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  • October 2023

    • October 2023

    Watt to Acquire Bradley Corp.; Changing Specs: The Proof is in the Pudding; Pfister Unveils Season 4 of American Plumber Stories; The Digital Evolution; The Future of Electric Boilers; Women in Plumbing & Piping; Septic System Project in Navajo Nation; and much more.
    Uponor
    Uponor North America President Andres Caballero cuts the plastic pipe 'ribbon' to open the company's new Experience Center.

    The Outstanding Customer Experience

    Sept. 29, 2023
    Manufacturers are learning what service professionals have known for a while now: customers want experiences.
    Oatey
    The Engage Cleveland Generation ceremony took place Wednesday evening, where Oatey was recognized as Company of the Year. In attendance were representatives of Oateys Emerging Professionals Group, as well as Neal Restivo, CEO, and Katherine Lehtinen, SVP of Marketing. (Second and third from left)

    Oatey Co. Receives Company of the Year Award From Engage! Cleveland

    Sept. 29, 2023
    Engage! Cleveland is a community-engagement organization for young professionals and business/community leaders.
    Iapmo White Space

    IAPMO Opens 94th Annual Education and Business Conference

    Sept. 28, 2023
    During the conference’s opening session, IAPMO honored numerous individuals with awards recognizing unique contributions and long-standing support.
    Photo 17699677 © Domdeen | Dreamstime.com
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    The Future of Electric Boilers

    Sept. 28, 2023
    CONTRACTOR talks with Lochinvar Sr. Product Manager Dan Rettig about decarbonization and what it means for the boilers of tomorrow.
    Laars Heating Systems Co.
    FT SERIES LIGHT COMMERCIAL BOILERS

    Weekly Product Gallery: Laars, Werner, Xylem, Speakman, Esco Tool, Brass Knuckle

    Sept. 28, 2023
    This week's gallery highlights a light commercial boiler series, a 5-in-1 professional ladder, an industrial pump line, a hospitality line kitchen faucet, a portable pipe-beveling...

    More content from October 2023

    photo 55936227 © ian allenden dreamstime com
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    Women in Plumbing & Piping: A Community of Support

    Sept. 28, 2023
    The new group empowers women through mentorship, networking, education and recognition.
    High 5 Plumbing
    The new headquarters and training center in Golden, CO.

    High 5 Plumbing Opens New HQ in Golden

    Sept. 27, 2023
    New facility includes state-of-the-art training facility and impressive amenities.
    Iwsh Circle Solid W Outline Blue Cmyk[1]

    2023 IWSH Awards Recognize Exceptional Volunteers

    Sept. 27, 2023
    Winners were announced during the opening session of IAPMO's 94th annual Education and Business Conference.
    Charlotte Pand F

    Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Hires New Chief HR Officer

    Sept. 27, 2023
    Tim Clinkenbeard will join Charlotte Pipe as Chief Human Resources Officer in October.
    Pat Linhardt
    The tag from the second boiler mentioned in this column.

    Oil-Fired Boiler Twofer

    Sept. 27, 2023
    Oil fired boilers are not very common in the Cincinnati market. So I was surprised one day when I had two calls that each had oil-fired boilers.
    United Plumbing
    Dsc02201

    5 Insights to Enhance Customer Focus

    Sept. 26, 2023
    The plumbing industry demands more than just technical expertise; it requires exceptional customer service and relationship-building skills.
    Merit Brass
    A selection of company products on display at the recent open house.

    Merit Brass Celebrates the Opening of Its New Distribution Center

    Sept. 26, 2023
    The open house event was attended by many local wholesale distributor customers and their customers who were eager to see the new facility.
    Photo 183521816 © Maksim Safaniuk | Dreamstime.com
    Sanitary sewer system distribution chamber and pump station.

    Department of Labor Finds Tamuning Contractor Endangered Employees Installing a Sewer Line

    Sept. 25, 2023
    Superman Corp. faces $73K in penalties for one willful, two serious violations.
    PPI
    The new PPI eLearn course and the updated AWWA C904-22 can help installers meet the rapidly growing need to replace lead pipes with PEX. Photo courtesy of PPI-member company REHAU.

    New Online Course in Potable Water Service Announced

    Sept. 25, 2023
    The ASPE-accredited PEX Water Service Line Course will provide CEU credit.
    The new facility on the grounds of Purdue University.

    Purdue University to Launch Trimble Technology Lab

    Sept. 22, 2023
    The lab will be focused on teaching and research for construction management technology.
    Photo 217658546 © One Photo | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 217658546

    Smart Water Systems and Cybersecurity

    Sept. 22, 2023
    To enjoy the many benefits of IoT devices while avoiding the threat of large-scale cyber attacks, IoT security best practices must be adhered to at all times.
    Niagara Conservation Corp.
    SABRE TOILET WITH STEALTH TECHNOLOGY

    Weekly Product Gallery: Niagara, Sloan, Ridgid, in2aqua, Picote, Copeland

    Sept. 21, 2023
    This week's gallery highlights a low-flush toilet; a smart monitoring system for restrooms; a drain cleaning drum machine; an urban faucet collection; a steamer for curing patches...
    Sonnhalter
    The Sonnhalter crew with a truck full of donated tools and materials.

    14th Annual Sonnhalter Tool Drive Raises Over $100,000 Worth of Donations

    Sept. 21, 2023
    Since Sonnhalter began its efforts in 2010, it has collected $517,000 in donations to benefit the Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity.
    Oatey Logo Rgb (2)

    Patrick Aquino Receives AIM/R Golden Eagle Award

    Sept. 21, 2023
    Oatey Senior Vice President, Wholesale, recognized for outstanding partnership and commitment to the manufacturers' representative channel.
    Photo 70463562 © Lane Erickson | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 70463562

    How to Navigate a Workers' Compensation Audit

    Sept. 21, 2023
    A Workers’ Compensation Audit examines a company's payroll records and class code to determine whether the full required premium payment was made.
    Iapmo White Space

    IAPMO to Host Water Demand Calculator™ Virtual Summit

    Sept. 20, 2023
    The third annual virtual event will be held from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM EST Nov. 7.
    Taco
    The TRU-Building crew at the grand opening of their new HQ.

    TRU-Building Walks the Walk for Energy Efficiency with System M

    Sept. 20, 2023
    Sustainable construction company's new HQ features a fully-packaged, integrated, air-to-water heat pump solution.
    Ntea Logo

    NFL Hall of Famers Jerome Bettis, Emmitt Smith Rush to Work Truck Week® 2024

    Sept. 19, 2023
    Former running backs will team up to deliver the keynote speech at NTEA's Annual Meeting.
    Publicworksroadshowlogo

    Leaders Visit Dallas’ Able Pump Station to Tout Benefits of Water Infrastructure Investment

    Sept. 19, 2023
    City and federal officials join the Engineering & Public Works Roadshow to highlight how public works, engineering improve communities with infrastructure investment.
    Watts Logo

    Watts Water Technologies Inc. to Acquire Bradley Corporation

    Sept. 19, 2023
    Enhances diversification of water solutions portfolio through acquisition of complementary strategic platform that provides the opportunity for further growth.
    Andy J. Egan Co.
    Shane Shook (left) and Robert Derby pose with a product of the new welding procedure.

    UA and Andy J. Egan Co. Collaborate to Develop New National Weld Procedure

    Sept. 19, 2023
    A certification in the new proceedure will soon be available to all UA members and contractors.
    Photo 238576698 © Kostiantyn Voitenko | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 238576698

    Using Two-Way Texting for Enhanced Customer Engagement

    Sept. 19, 2023
    The more you explore, the more I think you’ll find that text messaging can play a larger role in communications than most contractors are using it for.
    Photo 34161856 © Monkey Business Images | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 34161856

    Focus on Your Benefits Plan to Attract Skilled Labor

    Sept. 19, 2023
    Address the skilled worker shortage by offering benefits that will attract workers, including health insurance, retirement, and training.
    Photo 82175923 © Maxuser2 | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 82175923

    The Digital Evolution: How + Why We Must Embrace the Shift

    Sept. 18, 2023
    Digital tools will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the construction industry.
    Sera Systems
    The Sera Customer Hub.

    Three Options for Enhancing Field Service Management

    Sept. 18, 2023
    Reviews of field management software, including the Sera SaaS platform, the Service Pro end-to-end cloud-based platform, and the ServiceDeck field management solution.
    Photo 94398298 © Alexxxey | Dreamstime.com
    Household boiler room with heat pump, storage tank and circulators.

    How Contractors Can Benefit from Today’s Electrification Trends

    Sept. 18, 2023
    Here are some ideas on how to push electrification forward and take advantage of the monetary savings and benefits.
    EPA
    Septic Smart

    EPA and Partners Celebrate SepticSmart Week Sep. 18-22

    Sept. 18, 2023
    Annual event focused on educating homeowners and communities on the proper care and maintenance of their septic systems.
    Photo 41962386 © Saiva | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 41962386

    Leading With Positivity

    Sept. 18, 2023
    Ultimately, being a positive leader is the result of a decision you make. Decide to be positive.
    Home Depot Logo

    The Home Depot Celebrates Loyalty Members During Pro Xtra Week

    Sept. 18, 2023
    Retailer conducts week-long celebration of Pro Xtra members from September 18-24, 2023.
    Abc National Abc 1

    ABC Announces 2023-2024 Tech Alliance Members

    Sept. 18, 2023
    Comprised of 15 companies, the Tech Alliance leverages technology resources to help ABC members develop people, win work and deliver work safely, ethically and profitably.
    Nibs Logo

    NIBS Announces BEST6 Call for Abstracts

    Sept. 18, 2023
    The Building Science and Technology conference takes place March 2024 in Austin.
    IWSH
    No Year Purple 1030x728

    IWSH Plumbing Champions Builds New Connections with European Partners

    Sept. 15, 2023
    The WorldSkills Ireland 2023 National Competition will be hosted Sept. 20-22 at the Royal Dublin Society complex (RDS).
    Photo 210428058 © Josieelias | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 210428058

    The Future of The Trades is Being Threatened by Gen Z

    Sept. 14, 2023
    Jobber’s first annual Blue-Collar Report finds parental pressure, social stigma make Gen Z hesitant to pursue trade careers.
    Ferguson
    Skilled Trades Pay 2019 Residential Stp Residential 6486

    Unlocking Untapped Potential by Empowering Women to Close the Skills Gap

    Sept. 14, 2023
    Ferguson steps up as founding sponsor to champion Women in Plumbing and Piping (WiPP).
    Lochinvar
    VERITUS AIR-SOURCE HEAT PUMP WATER HEATER

    Weekly Product Gallery: Lochinvar, General Pipe Cleaners, Noritz, T&S Brass, Microban, KEG Technologies

    Sept. 14, 2023
    This week's gallery focuses on a heat pump water heater, a water ram drain cleaner, a no-roof tankless water heater kit, a light-duty commercial kitchen faucet, a utility sink...
    Photo 11464189 © Yordan Rusev | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 11464189

    Monthly Construction Input Prices Increased 1.5% in August

    Sept. 14, 2023
    Nonresidential construction input prices also increased 1.5% for the month, but are up just 0.2% from a year ago.
    Phcc Ef

    Joseph Sullivan Joins the PHCC Educational Foundation Board of Governors

    Sept. 14, 2023
    This distinguished group is responsible for guiding the development of industry education and training programs for contractors and their employees.
    Photo 16980532 © Kurhan | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 16980532

    Maximizing Enhanced Home Plumbing Sales

    Sept. 13, 2023
    How do we equip plumbing technicians with skills to communicate all the options available to effectively homeowners?
    Service Titan Logo

    AI Takes Center Stage at ServiceTitan’s Annual Pantheon Conference

    Sept. 13, 2023
    ServiceTitan unveils new AI-powered solutions to equip contractors with powerful tools to grow their businesses.
    NCCER
    Core Plus Plumb Weld Carp1146x600

    Three Top Crafts Now Available as Part of NCCERconnect Core + Level 1 Series

    Sept. 13, 2023
    Each unified course includes the full selection of digital content and resources from Core: Introduction to Basic Construction Skills, Sixth Edition.
    Photo 72077470 © Jenifoto406 | Dreamstime.com
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    Got Lemons? Here's How Your Plumbing Business Can Make Lemonade

    Sept. 12, 2023
    There are those who, although struggling, are making it in the current business climate.
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    ABC’s Construction Backlog Indicator Steady in August

    Sept. 12, 2023
    Construction Confidence Index reading for sales, profit margins and staffing levels moved higher in August.
    Photo 38824700 © Kmeine | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 38824700

    Does Your Tech Habla Español?

    Sept. 11, 2023
    Using technology with Spanish language capabilities can help fight the skilled labor shortage.
    REHAU
    Technicians installing REHAU O2 Barrier pipe.

    REHAU Partners with Reece-Hopper Sales LLC to Serve Mechanical and Plumbing Market in Texas

    Sept. 8, 2023
    Reece-Hopper is a top-tier plumbing, HVAC and hardware sales agency founded in 2018.
    Blobid0 1694183562873

    Eleventh Annual Careers in Construction Month to be Celebrated This October

    Sept. 8, 2023
    Month-long campaign will be led by the National Center Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and Build Your Future (BYF).
    Iapmo White Space

    IAPMO Seeks Technical Subcommittee Members for Development of American National Standard IAPMO Z1393

    Sept. 7, 2023
    The scope of the standard covers bathroom vanity assemblies intended for both residential and commercial applications.
    Oatey North Coast99 2023 Logo

    Oatey Co. Named Top Workplace in Northeast Ohio for 13th Time by NorthCoast 99

    Sept. 7, 2023
    NorthCoast 99 is an annual recognition program and event now in its 25th year.
    IWSH
    The mound systems are able to treat wastewater from the homes as well as eliminate the leach line ponding that had become a common occurrence.

    IWSH Completes Septic System Pilot Project in Navajo Nation

    Sept. 7, 2023
    Navajo Nation is the largest land area held by a Native-American tribe in the US. More than 30 percent still don’t have a tap or toilet in the home.
    Logo Water Tec Tm Corporate 250 Pix

    A. O. Smith Acquires Water Tec of Tucson

    Sept. 7, 2023
    Acquisition of the Arizona-based water treatment company will expand A. O. Smith's west coast presence and support its growth strategy.
    Uponor
    The Society Orlando, a two-tower, 1.5 million-square-foot, high-rise project, now under construction in downtown Orlando’s Central Business District.

    Florida Mechanical Contractor Cuts Installation Costs 70% with Prefabricated Hydronic Piping System

    Sept. 7, 2023
    Colwill Engineering combines Uponor’s new pipe prefabrication services with timely job-site deliveries to reduce installation time, crew size on high-rise apartment job.
    Nibs Logo

    National Institute of Building Sciences Announces Built Environment Award Winners

    Sept. 7, 2023
    Building Innovation 2023 concludes at the Washington Hilton.
    Hamilton Plumbing, Heating, AC & Rooter
    A Hamilton Plumbing, Heating, AC & Rooter service van with the company's new branding.

    Kansas City Plumbing & HVAC Company Rebrands as Hamilton Plumbing, Heating, AC & Rooter

    Sept. 7, 2023
    The unified brand will include a consolidation of Roger the Plumber and will include a redesign of logos and graphics on both companies' trucks and signage.
    IAPMO
    Upc Umc

    IAPMO Publishes Spanish Versions of 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code and Uniform Mechanical Code

    Sept. 6, 2023
    Terminology was reviewed by an IAPMO Spanish translation working group to verify that it is consistent with Spanish speaking professionals and communities.
    Photo 20970608 © Sebastian Czapnik | Dreamstime.com
    Two workmen drilling a residential geothermal field.

    RPA, IGSHPA Sign MoU to Advance and Promote Geothermal Heating and Cooling

    Sept. 6, 2023
    The collaboration brings the geothermal industry together for consistency in the approach, installation, and guidance of geothermal systems.
    Photo 22365744 © Nikkytok | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 22365744

    Public Relations Helps Your Brand Achieve Stardom in Your Market

    Sept. 6, 2023
    When it comes to boosting your reputation and name recognition, there are few tools in your marketing strategy more powerful than public relations.
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    Dreamstime M 80961551

    How Technical Education is Evolving to Meet Workforce Needs

    Sept. 6, 2023
    Technology-based learning platforms are more effective for skilled trades training, delivering measurably improved outcomes and retention rates.
    Fluoramics
    HINDERRUST FOR METAL FABRICATION AND WELDING

    Weekly Product Gallery: Fluoramics, Laars, Watts, Krohne, Olympia Faucets, MAC Faucets

    Sept. 5, 2023
    This week's gallery spotlights a rust inhibitor for metal fabrication and welding, a tankless water heater series, freeze sensors for PVBs, an electromagnetic flow meter, a sensor...
    Oatey Logo Rgb (2)

    Oatey Co. Promotes Patrick Aquino to Senior Vice President, Wholesale

    Sept. 5, 2023
    The eight-year Oatey veteran will now take on an enhanced leadership role, including responsibility for customer service and technical support.
    Parkway Construction Services
    An external shot of the new living and learning center.

    Changing Specs: The Proof is in the Pudding

    Sept. 5, 2023
    Nashville-area Parkway Construction Services changes plumbing spec on college campus building to cut costs on material and labor.
    Taco Contractor Rewards

    Taco Comfort Solutions Partners with Contractor Rewards

    Sept. 5, 2023
    The free program designed to reward professional contractors, plumbers, builders, and remodelers.
    Photo 149190097 © ArchitectureVIZ | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 149190097

    The Future of Remodeling with Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality

    Sept. 5, 2023
    AR and VR can help designers and contractors streamline communications, minimize revisions, and increase customer satisfaction.
    Westand 700x270

    Report on Comments Toward Development of 2023 WE·Stand Now Available for Online Download

    Sept. 1, 2023
    The WE•Stand is a model code developed by IAPMO to provide minimum requirements that optimize built environment water use practices.
    Photo 28656045 © Barlic | Dreamstime.com
    Geothermal heating system.

    Report on Comments Toward Development of 2024 USHGC, USPSHTC Now Available for Download

    Sept. 1, 2023
    The ROC is the technical committee report on the actions taken by the technical committee.
    Photo 54413411 © Pavalache Stelian | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 54413411

    Nonresidential Construction Spending Increased Slightly in July

    Sept. 1, 2023
    On a seasonally adjusted annualized basis, nonresidential spending totaled $1.08 trillion and is up 16.5% year over year.
    Photo 9883408 © Magnus Skjølberg | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 9883408

    Nonresidential Construction Dominates Industry Job Creation in August

    Sept. 1, 2023
    Nonresidential construction employment increased by 21,000 positions on net, with growth registered in all three major subcategories.
    Department Of Labor

    Department of Labor Announces Proposal to Restore, Extend Overtime Protections

    Aug. 31, 2023
    The proposed rule would guarantee overtime pay for most salaried workers earning less than $1,059 per week, about $55,000 per year.
    Pfister Faucets
    Photo Jun 09 2023, 8 27 23 Am

    Pfister Faucets Unveils Season 4 of 'American Plumber Stories'

    Aug. 31, 2023
    The acclaimed docuseries returns, featuring real-life tales of plumbers' triumphs, with an innovative focus on solutions that created the life of their dreams through a career...
    Photo 112548614 © Sylvain Robin | Dreamstime.com
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    5 Tips to Ease the Burden of Large Fleet Management

    Aug. 30, 2023
    Managing a large fleet comes with a unique set of challenges that—when gone unaddressed—can negatively affect productivity and profitability.
    United Rentals
    United Rentals Trench Safety 1

    7 Trench Safety Misconceptions That Put Workers at Risk

    Aug. 29, 2023
    Understand the facts to better protect your workers in the trenches.
    Iapmo White Space

    IAPMO Seeks Technical Subcommittee Members for Development of National Standard

    Aug. 29, 2023
    A new standard, Z1390 for adult changing stations, will be developed by this TSC.
    Photo 119358639 © Welcomia | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 119358639

    Propane Autogas Offers Versatility, Reliability for Your Plumbing Fleet

    Aug. 29, 2023
    Although electric vehicles are taking center stage in the media you have more options than just hybrid and electric vehicles for your fleet.
    Photo 7507349 © Cornelius20 | Dreamstime.com
    Dreamstime M 7507349

    Construction Job Openings Decreased by 23,000 in July

    Aug. 29, 2023
    Industry job openings decreased by 23,000 from June but are up by 10,000 from the same time last year.
    Abc National Abc 1

    ABC Opposes New OSHA Proposal to Allow Union Access to Merit Shop Jobsites

    Aug. 29, 2023
    The proposed rule would allow an employee to choose a third-party representative, such as an outside union representative, to accompany an OSHA inspector into nonunion facilities...
    Strikepoint Group Holdings

    Horizon Group Holdings Acquires Gervais Mechanical

    Aug. 29, 2023
    The acquisition will mark the company's third in Massachusetts.
    Bradford White
    For The Pro

    Heather Ripley and Bradford White Launch Video Series to Help Contractors Take Their Business to the Next Level

    Aug. 28, 2023
    Author of “Next Level Now: PR Secrets to Drive Explosive Growth for your Home Service Business” shares insights and experience in new series on For the Pro® Platform.
    Uponor Logo

    Uponor Awarded Gold Level by EcoVadis Sustainability Rating

    Aug. 28, 2023
    This achievement reflects Uponor’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and transparency in its ESG reporting.
    Rinnai Logo

    Daniel Zrubak Joins Rinnai America Corporation as General Manager, Rinnai Canada.

    Aug. 28, 2023
    Most recently, Zrubak was Vice President Canada, DeLonghi Canada.