Appendix M of the IAPMO Uniform Plumbing Code, or the Water Demand Calculator, was integrated into the California Plumbing Code on July 1. It provides a new method for sizing water pipes in residential buildings. For Villara Corp., a leading plumbing and HVAC contractor in Northern California, it remains business as usual, having used the calculator for over five years to construct over 5,000 single-family homes.
Retaining skilled employees is vital for plumbing and HVAC contractors. High turnover leads to disruptions and decreased customer satisfaction. To address this, many are finding innovative ways to encourage retention, including unique approaches from new companies.
Scott Steindler, CPD, LEED BD+C, ARCSA-AP(IS), GPD, GGP, FASPE, has over 31 years in the plumbing industry and is currently the national industrial manager for Watts Water Technologies. Known for his enthusiasm and service, he was inducted into the ASPE College of Fellows in 2020 and volunteers with the City of Phoenix's CERT. Steindler was named PM Engineer’s 2024 Plumbing Engineer of the Year.
As design engineers, we frequently use systems requiring pressure regulation. A regulator, as defined by the ASPE Plumbing Dictionary, reduces variable inlet pressure to a stable outlet pressure under changing flow conditions. It maintains a uniform gas pressure lower than the supply pressure. Essentially, a regulator ensures consistent downstream pressure from a variable upstream pressure.
The event’s more than 100 technical sessions will showcase on eight conference tracks will offer emerging approaches to building design, construction and operation.
In this month's article, I've gathered regulatory activities from U.S. government agencies like CPSC, DOE, EPA, FTC, HUD, and SBA. I've organized the activities by agency, rulemaking stage, and included their Regulation Identifier Number (RIN).
Thermal storage enhances the efficiency of renewable energy heating systems, like pellet-fired boilers and solar collectors, by storing low-cost, off-peak electrical energy for future use. It's vital for reducing energy costs and ensuring consistent heating, with auxiliary boilers providing backup when needed.
Since the program's launch earlier this year, the CDP has been the most applied-for ASHRAE certification, highlighting its importance and relevance in today's building and energy sectors.