a wide range of researchprograms including oil burner development,emissions measurements, boilerfouling studies and controls. He will cover“New Fuels, New Equipment, New Systems:Advances in Oilheat Technology.”Peter Dunderdale, who has becomeknown as “Bio Boy” for his leadership ofthe bio fuels division of B.C.-basedStainlessColumbia Fuels, will speak on “TheSteel PistonResurgence of Home Heating Oil.”and StemBusiness management consultantMichael Hepworth will talk aboutInvestmentTorsionUniquelyCast StainlessSpringContoured“Costly Marketing Mistakes that almostSteel BodyDesignCheck ValveEvery Business Owner is Making.”OpeningA panel consisting of Mid-Com’s JackStainless SteelSlottedReplaceablePatriarche, Michel Gorman of Petro VironRelief ValvePivotCheck DiscInc. and Todd Thorpe of Dinamic ERPCover ScrewsPointRubberwill talk about “Leveraging Technology.”On May 29 a tabletop trade show willSpecify Superior Backflow Protection from Wattsfeature some of the latest oilheatingtechnology.Oilheat 2008 won’t be all work, however.Delegates will visit the NationalWhen it comes to protecting the health and safety of people, why choose anything but the best?The Watts SilverEagle TM Series backflow assemblies incorporate the latest design features to protectagainst contamination at health hazard cross-connections. The SilverEagle series is theArts Centre for a dinner and entertainmentMay 29. The golf tournament willmost compact, the lightest and offers the most flexibility of any backflow assembly in the take place May 30 at the Marshes Golfindustry. Specify the valve with safety at its core! For additional information and to view Club located in “the heart of Siliconthe latest SilverEagle approvals, visit our website at www.wattscanada.ca Valley North.”or call 1-888-208-8927.Companions will enjoy a Rideau Canalcruise. A spa package will be offered.For more information, call (905)946-0264, e-mail oilheat@coha.ca orvisit www.coha.ca.Circle Number 134 for More Information32 Plumbing & HVAC Product News – April 2008 www.plumbingandhvac.ca

People & PlacesPeopleThe Canadian Construction Association,Ottawa, has presented its prestigiousTrade Contractor Award ofExcellence to Dave Pelletier, presidentof D & G Mechanical Ltd., Kelowna,B.C.J.R. Jones has been appointed presidentand CEO ofRheem Manufacturing,Fort Smith,Arkansas.Martin Vandenbergof St. Catharines,one of the‘founding fathers’ of J.R. Jonesthe HVACRHeritage Centre Canada, has beenelected president. He succeeds NormanFraser of Toronto who has headed theorganization since its beginning back inlate 1999. Robert Steenson, presidentof Ontario Air in Pickering, Ont., hasbeen elected vice president.Bill Vale of Lennox Internationalhas retired effective March 31. Vale beganhis career with Lennox in 1974 andCalendarMAY 7-8: MEET 2008,Moncton Coliseum Complex,Moncton, N.B. Call Jeff Lacey at1-888-454-7469, (506) 658-0018,www.masterpromotions.ca/meet.asp.MAY 28-30: OILHEAT 2008,Brookstreet Hotel, Kanata, Ont.Call 1-800-257-1593 or visitwww.coha.ca.MAY 30-June 1: CIPH Ontario RegionConference, Sheraton Fallsview Hotel,Niagara Falls, Ont. Contact NancyBarden at (519) 855-6474 or visitwww.ciph.com/regions/ontario.php.JUNE 29-JULY 2: Annual BusinessConference 2008, Canadian Instituteof Plumbing & Heating, FairmontChateau Whistler, Whistler, B.C.Call (416) 695-0447 or visitwww.ciph.com.AUG. 21-23: HRAI 40th AnnualMeeting, Delta Quebec, Quebec City.Call (905) 602-4700 or visitwww.hrai.ca.SEPT. 24-27: World PlumbingConference, Calgary. Contact HansTiedemann at (403) 250-7237,e-mail hans@mca-alta.com or visitwww.worldplumbing.org.SEPT. 25-26: CIPHEX West 2008,Roundup Centre, Stampede Park,Calgary. Contact Norm Schulz, showmanager, 1-800-639-2474, (416)695-0447, n.schulz@ciph.com,www.ciphexwest.ca.Companiesalso served a term as HRAI chairman.B.A.Robinson Co. Ltd.,Winnipeg, has been named one ofCanada’s 50 Best Managed Companiesfor the fourth consecutive year.Deloitte, CIBC Commercial Banking,the National Post and the Queen’sSchool of Business sponsor the award.The CGC Group of Companies,Mississauga, Ont. has appointed TraneNorthwest as exclusive representativefor CGC hybrid heat pump system inBritish Columbia. Contact WalterLinck at 604-473-5612.A.O. Smith, Johnson City, Tenn., hasdedicated a new 26,500 sq. ft. engineeringdesign centre for research anddevelopment in that city.Kerr Controls, Halifax, has opened anew branch at 44 Brook St. in CornerBrook, Nfld. Call (709) 634-5323.Elkay changes handsElkay Canada Ltd., Toronto, hasbeen sold to Novanni StainlessInc., a newly formed companyowned by Oakville Stamping & BendingLtd., Oakville, Ont. and Supreme MetalProducts, Mississauga, Ont.Novanni will continue to operate thecompany’s Coldwater, Ont. plant, manufacturingWessan, AMI and otherNovanni-brand products. The companywill also continue to distribute Elkayand Halsey Taylor products in Canada.Says Elkay Plumbing Product Divisionspresident Steve Rogers: “Weclearly see this move as the best strategyfor Elkay to continue to grow in theCanadian marketplace…“We are also pleased that NovanniStainless Inc. shares one of Elkay’s corevalues – employees are a company’smost important asset. We were thrilledthat we were able to ensure the jobs ofour Canadian employees.”New Bathworks locationBardon Supplies, Belleville, Ont., hasopened a new Bathworks plumbingshowroom in Ajax, Ont.Previously located at 377 MacKenzieAvenue, Bathworks has operated in Ajaxfor eight years. “They quickly out-grewtheir previous location which made itdifficult to show their products effectively,”reported Bathworks regionalmanager, Mike Roy.The newly designed 4,500 square footshowroom in the MacKenzie Plaza, at250 Bayly Street W., features customerfriendly displays, such as a live showerwall that will allow shoppers to see theproducts in action. The expanded showroomhouses many respected brands suchas American Standard, Moen, Maax, andDelta.The company plans a grand openingevent for Saturday, April 19.Bathworks operates outlets acrossOntario in Ajax, Barrie, Belleville,Kingston, and St. Catharines.CMX /CIPHEX Show Guide Raffle WinnersADVERTISER WINNER’S NAME COMPANYA.O. Smith Gary O’Connor Ambient Htg And A/CAlpha Controls Ray Huisbrink Arcelormittal-DofascoBuderus Jerome Jacques Cole Mechanical LtdCash Acme Steve Palumbo Northwest Climate Control Inc.Clean Energy Developments Richard Hamilton Inspire PlgDahl Bros Chad Heyter Hayter Plumbing & Heating Ltd.Danfoss Matt Sandlar Air Care ServicesDDR Boilers W. Everest Bt AirconditioningECR International Jeff Traill Traill HeatingEnergy Savings Products Marcie Pours Tempro ServicesFairview Fittings Gary O’Connor Ambient Htg And A/CFantech Farid Mussa Tech 2000 Appliance LtdFluke Adam M Smartspec Home InspectionFord Stephen Chappelle Kingston Home HeatingGiant Mark Perry Morrisburg Plumbing CentreHRAC John Kroisenbrunner Delta Air Systems LtdInvensys Eric Claude Poirier Refrigeration And A/C ApprenticesITT Hugo Maltais StudentJohn Wood Resat Vurgun Vurgun Heating And Air ConditioningJudo Ron Reimer City Of RichmondKnaack Brett Desautecs Darryls Heating & Air ConditioningLochinvar/Aquatech David Graham Bellier BrothersLyncar John Baker Luk Plumbing & Heating Ltd.Mitsubishi Electric Dave Ioannidis Darryl’s Htg.Ontor Tim Webber Thames Valley School BoardP&HVAC Dave Davies Dave Davies Htg & AcPAT Institute Jason Nike Adapt AllRaptor Steve Palumbo Northwest Climate Control Inc.Redmond Williams Ed McCool T.E. Mccool PlumbingRedmond Williams Lonis Rossi Refrigeration And A/C ApprenticesRedmond Williams A. McCormack Smartspec Home InspectionRheem Jeff Hornby Comfort ZoneRheem John Barry Colonial Air IncRheem Bill Johnson North American Trade SchoolsRheem Kevin Martindale Campsall PlumbingRheem Bill Lawrence Lawrence ElectricRheem William Bell Bill Bell Plumbing LimitedRidgid Uwe Bligenthal Danmac Plumbing & Drain ServiceRoth Canada L. Trott Georgian CollegeSelkirk Kevin Toomey Kerr Controls Ltd.Taco Dave Francis D.R. Francis PlumbingTemp Mizer Jason Fletcher C. J. Brubacher Ltd.Uponor Grant Cook Cook ElectricalVictaulic Jay Little Adelt MechanicalViessmann John Morrone Battaglia Mechanical ServicesWilo Allen Wong United Mechanical GroupZurn Grant Cook Cook ElectricalSPECIAL THANKS TO OUR ADVERTISER:General Pipe CleanersDeltaBradford WhiteCSAGrundfoswww.fairviewfittings.comLynCarProductsCircle Number 135 for More Informationwww.plumbingandhvac.ca April 2008 – Plumbing & HVAC Product News 33

Mechanical MarketplaceThe bulletin board of products, services, professionals, employmentopportunities and more for Canada’s Mechanical Contracting Industry.Selling your business?Need employees?Looking to buy or sell equipment?AdvertiseinMarketplace!Contact Jordan Chong at (416) 614-5832or by e-mail at jchong@newcom.caComing in the Next Issue!Spring Air Conditioning• Green cooling technologiesALSO, DON’T MISS:• Getting the most from your drain camera• The key to commissioning hydronic systems• Products, products, and more products!Index of AdvertisersAdvertisersPageAeroflo 9A.O. Smith 2Bradford White 35Chillventa 21Dahl Bros. Canada 25Emerson 30Fluke 14Gastite 29General Pipe Cleaners 10Grundfos 31Habitat For Humanity 26Honeywell/Genetron 17Image Wear 27Judo 9Kohler (West) 18LG 6Madok Mfg. 24MEET Show 28Mitsubishi 3Mobilio 7Newmac Mfg. 22PAT Institute 13P&HVAC 18, 33Raptor 31Rehau 20Ridgid 36Selkirk 11Taco Canada 8Thermo Mfg. 5Uponor 15, 16Victaulic 4Watts Industries 32Zurn Industries 12Literature Showcase 34Grundfos, Rehau, Ridgid,Soler & Palau, Sporlan, TacoLiterature ShowcaseFollowing are some of the latest catalogues, manuals, software and productbrochures from the industry’s leading manufacturers. To receive a copy, pleasecircle the corresponding number on the Reader Service Card in this issue, fill outyour contact information, and mail it or fax it to (416) 620-9790.Educational videoREHAU introduces an informative nine-minuteradiant heating system video for contractors Thevideo explains features, benefits and applicationsof REHAU’s RAUPEX® cross-linked polyethylene(PEXa) based system, including details onsystem functions, testimonials from contractorsand information to educate potential radiantheating customers. The video is available fordownload at www.na.rehau.com/heating.REHAUCircle no. 136R410A componentsSporlan’s new 410A Catalogue has a comprehensiveoffering of components that will help simplifysizing and selection for the installation orconversion of systems using refrigerant 410A.The 45-page publication includes product offeringsand capacities for mechanical expansionvalves (from 1/3 to 60 tons), moisture and liquidindicators, filter-driers, distributors, hot gasbypass valves and a complete offering of electronicvalves and controls.Sporlan Div. Parker HannifinCircle no. 139BVS Vent SetsBelt Driven / SWSI Arrangement #10 / Class 1Construction / Nonoverloading 8.1. Wheel.Available in both Standard Bl and Restaurantconfiguration. A full range of sizes (10-36) providesairflow performance from 500 CFM toover 24,000 CFM with static pressure up to 5 in.w.g. To obtain a catalogue, contact Soler & PalauCanada 1-866-733-0233www.solerpalaucanada.comCircle no. 137Taco has issued its new Hydronic Systems &Components catalogue. It features the full-rangeof hydronic equipment and accessories for residentialand commercial applications. Sectionscover circulators, electronic controls, air eliminationproducts, valves and accessories, radiant systemsproducts and water recirculation products.The catalogue also contains information on thenewly introduced FloPro contractor developmentand training program.Taco Inc.Circle no. 140New RIDGID full lineproduct catalogueRidgid recently introduced its new full linecatalog. The 208-page catalogue, which is now infull color, features new products, expanded productinformation, product selection charts andhelpful tool tips. A visual product index isprovided to enhance the overall easy navigationof the catalogue. Call (800) 769-7743, visitwww.ridgid.com or e-mail info@ridgid.comRidgidCircle no. 138Hydronic guidebookThe new Hydronic Heating and Hot WaterRecirc Systems Handbook from GrundfosPumps offers insight into the proper applicationand installation of a broad range of hydronicand domestic hot water recirculation systemcomponents. These include multi-pump zonecontrols, isolation valves and the company’sbroad offering of wet rotor, three-speed pumptechnology.GrundfosCircle no. 141

Incredible hot water delivery from a space-saving,convenient package.HIGH PERFORMANCESERIES FEATURESWhen the application calls for lotsof hot water, call on the HighPerformance Series from BradfordWhite. The High PerformanceSeries , available in 25 and 55-gallon capacities, combines someof the best aspects of tankless andtank-type water heaters: A smallfootprint and high volume hotwater deliverability.High Performance models achievetheir tremendous output with thehelp of high BTU inputs, aspecially designed Helical Fin flue,the Optimizer TemperatureControl System and the Hydrojet2 Total Performance System.Find out how the HighPerformance Series can help yourcustomers get all the hot waterthey need.Visit www.bradfordwhite.com ortalk to your Bradford White salesrepresentative.• HIGH INPUT-25 gallon (GX2-25S) –78,000 BTU/Hr55 gallon (GX1-55S) –80,000 BTU/Hr• Helical Fin Flue - Maximizes heatexchange capabilities• Optimizer Temperature ControlSystem - Bradford White'sintegrated mixing device• Hydrojet2 Total PerformanceSystem - Designed for higher inputapplications• Standard 4" Venting• Side Tappings For Space HeatingBuilt to be the Best www.bradfordwhite.com • 866.690.0961©2007, Bradford White Corporation. All rights reserved.Circle Number 142 for More Information

YOU CAN HANDLE ALIKE THISIt’s durable. It’s reliable. It’sversatile. There’s nothing like itin the world for pressing tubingup to 4". A new lithium ion batterydelivers twice as many pressesper charge. A sleek design and270° barrel rotation increasesaccess to tight spots. And thefive second cycle time increasesproductivity. RIDGID RP 330 B –get a handle on one today.The Emerson logo is a trademark and service mark of Emerson Electric Co. ©2008, RIDGID, Inc.Learn more and scheduledemonstrations: 800.769.7743or www.RIDGID.com.R P 3 3 0The ultimate pressing technology.Circle Number 143 for More InformationDIAGNOSTICS PRESSING PIPE & TUBE TOOLS DRAIN MAINTENANCE POWER TOOLS