As hydronic designers and technicians, our priorities are increasing customer comfort and system efficiency — and air elimination should be at the top of our lists. If we implement best practices, our customers will have trouble-free and efficient hydronic systems.

As plumbing flow rates have declined since the passage of the Safe Drinking Water Act in 1991, the potential for Legionella growth in building plumbing systems has risen. Engineers must consider this — as well as scald risk and chemical eradication of the bacteria — when designing plumbing systems.

Design, installation and maintenance are all important for properly operating a building’s hot water system. Who an owner hires to maintain the building is critical. Most maintenance personnel may not know how to troubleshoot hot water issues properly. Ron George has provided a checklist for domestic hot water systems’ design, installation and commissioning.

Hot water temperature maintenance systems often contribute to scalding injuries and Legionnaires’ Disease cases through inoperable circulating pumps and problematic balancing valves. Read on for Ron George’s insight into these systems.

The proper prevention of bacteria growth is achieved by proper system design, system maintenance and added system solutions. However, the effectiveness of these treatments, solutions and processes can vary with the different types of buildings and applications. They can have negative effects if applied incorrectly. Read on for tips on applying these solutions.

Plumbing engineers must consider many things when designing a high-rise building’s hot water heating and supply system. Understanding the different piping systems and using industry best practices will assist in a successful project.

These valves have different functions in a hot water system; make sure you understand how they work so you can select the appropriate valve for your client’s application.

Americans continue to have elevated expectations for washroom cleanliness and maintenance. Touchless fixtures are a must as people; all-in-one handwashing systems fulfill that requirement and reduce maintenance.

Natural gas-fired and electric boilers and water heaters have specific space and venting requirements to keep building occupants safe. Architects and engineers need to discuss these issues during the design phase to ensure aesthetics and safety issue are all considered.