HVAC & Plumbing News

High oil prices tied to Iran conflict and recent trade friction with Canada have pushed input prices up 8.9% over a year ago, according to BLS. Key Highlights Construction input prices increased by 1.2% in August; Material prices for steel, lumber, and metals have surged over 10% year-over-year; Energy prices showed mixed trends: crude oil…

Under growing pressure to conserve more water, large facilities are exploring alternative treatment technologies to reduce both blowdown and water use without disrupting operations. Key Highlights Cooling towers naturally lose water through evaporation and blowdown, which can be optimized for conservation without impacting core processes; Advanced oxidation process (AOP) technology helps increase cycles of concentration,…

Competition in Shanghai highlights workforce shortages and the need for expanded vocational training worldwide. Key Highlights Plumbing workforce shortages are becoming a global infrastructure issue: LIXIL cites major labor gaps in the US, Europe, Australia and Japan Training is central to expanding the skilled workforce: LIXIL’s GROHE GIVE and TradeUp programs provide plumbing training and…

Excluding data centers and power generation, nonresidential spending declined for the second consecutive month, reaching its lowest level since September 2023. Key Highlights Nonresidential construction spending increased by 0.1% in July, driven mainly by data centers Private nonresidential spending rose 0.4%, while public spending declined 0.2% Contractor confidence remains high, but optimism is increasingly dependent…

The Winsupply Family of Companies has welcomed a new Local Company with the opening of Tulsa Winlectric. Tulsa Winlectric opened its doors on June 19, 2026, at 10702 E. 11th St. and features a 20,000-square-foot facility. Led by President/Owner Jacob Wares, the Tulsa Winlectric team—Campbell Yeager, Brandon Mercer, Colton Collier, Landon Bart, Zevveyln Balalong, Jordan…

CASE STUDY: As more buildings move toward electrification, engineers must be as focused on operational equipment tolerances as they are on equipment schedules and capacity calculations. Key Highlights Heat pump systems require careful evaluation of operational limits, hydraulics, and control sequences to ensure reliable performance; Hydraulic decoupling and dedicated pumping are essential for stabilizing flow…

Understanding the Impact of U.S.-Canada Trade Tariffs on HVAC Businesses The ongoing trade tension between the U.S. and Canada has reached a critical juncture with the implementation of steep 50% tariffs. This escalation not only strains diplomatic relations but poses significant implications for HVAC business owners on both sides of the border. With potential disruptions…

Transforming Commercial Spaces with VRF Solutions As the commercial real estate landscape evolves, businesses are increasingly challenged to create spaces that blend efficiency, comfort, and adaptability. Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems represent a cutting-edge solution that addresses these needs effectively. This innovative HVAC technology offers precise temperature control and energy efficiency, making it a favored…

Presidential Heating & Air Conditioning, a trusted home-comfort provider serving Montgomery County and the surrounding communities, today announced the acquisition of Shipley Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, effective August 24, 2026. Shipley will become part of Presidential and transition to the Presidential name, expanding Presidential’s services to include plumbing, drain clearing, water heater maintenance, repair…

This month’s price increases impact products across multiple categories Compared to the previous several months, manufacturers announced a lighter round of PHCP-PVF price adjustments, with fewer manufacturers implementing increases overall. While this month’s announcements were more limited, price adjustments still affected valves, hydronic controls, pipe, supports, water heating products, and other plumbing and PVF product…