ShopTalk

Living in the 21st century it’s not always easy to keep up with all the innovativeness being thrown around. Everyday the world is introduced to new inventions which throw the old ones under the bus, never to be used again. Due to the fast rate of recent inventiveness, most products tend to be off the Read more

Living in the 21st century it’s not always easy to keep up with all the innovativeness being thrown around. Everyday the world is introduced to new inventions which throw the old ones under the bus, never to be used again. Due to the fast rate of recent inventiveness, most products tend to be off the shelves in no time for their newer bigger brother to reign supreme. It has been this way for a long time, and the only way to stay ahead is to build products that keep their niche within the industry they are sold. One industry has stood out, releasing newer and bolder equipment to their consumers for affordable everyday prices, the plumbing industry. Below is a list of the top 10 plumbing products of yesterday, today, and tomorrow!

 

  1. PEX Pipe – Throughout a half century of pivotal usage in Europe, this tubing has slowly but surely made its way to America. PEX tubing has become the single-most used product in the plumbing industry today, due to its variety of features at a fair cost. Virtually replacing the likes of Copper and CPVC, PEX pipe offers all the same advantages with plenty to spare. At nearly one-quarter the price of Copper pipe, PEX piping offer consumers’ easy installation, freeze-burst resistance, longevity, and most importantly the ability to install without any experience necessary.

 

pex

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.canarsee.com/pex/pipe

 

 

  1. Tankless Water heater – Tankless water heaters have securely positioned themselves among this list, through sheer science and overall production. These water heater units are able to fit inside confined spaces; where they are connected to either a natural gas or electrical supply, to convert cold water to any temperature pre-determined by the consumer. The tankless water heater provides instant never ending hot water supply to any fixture it is installed to. Tankless offers all the advantages of a conventional water heater, minus all the necessary space to install one.

 

 

tankless

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.takagi.com/products/tankless-water-heaters

 

 

  1. Push-Fit Fittings – Fitting are installation products used too connect different plumbing pipes to form one solid piece of piping. They can be used to connect two different types, and usually require a professional to solder, glue, or use another connection method for proper installation. With the invention of push-fit fittings, the professional aspect of connecting two pipes has flown out the window. A simple push of the piping into its corresponding size on a push-fit fitting allows for a tight, secure, and properly connected component. This method of connecting a system has grown quite popular in the industry today, attaining interest from not only plumbers, but Do It Yourselfers (DIY) as well.

 

 

fittings

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.johnguest.com/speedfit/plumbing-heating-2/

 

 

  1. Anti-Siphon Freeze-Proof Sillcocks- Sillcocks used to be re-installed annually due to frigid weather conditions causing breaks and cracks in the equipments. This faltering eventually led to the invention of the Frost Proof Anti-siphon Sillcock faucets we are endowed with today. These Sillcocks are used to prevent the water line from freezing in the winter cold, along with restricting unsanitary water from contaminating the system. These advantages are the key to avoiding costly home repairs, and that’s why these Sillcocks made the cut.

 

silcocks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.americanvalve.com/plumbing/sillcocks/m72as.html

 

 

  1. Automatic Sump Pumps with Back-Up Battery – Sump Pumps are electronically functioning pumps used to remove excess water from a designated area. Their utilization is necessary to get rid of leaks, floods, and many other water related incidents. In some instances harsh weather conditions can cause a residence to not only flood, but lose power in the process. That’s when this little piece of equipments shines brightest. Equipped with a back up battery, this device is the perfect for accommodating its consumer regardless of the circumstances. This capability earns it a spot on the top 10 roster.

 

sump pumps

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

https://www.libertypumps.com/Products/Category/SubCategory/?s=23&c=14

 

 

  1. Macerating toilet – A Macerating toilets is available at all fixture depots where regular toilets are being sold. What makes them special is their ability to degrade any waste sent through the toilet, allowing the consumer to never have the need for a plunger in the residence. Most macerating units function by using a blade to chop down all human waste and toilet paper, in return attaining a smooth comfortable flush every time. A clogged toilet can cost hundreds of dollars to be fixed by a professional. Installing a macerating unit allows many advantages over a long period of time, making it fit perfectly into the 21st century plumbing products.

 

 

toilets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.saniflo.com/homeowners/sfa-product-line/adaptable-grinders-and-compact-grinders-for-toilets/

 

 

  1. Repair clamp – Repair clamps are specifically designed to lock in and hold the pressure and components of a broken or leaking pipe. These clamps are pulled around the pipe and securely tightened using various methods usually utilizing bolts. This allows for easy and quick adjustments to the problem, as opposed to having to re-pipe the damaged area. Considered extremely cost and time effective when compared to other methods, the repair clamp is constantly being utilized by professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

 

clamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.romac.com/clamps/

 

 

  1. Kinetic water Ram – A Kinetic Water Ram is exactly what the 21st century has expected from plumbing innovators. Through the utilization of kinetic energy, this device sends compressed air through the system to break the stoppage. This device can be used with sinks, toilet, and even tubs to quickly and cleanly get rid of clogs and build up. Pump, place, and snap the trigger to release a force of kinetic energy to unclog numerous fixtures? That’s why this product will continue to make the cut for our 21st century plumbing products.

 

ram

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.drainbrain.com/pro/waterram.html

 

 

 

  1. Leak-Seal Tape – Tape is used on a global scale for quick fixes on a variety of different products. Probably the handiest tape to have around is leak-seal tape, which can provide a moisture and chemical resistance barrier to the product while adding corrosion protection. This tape is perfect for everyday fixes such as leaking pipes, faltered hoses, and even exposed electrical wires. For the price it’s being sold, and the abundance of applications it can be applied to Leak-seal tape that proven its value over and over again.

 

 

tape

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Everbuild-EVB2SOSBK-Pipe-Repair-Tape/dp/B004GKSSF4

 

 

  1. Electric Pipe heating cables – Electric Pipe heating cables are only utilized during the cold months of the winter, where the piping in a system is expected to freeze. These cables are wrapped around a pipe and turned on using basic electricity to provide the piping with a freeze-proof resistance. If these safety precautions aren’t taken, the piping could freeze, eventually bursting and causing the owner to shell out big bucks on hefty repairs.

 

cables

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.canarsee.com/12-ft-electric-pipe-heating-cable-110v-120v-66-watt

 

 

 

This article is provided as an “online special” and the views of the author are their own and not the expressed views of Plumbing Perspective.

 

 

 

Have you ever had the experience of someone telling you news that just leaves you in a state of shock? Something that makes you wonder, what really matters? Whether it relates to family, life, or even your job or business. For instance, my wife and I were at dinner a few weeks ago when I Read more

Have you ever had the experience of someone telling you news that just leaves you in a state of shock? Something that makes you wonder, what really matters? Whether it relates to family, life, or even your job or business.

For instance, my wife and I were at dinner a few weeks ago when I received a call. It was from a friend letting me know that a mutual friend of ours had lost their son due to a pulmonary embolism. He was only 30 years old and was simply waiting at their home to have a nice family meal. The mother came into the room and found him on the floor, already passed from this life. We quickly made plans to head south to be with our friends to comfort them in their time of need.

When we arrived, we heard the whole story. Two days earlier their son had called their pastor and asked to have a lunch meeting because he had some questions about life and what happens when we die. Their discussion lasted for a good 90 minutes. Later that week at the eulogy the pastor said he was glad he took the meeting and believed their son got some things straightened out which gave the family some peace, even though he had passed from this life.

At the funeral service at their church, every pew was filled and overflowed. At the reception at their home later on, people had parked 5 blocks away with people lined up outside waiting to get in to share their love for this family. At one point a local restaurant brought over a large amount of food: shrimp, crab, and several desserts. The just left them at the door and said they cared and were thinking of the family.

You may wonder what all of this has to do with you and your livelihood. Perhaps quite a bit more than you know. We all get so busy with our own circumstances but may have no idea what others are going through and how can we show our support and love for someone going through difficulties in their life. This not only relates to friends but to co-workers, employees, boss’s, and customers.

Most of us never forget the people who have comforted us, shared in our sorrows, and encouraged us during difficult times and sometimes, even through tragedy. In most cases, you would esteem this person and care for them as well. Perhaps a boss would have greater respect for that employee, an employee may perform better to honor their manager or boss. Or a customer may become a customer for life and tell everyone they know to use your services and why they should trust you. All because you cared and comforted them during their time of need. We can all testify that we all prefer to by from people we like and people that are like us.

My message is this; be sensitive to your employees, co-workers, and yes, even your customers. We occasionally get a reaction from others that seems over the top. Perhaps an employee will be frustrated, a customer will immediately go off on a rant about how you are taking advantage of them, etc. Realize that it may not even be anything you have done. They may just be feeling the pressure of life and may feel overwhelmed.

So keep your composure and don’t react out of passion, slow down your speech, and discuss the matter. Or calmly clarify your position with compassion if they have misunderstood you. If they have overreacted, in most cases they know and aren’t sure of how to handle their current emotions. Ask them if there is anything they need to share or if they would be willing to allow you to offer any support for them. We do not know what tomorrow brings. If we live like it, we may have a happier boss, hard-working and trusted employees, and even more business with life-long customers who can provide the type of advertising money simply can’t buy.

Warmest Regards,

 

Jim Hinshaw

Perfect for plumbers, DIYers or other tradesmen, Olympia’s WD180 is a mini lantern with many versatile features and can be taken almost anywhere. In addition to sitting upright, you can kick out its feet to angle the light or use the built-in D-ring to hang it. The magnetic base makes it convenient for mounting on Read more

Perfect for plumbers, DIYers or other tradesmen, Olympia’s WD180 is a mini lantern with many versatile features and can be taken almost anywhere. In addition to sitting upright, you can kick out its feet to angle the light or use the built-in D-ring to hang it. The magnetic base makes it convenient for mounting on any metal surface.

With 180 lumens, this mini lantern can light up sink cabinets or other work areas. It is rechargeable with a built-in micro-USB charging port and has multiple brightness settings. It is available for purchase at www.olympiaproducts.com for $29.99.

 

 

Wilderness WD180 Lantern for contractors

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marketing Representatives LLC (MRL) representing the OS&B® (Oakville Bending & Stamping, Ltd.) is introducing a patent-pending, self-guided, self-sealing ITD Series of Island Tub Drains that can be mounted on free-standing island tubs, claw tubs and regular tubs. The ITD Series allows for freestanding tub locations to be defined at the rough-in stage allowing the tub Read more

Marketing Representatives LLC (MRL) representing the OS&B® (Oakville Bending & Stamping, Ltd.) is introducing a patent-pending, self-guided, self-sealing ITD Series of Island Tub Drains that can be mounted on free-standing island tubs, claw tubs and regular tubs. The ITD Series allows for freestanding tub locations to be defined at the rough-in stage allowing the tub to be installed over a finished floor. The ITD Series can help installers and renovators position a free-standing bathtub in minutes rather than hours.

“Not only does the ITD Series save the plumber numerous steps during installation of Claw Foot and Island Tubs, but long after the tub is in use, it makes for a cleaner and more stable setting for the tub and tile. A true innovation,” says Tom Hamilton, National Sales Manager for MRL. The ITD Series more than makes up for its cost in time savings.

No more hand-maneuvering or manipulating the island tub into position. Installers can simply attach the correct tailpiece (supplied) or ABS Reducing Bushing (also supplied) to the bath drain and lower the tub into the specially designed self-guided rubber seal. Remove the tub by simply lifting, saving time and money.

The ITD Series saves installers hours of installation time by defining tube installation at the rough-in stage there by reducing unnecessary handling and damage to the tub. The ITD-35 is tailpiece mounted on the tub prior to positioning. The island tub drain models available are ITD-35 ABS Island Tub Drain, ITD-5135 PVC Island Tub Drain and are ID-357 Cast Iron.

OS&B®, founded in 1975, is a leading Manufacturer and Distributor of Plumbing Products. Located in Oakville Ontario, OS&B is Canada’s largest manufacturer and Distributor of Waste & Overflows, Traps, Lavatory Drains, Tubular Brass Fittings and various other plumbing parts. OS&B® services the Wholesale and Retail Industries. OS&B manufactures for and supplies to some of the largest OEM brands in the world offering in-house product design and testing in order to address specific needs and requirements. Exclusive trademarks of OS&B® include Clicker™, Cable-Drive® and Fill&Drain™. OS&B® has earned a reputation for offering innovative and high quality products at competitive prices. OS&B products come in many of today’s most popular finishes, including Brushed Nickel, Pearl Nickel and Venetian Bronze.

Creative Cleanout Covers offers a variety of custom specialty cleanout covers, designed for homeowners, and businesses that want add a special touch to their home or office by covering the chrome. Founded by master plumber and visionary Duane Heaton, a premier plumbing contractor who specializes in new construction and service of some the finest custom Read more

Cleanout Covers

Creative Cleanout Covers offers a variety of custom specialty cleanout covers, designed for homeowners, and businesses that want add a special touch to their home or office by covering the chrome.

Founded by master plumber and visionary Duane Heaton, a premier plumbing contractor who specializes in new construction and service of some the finest custom built homes. Creative Cleanout Covers is backed by over 30 years of experience and 21 years in Business in the Plumbing industry.

After establishing an impeccable name in the plumbing industry Duane decided to launch his first decorative product line, Creative Cleanout Covers. “Over the years we have found many clients who invested in their dream home or extensive remodel, office, store or restaurant, asking us if there were any options to cover the ugly chrome clean out. Each time a client asked this question we would have to let them down with ‘No, there is nothing out there except the chrome.’ In my research, I have never found anything other than chrome clean out covers, until NOW! Creative Clean Out Covers’ does just that… we COVER THE CHROME. And we are very excited to offer a designer cover just for you!

This premier line of decorative cleanout cover products currently offers 5 designs with 5 finishes. Duane Heaton continues to develop his decorative cover line to satisfy market demand. Our company takes pride in a reputation based on the highest level of quality and workmanship.  Experience Quality and Dependability since 1994.  Made in Orange County, California, U.S.A.