Ontario, Calif. — With the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issuing the first national drinking water standards for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO®) continues to lend its expertise and leadership to helping manufacturers and the industry navigate the changes and ensure a seamless transition. IAPMO’s subject Read more
Plumbing
Ontario, Calif. — With the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issuing the first national drinking water standards for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO®) continues to lend its expertise and leadership to helping manufacturers and the industry navigate the changes and ensure a seamless transition.
IAPMO’s subject matter experts will participate on committees and working groups for numerous relevant standards, including NSF/ANSI/CAN 61: Drinking Water Components — Health Effects; NSF/ANSI 53: Drinking Water Treatment Units — Health Effects; NSF/ANSI 58: Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Treatment Systems; and ASSE LEC 2006: Point of Entry Reverse Osmosis Systems. IAPMO strongly encourages manufacturers of applicable products to join the process to ensure their voices are heard as these important standards are updated. The EPA has provided a fact sheet on home filters to reduce PFAS levels.
In addition, IAPMO has published documents with vital information plumbing and product manufacturers need to know before the restrictions become mandatory, including an overview of the standards development process and how to get involved. There is also an opportunity to sign up for notifications about committees and updates. The information is available at https://iapmort.org/pfas-compliance-guide.
“The EPA rule means five PFAS chemicals will be added to the pass/failure requirements in the NSF/ANSI 61 standard. It’s a significant change,” IAPMO Chief Technical Services Officer Tom Palkon said. “IAPMO R&T is already equipped to provide testing to standards that govern products that may be affected by this new rule. We welcome questions and concerns from manufacturers that seek clarity.”
Exposure to PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” has been linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancers, impacts to the immune system and thyroid, and reproductive and developmental effects.
This final rule represents the most significant step to protect public health under EPA’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap. The final rule will reduce PFAS exposure for approximately 100 million people, prevent thousands of deaths, and reduce tens of thousands of serious illnesses. The announcement complements President Biden’s government-wide action plan to combat PFAS pollution. This Final Rule will impact more than 66,000 public water systems by 2027, these public water systems must monitor and provide three years of initial monitoring. By 2029, these systems will have five years to implement solutions to reduce PFAS, and these systems where drinking water violates one of more MCLs must take action and must notify the public of the violation.
The rule establishes legally enforceable levels for several PFAS known to occur individually and as mixtures in drinking water. It sets limits for five individual PFAS: PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA (also known as “GenX Chemicals”), as well as a limit for mixtures of any two or more of four PFAS: PFNA, PFHxS, PFBS, and “GenX chemicals.” By reducing exposure to PFAS, this final rule will help advance public health and safety.
The EPA’s free Water Technical Assistance program (WATERTA) is providing support and access to federal funds of underserved and disadvantaged communities to comply with the new Rule. The EPA also will offer a free webinar April 30 on various aspects of the Final Rule.
Manufacturers have long trusted IAPMO R&T for its foresight in assisting them to meet the dynamic legislative demands on their water treatment products, faucets, valves, fittings and other products that contact drinking water. IAPMO R&T has been certifying products to be in compliance with standards governing their use since 1936.
As part of a steadfast commitment to world-class learning, coaching, and development within the home services industry, Minnesota-based Nexstar Network has upgraded their corporate headquarters relocating from downtown St. Paul to Bloomington, Minn. Nexstar’s new headquarters is spacious and light-filled; it features the Frank J. Blau, Jr. Training Center, a state-of-the-art learning destination, as well Read more
As part of a steadfast commitment to world-class learning, coaching, and development within the home services industry, Minnesota-based Nexstar Network has upgraded their corporate headquarters relocating from downtown St. Paul to Bloomington, Minn. Nexstar’s new headquarters is spacious and light-filled; it features the Frank J. Blau, Jr. Training Center, a state-of-the-art learning destination, as well as free covered parking and onsite security. Just minutes from the MSP airport and the Mall of America, this centralized location is close to numerous acclaimed restaurants, high-end shopping, and green spaces.
Julian Scadden, Nexstar Network President and CEO, joins with Nexstar members, leadership and VIPs during the ribbon cutting celebration at Nexstar Network’s Open House event.
Nexstar recently hosted a grand opening celebration to officially open the doors to their destination HQ. More than 100 Nexstar members, VIPs, Strategic Partners, and employees attended the celebration.
Of the new headquarters, Julian Scadden, Nexstar President & CEO, says, “We serve a membership that is built on in-person relationships. We are proud to have a space where our staff can connect with each other and our members in service to our mission to turn the world’s best tradespeople into the world’s best businesspeople.”
Nexstar Network hosted an Open House celebration to welcome members, strategic partners, current and former employees, industry VIPs, community leaders, and neighbors to their new headquarters and training location.
Designed to host Nexstar members and Strategic Partners in a welcoming space when they’re in the Twin Cities to network and train, the upgraded headquarters offers a collaborative, flexible, and productive workspace for Nexstar employees.
“We are excited to welcome our members “home” to our new headquarters,” says Carrie Fraser, Vice President of Operations. “Connecting members and providing top-tier, participant-centered training is core to who we are and the value we provide for our members.”
12 Schools to Receive Support to Create and Update Plumbing & HVAC Labs The “Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson” equipment grants were announced on May 1, 2024, in celebration of National Skilled Trades Day. Twelve schools are the newest recipients of the Skills Lab equipment grants, which are projected to reach over Read more
12 Schools to Receive Support to Create and Update Plumbing & HVAC Labs
The “Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson” equipment grants were announced on May 1, 2024, in celebration of National Skilled Trades Day.
Twelve schools are the newest recipients of the Skills Lab equipment grants, which are projected to reach over 1,000 students this upcoming school year. This dynamic program has experienced rapid growth since it began in 2021 and has now delivered plumbing and HVAC equipment to 26 schools and over 2,000 students nationwide.
“The national conversation around the importance of the skilled trades and technical education has reached a fever pitch this year,” noted Kate Cinnamo, Executive Director of Explore The Trades. “Trade education programs in communities around the nation are bringing the next generation to these industries. Our partnership with Ferguson has given school districts the opportunity to build skilled trades labs that enable their students to thrive. It’s so encouraging to see students discover the trades, develop a passion for them and know that those skill sets will benefit them in careers after high school graduation.”
“We are proud to partner with Explore The Trades and thrilled to see our shared vision of building a sustainable skilled trades pipeline come to life,” commented Melissa Hazelwood, Director of Social Impact at Ferguson. “With the recent surge of interest in trades careers and the substantial investments in our country’s infrastructure, the need for skilled tradespeople has never bee more apparent. Through our concerted efforts, we are not just providing students with tools; we are laying the foundation for lifelong careers. Our partnership has already impacted thousands of students, and we are excited to continue this journey. We are committed to investing in the next generation.”
Congratulations to the following recipients!
- Appomattox County High School – HVAC (Virginia)
- Bemidji High School – HVAC (Minnesota)
- Callaway High School – HVAC (Georgia)
- Gateway Regional – HVAC (New Jersey)
- Ivy Academy – HVAC (Tennessee)
- Lebanon County Career and Technology Center – Plumbing (Pennsylvania)
- Mayfair Elementary and Middle School – Plumbing (Pennsylvania)
- Poplar Bluff Technical Career Center – HVAC (Missouri)
- Raymore-Peculiar Public School Foundation – HVAC (Missouri)
- Saginaw Career Complex – HVAC (Michigan)
- Thomas J. Corcoran High School – HVAC (New York)
- Woodruff Career and Technical Center – HVAC (Illinois)
About Explore The Trades
Founded in 2005, Explore The Trades is committed to bridging the technical talent gap to the service trades of plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical. The organization is focused on bringing the skilled trades conversation back into the classroom by providing classroom materials and on-demand resources for educators, parents, and students.
As a plumber, the chances are that you are used to working alone or within a small team. However, it is important to keep in mind that most clients will address plumping works and renovations as part of a larger, more extensive project. As such, they are likely to look for trusted traders and ask Read more
As a plumber, the chances are that you are used to working alone or within a small team. However, it is important to keep in mind that most clients will address plumping works and renovations as part of a larger, more extensive project. As such, they are likely to look for trusted traders and ask for recommendations and referrals.
So, if you are looking to develop your plumbing business and bring more projects and work to your company, partnering with other contractors and networking with specialists in the field is key! Here is all you need to know.
Minimize The Risk of Errors
When it comes to replacing the plumbing system in a typical home, homeowners can spend between $3,000 and $16,000 – which, alone, is a considerable investment! But there’s more to that! Indeed, most homeowners will tackle plumbing projects as part of a home makeover that often involves renovating the bathrooms or kitchen. These projects can not only be costly, but come with a high risk of errors and mistakes!
By working with the other contractors involved in the project, you and your plumbing team can minimize the risk of costly mistakes and remediations.
Enhance Communication Throughout The Project
By working with the other contractors involved in the project, you can boost communication and ensure that the client’s expectations are effortlessly met. For example, if a client is looking to update a house for accessibility and aging in place, you may take care of making the bathroom, bathtubs, or shower more accessible, while also working with safety experts to install alarms, rails, and other safety features.
Build A Network of Contacts
The majority of homeowners and clients looking to tackle a renovation will look for a contractor they can trust. To do so, they are likely to:
- Ask for referrals and personal recommendations from trusted family members and friends
- Speak to contractors they can trust to check whether they know a specialized plumber, electrician, or trader
- Check online professional directories
- Look for contractors with an excellent online reputation and great reviews
- Ask at the local hardware store
Having a network to rely on can make your business more easily discoverable by clients looking for your services.
Leverage Shared Tools
As a single contractor, the chances are that you may not have all the tools and equipment needed for highly complex projects. In turn, you may often find yourself purchasing or renting costly gear, which can take a toll on your cash flow. That’s where working with other contractors and sharing the tools and equipment available – including a bulk bag filler, a soldering station, or a drain camera system – can help to save money and boost your business.
Exchange Expertise
Although each contractor involved in the project will have the skills needed to complete their tasks, it is important not to underestimate the benefits of sharing experiences and capabilities. These could be from past projects, recent innovations, or training courses. Be sure to interact and communicate with the other professionals involved in each project to enhance your skill set and capabilities – and, ultimately, keep your business relevant!
Lochinvar announces the launch of its XCalibur™ Condensing High Efficiency Tankless Water Heaters with X3® Scale Prevention Technology. Bringing to market new premium features, including an integrated recirculation pump and patented heat exchanger; enhanced installation flexibility and high efficiency performance, the XCalibur tankless water heater supports busy contractors and homeowners. Available in 160,000-; 180,000-, and Read more
Lochinvar announces the launch of its XCalibur™ Condensing High Efficiency Tankless Water Heaters with X3® Scale Prevention Technology. Bringing to market new premium features, including an integrated recirculation pump and patented heat exchanger; enhanced installation flexibility and high efficiency performance, the XCalibur tankless water heater supports busy contractors and homeowners.
Available in 160,000-; 180,000-, and 199,000-BTU/hr units and a Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) of 0.95, the XCalibur line of premium tankless water heaters fits a variety of installation needs. Patented X3 Scale Prevention Technology comes standard on three XCalibur models. Other models are available with X3 Technology as an optional accessory. X3 Scale Prevention Technology inhibits scale build-up and corrosion to extend the life of the unit up to three times longer. The XCalibur tankless water heater requires zero lifetime descaling maintenance, meeting the needs of busy contractors and homeowners. XCalibur units also qualify for state and local rebates and are ENERGY STAR®certified.
“With every product we offer, Lochinvar advances the technology and features available to contractors to improve their day-to-day life, and the XCalibur does just that,” said Lochinvar Senior Product Manager Rhea-Anne Pendley. “Thanks to its installation flexibility and X3 Scale Prevention Technology, contractors can now directly address a homeowner’s needs. Contractors no longer have to return to their wholesaler for a different unit or return to a jobsite for scale maintenance—saving time and money.”
To enhance installation flexibility, the XCalibur line offers two- and three-inch dual pipe direct venting, ½- and ¾-inch gas line options and universal indoor/outdoor installation. The unit is designed so it can be converted from natural gas to liquid propane in the field with the included kit. All of these features work together to provide plumbing professionals with exceptional installation flexibility when working in the field. Plumbers now have a unit that conforms on the spot to fit their needs, regardless of install location, fuel type or existing venting.
XCalibur tankless water heaters also include several high-end features frequently requested by homeowners, including Wi-Fi capability for remote monitoring and peace of mind and an integrated recirculation pump that provides instant hot water and eliminates the time homeowners typically spend waiting at their fixture for water to heat up.
To learn more about Lochinvar’s XCalibur Condensing High Efficiency Tankless Water Heater with X3 Scale Prevention Technology, visit www.Lochinvar.com or XCalibur™ Condensing High Efficiency Tankless Water Heaters with X3® Scale Prevention Technology.