By Donnie Hornback I had always envisioned my son taking over my company after me. As parents, we dream of watching our children prosper in their careers and want to do whatever we can to help them succeed. When you own a business, having them follow in your footsteps seems like the perfect way to Read more
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By Donnie Hornback
I had always envisioned my son taking over my company after me. As parents, we dream of watching our children prosper in their careers and want to do whatever we can to help them succeed. When you own a business, having them follow in your footsteps seems like the perfect way to ensure their success.
I saw my company, Hornback Plumbing, as a way to create a family legacy. When my son Jesse began working with me, it filled me with immense pride. Seeing my career and business becoming something we could share together was thrilling and exactly what I had hoped would happen. Soon, I could hand the reins over to him and step away.
(eft to right) Donnie and Jesse Hornback.
What I didn’t consider is that this may not have been what he wanted.
Jesse had been working to impress me. He started taking on responsibilities he thought I wanted him to take on and shied away from different sectors of the company where his interests truly lay. He was working hard, but that’s all I could see; I didn’t realize that his heart wasn’t in it.
In 2022, after several conversations with Jesse, I decided to sell the company to Leap Partners. But it wasn’t until months later that Jesse confided in me that he had been overwhelmed by the idea of succeeding me. The sale came as a relief for him and ended up changing both of our lives for the better. Since the sale, I’ve been able to watch him become independent and flourish in his career — freed from the burden of my expectations.
It was an eye-opening moment for me and allowed me to gain perspective on the things I learned about the special nature of working so closely with one of your children.
Collaboration is vital
Working with your children in an intensive industry like plumbing can create a working relationship that’s overbearing for them. You can’t just move the same parent-child dynamic into business and expect it to work. Make sure you keep an open dialogue and create an atmosphere of collaboration. Being stubborn with your own ideas all the time won’t work. There are likely times when they might know better than you.
I remember one instance when Jesse was adamant that we needed a heavier truck to pull an excavator. While I disagreed, I trusted his judgment, and it turned out he was right. It was the perfect truck for that project and is one that will continue to benefit our company for years to come.
Failure can be good
I found one of the hardest parts of working so closely with your children is letting them learn from their mistakes. As parents, it’s instinctive to protect them; but they must have the freedom to learn on their own and make their own mistakes. Don’t throw them to the wolves, but minor setbacks can be perfect learning opportunities. Sometimes, failure is the best way to reach success.
Above all else, trust them
The best advice I can give is simple: Trust your kids. Understand that what you want might be entirely different from the path they see for themselves. After hearing Jesse’s relief about the sale, I realized how essential it is to have a transparent relationship when working with your children. I didn’t have this kind of relationship with him before, and now I can see this had been stifling his personal development.
It’s OK for them to not want what you want. Finding a partner like Leap that helped us walk through these challenges, while supporting our company, was such a relief. They helped our company through the transition and provided support for us along the way.
Since the acquisition, I have seen Jesse prosper in his career. He’s found his passion within the company without having the pressure of becoming the boss and can now pursue his own career path.
Stepping back from what I wanted allowed my company’s legacy to remain intact and alleviated the pressure on Jesse. Now, with the help and guidance of Leap Partners, he’s in a position where he can truly thrive professionally — in the way he wants to. And I’ve never been prouder to be his father.
Author Bio: Donnie Hornback is the general manager of Hornback Plumbing, a member of the Leap Partners family, operating in South Central Kentucky. He started the company in 2005 and has since expanded his services to include more than 20 home services associates, including his son Jesse.
Xylem, Chris Long Foundation’s Waterboys initiative and Water Well Trust partner to ensure reliable water supply for local Richards family Brett, Paula and their son, Chaz Richards will have secure access to safe and reliable water, thanks to a recent collaborative effort between Xylem Inc., the Water Well Trust (WWT) and Waterboys – a charity Read more
Xylem, Chris Long Foundation’s Waterboys initiative and Water Well Trust partner to ensure reliable water supply for local Richards family
Brett, Paula and their son, Chaz Richards will have secure access to safe and reliable water, thanks to a recent collaborative effort between Xylem Inc., the Water Well Trust (WWT) and Waterboys – a charity initiative founded by two-time Super Bowl Champion, Chris Long. As part of the project, the family received a comprehensive upgrade, including all necessary equipment and installation required for drilling a new well and building a pump house. Additionally, project partners worked to update the property with fresh mulch and a new coat of paint. Donations from local distributor Warren Pump & Supply Co., well driller and pump installer Mount Water Well Drilling, as well as The Vinyl Institute who donated PVC piping material, rounded out the project and were instrumental to its success.
“We’ve known the Richards family for years and I’m glad we can help them during this challenging time. Our goal is to ensure they have plenty of good, clean water in their home, so they won’t have to worry about water issues anymore,” said Todd Mount, Mount Water Well Drilling. “I think this project will be a blessing for their family, and it’s a blessing for us to be able to help. One of the things I love about this business is that we’re always helping someone get good water in their house, no matter what the situation is – that’s what we do.”
Since 2008, the Richards family has faced severe water shortages due to a low water supply in their well and an outdated casing. Plans to replace the defective well were put on hold due to unexpected medical issues for both Brett and Paula. This left the family struggling with basic needs, limiting showers to just three minutes, not using their washer for five years and barely using the tap. As the water supply continued to worsen, caring for up to four foster children became increasingly challenging, with even flushing the toilet becoming an issue at times.
“Our family has struggled with low water resources for years, adapting to a lifestyle that many wouldn’t imagine—from taking quick, military-style showers to timing our laundry days carefully. When we got the call about this project moving forward, it was an incredible blessing,” said Brett Richards, Water Well Trust beneficiary. “The thought of finally being able to turn on the water and enjoy a proper shower or even consider a garden in the future is overwhelming. We’re truly grateful for this opportunity to improve our daily lives.”
“Providing clean, reliable water to families like the Richards is at the heart of what we do. Every family deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing they have sustainable safe water in their home, and we’re honored to be a part of making that a reality,” said Chris Long, 2018 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award winner and founder of the Chris Long Foundation.
The Richards family’s well upgrade marks the 19th HometownH2O project, an extension of the Chris Long Foundation’s domestic water initiative working alongside WWT and Xylem to provide clean, sustainable water to communities in need. Water scarcity issues currently leave more than 2.2 million Americans without access to clean water, making this joint effort between Long, his Foundation’s Waterboys initiative and Xylem a vital resource for families across the country.
“We are incredibly proud to be part of this impactful initiative for the Richards family. By providing them with a new well and pump house, we’ve been able to address their critical water needs and offer a renewed sense of stability,” said Susan O’Grady, senior director of marketing, building services and agriculture, Xylem. “This project exemplifies our commitment to delivering innovative water solutions and underscores the significant impact that secure access to clean water can have on a family’s quality of life.”
Xylem, in conjunction with its Goulds Water Technology brand, is engaged in regular water well initiatives to provide secure water access to rural areas, striving to increase public awareness of the challenges surrounding lack of water access. For more information about the Chris Long Foundation’s HometownH2O projects, visit waterboys.org/hometown.
Pfister® Faucets continues its celebrated docuseries, hosted by country music star and Army Reserve soldier Craig Morgan, spotlighting real-life stories of plumbers’ successes and the individual approaches that enabled them to achieve their dreams through a career in plumbing. Pfister® Faucets, a trailblazer in the plumbing industry, proudly announces the launch of the fifth season Read more
Pfister® Faucets continues its celebrated docuseries, hosted by country music star and Army Reserve soldier Craig Morgan, spotlighting real-life stories of plumbers’ successes and the individual approaches that enabled them to achieve their dreams through a career in plumbing.
Pfister® Faucets, a trailblazer in the plumbing industry, proudly announces the launch of the fifth season of their docuseries, American Plumber Stories. Over the past four seasons, this series has captivated audiences nationwide, showcasing the inspiring stories of plumbers who have overcome challenges to pursue their dreams in the plumbing trade.
Season 5 will present perspectives from plumbing experts in Australia, Alaska, Canada, Hawaii, and California, shedding light on the common challenges faced by plumbers worldwide. For the first time, the show has ventured outside the United States, creating great excitement about reaching an international audience—especially the next generation of plumbers.
Craig Morgan Returns for Season 5
Country music star and Army Reserve soldier Craig Morgan will return as the show’s charismatic host. Craig’s authentic passion and profound connection to the stories of tradespeople make him the ideal guide on this journey of discovery and inspiration.
“This year, Pfister’s American Plumber Stories is heading to my second home state of Alaska and beyond, and five seasons in, it remains an honor to share these stories of inspiring men and women on the frontline of the worldwide plumbing trade,” Craig Morgan shared.
Strong Alliance Partners and New Partnerships
Three new partners joined forces with American Plumber Stories for Season 5. The International Code Council, NIBCO and AprilAire will help expand the reach of the series to their sizable audiences in the US and around the world. They are joining the ranks of industry leaders RIDGID, Cintas, Oatey, and the PHCC in this important mission.
“NIBCO partnering with American Plumber Stories was a natural fit, as we are committed to supporting and elevating the plumbing industry,” said Ashley Martin, president and COO, NIBCO. “The U.S. is in critical need of the next generation of plumbers. This show is helping to engage young men and women in an authentic way to help change the perception and inspire successful and fulfilling careers in the plumbing trades.”
Beyond the Boundaries
Season 5 tracks down some interesting plumbers around the world.
- Maui–Arecently retired plumber lost his house and everything he owned in the Lahaina fire disaster. The set-back motivates his son Raymond to recruit the next generation of plumbers to help build Lahaina back.
- Australia– Martin is the “Crocodile Dundee” of the plumbing industry in Tasmania. He specializes in servicing remote locations that he reaches by helicopter and small “bush” planes.
- Alaska– In this episode we explore the beauty of Alaska and what it’s like for Bill to work as a plumber in an extreme climate.
- Vancouver Island, B.C.– This episode tells the inspirational story of Mary Anne who employs an all-female team of plumbers. Her 100K+ social media followers know her as @the_ladyplumber. Discover why she is a role model to tradeswomen.
- Salinas, CA– Plumber Instructor Jorge helps rehabilitate inmates by teaching them the plumbing trade in the Soledad State Prison. We have an open discussion with the warden on why this approach works so well.
- Victorville, CA– Meet the Motherflushers. They are young and passionate about plumbing and have changed the perception via social media– well beyond the borders of the United States.
For more information and to watch the new episodes of American Plumber Stories, please visit www.americanplumberstories.com.
Interested plumbers who would like to share their own story can do so here: www.americanplumberstories.com/pages/i-am-an-american-plumber.
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Known as quick-connect, push-on or push-fit, these breakthrough plumbing products are often at the center of plucky online debates. Since entering the U.S. plumbing market in 2004, the design and technology of push-to-connect fittings have revolutionized the industry as a quick, reliable, tool-free solution for connecting small potable water pipes. Driven by feedback from plumbers Read more
Known as quick-connect, push-on or push-fit, these breakthrough plumbing products are often at the center of plucky online debates. Since entering the U.S. plumbing market in 2004, the design and technology of push-to-connect fittings have revolutionized the industry as a quick, reliable, tool-free solution for connecting small potable water pipes. Driven by feedback from plumbers, this product class has evolved robust designs made of materials like rubber, silicon, brass and stainless steel, incorporating key components such as o-ring seals and gripping mechanisms.
But are they best used only as a temporary fix as some users claim, or can you count on them for a variety of long-term uses? We let the facts flow freely so you can make an informed decision on whether to give these fittings a try.
Rapid Adoption and Evolution
Two decades of innovation have made push-to-connect fittings indispensable for applications ranging from residential plumbing to advanced manufacturing. The most common uses are in residential service and repair, including some new builds. They went through a lead-free transition to newer models that are stronger and more durable, accelerating adoption further.
The American-made SharkBite Max model sets the industry standard with a stainless-steel retainer around the outside and a pressure rating of 250 psi. This doubled the burst pressure limit of the original model, the most popular push-to-connect fitting. A deeper insertion depth allows the new model’s steel teeth to engage the pipe more effectively, creating a stronger connection that eliminates the need for an interior tube liner.
Primary Benefits and Advantages of Push-to-Connect Fittings
Using push-on fittings means shorter installation times, fewer errors to correct, and easy, versatile disconnections and reconfigurations. No soldering, crimping, glue or special tools are needed for installation. Unlike conventional approaches, the pipe doesn’t need to be dry before making a connection. Water can be pouring out of a pipe and these fittings can still be quickly connected without a tool, even in a tight space, making them an excellent option for pipe repairs.
Knowing leaks and pipe aging are inevitable, it’s a good practice to keep some push-fit fittings handy. If it’s a failed joint pinhole leak, a push-to-connect fitting can be a fast, reliable and inexpensive solution, especially in areas where pipes are prone to freezing and bursting.
Other strengths of today’s push-fit models include:
- Perfect for transitioning between pipe materials, including copper, PVC, PEX, CPVC, PE-RT and HDPE (SDR-9)
- Fitting rotates around the pipe even after it’s connected
- Strong manufacturer warranties (SharkBite Max warranty is 25 years)
- Code approved to be buried underground (when wrapped in silicone tape) or installed behind walls
- Compliant with all regulatory changes
The simplicity and efficiency of push fittings have streamlined a handful of core plumbing tasks and even helped address labor shortages by making it easier to get new plumbers out in the field performing repairs quickly. They’ve also made basic and emergency plumbing repairs accessible to DIYers. However, despite their versatility, they’re not ideal for every situation.
Drawbacks, Limitations and Criticisms
Push fittings must be used in the right way to capitalize on their advantages. In the rare case when there’s a problem, installing them improperly or in a spot they’re not designed for is almost always the cause. By keeping a few points in mind, you can make the right decision every time on when and where to use them.
Here are the main things to consider for a smooth experience:
Initial Cost: The best push-to-connect fittings can be a bit pricier than soldering or crimping. You’ll save big on labor installing them faster, but the upfront cost per fitting can be higher.
Compatibility Limits: While leading push-fit fittings are compatible with almost all pipe types, they don’t work with everything, like galvanized steel or flexible hoses. And they still require specific fittings for certain transitions, like polybutylene to CTS tubing. This adds a step to some jobs and possibly to inventory management.
Not for All Applications: Standard push fittings are certified for potable water and radiant heating installations, limiting their use in industrial plumbing. Exceeding the certified limits (250 psi and 200°F for Max fittings) can lead to failures, so they’re not suitable for all high-pressure or high-temperature applications.
Designed for Single Use: While push-to-connect fittings can be removed if you need to adjust or test, they’re not designed to be reused multiple times in permanent installations. The integrity of the seal may be compromised with repeated removal and reinsertion.
Spotting Leaks: All push-to-connect fittings rely on o-rings for sealing. If the fitting isn’t installed correctly — such as failing to deburr the pipe — or gets jarred out of place inadvertently, the o-ring can get damaged, potentially leading to leaks. Although rare, leaks inside the fitting can be tougher to spot, so they might not be noticed immediately.
You’re best off choosing manufacturers that are transparent about the materials they use in their fittings, especially the o-rings since they keep the seal. For example, SharkBite Max o-rings are made of a specific type of rubber called EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), chosen for its durability, flexibility and chemical resistance:
- EPDM is known for its resistance to aging and degradation, making it suitable for long-term plumbing applications
- It maintains its flexibility even at lower temperatures, ensuring a good seal
- EPDM is specifically selected for its resistance to chloramine, a disinfectant chemical often added to municipal water
Of these concerns, leaks are the most hotly debated. Some professionals still hesitate to use push-to-connect fittings behind walls because of concerns about long-term reliability and potential hidden leaks. But after two decades of continuous improvement and in-wall use by plumbers in homes and other buildings across America, these isolated instances can always be traced back to user error. Common causes of fitting failure include:
- Pipe that is unevenly cut, not deburred or not free of debris, potentially preventing a secure seal
- Using the wrong fitting for the wrong application
- Not marking the insertion depth to ensure that you pushed the pipe all the way into the fitting
- Not wrapping fittings in silicone tape that protects it from soil contaminants
- Rough or repeated disconnection
When it comes to quality, the widespread adoption of push-to-connect fittings speaks for itself. But don’t take anyone’s word for it. Test them out for yourself and you’ll see why they’ve become so popular with pros everywhere.
Plumbers Shape the Evolution of Push-to-Connect Technology
You can play a role in shaping this product’s evolution by sharing your thoughts and experiences directly with manufacturers. The best way to help drive the evolution of plumbing technology is for plumbers of all skill levels to share and connect online—post product reviews and reach out with comments and questions on social media or through company websites. Equipment manufacturers can serve you best when they hear from you often, and the most innovative tend to be more responsive to feedback.
Some manufacturers have employees who will share free resources like training materials and demonstrations to help plumbers integrate their game-changing products. If you ask nicely, they might even send someone to walk the job site with you when they can. Dropping the company a line on your favorite social channel is a great way to make another connection that’s built to last.
Written by Matt Glenn, senior product manager at RWC, a market leader and manufacturer of water control systems and plumbing solutions for residential, commercial and industrial applications.
National HVAC Tech Day on June 22nd is the perfect time to acknowledge the dedicated HVAC technicians who work tirelessly to ensure our comfort, often in extreme conditions and challenging environments. This year, Midea, a leading innovator in air treatment solutions, is spotlighting its commitment to the future of the HVAC industry through recent and Read more
National HVAC Tech Day on June 22nd is the perfect time to acknowledge the dedicated HVAC technicians who work tirelessly to ensure our comfort, often in extreme conditions and challenging environments. This year, Midea, a leading innovator in air treatment solutions, is spotlighting its commitment to the future of the HVAC industry through recent and ongoing donations to trade schools and colleges, plus advanced training programs and partnerships aimed at promoting sustainability and technological innovation.
Supporting Career and Technical Education
Midea is dedicated to empowering the next generation of HVAC professionals by educating trade students and donating its advanced heat pump technology to organizations in need, such as the Midea EVOX Central Heat Pump/AHU system with auxiliary heater, Midea IN One-Way Cassette and Midea All Easy Pro High Wall systems.
Institutions like Prosser Career Academy, Chicago Builds, Remington College and Laredo College were exposed to Midea at the 2024 AHR Expo, where Midea participated in a workforce development panel and spoke to over 100 students about career opportunities for technicians and how the professional HVAC landscape is evolving. This initiative led to further collaboration between Midea and these institutions, which were impressed with Midea’s industry expertise and technical leadership. Realizing a need for modern heat pump technology in these training facilities, Midea donated its products at no cost. Now, the donated Midea systems will be used in Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes for installation training, Digital Multi-Meter training and visuals throughout multiple units.
Midea is also active on LinkedIn, posting educational content about its own technology and the industry at large, as well as highlighting its efforts to shape the next generation of HVAC technicians.
A Hub for Training and Education
One of the standout facilities that encapsulate Midea’s commitment to education and training is its flagship showroom, training and distribution center in Fresh Meadows, Queens. This facility serves as a dynamic hub for Midea’s sales, training and service operations. Here, contractors and consumers can interact with, learn about and purchase Midea’s full suite of advanced heat pump products. The showroom not only supports sales and installation services but also functions as an educational center, providing heat pump training, technical communications, consumer tours and collaborations with utilities with utilities like Con Edison and PSEG. Additionally, it serves as a meeting spot for architects, interior designers and Con Edison consultants to provide comprehensive consultation solutions for homeowners, solidifying Midea’s role as a leader in the HVAC industry.
The New York showroom hosts training classes almost every weekend that provide contractors with hands-on experience and professional knowledge about high-efficiency heat pump technology applications and installation, as well as regional home energy incentives. This ongoing commitment to training ensures that both new and seasoned HVAC professionals are well-versed in the latest advancements and best practices in the industry. The facility is also open to the public with on-site staff that can explain the technology and its benefits to the layperson.
Midea was recently honored as the designated brand for instruction at the largest professional training school in New York, the Electrical and HVAC/R Training Center. The program kicked off with a full-day training session at Midea’s showroom in Queens.
Midea was chosen for these initiatives due to its advanced heat pump technologies, comprehensive heat pump product line and active involvement in heat pump education. Midea’s cutting-edge products and commitment to advancing the industry make it a trusted partner for institutions and initiatives aiming to promote sustainable HVAC solutions. Midea’s active participation in public education efforts, including speeches at industry events like the AHR Expo and collaboration with various associations, further cements its position as a technical and thought leader in the heat pump industry that is rapidly growing and evolving.
Industry Thought Leadership
Midea participates in key industry events such as the AHR Expo, the PSEG Electrify Long Island Conference and the Urban Future Lab event at NYU Tandon with a focus on supporting heat pump education and adoption. Midea’s leadership, including Senior Product Manager David Rames and CEO of Ai-Midea Air Conditioning Corp., Dr. Wenqing Zhang, have played key speaking roles showcasing the company’s technological advancements and role in technician training. These engagements provide a platform for Midea to promote its innovative products and to emphasize the importance of energy efficiency and sustainability in the HVAC industry in front of important industry figures.
Involvement in Industry Associations
The Midea America Research Center (MARC) team is actively involved in numerous associations that push and establish heat pump adoption standards, including ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America), HARDI (Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International) and PHCC (Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors Association). By contributing educational content for these organizations and exhibiting at their marquee events, Midea contributes to shaping industry standards and promoting the adoption of energy-efficient technologies.
Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
Midea’s efforts extend beyond product innovation. The company actively participates in initiatives like the “Clean Heat for All Challenge,” in which it was chosen to provide 20,000 packaged window heat pump units to public housing facilities in New York City. This project supports New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act and aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Midea is also a member of the newly formed Heat Pump Action Team (HEAT), an EPA-led initiative that brings together heat pump manufacturers to promote the training, marketing, sales and promotion of heat pumps. Through these efforts, Midea is not only investing in cutting-edge technology but also supporting educational programs and empowering those who will keep our homes and businesses comfortable for years to come.
Celebrating HVAC Technicians
As we celebrate National HVAC Tech Day, let’s recognize the significant contributions of HVAC technicians. By investing in education, technology and sustainability, Midea is paving the way for a brighter, more efficient future in the HVAC industry.