INTENT + THEORY = PLUMBING CODE AN INTERVIEW WITH GENE SHUMANN VOLUME 16, NUMBER 2 SUMMER 2021 PLAN FOR POWER OUTAGES YEARS Master Plumbers/Heating & Cooling Contractors of Wisconsin THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE PHCC WISCONSIN ASSOCIATION AND MASTER PLUMBERS/HEATING & COOLING CONTRACTORS OF WISCONSIN
WE ARE JMI PUMP SYSTEMS Since 1958, JMI Pump Systems (formerly Jim Murray, Inc.) has provided exceptional products and service to the commercial and residential sump and wastewater pump markets. This includes lift stations, basins, trench drains, pump alarms, battery back-up systems, and water pressure boosters. What separates JMI from Jay Sudak the competition is our people, a group dedicated Inside Technical Sales to responsiveness and finding the right solution Tom O’Brien for you. With no problem too large or too small, our Commercial Sales Manager in-house staff has the knowledge and hands-on experience to successfully solve the most unusual pumping problems. We can help with the easy ones too! Our commitment to “No Problem” Service makes us “Your Partners in Pumping.” Tom, Jay, and Joe InsideJToeechJnaisczael Swasleksi represent more than 35 years out of our team’s total of over 200 years experience. W194 N11695 McCormick Drive Germantown, WI 53022 262-253-1353 • jmipumps.com
Demand Duo® R-Series The Demand Duo R-Series easily vents through existing 6” B-Vent, saving both installation time and costs. What’s more, Rinnai's patented technology delivers reliable performance, longer service life and lower total cost of ownership than a traditional atmospheric tank. Installation Ease • New 6\" B-Vent Exhaust Connector • New Pre-assembled Gas Connection • New Pre-assembled Electrical Connection Optimized Performance • New Digital Controller • New Certified Hybrid System Technology Multiple Sizes • New 80 or 119-Gallon Tank Now available at Rundle-Spence.
SUMMER 2021 REPORTS 2021/22 BOARD OF DIRECTORS PHCC WISCONSIN ASSOCIATION 6 President’s Letter Master Plumbers/Heating & Cooling Contractors of Wisconsin Uncertain Times Call for Keeping Our Skill Sets Sharp and Diverse PHCC Wisconsin Association 8 Executive Director’s Report PO Box 833 • Germantown, WI 53022 888-782-6815 • Fax: 888-287-4116 Let’s Make Plans … [email protected] FEATURES 10 Intent + Theory = Plumbing Code President: Tyler Arndt, Arndt & Son Plumbing, PO Box 70, Brooklyn, WI 14 Industry Reflections: An Interview with Gene Shumann 53521, 608-455-6392, Fax: 608-455-2113, [email protected] 16 International Energy Conservation Code and The Vice President: Bernie Friedenfels, Bernie’s Well & Water, LLC, PO Box Plumbing Code 547, Baileys Harbor, WI 54202, 920-559-6652, [email protected] INSIDE Secretary/Treasurer: Matt Bub, Dave Jones Plumbing & Heating, Inc., 2225 Kilgust Road, Madison, WI 53713, 608-222-8490, Fax: 608-222- 21 Service Roundtable — Do the Math and Join 8503, [email protected] PHCC-WI Today! Immediate Past President: Fred Gardner, Badger State Plumbing, 2507 Fortune Drive, Eau Claire, WI 54703-3898, 715-874-7777, Fax: 715- 22 Plan for Power Outages 874-7778, [email protected] 23 Wisconsin Housing Starts 24 PHCC Wisconsin and PHCC-National Announce Directors: John Buresh, Tweet/Garot Mechanical, 2545 Larsen Road, PO Box 11767, Green Bay, WI 54307-1767, 920-498-0400, Fax: 920-498-8130, Convention Plans [email protected] 25 Have You Seen Our 125th Anniversary Issue? Dan Callies, Oak Creek Plumbing, 640 E. Ryan Road, Oak Creek, WI 53154- 26 Plumbing Seminars: Drain Waste & Vent Review 4540, 414-762-4060, Fax: 414-762-3444, [email protected] 28 Industry News Dayton Daniels, Daniels Plumbing & Heating, Inc., PO Box 326, Siren, WI Bradley Corp. Marks 100 Years by Celebrating the Way the World 54872, 715-349-5533, Fax: 715-349-7353, [email protected] Washes A Blast from the Past Industry Partner Reps: Howie Heier, Hydro-Flo Products, 3655 N PHC-Wisconsin Hosts Radiant Seminars 124th Street, Brookfield, WI 53005, 920-428-2001, Fax: 262-781-2228, Milwaukee Tool Expands into Downtown Milwaukee [email protected] Mercury Marine Installs Solar Array at Its World Headquarters MAPC Announces New Board Members Jon Hirsch, Auer Steel & Heating Supply, 2935 W Silver Spring Drive, HVAC/R NAVAC Inc. Names Ice-Kold As Official Repair Center Milwaukee, WI 53209, 414-438-3202, Fax: 414-463-0303, jon.hirsch@ auersteel.com 34 By the Numbers 34 Quotable Rob Spence, Rundle-Spence, 2800 Industrial Drive, Madison, WI 53713, 36 Member Benefits 36 Calendar of Events Master608-222-0636, Fax: 6P08lu-22m2-4b1e64r, sro/bHs@erautnidnleg-sp&enCce.ocoomling 36 Ad Index Contractors of WisconsinPHCC-National Director (Zone 3): Dan Callies, Oak Creek Plumbing, 37 2021 Membership Application 38 Code Book 640 E. Ryan Road, Oak Creek, WI 53154-4540, 414-762-4060, Fax: 414-762- 3444, [email protected] Executive Director: Jeff Beiriger, PO Box 833, Germantown, WI 53022, 888-782-6815, Fax: 888-287-4116, [email protected] The Wisconsin PHC Contractor is published four times a year for YEARS the Wisconsin Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Master Plumbers/Heating & Cooling Senior Editor - Jeff Beiriger Contractors of Wisconsin 10 22 Advertising and Editorial Office: Cover Photo: iStockphoto.com/aydinmutlu Ron Sonntag Public Relations 4 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor 9406 N. 107th Street Milwaukee, WI 53224 p | 800.969.0200 f | 414.354.5317 | www.rspr.com Advertising Inquiries: Patty Johnson, Ron Sonntag Public Relations, 800-969-0200, ext. 103, E-mail: [email protected]. Editorial Submissions: Cynthia Marsh, Ron Sonntag Public Relations, 800-969-0200, ext. 104, E-mail: [email protected]. SUMMER 2021
NEW CLEAREST IMAGE. EASIEST INSPECTIONS. M18™ Modular Pipeline LEARN SCAN Inspection System 2974-22, 2973-22, 2971-20 MORE M12™ Pipeline Locator or visit https://qr.mke.tl/2tgha 2580-21
BY TYLER ARNDT UNCERTAIN TIMES CALL FOR KEEPING OUR SKILL SETS SHARP AND DIVERSE TYLER ARNDT Over the past several Manufacturers in Texas were hit hard this February, with months, we have, record freezing conditions causing many plants to shut down President unfortunately, all come to because of frozen and burst piping and limited electrical know about the shortage of availability. Many manufacturing companies are not fully products and the delays in staffed and are struggling to fill positions. There were receiving products. There are already labor shortages in some areas, but unemployment some products we can’t even benefits associated with the pandemic have some people get right now. With many choosing not to go back to work. of our customers expecting things to be done quickly, we With these issues, manufacturers are not able to operate find ourselves between a at full capacity and they can’t keep up with the current rock and a hard place. demand, causing prices to continue to go up. The problem only seems to get worse as the days progress ... Many new homes that are being constructed this year will, unfortunately, be finished and completed without a With each month that passes, we continue to see price water softener because of the shortage of polymers and increases as well. This isn’t something that is from our local resins used to make them. Just about anything that uses supply houses but comes directly from the manufacturers. The polymers and resins will continue to be hard to come by until increase in prices has been attributed to current consumer manufacturers are back at full capacity. Many companies demands, but that’s not the whole story. Manufacturing has are starting to see the shortage in PEX piping and polymer slowed for a lot of reasons. fittings. Many tub/shower modules are on back order for several months, and even electrical boxes are hard to come by. Even products that don’t use plastics have been affected, such as garbage disposals and water heaters. The raw steel industry has also been affected during these times. With many consumers upgrading their appliances during the pandemic, the appliance companies saw a spike in sales and bought future stock in steel, causing steel prices to jump and limiting available products to consumers. The well drilling industry has seen a notable increase in material costs as well. Steel well casing has jumped dramatically over the last year, as our water heaters have seen notable increases as well. What will become of our industry if we are unable to get many of the products that we rely on in our day-to-day operations? Uncertain times like these should be a reminder of the skill set we should all have. Would you be able to plumb up a house in copper tomorrow if you couldn’t get PEX piping? Would you be able to run cast iron and pour a lead joint or use a no hub system? Are you able to source other items to replace the ones that you can’t get? Are you willing to look to another supplier that may have product on-hand? Are you switching to cheaper options to save cost on jobs or are you sticking with your preferred materials and passing the price increases on to the customer? None of us will be able to predict what will be in our future, but these are the times that remind us that we need to keep our skill sets sharp and diverse. We should know and understand all the products we have available to us on the market. To meet our customers’ needs, we’re going to have to be creative and at our very best. 6 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor SUMMER 2021
www.Hydro-Flo.com NOW, ALL YOU NEED IS ONE B&G solves for versatility with one pump that replaces 70. With the all-new ecocirc® 20-18 and ecocirc+ 20-18 variable speed ECM smart circulator, Bell & Gossett ushers in a new era of efficiency, ease of use and control. A superior solution for heating, cooling and potable water, this versatile circulator replaces up to 70 different pumps on the market. It’s also the only pump you need on the truck for multiple applications. Both models are supported by our industry-leading rep organization, and the ecocirc+ allows for wireless connectivity. Enter a new era today, learn more at bellgossett.com. www.Hydro-Flo.com (800)The-Flow [843-3569] bellgossett.com © 2021 Xylem Inc. Bell & Gossett is a trademark of Xylem Inc. or one of its subsidiaries.
ERxEecPuOtivReTDirector's BY JEFF BEIRIGER Let’s Make Plans…. After what seems like an eternity, our 126th or the first anniversary of our 125th. we’re back to making plans. Plans to be together again! The point is, it’s a celebration. And maybe what we’re celebrating isn’t about anniversaries at all. Maybe it’s about In fact, we’ve already held our first getting through something. About the return to “normal.” Or better still, a beginning of something extraordinary. couple of in-person code seminars, In his article, Tyler Arndt, president of the PHCC-WI, one in March and one in April. They writes about the tight supply chain. He’s absolutely right, it’s a tremendous challenge. We’re confident our friends that were great, but they were still not manufacture and distribute product will do everything they can to keep the industry humming. They’ll rise to meet that JEFF BEIRIGER quite back to normal. We made fewer challenge. spots available for our exhibitors. We I tell people at our code classes that we welcome exhibitors were in masks and distanced. We because they have so much knowledge to offer. It’s about education — finding solutions, saving time, saving money. And changed up the food service. then I thank the exhibitors for helping make our industry great. Have you ever considered how much plumbing or HVAC With each passing day, the restrictions are melting away. As I work you can do in a day? The productivity gains we have write this, the CDC just released new guidelines for people who experienced in our industry are related, in most respects, to have been fully vaccinated and they don’t include masks for the improvements in the products we install. most part. That’s exciting stuff. So what will they do this time to meet the challenge? Will It was about a year ago we first announced plans to do a 125th there be another big innovation that will move us forward? Or anniversary convention. Like most big events, it was postponed. will we be called upon to know the “old ways” of doing things? The new dates are September 24 and 25 in Green Bay. We’re still calling it our 125th anniversary, we’re just celebrating the end And that, friends, is what makes this convention in September of the year instead of the beginning. If that doesn’t suit you, call it so important. It’s the ability to come to a place, with people in your industry, to ask these and other burning questions. It’s been ACCURATE | EASY TO LEARN | FAST too long. We need that conversation! MECHANICAL ESTIMATING SOFTWARE As I always say, the speakers will provide you with plenty of great information, but the thing they do best is to create a shared SEE A DEMO TODAY! experience. They are the ultimate icebreaker. They help you to make new friends and renew your relationship with old ones BID MORE. WIN MORE because they give you something to talk about. 1.800.828.7108 | www.Fastest-inc.com/phcc • “What did you think of the speaker?” • “Have you tried some of the things she talked about in her session?” • “What are you doing to keep track of service calls and billing?” I wonder what those conversations were like in 1895. Could they have even imagined your reality and mine? When our first convention was held, plastic was still a dozen years into the future. Who among the many that attended could have ever conceived of plastic as a material, let alone how it would revolutionize an industry and the world? Who would have imagined lead would be removed from plumbing systems (or that it was doing anyone any harm)? Who would have imagined air conditioning, also a product of the future, back in 1895? Like I said, it’s been too long, friends. We don’t hold a convention every year, nor do we hold them only in the years that end with a five or a zero. But this one feels special because we really, really need it. We hope to see you there! 8 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor SUMMER 2021
SAVE YOURSELF EFFORT. SAVE YOUR CUSTOMERS MONEY. Introducing the Rheem® Easy-to-use Controls ProTerra™ Hybrid Condensate Connection Electric Water Heater 300Qualifies for • Easy Installation 0\" Clearance Requirement $ • Easy Service Federal All service components Tax Credit1 on the front of the unit Easy-service Design • Most Efficient Up to 4.0 UEF LeakGuard™ Auto Water Shut-off Valve3 • Unmatched Savings Long-lasting Up to $480/yr2 Brass Drain Valve Built-in 360° Leak • Quick Payback Detection Cable3 Less than 2 years Rheem.com/HybridSolutions 1Information on tax credit accurate at time of publishing; consult your tax advisor for details on eligibility requirements for tax credits or go to rheem.com/federal-tax-credit. 2Based on comparison of the 50-gallon Hybrid Electric model against the estimated annual operating cost of a standard electric water heater of like capacity manufactured prior to 2015 under NAECA II which is likely being replaced. Savings varies per gallon capacity. 3Leak detection and leak protection built in for ProTerra Hybrid with LeakGuard only.
INTENT + THEORY = PLUMBING CODE By Dean Petersen iStockphoto.com/posteriori A vital portion of the Wisconsin state plumbing code reads Simply stated, without as follows: plumbing theory SPS 382.10 Basic plumbing principles. This chapter is there is no plumbing founded upon basic principles of environmental sanitation code. Theory is and safety through properly designed, installed and maintained plumbing systems. Some of the details of the foundation and plumbing construction may vary, but the basic sanitary upon that foundation and safety principles desirable and necessary to protect the health of people are the same. As interpretations may be we place our required and as unforeseen situations arise which are not administrative code. specifically addressed, the following intent statements and basic requirements shall be used to evaluate equivalency (f) A plumbing system shall be of durable material, where applicable. free from defective workmanship, and designed and constructed so as to provide satisfactory service for its INTENT reasonable expected life. (a) Plumbing in connection with all buildings, public and (g) Proper protection shall be provided to prevent private, intended for human occupancy, shall be installed contamination of food, water, sterile goods and similar and maintained in such a manner so as to protect the materials by backflow of wastewater. health, safety and welfare of the public or occupants and the waters of the state. (h) All plumbing fixtures shall be installed so as to provide adequate spacing and accessibility for the intended use (b) Plumbing fixtures, appliances and appurtenances, and cleaning. whether existing or to be installed, shall be supplied with water in sufficient volume and at pressures adequate Upon review of these simple, precise paragraphs you will to enable the fixtures, appliances and appurtenances find the primary objectives of our plumbing code. These are to function properly and efficiently at all times and what we are trying to achieve. without undue noise under normal conditions of use. Plumbing systems shall be designed and adjusted to use In short, our plumbing systems are to be designed and the minimum quantity of water consistent with proper installed to protect the end users from contaminated drinking performance and cleaning. water, exploding water heaters, to prevent sewage from (c) Devices for heating and storing water in pressure Continued on page 12 >> vessels or tanks shall be so designed and installed as to prevent dangers of explosion or overheating. SUMMER 2021 (d) Drain systems shall be designed, constructed and maintained so as to conduct the wastewater or sewage efficiently and shall have adequate cleanouts. (e) The drain systems shall be so designed as to provide an adequate circulation of air in all pipes and no danger of siphonage, aspiration or forcing of trap seals under conditions of ordinary use. 10 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor
WHEN TO USE A MASK ReMpreasesntkinsg taherfeineostnqulyality commercial and reesidfefnetiacl ptliuvmebingwmhaneufnacturers since 1931. used in combinationWe serve architects, engineers, wholesalers and mechanical contractors in Wisconsin, the UP of Michigan, Illinois and NW Indiana. with frequent haWnISCdO-NcSIlNeaning ILLINOIS [email protected] [email protected] with 4a1l4.c77o1.h04o0l0-based hand 630.458.8816 rub or soap and water SOURCE: WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION For more information contact HSA.
<< Continued from page 10 backing-up into our food and sewer gases from entering history. It is simple; a master hands down their knowledge our buildings. Plumbing systems shall also last a reasonable and skill to another. As a plumbing apprenticeship instructor, amount of time, function well for their entire lifetime, with all it is my responsibility to introduce the technical knowledge fixtures installed with enough space for proper use, service to plumbing apprentices. In the classroom, the apprentice and cleaning. We have also been charged with protecting learns plumbing theory, plumbing code and system design. the waters of the state of Wisconsin. These expectations But the apprentices learn plumbing theory first. Getting are a tall order, but necessary if we hope to prevent the students to see the theory within the code language is the dangers to the public’s health that can occur if plumbing most important task I have as an instructor. If the student is not installed correctly. To ensure that the plumber is only familiar with code, without the understanding of achieves these intents we have been given three lines of plumbing theory, the result is an incomplete education. If the protections. They are; licensing (which includes educational apprentice does not comprehend the theory behind the code, requirements), administrative code and inspection. Coupled they are not prepared for the responsibilities given to them. together these three entities work together to protect the public’s health. The originators of our code were extremely wise. They placed a warning within SPS 382.10 as follows: “As What is my point? SPS 382.10(1) paragraphs (a)-(h) are the interpretations may be required and as unforeseen situations arise point. This is where it begins. Within these short paragraphs which are not specifically addressed, the following intent statements are the expectations of every plumbing system, and as and basic requirements shall be used to evaluate equivalency licensed plumbers, it is our responsibility to meet them. where applicable.” They knew that there was no way they Some of you may exclaim, “what an order! How shall we could write a codebook that could address every installation. achieve these expectations?” Unfortunately, the intents They also knew there would be unanticipated situations are not plumbing code; they do not offer any installation that would crop up, as well as grey areas and “holes” in the requirements. So how should we pipe our buildings? One code language. When these situations happen we are given could answer, if I simply just install it according to code, I will permission and the responsibility to apply our knowledge then meet the intent of code. Okay, but where did the code of plumbing theory to ensure that we meet the intent come from? The answer: Plumbing theory. statements. Through the application of the science of plumbing, we meet Some potential major problem could occur here, and put the expectations in SPS 382.10. Using the results of laboratory the public’s health at risk. An individual could interpret testing, we identify the system design requirements that this code section as permission to interpret it in whatever make up the remainder of our codebook. Simply stated, way is the most convenient or cost effective. Or perhaps the without plumbing theory there is no plumbing code. Theory plumber does not have a solid understanding of plumbing is the foundation and upon that foundation we place our theory. Another danger is if an individual doesn’t respect administrative code. On top of the code we place licensing the responsibility given to them, and they are tempted to requirements for all plumbers and inspection of every “create” their own code. This is where inspection steps in to installation. All of these are equally important and essential protect us from such situations. to protecting the public’s health. Keep in mind that education and licensing is one of the lines Every plumbing apprentice in the state of Wisconsin is of defense as well. If every licensed plumber has served an required to serve a five-year apprenticeship. We couple on- apprenticeship and part of their training has been plumbing the-job training with technical education. Apprenticeship is theory, which it has and every licensed plumber must take one of the oldest, if not the oldest, training model in human continuing education to keep their license, which they do, then there is little risk in giving a PLUMBER’S PICK licensed plumber this responsibility. The protection of the intents within SPS 382.10 continues to have three prongs of defense; they are an enforceable plumbing code, licensing and inspection. Inspection being the last line of protection; they are all equally important for ensuring the intentions of SPS 382.10(1) are met. When all of them are in place and working together, the public’s health is in good hands, ours. 400 SERIES P-164 P-118 Dean Petersen is a plumbing apprenticeship instructor at Madison Area OPTIONS FOR EVERY BUDGET Technical College and owner of WaterWay Plumbing Design. PRIER.com | htareps.com 12 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor SUMMER 2021
BASEMENT WATER CONTROL SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY NEED. With our complete collection of water control solutions,you’ll have a wide array of services to offer. Together with Ion Technologies and Emecole Metro, our premium collection offers contractors a wide array of basement waterproofing and flood prevention solutions for their end users. 35ACi+ Connect Ion 10 ft. Foundation Battery Backup System Fresh & Clean Crack Repair Kit • Fully automatic auxiliary • Improves overall • Repairs approximately power source indoor air quality 10 feet of cracks in poured foundations • Backup system runs • Rids your home of on AC or DC power excess moisture • Cost effective and time efficient • Runs the same 1/3 • Reduces molds, HP pump (BA33i) with toxins & allergens • Choice of Polyurethane or power on or off Epoxy Injection Material • No additional • Ion+® digital level ductwork needed • Suitable for residential, sensors have no municipal, commercial moving parts • Energy efficient design and industrial applications 815-886-9200 or ionproducts.net 815-372-2493 or emecole.com
Industry Reflections iStockphoto.com/Mihajlo Maricic AN INTERVIEW WITH GENE SHUMANN Jim Davis, left, and Gene Shumann. Jim will be featured in our next issue. Below are Jim and Gene at a plumbing seminar along with some of the participants in the class who were trained by them when they were apprentices. Author, apprentice and journeyman instructor, plumbing was the most beautiful time,” he said. After concluding his code council member, plumbing designer, and consultant. All teaching career, in 1978, Gene started his own plumbing of these monikers fit Gene Shumann, who has contributed design business, Shumann and Associates in La Crosse, greatly to Wisconsin’s plumbing industry. and into his eighties, he is still at it. “I want to get up in the morning and know I have something to do. I hate sitting on Gene is the original author of, “The Illustrated Wisconsin my butt doing nothing. My wife said I retired for two days Plumbing Code Design Manual,” which countless number before I said, ‘That’s enough, I’m going back to work.’” of plumbers have referenced when learning, planning or repairing plumbing systems. Although not a formal book Gene also spent a number of years on the state code until 1974, it had its origins in state plumbing code changes plumbing advisory committee and he remembers many made in 1965. discussions, some heated, on what should be code and what shouldn’t. “I was at the table, but there was more than As the new code was rolled out, Gene, then an instructor, one person on it. And you didn’t always win. We had some was asked to explain the code changes to plumbing interesting discussions on Type M copper pipe, drain waste apprentices, journeymen and masters around the state. He vents, and plastic pipe to name just a few. was reluctant at first, but other state instructors refused to do it. “They didn’t have anybody, so I stuck my head in a noose and gave my first presentation in Milwaukee,” he said. To help his students better understand the code changes, Gene prepared drawings that were shown on an overhead projector. As more students asked for handouts, Gene decided it was time to write the book. “Every time I put together a pamphlet and sent it home with an apprentice, it was appreciated.” The book was first published in 1974 and Gene continued with updates in 1977, 1980, 1985 and 1989. Gene sold the rights to the book to Pat Casey in 2009 and it continues to this day and is available exclusively through PHCC-Wisconsin. Gene ended up being an instructor for 13 years, crisscrossing the state to the tune of 50,000 miles a year. “Teaching 14 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor SUMMER 2021
“Our code committee hashed and rehashed everything Gene got the call to teach from his former instructor, Gerry with reps from Milwaukee, Racine, Janesville, and Eau Clark. “He talked me into it. He said, ‘You’re the one with Claire. The codes themselves were not that far off; it was the most questions and the one who responds mostly to all the interpretation of them. When we thought we were of them.’ He liked what I did and he talked me through the strong enough on a change, we took it to the state employees whole process.” in the plumbing section for the final say. State reps on that committee included Lynita Docken, Jim Sargent and Jim Gene is optimistic about the future of the profession and Miller,” he said. a proponent of continuing education. “Don’t end this training that to me is the nuts and bolts of the plumbing industry “A major change was the use of plastic pipe for water in Wisconsin,” he said. “I don’t care if your student is 18 or piping,” he continued. “Some of the arguments against the use 38, they all need the same amount of instructions. You can’t of plastic pipe was testing — where was it tested; how do we short-change them or give them too much.” know it’s going to work; how is it going to stand up through the years? I never thought it would get through the state of In closing, Gene said, “I believe that our high schools should Wisconsin, but it was passed.” promote the trades, e.g., plumbing, electrical and heating as a career choice (in lieu of four-year degree programs). These RECALLING HIS ENTRY INTO PLUMBING careers can provide a stable and steady income. I am pleased and proud of my own career evolution from a plumbing Gene entered the plumbing profession through his family’s apprentice in 1957, to teaching plumbing throughout the business. His father owned Farmers Mercantile Business in state and opening and maintaining my own plumbing design Union Grove as well as a plumbing and heating company. firm for 43 years, thus allowing me to stay involved in the “Back in those days, you needed more than one business to industry of plumbing.” survive,” Gene said. Gene thanked us for the opportunity to share his story, but After high school, Gene wanted to join the company as it’s for all of us to thank Gene for what he has given to the an apprentice, but had to wait for an opening. At age 23, industry. he got his chance and was there for 5 years. He received instruction from Gerry Clark at Racine Technical School. However, as work slowed, Gene was laid off and joined Advanced Plumbing in Racine. “When my dad’s company called me back to work, I wanted to stay where I was. My dad was a little unhappy with me.” Studio®®SS BBeeaauuttifiufullyllyCCrarftaefdt.ed. CCaarreeffuulllylyCCuruarteadte. d. Ennvvisisioionninignga baabthartohormootmhathat coommbbininees scocnotnetmepmopraoryrabreyaubteyauty aannddssuuppeeriroirofrufnucnticotniaolintyaliintsypiirnesdpired oouurrddeesisgingenresrtsotcorecarteeattheethe SSttuuddioioSSSSuiuteit.e. Whether a petite powder room or Wgrhaentdhemr aaspteetritbeaptohw,dSetrurdoioomSoorffers garvanardiemtaystoefrdbeatshig, nStoupditoioSnosftfeors arevfarreiesthy yoof duerssigpnacoeptaionnds troejuvenate ryeofruershspyioriutr. space and rejuvenate your spirit. SUMMER 2021 www.goodinco.com The Wisconsin PHC Contractor 15
The pumps normally used for hot water circulating systems are very small, fractional horsepower units that use very little energy. INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE AND THE PLUMBING CODE Editor’s Note: What follows is an article written by Paul Lippitt regarding the adoption of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). The IECC was adopted by the Commercial Building Code and included in the code were sections that affect plumbing installations. Similarly, changes to the Uniform Dwelling Code in SPS 325 also included codes that affect plumbing installations. The position of PHCC Wisconsin is simple — changes in one code that affect another code should be brought to the attention of that code committee for review and input. As it sits today, the Plumbing Code Advisory Committee can from every aspect of the industry — plumbing, electrical, modify SPS 381 to SPS 387, but it does not have the authority HVAC, etc. — that is affected by other codes. to modify the Commercial Building or the Uniform Dwelling Codes. To do that, those codes must also be opened for the In his article, Paul Lippitt, a plumbing and fire protection DSPS to make changes. Put another way, the process is more engineering specialist with the Wisconsin Department complex now — to make changes — than it needed to be. The of Administration, Division of Facilities Development solution was (and is) to have these committees work with one wrote:: another ahead of time. “This article is not intended to be an attack on the IECC We are focused on the process to make these changes, but code or DSPS. Clearly the code writers at ICC have only the let’s dig deeper into the sort of discussion that needs to be had best motives and the staff at DSPS are the very best at what on this topic and is an example of the value of seeking input Continued on page 18 >> 16 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor SUMMER 2021
1/3 HP Submersible Pump with Vertical Your work isn’t easy, but Ferguson is here Float Switch and Side Discharge to help. If you need a product that isn’t PF92352 in-store, it’s as good as on its way thanks to our nationwide distribution network. ©2021 Ferguson Enterprises, LLC 0621 2839809 With services like Pro Pick-Up, same day or next day delivery, as well as easy access to online ordering through the Ferguson mobile app, count on Ferguson to help get tomorrow’s job done today by making sure you always have the parts you need when you need them. FERGUSON.COM
<< Continued from page 16 Another issue with this code section they do for our industry. The real intention is a call to begin is allowing what finding the facts and making changes that will provide the I refer to as hot best results. This will require the cooperative efforts of our to cold crossover entire industry, including the code professionals. circulating system. “The decision to apply this code requirement (IECC C404.5) as wouldn’t have required it under our existing plumbing code. opposed to that which has been in our code for many years Adding this additional pipe will create significantly more has been very costly, doesn’t save energy and could very heat loss from the pipe regardless of how well it is insulated. well cause degradation of the water supply in buildings.” Adding circuits to create a more complicated system will increase the size of the pump and piping to allow the system He goes on: to be balanced and functional. I’ve seen a dramatic increase in the size and complexity of these systems on state and “I will focus on the traditional method of temperature maintenance of building hot water with the use of water circulation. The other options of point of use heating and heat tracing temperature maintenance cable are clearly not energy efficient because they use electricity to heat the water and have many other issues associated with their use. “The pumps normally used for hot water circulating systems are very small, fractional horsepower units that use very little energy. Of the small amount of electrical energy that is used, a part is imparted to the passing water in the form of heat. Therefore, there is very little if any energy to be saved with these pumps. The requirement for piping the circulated water to within 24” of every lavatory or hand washing station will actually use considerably more energy for several reasons. “Circulation or other means of meeting this requirement add cost and wasted energy in many installations that Retrofit from manual to sensor. Sloan offers the widest variety of easy-to-install retrofit products designed to convert manual flushometers to sensor- activated. Installation is quick and easy, without having to disconnect the flushometer from the stop and fixture. With a wide range of retrofit options including top-mount and side-mount kits, it is easy to upgrade your commercial restroom and see the benefits of hands-free activation, improved hygiene, and additional water savings. Phone: 262.827.3177 SUMMER 2021 Web: badgerlandtrading.com 18 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor
UW system projects due to the IECC requirement. Often occur in the building hot water system. This would include the number of necessary circuits can be four or five times pathogens like Legionella. what they should have been. This means the circulating pumps are that much larger as well and this is clearly not “This brings me to the second issue of the deterioration of conserving energy. Another issue I commonly see is the the general water quality of the hot water system. There oversizing of circulating pumps and placing a balancing are several national standards and documents on the web valve immediately downstream of the pump to fine tune the that would indicate that the IECC requirements shouldn’t be flow rate. This means pumping against a dead head and the followed, but I will confine myself to just two scientific papers additional waste of energy. for reference and backup. The first is the EPA Technologies for Legionella Control in Premise Plumbing Systems: Scientific Literature “Much more could be accomplished on energy conservation Review (EPA 2016), which is a compilation of information from in building hot water systems by focusing on the larger numerous studies conducted in the last 25 years. The second energy use issues. Actual code requirements for balancing is from the National Academies of Science, Engineering and and hot water return sizing guidance would be a good Medicine, Management of Legionella in Water Systems (NASEM start. Right sizing of the piping systems and water heating 2019), which is more complete and includes more recent equipment would be the biggest improvement. information. Both of these studies can be downloaded off the web if you have lots of time to read them. “Another issue with this code section is allowing what I refer to as hot to cold crossover circulating system. IECC 404 “There can be many causes or contributing factors that allows this as a solution and SPS 363 includes a ‘Wisconsinism’ cause the growth of pathogens and non-pathogenic microbes that mentions its use as well. The EPA makes it clear on their in building potable water systems. I will focus on those that website that hot water should never be used for human are most applicable to the subject at hand. consumption and particularly for mixing with baby formula. This is due to the possibility of excessive lead levels in the hot 1. High water age, or excessive retention time in the water system. While hot water is considered to be potable system piping. This means a lack of turnover with fresh and acceptable for bathing and hygiene purposes, it’s not water and disinfection chemical. Hot water supply and intended for drinking or food preparation. This crossover return systems are especially prone to this because circulation method is intentionally mixing lower quality the water is continually circulated and mixed with the water with water that is intended for drinking and it should incoming cold supply. When this happens, the system be prohibited. Another point that isn’t made by the EPA, but will tend to produce microbial activity that results in a should be, is that the highest levels of microbial activity slimy growth of biofilm on the pipe internal wall. This SUMMER 2021 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor 19
<< Continued from page 19 additional piping required by increasing the hot water return system to comply with the IECC code will lead to growth will result in further and faster depletion of the numbers 1 and 2 above taking place. Number 3 comes into chlorine and begin a cycle of general degradation of the play because we’ve never really had a specific mandate water quality in the system. The biofilm also protects the or guidance on the balancing of hot water return systems bacteria that live within it from chemical disinfection and quadrupling the number of circuits is making this and temperature extremes. problem much worse. The initial setup and balancing of the system are one thing but keeping it that way over the life 2. Excessive surface area. This is the result of adding of a building will prove to be impossible. Another point of unnecessary pipe length or oversized pipe. Water concern that many people don’t know is that by heating the treatment equipment such as softeners and oversized water, the disinfection chemical is used up, and the higher hot water storage tanks are another example of the temperature the faster this takes place. It’s common excessive surface area. These surface areas are where to find no chlorine residual at distal points in building hot the biofilm attaches, and the microbes live. water systems. 3. Poor system hydraulic properties. Caused for the most “It’s very easy to see the degradation of the water quality part by oversized piping and poorly balanced hot water at different test points as the water moves through the return systems. This results in excessively low velocity system from the water service entry point to the points in the actual use conditions. Occasional higher velocity of use. The fact that the water in the system is more in the system will tend to scrub or clean the biofilm from frequently moving in a circulated system doesn’t mean that the pipe wall and provide for improved disinfection it is preventing bacterial growth. Testing I am familiar with residual. confirms that the bottom of the water heater storage tank and the hot water circulating system are almost always the “Both of the scientific papers noted above mention these lowest quality water in the system. Looking at flow data, it’s contributing factors many times, and both note that the worst astonishing to see how low these flow rates really are in results are most often found in so called ‘green’ buildings. buildings with water saving fixtures and faucets in place. If The plumbing industry has done an excellent job in helping conserving energy and water are truly our goal, we need to conserve energy and water, but there is an unintended to focus our effort on the things that will make a difference. consequence that we must now address. When we reduced First and foremost, this is the right sizing of the pipe and the water use, nothing was done to compensate for the sizing equipment.” of the piping systems and equipment. The premise of ‘if it’s oversized a bit, it won’t hurt anything’ has proven to be false. “Obviously, the dramatic increase in the footage of Only Bradford White is Built to be the Best® On your next residential gas water heater installation, remember this - Bradford White water heaters are Built to be the Best® with exclusive innovative features like: • ICON System™ Intelligent Gas Control for better performance. • Defender Safety System® for peace-of-mind operation. • HydroJet® Total Performance System to reduce sediment buildup. • Vitraglas® Enamel Tank Lining for longer life. PLUS, Bradford White water heaters are engineered For The Pro® for easier installation and service. Learn more at bradfordwhite.com/innovations 20BWPHWThI06e21W_Riessc_Goans_sHinalfPPaHgeC_WCIoPHnCtCr.aindcdto1r ©2021, Bradford White Corporation. All rights reserved. BWPHWI0621 SUMME5/1R8/221025:155 PM
SERVICE ROUNDTABLE — DO THE MATH AND JOIN PHCC-WI TODAY! We’ve talked about the Service Roundtable before, but The savings are real! To learn more about membership we wanted to share some real numbers with you. First, a in PHCC Wisconsin and how to activate your Associate reminder. As a member of PHCC Wisconsin, you receive a Membership in the Service Roundtable, contact the PHCC complimentary Associate Membership that includes: Wisconsin office at 888-782-6815. There’s a whole lot of value that makes your investment in membership an even easier • Ready to use marketing and business materials. Simply decision! download and add your company logo and contact info and you are ready to go. • Cash back rebates on items you already buy. The Service Roundtable has hundreds of vetted and trusted partners where you can earn cash back and even add a lucrative revenue stream to your business. So how much are people saving? We recently received our copy of the second quarter rebate checks and the numbers are impressive! Some members received more than $1,000 for the quarter, which is great considering annual dues are just a little over $300. On an annualized basis, that’s a 1,200% return! Sadly, we also discovered that at least one company didn’t renew their membership, making them ineligible to receive their rebate check. They may have thought they were saving money, but in reality, they’re losing out on quarterly discounts of more than $450. They’re behind in the equation in just one quarter and could have been way ahead over the year. RESIDENTIAL HUMIDIFIERS • Stainless steel cabinet • The cabinet has been designed for easy maintenance accessibility • Cylinder works with most common residential AC voltages and a broad range of water conductivity • Up to 50% longer cylinder life compared to competitor’s models • Humidifier ships complete with all accessories needed for operation • Carnes Humidifier operates with the following controls: o Carnes Legacy Humidistat (HXHAF) o All industry standard humidistats o Smart Humidistats with humidity control such as Nest and Ecobee Designed and Assembled in U.S.A. SUMMER 2021 www.carnesresidentialhumidifiers.com • (608) 845-6411 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor 21
UFePdeDraAtTedEInsurance PLAN FOR POWER iStockphoto.com/Alex Potemkin OUTAGES Electricity is vital to our world and businesses, and our • Plans for mitigating the impact of short-term and long- reliance on electrical systems creates a risk. Could you term loss of electricity, such as moving to backup energy continue operating your business without electricity? sources like generators. Power outages in Texas due to cold weather earlier this year show us that natural disasters can strike anywhere, • Policies regarding performing regular preventative and at any time — and often have ramifications to critical maintenance on electrical equipment per manufacturer infrastructure, such as power grids and gas lines. specifications. Inadequately maintained electrical systems are a leading cause of business interruption, The many types of electrical equipment, and how often poor energy efficiency, equipment wear-out, and they are used, are things we often take for granted when breakdowns. they work as intended. Your business may rely on one or more of the following: • A list of employees who are qualified to properly, safely, and effectively maintain and help recover electrical • Computer, phone, and other sensitive electronic systems equipment. • Machinery, pumps, power tools • Contact information for your insurance provider who can respond to coverage and claims questions regarding • Refrigeration systems systems breakdown incidents. • Heating and air conditioning • Verification that your business has systems breakdown coverage for your line of work. • Overhead and display lighting Severe weather conditions and the havoc they bring are • Security doors or alarm systems becoming increasingly unpredictable, but having a plan in place to reduce the impact of electrical outages can help Should one of these systems or pieces of equipment lose its your business recover following a storm. Take action today power source, it could not only interrupt daily work, it could before disaster strikes your electrical system. be dangerous and expensive. Costs could stem from physical damage to the system, loss of business income, service This article is for general information and risk prevention interruption, clean up, temporary repairs, and spoilage of only and should not be considered legal or other expert perishable goods. advice. The recommendations herein may help reduce, but are not guaranteed to eliminate, any or all risk of Having an emergency preparedness and recovery plan loss. The information herein may be subject to, and is not in place can help your business weather the storm should a substitute for, any laws or regulations that may apply. the power go out. Your plan could include: Qualified counsel should be sought with questions specific to your circumstances. © 2020 Federated Mutual Insurance • A key employee responsible for coordinating post- Company. outage recovery of electrical systems. SUMMER 2021 • A list of all business-critical electrical systems at your business. 22 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor
WISCONSIN HOUSING STARTS DECEMBER 2020 THROUGH MARCH 2021 Single Family Dwelling Building Permits NUMBER OF DWELLING UNITS AVERAGE VALUE PER DWELLING UNIT City Dec. Units Percent Change Value ($) Percent Change Appleton Jan. Eau Claire Feb. 25 from same time last year 332.400 from same time last year Fond du Lac March 24 92.3 318.700 27.9 Green Bay Dec. 48 -4.0 300,900 15.6 Janesville/Beloit Jan. 32 -5.9 348,100 20.2 LaCrosse/Onalaska Feb. 20 10.3 301,600 41.5 Madison March 12 -9.1 279,600 0.8 Milwaukee- Dec. 15 71.4 385,700 -22.2 Waukesha- Jan. 38 15.4 285,400 58.0 West Allis Feb. 1 72.7 225,000 24.4 Oshkosh-Neenah March 4 0.0 273,800 -25.4 Racine Dec. 2 33.3 387,500 6.0 Sheboygan Jan. 6 -33.3 346,800 115.3 Wausau Feb. 43 -25.0 304,100 25.4 March 45 26.5 333,500 6.4 Dec. 37 12.5 335,300 26.1 Jan. 79 -15.9 275,500 14.0 Feb. 6 31.7 397,000 -9.5 March 22 -40.0 272,800 59.8 Dec. 16 -54.2 247,700 56.6 Jan. 23 23.1 252,600 0.1 Feb. 10 21.1 245,700 0.5 March 12 66.7 287,700 -5.2 Dec. 10 140.0 300,300 7.2 Jan. 25 100.0 271,300 -8.7 Feb. 154 31.6 300,300 -4.3 March 146 32.8 367,000 -9.9 Dec. 125 44.6 421,000 5.9 Jan. 172 -6.7 373,000 20.4 Feb. 109 21.1 436,300 9.7 March 135 11.2 374,100 10.2 Dec. 133 26.2 414,600 2.6 Jan. 193 14.7 403,700 19.3 Feb. 17 94.9 304,800 -8.9 March 23 183.3 321,200 13.9 Dec. 21 155.6 286,400 -3.3 Jan. 21 31.2 275,000 11.6 Feb. 12 10.5 324,700 1.0 March 8 50.0 347,100 8.4 Dec. 12 0.0 350,000 -12.3 Jan. 14 33.3 380,000 -3.1 Feb. 3 7.7 736,700 42.7 March 0 200.0 52.2 Dec. 1 -100.0 0 -100.0 Jan. 1 0.0 379,400 0.0 Feb. 9 0.0 379,400 0.0 March 3 -25.0 270,100 25.2 13 0.0 247,100 -37.7 10 160.0 268,200 23.4 11.1 331,800 43.9 Source: U.S. Bureau of Census and Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University SUMMER 2021 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor 23
125th Anniversary Convention PHCC WISCONSIN AND PHCC-NATIONAL ANNOUNCE CONVENTION PLANS Ready to make some travel plans for 2021? We are, and we’ve got two great suggestions for you! 24 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor SUMMER 2021
HAVE YOU SEEN OUR 125TH W140N5086 Lilly Rd ANNIVERSARY ISSUE? Menomonee Falls, WI 53051 7150 143rd Ave NW Ramsey, MN 55303 soderholmrep.com 800.328.9858 If you haven’t had a chance to check out PHCC Wisconsin’s Market Influence. Customer Value. special 125th anniversary (1895-2020) commemorative edition, it is available online at https://phcc-wi.org/phcc-wi-magazine/ The 80-page magazine features a look at plumbing and HVAC through the decades, write-ups on industry partners/ manufacturers based in Wisconsin and local multi-generational companies, many historical photos and more. Time to start planning those School District Projects! Schools are getting ready to dismiss for Summer Vacation! Call or Order all your Backflow Supply needs with Test Gauge, Inc. Test Gauge, Inc. Toll Free: (866) 836-8692 | Email: [email protected] 1051 E. Main St., Unit 107 Local: (847) 836-8690 | Website: www.salesgroup.com/il East Dundee, IL 60118 SUMMER 2021 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor 25
2021 VIRTUAL Plumbing Seminars Friday, December 10, 2021 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Drain Waste & Vent Review (Covering Sections of SPS 382) PRESENTED LIVE VIA ZOOM Sign Up Today! ABOUT THE PROGRAM/INSTRUCTORS Our topic this year will be a review of Drain, Waste & Vent Systems. Leading the discussion is Dean Petersen, a Master Plumber and a plumbing apprentice instructor in the Madison area for more than a dozen years. Dean also owns a plumbing design business and has experience teaching continuing education programs such as ours. CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS MP and JP will receive 3.0 hours of credit for attending the program. For other credentials, contact the PHCC & MP/HC at (888) 782-6815x1 or [email protected]. REGISTRATION FEE $49.00 per person/event for PHCC-WI Member Companies & Employees. $69.00 per person/event for Non-Member Companies & Employees. Name ! Check enclosed payable to PHCC-WI for $__________ Name Company ! Pay by Visa, MasterCard, AmEx or Discover by completing the information below. Address City/State/Zip Card Number Phone Cell # Exp. Date CVC# Email Cardholder’s Name Signature: Mail your registration form with payment to: Fax your registration form with credit card information to: PHCC & MP/HC – Wisconsin Association (888) 287-4116 PO Box 833 Germantown, WI 53022 Email your registration form with credit card information to: [email protected] Questions? Contact PHCC & MP/HC - Wisconsin Association at (888) 782-6815. In-Person Presentations of this course are planned for October 8 and November 12.
2021 Plumbing Seminars Friday, October 8 | Eau Claire Friday, November 12 | Johnson Creek Drain Waste & Vent Review All seminars will run 7:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. (Covering Sections of SPS 382) and include lunch. + Water Heater Sizing + Industry Update + Exhibitor Showcase Sign Up Today! ABOUT THE PROGRAM/INSTRUCTORS Our topic this year is Drain, Waste & Vent Systems and Water Heater Sizing. Leading the discussion is Dean Petersen, a Master Plumber and a plumbing apprentice instructor in the Madison area. Dean also owns a plumbing design business and has experience teaching continuing education programs such as ours. The program also features an industry update and exhibitor showcase. CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS MP and JP will receive 6.0 hours of credit for attending the program. For other credentials, contact the PHCC & MP/HC at (888) 782-6815x1 or [email protected]. REGISTRATION FEE $99.00 per person/event for Non-Members $69.00 per person/event for PHCC-WI Member Companies CHECK THE BOX FOR THE SEMINAR YOU WISH TO ATTEND: ! Friday, November 12 ! Friday, October 8 Comfort Suites The Sleep Inn / 29 Pines 725 Paradise Lane 5872 33rd Ave Johnson Creek, WI 53038 Eau Claire, WI 54703 Name ! Check enclosed payable to PHCC-WI for $__________ Name Company ! Pay by Visa, MasterCard, AmEx or Discover by completing the information below. Address Card Number City/State/Zip Phone Exp. Date CVC# Cell # Cardholder’s Name Email Signature Mail your registration form with payment to: Fax your registration form with credit card information to: PHCC & MP/HC – Wisconsin Association (888) 287-4116 P.O. Box 833 Germantown, WI 53022 Email your registration form with credit card information to: [email protected] Questions? Contact PHCC & MP/HC Wisconsin Association at (888) 782-6815. A virtual presentation of this course is planned for December 10.
INndEuWstSry BRADLEY CORP. MARKS 100 YEARS BY CELEBRATING THE WAY THE WORLD WASHES This year marks the 100th anniversary of Bradley Corp., an internationally renowned designer and manufacturer of innovative products and technologies — all created to improve the way the world washes. A century strong, Bradley Bradley’s Next Generation WashBar. has led the industry with a multitude of innovations that future,” said Mullett. “I am beyond proud of our employees make building environments and their accomplishments. Together, we’ve built a true more hygienic, functional, family bond that grows stronger every year.” efficient and safe. Its advanced product offerings range FROM WASHFOUNTAINS TO WASHBARS from touchless handwashing technologies, to showers, As Mullett explains, Bradley was founded on the concept emergency safety fixtures, of removing touchpoints from the handwashing process, solid plastic lockers, partitions, beginning with the Washfountain, which was activated by and accessible washroom a foot pedal. products and accessories. “Bradley has always strived to make handwashing and It all started with Bradley’s Bradley Corp. President drying easier – and more hygienic,” Mullett said. “Touchless first multi-user handwashing Bryan Mullett with today’s handwashing has been relevant for a century but never fixture — the iconic more important than it is today as the world overcomes the Washfountain — invented to Washfountain. COVID-19 pandemic.” increase worker productivity. Bradley was founded in “Bradley has been a proud commercial 1921 by Howard A. Mullett plumbing manufacturer since 1921 and after he and several an active industry supporter for many partners bought the rights decades. Just as Bradley prides itself to the Washfountain from on manufacturing innovative and quality inventor Harry Bradley products and solutions for 100 years, we of the Allen-Bradley Corp. salute PHCC-WI and all of its members as Bradley came up with the it marks 125 years of industry leadership idea for the Washfountain and advocacy. PHCC’s outstanding after realizing the amount efforts ensure Wisconsin residents of time workers had to receive only the best products and wait in line to wash their services. Congratulations to PHCC-WI!” hands. He created the group handwashing concept to save - Bryan Mullett, chairman and CEO, time and keep workers on Bradley Corp. the shop floor. Today, headed by Chairman/CEO Bryan Mullett, the fifth Mullett generation to lead the company, Bradley has not wavered from its origin of product innovation. The company is now the industry’s premiere provider of product solutions that meet the needs of architects, specifiers, plumbing engineers and contractors worldwide. “From day one, Bradley has been driven by generations of talented people, innovative designs and a clear vision for the 28 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor SUMMER 2021
INndEuWstrSy The most satisfying shower ends when you want it to end. And not before! Most recently, products like Bradley’s all-in-one toruescethbu-tton S endless hot free WashBar®, with smart clean+rinse+dry technology in water a single fixture, further advanced touchless handwashing adjustable while forever changing the handwashing market. temperature No venting A WISCONSIN MANUFACTURING AND GermMaadeniyn BUSINESS PIONEER xed or accurate Bradley remains committed to American manufacturing temperature in Wisconsin, Mullett added. After establishing ex iptipse time manufacturing roots in Milwaukee, Bradley moved its headquarters to Menomonee Falls, Wis., in 1964, where it still is today. The company established its second Wisconsin- Tempra® Plus based plant in Germantown in 2010. Another milestone took place in 1942 when thEleizfairbsettfhemWaelethperreeslildetonotkoftaheWhiseclomnpssuigpaitpnaltiiled with Advanced Flow Control™ Bradley, making her company. Endless hot water.SWITCHABLE Always at the set temp. “Our company will celebrate all year long with several POWER OUTPUT new innovative products launching soon,” Mullett smaouindts.up AdkvWanced Flow ConktWrol™ in Stiebel Eltron Tempra® “Whether washing hands, washing in the shower or cleanoridnowgn Plus electric tankless water heaters ensures the hot up after an emergency, Bradley will lead the market with the most advanced washing technology available.” 1w2 at1e4.r4 tempe1r2atu14r.4e asked for… is always delivered, kfWor kaWs long aksWit kiWs desired, with no unexpected cold Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2021, Bradley has created the most advanced, water “surprises.” Space saving design, no venting 99washrooms and comprehensive emcoeorrgdeinnacytesdafectoymsmoluetricoEinacsliencyk1W2 14.4 required, and endless hot water. %that make public environments hygienic and safe. Dedicated kW to innovating healthy handwashing technologies, Bradley Advanced Flow Control™ was invented by and is only available from Stiebel Eltron. Awarded German patent DE 3805441 C2 and others. is the industry’s leading source for the most sanitary multi-function touchless handwashing and drying fixtures. Washroom accessories, partitions, solid plastic lockers, as The world leader in well as emergency safety fixtures and electric tankless advanced water heating heaters for industrial applications round out its product technology since 1924. offerings. Headquartered in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, Bradley serves commercial, institutional and industrial building markets worldwide. Simply the Best 800.582.8423 www.StiebelEltron.us SUMMER 2021 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor 29
NIndEuWstSry A BLAST FROM THE PAST Fred Gardner, Badger State Inc., shared this photo of a service truck, circa 1960s. Do you have a vintage photo you would like to share? We’d love to include it in the magazine. Send to [email protected]. PHCC-WISCONSIN HOSTS RADIANT SEMINAR SERIES Our thanks to HydroFlo Products and Viega, for our program. He who helped us present two excellent programs regularly trains on topics on radiant heating in March and April. The such as hydronic design programs, Radiant 101 – Why Radiant? and theory, piping systems, Radiant 201 – I’m Too Hot (Or Cold), received piping related technical excellent ratings from those who attended. aspects, and business development. The speaker for both programs was Bo And if you haven’t seen some of the tools DeAngelo, a manager of Technical Training for professional trainers have available to them Viega. Through the power of virtual training, to make virtual training engaging, this was we were able to bring in an expert trainer one you would have wanted to see! Your vision begins with an Oasis! The Oasis family of bathware embraces the style, features and performance for your vision and your lifestyle. ® SH4P-6030 L-RS / BP2-60 TS4P-6032 L / BP2-60 WHT www.oasisbath.com Lk MID-STATE Wautoma De Pere Fond du Lac Appleton SUPPLY W7810 State Hwy 21 1782 Mid Valley Drive 1222 Industrial Parkway 650 South Westland Drive Wautoma, WI 54982 De Pere, WI 54115 Fond du Lac, WI 54937 Appleton, WI 54914 When Service Matters Phone: 920-787-3331 Phone: 920-964-0444 Phone: 920-929-9540 Phone: 920-733-6685 Watts: 800-236-6700 Watts: 800-236-0022 Watts: 800-236-5839 Fax: 920-733-6605 Fax: 920-787-3265 Fax: 920-336-6381 Fax: 920-929-9530 30 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor SUMMER 2021
INndEuWstrSy MILWAUKEE TOOL EXPANDS INTO DOWNTOWN MILWAUKEE Milwaukee Tool is expanding their corporate By the end of 2021, the company will have over 3,100 operations into downtown Milwaukee, investing employees located in Wisconsin. more than $30 million to purchase and renovate a vacant 333,000-square-foot building. The company has the option to expand the office space by adding 150,000-square-feet, for up to an additional 790 employees. The company’s current global headquarters in Brookfield will remain the central location for the company’s corporate operations. This new expansion will provide increased space to accommodate the company’s rapid growth. Anticipated to open in October, this building will house 1,200 employees within the next three years. MERCURY MARINE INSTALLS SOLAR ARRAY AT ITS WORLD HEADQUARTERS Mercury Marine announced the “These steps will combine with many others over the installation of its first array of photovoltaic next 10 years to increase the proportion of energy we solar panels at its world headquarters will draw from renewable energy sources,” Drees said. campus in Fond du Lac. The new array “We are committed to our focus on sustainable business sits atop a segment of the company’s practices, including investment in renewable energy warehouse roof and comprises 320 and reduction of our carbon footprint. We will continue to panels, each measuring 6-feet wide elevate our commitment to sustainability across all of our and 4-feet tall. The array will generate global locations.” enough electricity to light the company’s warehouse operation in Fond du Lac for the next 30 years. Mercury launched its first solar project in 2017 with the installation of a 2,000 panel array at the company’s European headquarters in Petit Rechain, Belgium. That solar array, combined with improved insulation at the location, reduces the amount of electricity the facility draws from the grid by 33%, thus lowering the facility’s utility costs and enabling substantial use of clean and sustainable energy. According to Mercury Marine President Chris Drees, the new array in Fond du Lac will contribute toward fulfillment of a goal he announced at the beginning of 2020 to derive 50% of the company’s electricity from renewable sources by the end of 2030. SUMMER 2021 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor 31
NIndEuWstSry MAPC ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD MEMBERS Madison Association of Plumbing Contractors (MAPC) announced the following appointments to the board. President: Paul Christensen, Owner/CEO/Project Executive of 1901 Inc.; Vice President: Brian Schultz, Vice President & Plumbing Department Head of Hooper Corporation; Secretary: Chris Behrendt, P.E., Construction Manager at J. F. Ahern Co.; Treasurer: Jesse Pertzborn, Vice President of H.J. Pertzborn Plumbing & Fire Protection. Paul Christensen Brian Schultz Christensen began working for 1901 Inc. when he was in high school before completing a five- Chris Behrendt year apprenticeship as a member of Steamfitters Local 601 before he became a foreman. He was promoted to a project manager in 2010, and then purchased the company in 2011. Jesse Pertzborn Schultz, a graduate of University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering, has nearly 25 years of experience in the plumbing field, and became the Plumbing Department Head of Hooper Corporation in April of 2013. Schultz was then promoted to vice president of the company in January 2017. Behrendt, also a graduate of University of Wisconsin- Madison with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, has nearly 19 years of experience in the construction industry, and has been serving as a construction manager with J. F. Ahern Co. for over seven years. Pertzborn continues to carry on the family business that his great grandfather, Henry Joseph Pertzborn, began in 1928. He joined the family business as a master plumber and designer for H.J. Pertzborn Plumbing & Fire Protection in the mid- 1990s. Pertzborn became vice president of the company in April 2014 following his father’s retirement. The board oversees the nonprofit MAPC, which works to provide contractors in the plumbing construction industry with the best education, resources, safety practices, industry relations, and networking events possible. 32 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor SUMMER 2021
INndEuWstrSy HVAC/R NAVAC INC. NAMES ICE-KOLD AS OFFICIAL REPAIR CENTER NAVAC, a supplier of HVAC vacuum pumps in addition to tools, gauges, charging machines, recovery units and other industry-specific items, named Wisconsin-based Ice-Kold as its official repairs center partner. Ice- Kold will handle repairs for the full portfolio of NAVAC’s HVAC/R tools, which are designed to simplify and streamline the jobs of today’s busy service technicians. Initially founded in 1978 as Midwest Refrigeration, Ice-Kold has more than four decades of experience repairing HVAC/R tools — a timeframe spanning various industry technological advances and trends. NAVAC has a history of market-facing innovation. Among other new solutions, the company introduced the industry’s first DC Driven Smart Vacuum Pump and 4-Cylinder Commercial Grade Recovery Unit. NAVAC offers a wide selection of vacuum pumps from 2 cfm cordless to 23 cfm industrial grade pumps, and recovery units for various applications. “We are excited to begin our partnership as NAVAC’s authorized tool repair center,” said Jared Saunders, general manager for Ice-Kold. “We look forward to a successful, mutually beneficial partnership for years to come.” Ice-Kold is located in Grafton. T&S IS HERE EDUCATION HEALTHCARE PUBLIC VENUES COMMERCIAL OFFICES Contractors know how important it is to have the right resources in place — and so does T&S. That’s why we offer a vast selection of high-quality plumbing products for a wide range of markets and applications, delivering world-class innovation and reliability when it matters most. Learn more at tsbrass.com/markets. T&S plumbing products represented in Wisconsin by: (Eastern) Process & Mechanical Systems Inc. - 262-691-9991 (Western) Hamel Associates Inc. - 952-835-5570 STSUBM_30M50E2R0182P0H2C1C 7.675x5.indd 7 The Wisconsin PHC Con8t/1r3a/1c8to1r1:03 AM33
BNyUthMeBERS Sometimes, the facts are just plain interesting. No connection except that. They’re interesting … 44 The number of times in the past 100 years The FCC’s estimate for the number of that Michael has been the most popular name for boys born that year. 2.4 robocalls made to U.S. phone numbers BILLION each month. LESS Globally, the percentage of people who 23 The number of two-liter bottles an THAN 20 wash their hands after using the toilet. average person could fill with saliva in (Note: Before you start to think that’s bad just one month. hygiene, it’s important to remember that many people in the world — more than 40 The percentage of U.S. citizens who cannot 2.5 billion by CDC estimates — do not have name any of the freedoms provided for in access to clean water. Let’s solve that the first amendment. They are: freedom problem first!) of the press, freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and the 13 The number of pounds of ice cream eaten, right to petition the government. on average, by Americans each year. That number is down more than 2 pounds from a decade ago. Quotable With Summer upon us and things looking a whole lot better when it comes to vacationing, we thought we’d provide a few quotes to remind you to take some time to rest and relax and reconnect … “The best things in life are the people we love, the places we’ve been, and all the memories we’ve made along the way.” ~ Unknown “Isn’t it amazing how much stuff we get done the day before vacation?” ~ Zig Ziglar “Do not wait until you are dying to go on vacation. I think if I had to give you one piece of advice that would be it. We put things off. We do not mean to, but we do. We carry around the assumption that there is plenty of time to do whatever needs to be done.” ~ Marty Cauley “Some of your best ideas come when you’re on vacation.” ~ Gautam Singhania “A one-day holiday can at times be better than a one-week vacation if you totally unplug for that one day!” ~ Catherine Pulsifer 34 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor SUMMER 2021
Approved www.warmrain.com Type “B” compliant showers and bases Great for Apartments, Condos and Senior Living Basic Type “B” features: • 36” x 36” Minimum INSIDE Space Shower – larger dimensions available • 3.5” front outside threshold with a 1.5” inside dam • Textured floor – meets and exceeds ASTM F-462 slip resistance standard • Not ADA compliant due to threshold Model # B-4038: Model # FW 436: • Unit Dimensions - 40” x 38” x 6.5” • Unit Dimensions - 48” x 39” x 79” • Door Opening - 37.25” • Door Opening - 45.5” x 74” • Inside Shower Dimensions - 37” x 33” • Inside Shower Dimensions - 45” x 36” • Wood backing is standard Model # B-4839: Model # B-6039: • Unit Dimensions - 48” x 39” x 6.5” • Door Opening - 38.25” • Unit Dimensions - 60” x 39” x 6.5” • Inside Shower Dimensions - 45” x 34” • Door Opening - 59.25” • Inside Shower Dimensions - 57” x 34” www.goodinco.com MINNEAPOLIS | ST. PAUL | DULUTH | DETROIT LAKES | ST. CLOUD BRAINERD | ROCHESTER | FARGO | SIOUX FALLS | OMAHA EAU CLAIRE | WAUSAU | MADISON | MILWAUKEE | GREEN BAY
MBeEmNbEerFITS PHCC/MP/HC - Wisconsin Association • Company Listing on www.phcc-wi.org • Networking with Other Contractors • Coupons Offering Discounts on Products & Services • Networking with Wholesaler and Manufacturer Reps • Legislative & Regulatory Representation • Networking with Business Partners including Legal, • Representation on Code and Licensing Councils • Newsletter Banking, and Accounting Professionals • Discounts on Plumbing Code Books and POWTS • Access to Federated Insurance Member Programs Manuals (Liability, WC, Health, etc.) • Discounts on NFPA 13D Manuals and Plumbing Design • Retirement Planning Services • Scholarship Programs with Preferences for Manuals • Discounts on Technical Education Programs Member-Sponsored Applicants • Service Roundtable Associate Membership (Continuing Education) • Discounts on Business Education Programs (see page 21) • Savings on Grandy & Associates Programs for Business Owners/Managers AINdvDerEtiXser Summer 2021 Advertiser Index Calendar of Events 13 ion Technologies 2021 PHCC-WI Convention & Trade ionproducts.net SEPT. Show 23-24 Green Bay 18 Badgerland Trading 2 JMI Pump Systems OCT. 8 Plumbing Code Seminar Badgerlandtrading.com jmipumps.com Eau Claire OCT. 12 (Two-Part Program) 20 Bradford White 30 Mid-State Supply & OCT. Cross Connection Control bradfordwhite.com/innovations mssupply.com Seminar 19 Online - LIVE 21 Carnes 5 Milwaukee Electric Tool OCT. PHCC CONNECT carnesresidentialhumidifiers milwaukeetool.com 20-22 Kansas City, Missouri NOV. 12 Plumbing Code Seminar Johnson Creek 19 DSG 6 Process and Mechanical Systems Inc. DEC. 10 Plumbing Code Seminar DSGSupply.com pmsireps.com Online - LIVE 8 FastEst, Inc. 9 Rheem All dates are subject to change. fastest-inc.com rheem.com/HybridSolutions If necessabreyh, ienl-dpverirstounaellvye. nts may 17 Ferguson 3 Rundle-Spence ferguson.com rundle-spence.com 40 First Supply 25 Soderholm & Associates firstsupply.com soderholmrep.com 15 Goodin Company 29 Stiebel Eltron goodinco.com StielbelEltron.us 12 Hart, Travers, and Associates 33 T&S Brass htareps.com tsbrass.com/markets 11 Herkowski Stickler & Associates 39 Taco Comfort Solutions hsarep.com TacoComfort.com 32 Hodes Co 25 Test Gauge Inc HodesCo.com shopbackflow.com/il 7 Hydro-Flo Products, Inc. 35 Warm Rain hydro-flo.com warmrain.com 36 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor www.istockphoto.com/Jolygon SUMMER 2021
AMePmPbLeIrCshAipTION (2021) PHCC/MP/HC - Wisconsin Association Contractor (check one): Master Plumbers/Heating & Cooling Contractors YEARS Association (State Only) - $350.00 PHCC-Wisconsin/National Associations (State & National) $619.00 - 1st Year National Members $753.50 - 2nd Year National Members $888.00 - 3rd Year and Thereafter Associate Member (Product/Service Provider): PHCC-WI & Master Plumbers/Heating & Cooling Contractors Association (State Only) - $350.00 Method of Payment: Check for $___________ enclosed (payable to PHCC-Wisconsin Association) MasterCard Visa Discover AmEX Master Plumbers/Heating & Cooling Contractors of Wisconsin Name ________________________________________________________ Card Number _________________________________________________ Expiration Date __________ / __________ CVC#_____________________ Signature ____________________________________________________ Dues payments are not deductible as a charitable contribution, but may be deductible as a business expense. PHCC-WI*MP/HC Contractors Association estimates that $50.00 of your state dues is not deductible as a business expense due to lobbying activities on behalf of PHCC -WI*MP/HC members. PHCC- NA estimates that 5 percent of your national dues is not deductible as a business expense due to lobbying activities on behalf of PHCC-NA members. Consult your tax advisor. CONTACT INFORMATION Company____________________________________________________________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip_______________________________________________________________________________________ Phone______________________________________Fax___________________________________________________ MP#_______________________________________HVAC Qualifier#___________________________________________ Contact Person______________________________________________________________________________________ Email*_______________________________________________________________________________________________ Website_____________________________________________________________________________________________ * If you would like additional contacts to receive email communication from PHCC-WI/MP/HC, please let us know: Name_______________________________________________________________________________________________ Email _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Name_______________________________________________________________________________________________ Email________________________________________________________________________________________________ Return this form and payments to: PHCC - Wisconsin Association Master Plumbers/Heating Cooling-Contractors Association P.O. Box 833 • Germantown, Wisconsin 53022-0833 • Phone (888) 782-6815 Fax (888) 287-4116 • www.phcc-wi.org SUMMER 2021 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor 37
Recent Updates Have Been YEARS Wisconsin Plumbing Made To The State Code! CODE BOOK Is Your Code Book Up-To-Date? POWTS Component Manuals Plumbing Design Manual Order A New Book Today! POWTS Component Manuals contain: Master Plumbers/Heating & Cooling Contractors of Wisconsin • all POWTS component manuals • three ring binder CODE BOOK contains: • full 8.5” x 11” pages • tabbed sections for easy reference. • over 350 pages of statutes & rules • three ring binder • full 8.5” x 11” pages • tabbed sections for easy reference. Sponsored by: PHCC-Wisconsin Association & Master Plumbers/Heating & Cooling Contractors Association. Call (888) 782-6815 for details regarding the code book or answers to your code book questions. PRICES include Shipping & Handling: _____MEMBER CODE BOOK ONLY $70.00 EACH ____________ _____MEMBER CODE BOOK WITH 1 YEAR UPDATE SERVICE $105.00 EACH ____________ _____MEMBER 1 YEAR UPDATE SERVICE $45.00 EACH ____________ _____MEMBER POWTS COMPONENT MANUALS $60.00 EACH ____________ _____MEMBER NFPA 13D FIRE PROTECTION CODE $75.00 EACH ____________ _____MEMBER DESIGN MANUAL $120.00 EACH ____________ _____NON-MEMBER CODE BOOK ONLY $95.00 EACH ____________ _____NON-MEMBER CODE BOOK WITH 1 YEAR UPDATE SERVICE $150.00 EACH ____________ _____NON-MEMBER 1 YEAR UPDATE SERVICE $70.00 EACH ____________ _____NON-MEMBER POWTS COMPONENT MANUALS $80.00 EACH ____________ _____NON-MEMBER NFPA 13D FIRE PROTECTION CODE $85.00 EACH ____________ _____NON-MEMBER DESIGN MANUAL $140.00 EACH ____________ SUBTOTAL ____________ 5.5% Sales Tax ____________ TOTAL ____________ NAME_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ COMPANY NAME ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS___________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY/STATE/ZIP______________________________________________________________________________________________ PHONE_____________________________________________EMAIL__________________________________________________ Check enclosed in the amount of $___________________ Payable to “PHCC-Wisconsin” Charge: _________ MasterCard _________ Visa _________ American Express _________ Discover Credit Card # _______________________________________Expiration Date ___________ CVC# _________ Name on Card ______________________________________Signature ______________________________________________ Call in your order to (888) 782-6815 ~ Fax to (888) 287-4116 Mail your order to PHCC-Wisconsin P.O. Box 833 - Germantown, WI 53022-0833 38 The Wisconsin PHC Contractor SUMMER 2021
Certified to NSF/ANSI 61 & 372 www.TacoComfort.com
STOCK YOUR SHOP WITH FIRST SUPPLY Our new QR label program gives you an innovative way to monitor product usage and maintain inventory levels. HERE'S HOW IT WORKS! 1. Contact your First Supply sales rep or local branch. 2. Attach the QR labels we provide to your shelves and inventory bins. 3. Scan QR labels with your smartphone when stock is running low. 4. Enter a quantity to reorder a product after it opens in the app. GET THE FIRST SUPPLY MOBILE APP Our mobile app keeps you connected to our huge selection with or without a Wi-Fi signal. The app is your ticket to ordering on-the-go and everything First inStock has to offer! Available FREE for your iOS and Android devices. Scan to learn more!
Search
Read the Text Version
- 1 - 40
Pages: