By Siobhan Ashleigh How many horror stories have you heard about home contractors who didn’t do their job well? Invoice2go, a mobile app that allows small business owners to track work and get paid, recently conducted a study of 803 US homeowners that revealed more than 75% of people have had a negative experience working Read more
Articles
By Siobhan Ashleigh
How many horror stories have you heard about home contractors who didn’t do their job well? Invoice2go, a mobile app that allows small business owners to track work and get paid, recently conducted a study of 803 US homeowners that revealed more than 75% of people have had a negative experience working with contractors for home projects. Such terrible experiences have inspired consumer watchdog websites like Contractors From Hell.
According to the homeowners’ survey, a job badly done was the top reason for dissatisfaction, but not the only concern. For plumbing contractors, even if you do a job well, there’s a lot more to giving your client a positive experience, including communication, accurate billing, and convenient payment methods. Every plumber must establish trust with their clients. How? Ranking 2nd in the survey, a full 30% of homeowners cited lack of communication as a reason for their negative experience. To build trust, good communication is essential. Here are 5 tips to help you stay connected to your clients every step of the way:
Be upfront about the job’s timeline and any potential hurdles
Plumbing contractors aren’t traditional employees, so your client won’t be privy to every aspect of your business. Make sure you have more than a verbal contract and handshake. Prepare a contract that specifies deadlines and contingency plans in case something goes wrong. You can hire a lawyer to do this for you, or use an online template to help you build one, like this on Rocket Lawyer.com.
Be professional, but be yourself
From “How to Build Customer Trust” on Inc.com: Jerry Acuff, author of The Relationship Edge: The Key to Strategic Influence and Selling Success says “Every meeting should be a conversation, not a sales pitch. Spend at least half of every customer meeting listening. And make certain the conversation is substantive and about real business issues, not just office patter or sports chit-chat.” However, do get to know your clients. Be curious (to a point) about their lives outside of your business relationship. Don’t be afraid to ask, “How are the wife and kids?”
Provide a professional estimate before agreeing to take on the project
When clients are hit with unexpected expenses, chances are they won’t be calling on you again. This means you need to do your homework and be prepared well ahead of time with all expenses. Look beyond your own business – make sure any subcontractors you work with are also upfront about costs so you’re not having to pass on those surprise expenses to your client.
Use visuals
Most clients are tech savvy nowadays, so attach photos to emails to show your progress on the project. Use a receipts capture app to attach photos to all receipts. Be ready to break down all costs (materials, time, overhead, etc.) to clearly show what your client’s money is going toward.
Love what you do Former MLB player and manager Tommy Lasorda said, “If you love your job, you haven’t worked a day in your life.” If you don’t enjoy what you’re doing as a plumbing contractor, then why are you doing it? Sure, you’re going to have bad days. But overall, you should feel good about what you’re offering. When you value what you do, clients will pick up on your commitment and passion. It will further open your mind to meeting exactly what they need.
As a plumbing contractor, you must work at establishing trust right off the bat with each client you serve. Good communication is vital for this to happen. When you’re honest and open about every step of the project, clients won’t be left in the dark, wondering if you were their best option. Leave them with no doubts and no reason to not contact you again!
Do sweat the small stuff
Plumbing contractors don’t have a well-known company name behind them to help gain a client’s trust. When you work for yourself, you are the face and brand behind the company. So it’s all on you to ensure clients that you have what it takes to get the job done right.
We’ve all heard the phrase, “The devil is in the details.” That’s especially true for a plumbing contractor. Even the smallest of details can mean the difference between gaining or losing a loyal customer. According to a recent survey of 803 US homeowners, the top behaviors that positively reflect the credibility of a service provider are small things we might take for granted:
- Cleaning up after a job – 85%
- Showing up on time – 84%
- Presenting a professional estimate – 78%
- Collecting and providing receipts – 61%
You might be thinking this should be common sense, but when your schedule is full and you’re juggling family, budgeting, recordkeeping, and all the other nuances of your work/life balance, it’s easy to let some of these things slide. How can you ensure these simple things are rarely (if never) overlooked? Here are some tips.
- Clean up (and work) smarter, not harder – Before you begin a job, designate a specific place for all your tools and equipment so they’re not scattered all over the job site. This goes for tech-based jobs too. Laptops, headsets, thumb drives, CDs, etc. – keep them within reach so you don’t have to be up and down looking for them, which wastes time and adds needless frustration. For more physical jobs, clean up as you go if at all possible. Also, make sure you have the proper equipment to clean with. Think ergonomic, dependable equipment that doesn’t require a lot of fuss. This article from Dan MacLeod shares ten important principles when it comes to ergonomics on the job.
- Being prompt is not old-school – There’s no such thing as being fashionably late when it comes to a small business owner’s work. Woody Allen is credited with saying, “Eighty percent of success is showing up.” Make it a point to always be on time. Be careful with scheduling jobs in the first place so you’re not overbooking yourself. It’s better to have a little down time between jobs than to have so much work you can’t make the client’s deadline. Use calendar apps on your mobile devices to set alerts ahead of start time so you’re not caught off guard and have plenty of time to prepare and travel if necessary.
- The power of a good-looking estimate – In the old days, handwritten estimates on carbon-copy paper were adequate. Not so much anymore. In the digital age, you need to be prepared to send estimates that are not only accurate, but look professional. Apps like Invoice2go allow you to do just that. You can add your company’s logo and email (or print) your estimate and send it to your client. Even better, this video shows how you can easily convert estimates to invoices with the same app so you don’t have to do everything twice.
- Don’t toss the receipts – For most of us, our first impulse is to toss receipts into a purse or wallet, where we plan to fetch them later, but lo and behold, they’re often lost to the ages. Designate a spot to store paper receipts for your job, like a zip pouch or other secure container and put in your receipts the moment you get them. If you just hate dealing with paper, use receipt capturing apps on your mobile devices to take digital photos of them. Either way, you’ll always know where they are so you can easily show the client where their money is going. Remember, transparency with billing is crucial to gaining a client’s trust.
- Don’t forget the legal stuff – In a perfect world, we could work and handle everything in our own bubble, but that doesn’t provide you any legal protection should you need it. Make absolutely certain your business is legit on paper – your business name is registered with the state, you’ve got a tax ID number and any necessary licenses and permits. That way, you’ve got some security should you ever come to a legal dispute with a client. The Small Business Administration has some great advice about these legal necessities.
While a job well done is the most important goal, don’t neglect the little details. Just one lost receipt or late deadline can keep you from securing more work. So, pay attention to the small stuff to establish more credibility, and the big stuff will be that much easier.
About Invoice2go
- Invoice2go is a mobile app that makes it easy for small business owners to track work and get paid.
- It’s the number one grossing business app in more than 50 countries
- Used by more than 200,000 customers to send $1 billion in invoicing every month
- Customers: Used by every type of business owner. (Contractors from landscapers, plumbers, electricians, and construction workers, to independent businesses like dog walkers, makeup artists, DJs and caterers, etc.)
- Available in 11 languages
- Website: https://invoice.2go.com
Back in 2012, Scott Smith had a vision and philosophy about serving customers. After becoming a master plumber several years he was looking to take his 20 years of experience as a master plumber to start his own business and make that vision reality. He, his wife, Trina, and his daughter, Anja, would complete a Read more
Back in 2012, Scott Smith had a vision and philosophy about serving customers. After becoming a master plumber several years he was looking to take his 20 years of experience as a master plumber to start his own business and make that vision reality. He, his wife, Trina, and his daughter, Anja, would complete a trio of experts to serve the greater Greenville, South Carolina area. They hold fast to their motto in every detail and with every customer: “The Plumbers who keep their promises.”
Plumbing Perspective spoke with Scott’s daughter and All Clear Plumbing’s Marketing and Business Development Specialist, Anja Smith, to understand what has made their company so special and able to grow so rapidly. “My favorite analogy for the three of us is the three-legged stool.” said Smith. “We each stand as a pillar in our strength as a team member. There is very little overlap in our capabilities, but together, we are unshakeable.”
Between the partners there are very few weaknesses and where there are, they have designed the company to utilize one another’s strengths for the business to run like a well-oiled engine.
Scott acts as their master plumber, field manager, estimator, and training leader. Having a master plumber is the ultimate puzzle master in the field for All Clear Plumbing as they view service plumbing somewhat like a puzzle, with pieces behind walls or underground. “Sometimes you just need that level of expertise in the field.” said Smith.
Scott’s also very involved in shaping the direction of the company as it relates to the mission and the execution of jobs. All Clear Plumbing’s values really come from his vision of how a plumbing company should be run. That being said, he does not have that same experience on the business side. So, when it comes to finances, marketing, and human resources, they rely on the special expertise of Trina and Anja.
Philosophy in action
As amazingly simple their concept is, it’s probably their number one secret of success. “We keep our promises.” Said Smith. “If we say we are going to fix it for X price, we do. If we say we are going to be there, we are. If we say we will call, we do. Any time you enter into a transaction, you are making a promise. The customer promises to pay you in exchange for the promise of solving their problem. That is basic commerce. Yet, it is amazing how often we are someone’s second or third attempt at fixing a problem and we hear, “Yeah, but are you actually going to show up?” Never mind on time, just are we going to show up! It really boggles my mind how people run businesses this way, but it happens.”
It’s something that All Clear Plumbing drills into their employees too. They are making promises to the customer and they take that seriously. Employees understand how sacred the schedule is because the company’s promise is on the line. And All Clear Plumbing keeps them. And they don’t do maintenance contracts or anything similar because it doesn’t fit their culture or philosophy of keeping their plumbers free from becoming salesmen.
From an employee’s perspective, All Clear Plumbing is a bit of an anomaly in their market. They exclusively serve the plumbing market with a mix of both commercial and residential services. They pay their employees hourly wages, have a full benefits package, and most importantly, work as a team. Their highly skilled employees are motivated to practice their craft in plumbing, not sales.
“That honestly doesn’t exist at another company in town. In some markets, that may not be anything special. But around here, the commissioned “technician” model prevails in service.” said Smith. “This often leads to “competition for pay” and outsourcing independent plumbers with 1099 status for many other contractors.”
It’s exactly this difference in employee motivation that creates such a different experience for their customers. “We have a fair hourly rate because we hire good, experienced plumbers who work efficiently and effectively. Customers don’t have to worry that a plumber is going to come in and push a service they don’t need.” Said Anja. Bonuses are structured around productivity rather than sales. In fact, needless upselling is a fireable offense as noted in their handbook.
One of the ways All Clear Plumbing conveyed their value to customers from the beginning was to let them know that they have plumbers, not technicians. “Since South Carolina doesn’t have any licensing for technicians in the state, that dialogue We hire plumbers, not technicians has hit home with our community.” Smith said. “We also like to say that the title “technician” is pronounced with a silent “sales” at the beginning.”
A focused vision to keep their promises
Most services they perform are via commercial work through residential property managers and specialized plumbing services for restaurants and banks. Commercial customers have a higher volume of need and are interested in forming a vendor relationship with All Clear Plumbing. Anja does a great job pursuing these relationships through various networking strategies and knows the payoff over several years will be multiple jobs. “It just makes sense for us and our available resources. The best way to ensure we can keep our trucks busy full time is a focus on recruiting commercial customers.” said Smith. Most of their residential customers come from word of mouth and online review sites like Yelp and Angie’s List, where they have a fantastic reputation that speaks for itself.
In addition, their focus is on service and they stay clear of performing remodel or new construction work. “If it involves the phrase “rough in” we aren’t interested.” Smith said. That can be hard to describe to customers, but in order to keep their “promises” they have to manage their schedules effectively. For instance, with five trucks on the road, if half of their crew is tied up on a remodel job for four to eight hours a day, three days a week, this offers very limited flexibility in the trucks they can run calls with which makes their response time to emergencies longer. “My schedule is too tight for my call volume. In order to serve our customers well, we need to have the scheduling flexibility that service plumbing demands.” added Smith.
A growing fleet with experience and technology
Including the three owners, they currently have 11 employees and growing. In fact, they are growing faster than they ever imagined. They have 5 service trucks, three apprentices, a manager’s truck, two full time office workers, and one part time office worker and looking for someone to join their office team because the call volumes are becoming unmanageable for one person to handle. They may add a sixth service truck soon as well. But the last time it took them six months to find a skilled plumber to fit their philosophy on serving customers.
They are also working with an organization in town to put together an internship program for summer. Perhaps taking upper class high schoolers coming in for three to four weeks and working about 40 total hours, mostly in the field but also in the office and in community relations.
For a company of their size, they have a lot of fun toys as well. “Early on, we knew who we wanted to be able to go up against and what their capabilities were. We had to be able to go toe-to-toe, and that has created a culture around technology application. So, that includes everything from back of house operations to locating equipment, leak detection, hydrojet, camera inspection machines … the works.” said Smith.
There’s a few technologies they have considered but have passed on because their market volume doesn’t make sense. They don’t buy new technology just for the sake of it. “We visit the trade shows and go to local seminars to keep up with the curve, and then spend our budgets well.” she said.
Training and education is also highly important to All Clear Plumbing. However, continuing education is not a requirement in the state, so the opportunities aren’t as good as they are in other states. “We have a US Department of Labor approved apprenticeship program, so there are internal clinics that we do for that. But for our more experienced plumbers, we rely on demonstrations at our local supply houses and keeping up with trade publications.” said Smith. This lack of opportunity though is one of the reasons they became a founding member of their state Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Contractors Association chapter. Smith sits on the PHCC board and helped shape the strategic mission of the organization. Education is the chapter’s number one priority.
Adding value to the community
All Clear Plumbing has a rather unorthodox approach to marketing. Their goals boil down simply to this: adding value in the community. To them it’s not about writing sponsorship checks, but by being present and a leader in the community. So, not only do they join community groups including the local chambers, they are active in them, participating in luncheons and volunteer at events.
Probably their most out-of-the-box idea to date is their podcast. Smith noted, “As I was trying to figure out how to be a better referral partner to our commercial customers as well as provide value for the community, this weird idea struck me to start a local podcast.”
“I created a locally focused podcast, not about plumbing, but about our area. It’s about uncovering the best kept secrets, things to do, resources, non-profits, and the topics vary. I interview local professionals who I trust to provide excellent advice and insight and every single episode is sponsored by our company, complete with a plumbing tip of the week.” added Smith.
It’s a long-term strategy for All Clear Plumbing. Building an audience takes a long time but it meets the goal of adding value to the community while being a good corporate partner to their commercial customers. “It’s a win-win-win for everyone, and a ton of fun to pull off.” she said.
They started their company with a passion and a drive to be “the plumbers who keep their promises”. This philosophy has grown their business so rapidly they are reaching a threshold where processes and procedures matter to sustain this high volume effectively and efficiently. It’s about fine-tuning to make sure they are running like well-oiled engine. Their focus thus far has been on external consistency and building a nearly flawless reputation. Now they are working to make sure internal processes are in order so they will always maintain their now famous reputation of keeping their promises.
Showcasing Our Industry’s Past and Future, you need to visit The Plumbing Museum, dedicated to the history, progression, and advancements made in our industry, the plumbing trades. There’s a museum dedicate to nearly everything under the sun, why not for plumbing? After all, where would we be in the world without the health benefits of clean Read more
Showcasing Our Industry’s Past and Future, you need to visit The Plumbing Museum, dedicated to the history, progression, and advancements made in our industry, the plumbing trades. There’s a museum dedicate to nearly everything under the sun, why not for plumbing? After all, where would we be in the world without the health benefits of clean water and proper sanitary systems?
Located in Watertown, Mass., it began back in 1979 when Russell Manoog took his father’s vast collection of antique plumbing products to start the American Sanitary Plumbing Museum. It has since gone over several transformations. Under the direction and vision of J.C. Cannistraro, along with the operational help of the Plumbing & Heating Contractors Association of Greater Boston, the Plumbing Museum was substantially upgraded in 2007 within a stunning, fully renovated ice house.
Plumbing Perspective reached out to Linda Veiking at The Plumbing Museum to discuss its history and role in the industry. “The museum is dedicated to the heritage of the plumbing industry and is driven by its mission to educate generations young and old about work in the trades. There is no other Plumbing Museum in this country, and I don’t believe there is another in the world that I am aware of.” Said Linda. The Plumbing museum is a great place for young people to learn about the importance of sanitation and the need for people in the trades. There is a growing shortage of young people entering the trades to become skilled plumbers and the museum is a great bridge to help encourage and inspire children and even young adults to enter the trades to become a plumbing professional.
The museum’s traffic has steadily increased over time being featured on the cover of the Wall Street Journal in December 2013, local TV in Boston, and will be featured in an upcoming episode of “Mysteries at the Museum” on the Travel Chanel. The museum not only receives plumbers and tradesmen from all over the country, they are regular hosts to “Technical High Schools, senior citizen groups, elementary schools, and the Cub Scouts.” added Veiking. In addition, “We have hosted many corporate meetings, baby showers, wedding showers, birthday parties, holiday parties and believe it or not we have had 3 weddings here.”
The nostalgic atmosphere of the museum showcases items from the eighteenth century including a washdown flush toilet, a Kohler electric sink, and a vintage earth closet. “Some artifacts are from the 19th century right up to today’s modern toilet that I say “does everything but cook your supper for you.” Adds Veiking. There’s a unique library full of educational and entertaining books, catalogues, and trade journals throughout the history of the plumbing trades.
The Plumbing Museum is greatly supported by multiple private and corporate sponsors such as the Kohler family. “We held a gala three years ago and picked three of the High Schools that came to visit and asked their teachers to make a “Wish List” of things they would like in their classroom that the schools were just unable to buy for them. Through our sponsors and vendors, we were able to fulfill all the items that these teachers had on their lists. We were also able to contribute money to “Building Pathways”, a pre-apprentice school for the trades. You should have seen the look on these kids’ faces when we brought these modern up-to-date tools and machines for them to work with. It was just heartwarming.” Said Linda. “We will be hosting another gala in 2017 and again, pick three different schools to help through our various sponsors and vendors.”
Future growth is still anticipated for the museum. “We are now planning an exhibit about the “Importance of Sanitation”, not only in our county but for countries around the world. There are 2.6 million people in this world today without any sanitary means and it’s 2016!” Said Veiking.
They also recently launched the Manoog Family Artist in Residency Program, a new cultural initiative designed to support careers in both the arts and trades. The program provides artists with the financial and physical resources needed to explore the relationship between art and industrial technology. Named after the founding family of the Plumbing Museum, the Manoog Family Artist in Residency Program offers artists the opportunity to harness their passion and creativity to produce meaningful artwork, develop their skills and give back to the community, all within the space provided by the Plumbing Museum and its partner organization J.C. Cannistraro. By the end of each residency, artists will develop lasting artwork for themselves, the museum, and the community. It helps the museum fill its mission of building awareness for the plumbing industry.” Artists are provided with full access to studio workspace, fabrication and welding resources, materials and a cash award.
So the next time you are in the Boston area, make sure you check out The Plumbing Museum. It’s a key piece in the history and future of or industry. It’s available seven days a week for events and group visits. Contact Linda Veiking at 617-926-2111 to plan your next visit.
Every contractor loves getting a brand new tool. After all, you rely on tools to install, repair, and service your customers. Every faucet, pipe, valve, and water heater requires proper tools for installation or repair. If you have been to a trade show recently, some of the favorite gathering centers for plumbing contractors are the Read more
Every contractor loves getting a brand new tool. After all, you rely on tools to install, repair, and service your customers. Every faucet, pipe, valve, and water heater requires proper tools for installation or repair. If you have been to a trade show recently, some of the favorite gathering centers for plumbing contractors are the tool manufacturer booths showcasing their latest modern tools with grand presentations and hands-on demonstrations.
Here in 2016, we certainly have some of the latest power and hand tools to make a contractor wish they had an unlimited budget to simply buy them all. New technology, materials, and innovation has driven manufacturers to develop tools that make your job easier, faster, and in the end, more profitable. The days of low powered batteries with short life cycles are gone. Advancements are made in power, torque, battery life, speed, durability, and innovation has even come to the pipe wrench.
Plumbing Perspective reached out to several wholesale plumbing supply companies to find out some of the latest trends in tools contractors are purchasing. We spoke with Ally Steinke, Supply Chain Manager of First Supply in the upper Midwest. Their top three new selling tools are Milwaukee’s M18 Super Hawg, M12 Drain Snake, and the M18 Press Tool. Steinke said, “Contractors like the Super Hawg because it has the capacity and long enough run time to get them through the day. They no longer need cords to run their tool and it has a slipping clutch where it won’t grab if it hits a knot in the wood. And the Drain Snake runs off the M12 battery system so contractors can get through an entire day of service calls on one battery charge.” She notes that contractors should be on the lookout for a new M18 battery from Milwaukee. “This will have the longest run time on the market which will be needed for the high capacity tools.” Steinke added.
We also spoke with Jeff Puckette, National Counter Alignment and Implementation Manager for Ferguson for a view on some of their top selling new tools for plumbing contractors. One of their top new sellers is the Ridgid RV 12 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum. Puckette states that “Ridgid has re-launched their professional-industrial grade wet/dry vacuum cleaners. The unique feature of this model – originally launched in late 2015 – is the motor is positioned on the bottom, providing stability and easy access for filter maintenance and debris removal.” Milwaukee’s latest tools are hot items with contractors also as Puckette adds, “Milwaukee has launched a significant amount of innovative new products in multiple categories over the past two years. Two prevalent products for our customers are the M12 drain snake and a pipe wrench with an integrated cheater bar. And you cannot have a discussion about new Milwaukee tools without mentioning their One-Key™ Bluetooth technology and app which allows owners to customize, track and manage tool performance and location.” There are some exciting new tools launching soon says Puckette, “DeWalt has many product launches scheduled for the upcoming months, with a lot of excitement building around the release of their new FLEXVOLT battery platform. These batteries can alternate between 20V and 60V, depending upon the tool platform needs. The technology also allows tools that previously required a power source to be able to run cordless. Another item worth mentioning is the new 20V Max* Cordless Thread Rod Cutter which allows for cordless cutting of steel bars in the field.”
As a contractor, tools are your livelihood. They need to perform effectively under the most rugged and stressful conditions. They must be reliable and perform the function they were purchased for effectively every time. In the end, each tool should come with a return on investment. Some allow you to install products for customers that would be difficult or impossible to install without the proper tool. Others simply save you time and efficiency, allowing you to finish a job quickly and move on to the next job to take on additional business. In some cases, this allows you to offer reduced pricing to customers to win a bid over your competition and still provide the same quality with reduced installation and service time. This is especially key for commercial contractors that can couple a product and an installation tool that can offer lower construction cost because of the reduced labor costs on a job. For residential plumbers and contractors, imagine being able to fit another job in every day with tools to help reduce service time.
Plumbing Perspective has reached out to some of the top tool manufacturers in the trades to compile some of the hottest trends in power and hand tools for contractors in the plumbing trade. These names have become staples in the industry such as Milwaukee, Ridgid, DeWalt, Bosch, Rothenberger, and Hilti. In another article, we show you the Top 15 New Tools that have been introduced in 2016 to improve service performance and your bottom line.
Check out the Top 15 NEW Tools for 2016
Contractors are very passionate about the tools they use and the brands they buy. After all, every installation and repair needs one. Plumbing Perspective reached out to contractors, wholesalers, and tool manufacturers to find out what the top new power and hand tools are for contractors and plumbers. We’ve listed each one of them for Read more
Contractors are very passionate about the tools they use and the brands they buy. After all, every installation and repair needs one.
Plumbing Perspective reached out to contractors, wholesalers, and tool manufacturers to find out what the top new power and hand tools are for contractors and plumbers. We’ve listed each one of them for your benefit.
1. Milwaukee: The Cheater™
The Cheater™ Pipe Wrench is the first adaptable pipe wrench in the industry. Through its new-to-world, 3-length adaptable design, the Cheater™ gives users ultimate versatility on jobs that previously required multiple sizes of traditional pipe wrenches. The Cheater™ is joined by a full line-up of entirely new steel and aluminum pipe wrenches.
2. DeWalt: Press Tool DCE200
Capable of pressing pipe fittings from 1/2″ to 4″ in copper and stainless steel pipe. The Press Tool is capable of completing the full range of presses listed above and is compatible with a wide range of crimping heads and attachments for different materials and applications. The head of the tool pivots 320° to maneuver in tight spaces and the crimping jaws are protected from corrosion with a black galvanized coating. This tool also features the Crimp Connect™ System, a bright LED work light that helps to illuminate the workspace and an LED panel which powers on or off the tool, indicates battery state of charge, cycle completion, and if recalibration or service of the tool is needed. It also includes a shoulder strap for convenience when transporting around the jobsite.
3. Rothenberger: ROCAM 4 WiFi with Touch screen
Compact, self-contained pipe and drain camera inspection system ideally suited for plumbing and pipe work contractors, drainage technicians and emergency maintenance companies.
The ROCAM 4 is suitable for pipework 40-300 mm diameter and supplied with the 30 m x 7mm pushrod as standard which can be extended by 8m with the addition of the optional mini module. 30mm diameter self-levelling, waterproof with 25 LEDs, which all capture both video and still images which can be viewed on the 10.4 removable touchscreen monitor.
The system is housed in a tough ABD body and is powered by a Li-on 18v 3Ah rechargeable battery and an optional 230v, 50-60Hz mains pack is also available.
Key Features:
- Direct recording both still and video images with in-built editing options
- On-screen keyboard and menus for making, naming and highlighting damage
- Wi-Fi transmission of both picture and video to external devices such as Tablet/Phone
- Mini-USB connection and SD Card for data storage
- Self levelling camera head
- Transmitter frequency 33HZ for use with the ROLOC PLUS locator or other receivers
4. Bosch: HMD200 Daredevil™ Hole Saw
Bosch’s premium carbide teeth mean greater speed, time savings and a better result on the job. This results in fast, clean holes in multiple materials: wood, drywall, tile, brick, block, cement block and aluminum. The new Daredevil hole saw offers up to 10x greater speed, longer life than a Bi-Metal hole saw. The cup is 50 percent deeper than standard hole saw to accommodate more applications. Plus, the multipurpose pilot bit is optimized to material so the right bit always fits the right application.
5. Milwaukee: M12™ Drain Snake Kit
The ultimate service plumbing solution for tough jobs through 2-1/2” drain lines; and weighing only 10 lbs., it’s the lightest professional drain cleaner on the market. It’s unique, hybrid design provides the benefits of both handheld and floor based drain cleaners in one machine. The tool’s fixed drum shield with flat base protects users and fixtures while providing maximum tool support for easy cable feed. Powered by REDLITHIUM™ Battery Pack which delivers more work per charge and more work over pack life.
6. RIDGID: STRAPLOCK® Pipe Handle
This Pipe Handle simplifies the installation and maintenance of large diameter plastic pipe by helping users securely grip the pipe and apply force in all directions.
The Pipe Handle grips plastic pipe 3 to 8 inches in diameter, features rapid size adjustment to quickly move between pipe sizes and has a specialized strap that provides maximum grip while minimizing marring. Its fixed handle position helps align and hold joints in place while glue sets.
It is ideal for wet and cold environments where getting a grip on pipe can be difficult, gives maximum leverage in tight quarters and has an innovative locking design for quick applications. The handle can also be used in pairs to aid in complex installations.
7. ROTHENBERGER: ROBEND® 4000 Bending Tool
This new tool comes with all of the same features and benefits of its predecessor, the ROBEND® 3000, this new tool offers precise cold powered bending on pipes with a larger diameter (up to 1 3/8 inch).
The ROBEND 4000 makes easy work of production bending, eliminates the purchase and storage of unnecessary fittings, and increases work safety with few joints. ROTHENBERGER’s patented ROLUB system has less friction and creates smooth, precise bends each time.
Other features include:
- Production of repeated alternate angled bends
- Automatically shuts off when desired angle is obtained
- Strong enough for bending stainless steel
8. DeWalt: Threaded Rod Cutter DCS350
Capable of quickly and cleanly cutting a range of threaded rod sizes including 1/4″, 3/8″ and 1/2″ mild steel rods and ¼”and 3/8” stainless steel rods. The four sided rotatable cutting die allows the user to cut each of the three different sizes of threaded rod with the same tool just by rotating the cutting dies to the size needed. The unit does not create chips or sparks while cutting, providing a burr-free cut that can easily be threaded onto fasteners. The Threaded Rod Cutter is part of the DEWALT Perform & Protect™ line of power tools which is designed to provide a high level of one or more of the following: control, dust containment, or low vibration, without sacrificing performance. The Threaded Rod Cutter eliminates fast moving cutting blades or wheels which can bind up when cutting or trimming threaded rod.
9. Milwaukee: M18 FUEL™ SAWZALL® w/ ONE-KEY™
Cutting faster than corded, the M18 FUEL™ SAWZALL® w/ ONE-KEY™ delivers over 40% more run time and 5X longer tool life – making it the most powerful 18V cordless reciprocating saw on the market. Compatible with ONE-KEY™, users will be able to customize the tool’s performance for unrivaled productivity, as well as track and manage the tool through the app.
10. Bosch: PS42 12V Max EC Brushless 1/4″ Hex Impact Driver
The Bosch PS42 is the first 12V EC brushless impact driver from Bosch, and the smallest in its class. The Bosch PS42 delivers a maximum torque rating of 975 In.-Lbs. and weighs just under two pounds (and that’s with a 2.0 Ah battery). The EC brushless motor provides improved motor efficiency, which results in longer runtime, a more compact size, and lighter weight. In addition, the EC brushless motor provides 2x the life of the previous generation due to less heat generation and fewer components that can wear down. The PS42 also sports the Bosch Performance Control System, which allows users more control by adjusting the maximum speed and torque. An included belt clip provides quick and easy storage, while the three-ring LED light illuminates even the darkest work spaces.
11. DeWalt: 20V MAX* XR® System
The Drill/Driver and Hammer drill, each feature a powerful brushless motor that supplies 820 Units Watts Out (UWO) for a faster application speed. DEWALT’s proprietary 3-speed transmission delivers maximum power and speed for the tough applications, including 2-9/16” self-feed bits. At just 8.4 inches long and 4.7 pounds, DEWALT’s Premium 3-Speed Hammer drill (DCD996) features up to 2.8X faster application speed at 0-38,250 BPM and 2,250 RPM, is up to 82% more powerful, and provides up to 2.8X more runtime. An ultra-bright 60-Lumen LED light at the base of each unit has three settings, including a spotlight mode with 20-minute delay optimal for dimly lit areas on jobsites. Featuring durable nitro-carburized metal ratcheting chucks and comfortable handle grips, these tools are GUARANTEED TOUGH® for durability on the jobsite and include coated and sealed switches that help to resist moisture and dust contamination.
12. HILTI: TE 4-A18Cordless rotary hammer
The TE 4-A18 is a hand-held, 18-volt cordless rotary hammer for drilling in concrete, masonry, steel and wood and for driving and removing screws. It has a specially designed hammering mechanism for superior drilling performance up to 1/2″. Features include single impact energy: 1.5 ft-lbs, reduced hammering frequency: 5200 impacts/minute, and rotation speed gear 1 under no load: 1090 rpm.
It even includes an electronic overload protection system. The TE 4-A18 switches off automatically in the event of overloading. When the control switch is released and then pressed again, the power tool immediately regains full power. In addition, the temperature of the power tool’s electronics is monitored to ensure extra-long life. In the event of the electronics overheating, the drive spindle will not rotate even when the control switch is pressed fully. The power tool can be used again as soon as the temperature is within the permissible range.
13. RIDGID: MR-10 Magnetic Locator
This Magnetic Locator is designed to make finding buried iron and steel objects faster and easier. The MR-10 provides more precise readings than metal detectors, isolating only ferrous objects (iron-containing), and ignoring non-magnetic metals such as aluminum and copper.
The MR-10 quickly finds buried property-marking pins, paved-over manhole covers, turf covered valve boxes, septic tanks, cast iron pipe and drainage grates, as well as hidden pipes and studs in buildings. It accurately locates objects at great depths.
Its sleek form and ergonomic design make it easy to handle for use in general plumbing and public works. The sensitivity level can be adjusted to identify the precise location of ferrous metal objects at depths of up to 10 feet, depending on the iron content.
14. Bosch: GCL 2-160 Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser with Plumb Points
The Bosch GCL 2-160 self-leveling cross-line laser with plumb points delivers all-in-one versatility for the pro who only has room for one cross-line laser tool in his toolbox. The highly visible lines and points can be turned on independently or together for horizontal level, vertical level and plumb transfer applications. This laser has a visible range of 65 ft., and the receiver mode allows it to work with a Bosch line laser receiver for a working range of up to 165 ft. The GCL 2-160 features VisiMax™ technology, which monitors power consumption to maximize line visibility and extend battery life. The smart pendulum system self-levels the tool, and it indicates out-of-level condition. The manual mode locks lines for use at any angle by just switching the tool on in locked mode. Plus, it features a robust construction – IP54 ensures splash water/dust protection for years of dependable operation. It comes with the RM 1 magnetic rotating mount that rotates 360° and includes a ceiling grid clip for use in ceiling-grid applications.
15. Milwaukee: M18 Radius™ LED Compact Site Light
Aptly named for its ability to fill an entire workspace with 360 degrees of light, this new high-output area light provides maximum coverage for task, area, or overhead applications. For the most complete control over light positioning, the Site Light’s 360 degree light can be directed through the use of Bay Switches. It also has the versatility to hang upside down or horizontally through the use of integrated hanging features.
CONCLUSION
Each of these new tools offer capabilities that can help contractors save time during installation, improved quality, increased durability, and raise profits by being able to service more jobs every day. We look forward to the advancements made next year and show the top tools of 2017.