Mcabc winter 2014

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56 Telus Garden

WesT KooTenay Mechanical lTd. | TechnoloGy | WaTer

WINTER 2014 Vol.3 No.3

Plumbing & mechanical

the official publication of the mechanical contractors association of british columbia

Western Canada’s Leading Plumbing, HVAC, Pumps and Water Products Distributor

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Contents

06 COVER STORYThe massive mixed-use Telus garden development in downtown Vancouver is targeting to be canada’s first leeD Platinum office building. it features a central plant with high efficiency heat pumps, waste heat recovery and geothermal heat exchangers.

09 PROFILEWest Kootenay mechanical has been successfully delivering quality service for 30 years in Trail, b.c. and prevailing in the extremely challenging local market.

12 Technologycondensing boilers for existing buildings hVac control Trends

15 Waterlow lead comes to canadaRadiant heating Solutions

On The cOVeR: Telus garden will be the new national headquarters for the telecom giant and includes residential, office and retail space.

Departments

Features

04 Executive Vice President’s Message05 President’s Message 18 Association Corner20 Political Scene

Pipelines imperative to b.c’s economy

21 Industry News

PUBLISHERDan Gnocato

[email protected]

ManaGInG EDItoRCheryl Mah

GRaPHIC DESIGn tang Creative Inc.

ContRIBUtInG WRItERSRobin Brunet, Mike Hoppe, Brian o’Donnell

Kambiz Pishghadam, Kevin Wong

B.C./aLBERta SaLESDan Gnocato

604.549.4521 ext. 223

Dana taylor ExECUtIvE vICE PRESIDEnt

annie Wong ExECUtIvE aSSIStant anD

SPECIaL PRojECtS CooRDInatoR

jane andrew DIRECtoR of MEMBERSHIP DEvELoPMEnt,

SERvICES anD EvEnt PLannInG

Rivka Lipsey, DIRECtoR of CoMMUnICatIonS anD MaRKEtInG

Berry Lam aDMInIStRatIvE aSSIStant

Mechanical Contractors association of BC (MCaBC)223 - 3989 Henning Drive, Burnaby BC v5C 6n5

Ph: 604.205.5058 fax: 604.205.5075Email: [email protected] visit us online: www.mcabc.org

PRIntED In CanaDa

PUBLISHED BY

PRESIDEntKevin Brown

vanCoUvER offICE 2221 Hartley ave.Coquitlam, BC v3K 6W9tel: 604.549.4521fax: 604.549.4522

toRonto offICE 1000-5255 Yonge St.toronto, on M2n 6P4tel: 416.512.8186fax: 416.512.8344

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MCaBC Plumbing & Mechanical Magazine is published three times a year by MediaEDGE Communications Inc.

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for all subscription inquiries or address changes, please contact [email protected] or call 416.512.8186 ext. 259.

WIntER 2014 vol. 3 no.3

Plumbing & Mechanical magazine is the official magazine of the Mechanical Contractors association of BC published three times a year by MediaEdge Communications Inc. opinions expressed in the magazine are those of the authors and not necessarily endorsed by the MCaBC or MediaEdge Communications. Editorial inquiries should be sent to the editor at [email protected].

4 PLUMBInG & MECHanICaL | WIntER 2014

executive vice president's message

Occasionally, the world intrudes on our day-to-day association activity pre-senting us with news and ideas that are

often too big to overlook. Building information modeling is one such idea, while the growth and prevalence in some owner sectors of P3 projects, is another. In B.C. the looming impact of industri-al developments on labour supply may also cause all contractors to step back and reassess the world in which they compete.

Our construction market (including B.C., Cana-da, and globally), is changing at an accelerating pace. At one time construction was primarily a domestic marketplace where work was to be found within a half day’s drive from the office. Exceptions to this rule have always been the heavy industrial work that takes place somewhere ‘out there’. The days of the “100km construction diet” are almost done. If you agree, and believe this statement to be true, how have you prepared your company for this reality? Where is your next job com-ing from? If you are not doing 95 per cent of your business within a few hours of your company’s office, where is the work coming from? What are the op-portunities available to you, and from where are they coming?

Why do international players like Cofley and large national or regional companies Bantrel and Lisi set up shop in B.C.? Five years ago, none of these companies were active players in the B.C. market. They not only serve re-mote or exclusive clients, but they are also establishing a strong presence in this provincial market.

Many companies feel that B.C. is their home turf and their market is being intruded by outsid-ers. If this is the case, do you make a stand and fend off the competition, or should YOU be look-ing elsewhere too? What are the possibilities?

Two avenues that should be of future interest to mechanical contractors are green buildings and China, and I would add that there’s a pow-erful connection between these two.

It should be obvious by now that green buildings are both the present and the future of construction, since there exists local and in-ternational demand. The cost of energy in this province, while still well below most countries internationally, is increasing. BC Hydro is al-ready planning a rate increase of 28 per cent over a three year period starting immediately. Buildings, both their construction and their operations, are the single largest emitters of car-

bon, and most of that comes from the heating/cooling installations. MCABC, in conjunction with the Green Chamber of Commerce (GC-

CBC) and the Board of Change, is exploring the possibility of promoting the development of a green precinct or neighbourhood for urban Greater Vancou-ver. This could be the concept that not only realizes the political objectives of various governments to achieve ‘greenest city’ status, but also serves to show-case the B.C. construction industry’s considerable technological expertise to build sustainable structures. You, MCABC members, have that expertise!

The second idea — setting sights on China — has to be of interest to some. Last year, China announced its commitment to building ‘smart cities’. What’s this you ask? ‘Smart cities’ refers to infrastructure! By this, I mean a city that is not only green and sustainable, but also operating with all of the innovations that technology can offer (this includes mechanical systems). Over 190 cities have been designated for this reconstruction with $92 bil-lion committed to pilot projects — without a doubt there are more to come.

In a recent visit to China I was routinely asked, “Where’s Canada?” Chi-na has $92B (USD) to spend and there’s no one from Canada showing a sniff of interest. We may try to change some of that. A smart city conference is being organized for Macao this fall. If contractors show interest there could be a Canadian delegation made up of B.C. mechanical contractors in attendance. A reasonable question of any Anglo-centric western-based company considering doing business in a country where you cannot read the street signs or the menus might be: ‘What’s the incentive?’ Two an-swers: Money and experience. Anecdotally, I am informed that the profit potential on specified government mandated work and purely commercial ventures can be astronomical by Western standards. I won’t exaggerate what I don’t know for a fact, but there are some pretty good indicators as evidence. Look at the number of millionaire/billionaires created in China in the past two decades and the changes to their city skylines. Locally con-sider the number of single parent families from China and ask them why the head of the household, instead of living and working in B.C. with them, is back in China. The common answer is: ‘they can earn five to 10 times more income in China than in Canada.’

This could be an opportunity for a considerable leap forward for some Canadian companies. This may be a trend worth following.

Dana TaylorExecutive Vice President, MCABC

The Future is Green, and it's Elsewhere

president's message

5WIntER 2014 | PLUMBInG & MECHanICaL

I hope this past winter season was kind to MCA members, their families, and their businesses. I’m sure that many of you are all

as anxious as I am to see the start of spring and the subsequent golf opportunities that come with warmer weather. MCABC’s 2014 calendar of events is already brimming with professional development courses, golf tournaments and spring socials. Be sure to keep checking your inbox for the latest event announcements and registration openings.

This spring, MCABC will be hosting its 70th annual Conference & AGM at the Four Seasons Resort & Residences in Whistler, B.C. As many of you are already aware, I am nearing the end of my two-year term as MCABC president. With an election year upon us, our annual AGM will mark the official closing period for my presidency, and the association will usher in one of my fellow ex-ecutive board members to fill the role as your new president. Come for the networking, the week-end adventure, and the chance to engage with your association. I hope to see each and every one of you there!

Beyond the election and the end of my term, my personal plan is to remain on the board as your past president and secretary treasurer. I look forward to continuing my involvement in asso-ciation activities and the ongoing opportunity to

boarD oF DirEcTors

EXEcUTiVEPresident

Dean Loewen

Vice President, Lower MainlandWayne Davidson

Davidson bros. Mechanical contractors

Vice President, Lower Mainlandandrew Wong

alpha Mechanical contracting Ltd.

Vice President, Vancouver islandangus Macpherson

cairnview Mechanical Ltd.

secretary – TreasurerMike ohlmannFred Welsh Ltd.

Executive Vice PresidentDana Taylor

DirEcTorsassociates chairman

Neil HolbecheiPEX inc.

associates Vice-chairmanEarl storey

b.a. robinson

Mira chairmanrob Noel

bc comfort Ltd.

Directorbrian bradshaw

altac services inc.

DirectorJohn Davina

Kal-West building systems inc.

Directorbrad Haysom

Tight 5 contracting Ltd.

Directorross MacDonald

control solutions Ltd.

Directorrichard McLatchieLockerbie & Hole

DirectorDale Miller

Division 15 Mechanical Ltd.

DirectorDan Taillefer

Viaduct sheet Metal Ltd.

DirectorLen Voon

aarc West Mechanical insulation

lead this association with my fellow executives and directors.

It should be no surprise that one of my fa-vorite MCABC spring activities is golfing. Golf season is a particularly social time for MCABC and its members. With eight golf tournaments a year, MCABC seasoned golfers and golf nov-ices all have a chance to test their skills and enhance their business connections in an en-gaging setting. While the tournaments can be intimidating to new and non-golfers, at the end of the day, the game is secondary to the poten-tial business connections that are fostered on the green. Don’t miss your chance to connect with fellow members.

Games aside, MCABC’s golf season lends itself to effective fundraising support for char-itable organizations in our provincial commu-nity. This year, there’s talk of an MCABC team entering the Ride to Conquer Cancer. As an avid runner and sports enthusiast, I would encourage anyone who might be interested to support this cause by joining the MCABC cy-cling team and helping the team to reach their fundraising goals for this honourable cause (each participant must meet a minimum fun-draising threshold).

In an effort to ameliorate both our presence and reputation in the construction industry, MCABC recently underwent a logo change. Rest assured, we are still the same association as we always were — just refreshed. We feel this new logo better reflects both our purpose and our identity as a provincial trade asso-ciation, while still maintaining some visual semblance to the one used before. Moving forward, we are hopeful that this modernized look will help us enhance our brand, define our focus, and keep us ‘top-of-mind’ in this industry. Our new ‘tag line’ now answers the question of “What can MCABC do for me in this industry” which we feel will help us better communicate our value to current and pro-spective members.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our members for all the support you have given me during my term as president. I would also like to extend this thank you to the hard-working staff at MCABC — for their support and friendship. It has been a pleasure serving as MCABC’s president these past two years, and I look forward to seeing more of what our provincial associa-tion can offer this industry.

Dean LoewenPresident, MCABC

Thank You


cover story

SuSTAINAbLE sysTeMs

By RoBin BRunet

A sk Joe Buccella, regional manager (B.C.) for Lisi Mechanical Contractors Ltd., how his company is faring in 2014 and

he replies, “We’ve been in this province for nine years and 2013 was our busiest year ever. The New Year is shaping up to be equally busy: the projects we’re working on are big and very interesting.”

The biggest, and certainly interesting, current project for the company on the West Coast is the massive mixed-use Telus Garden development by Westbank. Lisi Mechanical was awarded the contract for the mechanical work on the office tower in 2012.

Buccella says his firm is employing 50 – 60 people directly on the job.

“It’s a great boost to the local economy when a project of this magnitude can be built using pre-dominantly local companies,” he says.

Telus Garden, a one million-square-foot, $750 million mixed-use complex in Vancouver, is one of the most high-profile new construc-

tion jobs underway in Vancouver’s downtown core. It consists of a 22-storey office tower that will target a LEED Platinum designation (the first LEED Platinum office in Vancouver) and a 46-storey residential tower targeting LEED

Gold. Based on energy modeling, the complex will be 35 per cent more energy efficient than the relevant ASHRAE base case.

From a visual standpoint, the completed struc-tures (scheduled for occupancy in 2015) will be a stunning addition to the skyline and a visual feast at street level: prominently located on Georgia

telus Garden is incorporating the latest technology and sustainable features to achieve its LEED designations.

Street, a 220-foot long glass pavilion with a steel spine and glulam ribs between the two towers will serve as a canopy for pedestrians and simultane-ously capture rainwater for domestic use.

Telus Garden will accommodate the new headquarters for the communications giant on nine floors of the office tower. The residential tower will house 400 units as well as 50,000 square feet of retail space and underground parking. Almost at every turn, Henriquez Part-ners Architects have incorporated dramatic features into their design: a 10,000 square foot green roof that will provide organic produce for local restaurants; a massive cantilevered sky-gardens in the office tower that will extend vertiginously over the walkway below; and an LED lighting and display wall on Georgia Street that will broadcast concerts and other events to the public.

Not surprisingly, Telus Garden’s complex-ity has attracted the best professionals in town,

the complex will be 35 per cent more energy efficient than the relevant

ASHRAE base case.


from structural consulting engineers Glotman Simpson to Integral Group, the latter of whom helped design conservation features such as a district energy system, high efficiency heat pumps, a waste heat recovery system, and geo-thermal heat exchangers. As of February 2014, Lisi crews were working on the base building and presiding over the numerous systems that, although not unique in and of themselves, will help Telus achieve its LEED designations.

cover story

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Houle can provide competitively priced solutions working with any Mechanical Contractor to proactively bring projects in on time and on budget, together.

The district energy system is a major compo-nent of the project’s sustainability strategy and contributes to the development’s approximate 80 per cent reduction in energy demand from conventional sources.

Energy from the data centre will be collected and stored at night and released into the offices as heating/cooling in the morning. As the eve-ning approaches, this system will then switch over to the residences to accommodate the

While Buccella was not able to comment on the specifics about the Telus Garden’s systems, Telus says waste heat from the ex-isting Telus data centre across the street and the new office tower’s cooling systems will be harvested by the district energy system to provide heating and cooling for the office and residential towers, commercial spaces and amenities, and to heat domestic hot wa-ter for both towers.


cover story

Building Things ThaT MaTTer | www.lockerbiehole.com

change in occupancy (the data centre report-edly expels five gigajoules of waste heat energy into the atmosphere daily, more than enough for the total load of the new complex).

Division 15 Mechanical is responsible for the underground distribution piping of the dis-trict energy system, which connects the office and residential towers along Richards Street. Georgia Mechanical is doing work on the residential tower.

Low flow faucets and toilets are being in-stalled throughout the complex and rainwater will be collected and funneled into a 1,000 cubic metre tank under the office building’s parkade.

Although every project of this magnitude in-evitably runs behind schedule, Lisi was fortunate enough to get crews in early in the construction process to start work on the central plant, located just below grade in the P1 section of the site. Once the area was ready, concrete pours commenced.

All systems including lighting, security, digital metering, HVAC and other functions will com-municate together as a single system. When a person swipes through the building’s security en-trance, the lights and heat with automatically turn on in his/her work area. If energy consumption is higher on one floor than the one above, integrated systems monitoring will allow operators to deter-mine who is leaving the heat or lights on at night.

Integral reportedly spent considerable time and effort in research and development with pump and chiller manufacturers; in-floor, radi-ant cooling and perimeter fan coil systems will be located throughout the complex (the latter being a fairly unique element in an office tower setting). Moreover, all piping and ducting is be-ing contained under raised flooring.

Sherezad Shafiq, Grundfos regional sales manager for Western Canada, was involved in the early stages of the project, working with In-tegral Group, on system designs and pump se-lection. Sixty-two Grundfos pumps, four Boost-erpaQ systems and 16 heat exchanges were supplied for use within the Telus office tower and district energy system.

“Grundfos has provided state-of-the-art products that are energy efficient and serve the purpose of the very specific applications on the project,” says Shafiq. “Lisi Mechanical has done a fantastic job of installing the equipment and we are looking forward to a successful commission-ing of the project in the near future.” PM


profile

Despite the impending economic boom, some regions in B.C. seem destined to be places that people move away from

rather than to, in order to land the really big jobs.Such is the case of Trail, which, despite its fa-

mous Cominco smelter, is widely viewed as more of a stopping off point for contractors than a mec-ca for large-scale opportunities. That is, except for local companies like West Kootenay Mechanical 2001 Ltd. (WKM), which for the past 30 years has prevailed in an extremely challenging market.

WKM does so by providing as many services as its resources will allow, without sacrificing the quality customers have come to expect from founder John Balfour and his team of 60 professionals.

reGional EXPErTisE

West Kootenay Mechanical prevails in a tough market.By RoBin BRunet

“We wear different hats depending on the cli-ent’s needs and that of the market overall,” he says. “Piping and ventilation have always been our core disciplines, and we also provide ironworking and industrial maintenance.”

Augmenting WKM’s resources is its long-standing membership with the MCABC: 20-plus years and counting.

“Generally we utilize its training and education opportunities and study the provided publica-tions to extract useful knowledge and industry updates,” says WKM project manager Dave Fon-taine. “MCABC also recently had a representa-tive at our office to promote its initiatives, which is something other associations haven’t done in several years.”

WKM deploys its expertise on behalf of clients such as Teck Metals Ltd. — Trail Operations, which includes one of the world’s largest fully inte-grated zinc and lead smelting/refining complexes.

Of late, WKM has been heavily involved in the Waneta Expansion Project for SNC-Lavalin Inc. The Waneta expansion is a $900 million undertaking in which a second powerhouse lo-cated immediately downstream of the existing Waneta dam on the Pend d’Oreille River is be-ing constructed along with a new 10 kilometer transmission line.

For the tight regional job market, Waneta was a windfall: construction will last over four years, with about 75 per cent of the 400 jobs coming from within 100 kilometers of the worksite.

Waneta Dam


profile

“We’re wrapping up this year,” says Fontaine. “WKM is working on the powerhouse general piping, HVAC units and ducting, miscellaneous small hoist installations and the fire protection system.”

But Waneta isn’t the only significant project in WKM’s portfolio. An-other recent project of note the Fording River Dry Facility, for which WKM supplied and installed the building’s heating and ventilation sys-tem, plumbing, and boiler room with associated equipment and piping.

“The largest challenge of this project, which lasted a year and wrapped up in the summer of 2009, was coordinating everything on a remote work site with a large general contractor, namely Graham Construction,” says Fontaine.

The J Lloyd Crowe Secondary School is another noteworthy job. In this case, the original 1952 era high school in West Trail was demolished in 2010 and a new one was built at a cost of $38 million, with two gyms, a full science lab, and five classrooms for shop classes.

“WKM completed the entire mechanical system for the new facility,” says Fontaine.

Not surprisingly, Balfour doesn’t favour one discipline over the other. “Some years piping keeps us going, other years it’ll be venting —

and it’s all good,” he says, stressing that he was never tempted to lead the lifestyle of other local tradesmen which is, generally speaking, to spend three weeks north in a work camp and then the following week home or on vacation.

Coming from a family of plumbers and mechanical contractors ( J. Bal-four & Sons has provided troubleshooting and servicing heating, air con-ditioning, and plumbing services in Trail since 1912), Balfour first put his company on the map by servicing the Uplander Hotel in Rossland and do-ing upgrades in Golden on the CP rail yard.

“Then, when Teck downsized a decade ago, they began contracting out, and that really reinforced our opportunities locally,” he says.

However, as its portfolio suggests, West Kootenay Mechanical is able and willing to work anywhere in the province.

“If we get along with the client, we’ll go where they go,” says Balfour.When asked what the future holds for his company, Balfour half-joking-

ly replies, “Succession, I guess, since I’m already 60 and I have a son and a daughter already working for me. But that’ll be tough, because I enjoy what I do and the people I work with. My main goal for the immediate future is to simply keep going — because there’s nothing more fulfilling to me than a client who relies on us to do a job efficiently and responsibly.” PM

Mechanical ContractorsInsurance ProgramThe Aon/MCAM program was built specifically for mechanical contractors in Canada. •Tailored coverage for Mechanical

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companies throughout Canada To find out more and for a no obligation quote, contact us today. Will Lawrence Insurance Account Executive [email protected] Dean WadeSurety Account [email protected]

604.443.2403

What We DoEquity Plumbing + Heating is a progressive forward thinking mechanical contractor in Northern BC. EPH is committed to customer service, providing quality products and workmanship and employee safety. EPH has the expertise and resources to complete your project on time and on budget to the highest industry standards. EPH’s past projects range from bid spec jobs to large design build assist projects. EPH employs certified Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Sprinkler Fitters and Sheet Metal Fabricators to provide a wide range of services which include:

ServiceS: Plumbing · Heating · Fire Protection · HVAC

Equity Plumbing and Heating Ltd881 – Fourth Ave Prince George BC, V2L [email protected]: 250 563 1191 | F: 250 563 1070www.equityplumbing.ca

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technology

* Safety * Quality * Service

Specializing in Commercial and Industrial Mechanical Insulation Systems

Aarc-West Mechanical Insulation19131 21st Avenue, Surrey, BC V3S 3M3

Phone: 604.535.9963 | Fax: 604.535.9964 | Toll: 800.853.2133www.aarc-west.com

MarketS: Commercial/Institutional & Industrial Services

Marine Applications · Chemical Process Facility Maintenance · Foundries

Pulp & Paper

ServiceS: Commercial Insulation · Industrial Insulation

Marine Insulation · Utilidor Systems Process Insulation · Cryogenic Applications

Refractory Applications

W ith maximum efficiency ratings in the range of 96 per cent, condensing boilers are becoming a popular choice for building owners looking for improved energy efficiency, reduced operat-

ing cost and lower GHG emissions. However, many owners are not aware of the technology behind condensing boilers and the conditions required for achieving their rated efficiency. Mismatching the boiler with the heating system requirements can result in operating conditions that do not achieve the potential of condensing boilers.

The high efficiency rating for condensing boilers is primarily achieved by capturing latent heat from water vapour in the flue gas. This is done by con-densing, or changing the phase of water vapour from a gas to a liquid. As the water vapour in the flue gas condenses, it releases heat that is then cap-tured in a heat exchanger and transferred to the boiler return water flowing through the other side of the heat exchanger. For this process to occur, the return water temperature has to be below the dew point of the water vapour.

The dew point for natural gas combustion products is typically around 55°C (130°F) under Stoichiometric conditions. To obtain complete con-densing and achieve the maximum rated efficiency of the boiler, return water temperature needs to be approximately 20°C (68°F), which is extremely low and unachievable for most applications. Between return water temperatures of 20 to 55°C, condensing will partially occur but the boiler does not reach the maximum rated efficiency.

For condensing boilers to achieve maximum efficiency, the overall heating system, including distribution and end uses, should operate as an integrated unit. When recommending condensing boilers for existing facilities, the end use systems already exist and it is not usually practical to modify them to obtain lower supply and return water temperatures. There can still be im-proved boiler energy use, but the performance will be limited according to the return water temperature.

To evaluate whether an existing building heating system is suited for con-densing boilers, categorize the end use systems served by the boiler plant according to high/mid/low temperature return water. Domestic Hot Water is a high temperature load as it requires a high output temperature. This usu-ally results in the boiler return water temperature being higher than what is needed for condensing. Other examples are hot water coils in air handling units, unit heaters and perimeter radiation systems. Medium Temperature loads need boiler supply water in the range of 40°C to 65°C (100 – 150°F). Low mass radiant heating is an example. Low temperature loads, such as radiant slab heating, require supply water temperature in the range of 27°C to 50°C (80 – 120°F).

Low temperature loads are the best match for condensing boiler systems as their return water temperature is low and provides the most opportunity for obtaining high boiler efficiency. A building that has mostly high tempera-ture loads is not an ideal candidate for condensing boilers unless operating practices include strategies such as hot water reset schedules that result in low temperature return water whenever possible. In these cases the most benefit from condensing boilers will be gained in the shoulder seasons when lower supply water temperatures, and hence lower return water tempera-tures, can be realized.

Here are strategies that can be used in existing facilities to decrease the supply and return water temperature requirements, and therefore improve condensing efficiencies:

1. Decoupling DHW. Consider heating the DHW and other non-weath-er related high temperature loads with a separate boiler rather than from the main boiler plant. This will allow the supply water temperature of the boiler

condensing boilers for Existing buildingsBy BRian o’Donnell

opportunities and Pitfalls


technology

“Mechanical Insulation and Firestop Specialists” Serving BC since 1995 With our highly trained staff of estimators and technicians we look forward to serving the lower mainland and surrounding areas for all your mechanical insulation and firestop needs. Tight 5 Contracting Ltd108 - 4238 Lozells AveBurnaby, BC V5A [email protected] — Request for QuotesPh: 604.874.9615Fx: 604.874.9611

to be lowered according to actual load requirements during shoulder season and non-peak periods. This also allows the boiler plant to be shut down dur-ing summer months when no space heating is required.

2. Demand Control for Supply Water Temperature (SWT). Control the boiler supply water temperature according to the demand from the building systems. If all heating valves are partially closed it indicates that the supply water temperature could be lowered without impacting com-fort in the space.

3. Variable Flow. If the boiler can accept variable flow, another method of demand control is to adjust the flow according to the load requirement. A variable speed drive would reduce the flow during non-peak periods, result-ing in a lower return water temperature and more condensing.

4. Cascade load types. Supply the highest temperature load requirements first, with loads with the lowest water temperature requirement near the re-turn end of the loop. As an example, preheating DHW makeup water with a heat exchanger located next to the boiler return can be an effective strategy to lower the temperature of return water prior to it entering the boiler.

5. Burner Operation. If too much excess air is brought into the burner, the dew point for the flue gas will reduce, making it even harder to reach condensing conditions. Setting burners for lower excess air while still main-taining safety levels will improve efficiency of the boiler.

6. Operator Training. Ensure the operators know the requirements for optimum condensing boiler operation so they can operate the system as ef-ficiently as possible.

Condensing boilers are an important product for the market, but they are not necessarily the best choice for all existing facilities. Incorporating considerations of the overall heating system can help make their instal-lation successful, but it takes a bit more work and some training to make it happen. PM

Brian O’Donnell, P.Eng, is principal and founder of Prism Engineer-ing. The Vancouver based firm provides mechanical engineering service to improve building performance resulting in energy and costs savings.

Low temperature loadsare the best match for condensing

boiler systems…


technology

HVac control TrendsBy Mike Hoppe

New technology in the HVAC industry is leading to significant advances in HVAC controls. Consumers are driving industry trends with the expectation that all products, including HVAC

controls, are connected. This means consumers are expecting controls that connect to the internet. Through the cloud, people can connect with their home HVAC systems from anywhere in the world.

This has caused HVAC controls manufacturers to take a new look at how to develop products. Manufacturers have focused on developing cli-mate controls, specifically thermostats, to enrich the customer experience. To meet customer expectations, new thermostats have been introduced aggressively in recent years that provide the consumer with the desired connected solution.

Wireless controlled thermostats and Wi-Fi-connected thermostats are some examples of innovative and smart technologies now available.

This opens up a realm of intelligent products that provide real value to the consumer in key areas such as:

• Comfort• Energy savings• Peace of mind.

Now, through smart phones and tablets, customers can control their heating and cooling system remotely. Consumers can now raise and lower their heating and cooling set point when they’re not at home so they can maximize their energy savings. Other elements of the HVAC system such as humidification may also be controlled using an app.

Programmable thermostats are an effective way to save money on heating and cooling bills. But when schedule changes, it’s having the abil-ity to override the program schedule from a smart phone or tablet that can help save more on energy bills. Connected thermostats also offer demand response solutions that can be coordinated with a consumer’s utility company to take advantage of even deeper savings.

Connected thermostats offer peace of mind for consumers like never be-fore. If a person goes on vacation, own a cabin, or simply wants to keep an eye on their home, they can use the mobile app allowing them to check on their home at all times. Other alerts such as filter changes or power outages may also provide the consumer with a sense of security. Total connectivity is the major trend with thermostats today.

For contractors, installation becomes easier and faster especially for ret-rofit projects. HVAC controls manufacturers have developed thermostats

Honeywell’s Wi-Fi 9000 thermostat is a Wi-Fi enabled thermostat

featuring a high definition touch screen display. it can be controlled

through the company’s Total connect comfort web site and mobile app.

outdoor conditions are shown on the display and in the mobile app

so a consumer can plan their day.

that can be installed and connected with little effort. On-screen instruc-tions are provided for connecting the thermostat to the internet and reduc-ing the total installation time.

Connected devices will continue to become increasingly popular, and we will soon see more in HVAC as connected home becomes a reality. Everything involved in keeping a customer comfortable, safe, and energy conscious will be connected in an eco-system of devices. PM

Mike Hoppe is a senior product manager working in home comfort with Honeywell Environmental and Combustion Controls (ECC). Mike has more than 15 years of diverse experience in product manage-ment, marketing and engineering. His background includes several years in the telecommunications and data industry, where he worked in fiber optics and then IT hosting and managed services.


water

Low Lead comes to canadaContractors should be aware of the new requirements to avoid installing non-compliant products.By kevin Wong

The United States has made some signifi-cant changes to their Safe Drinking Wa-ter Act (SDWA), which came into effect

on January 4, 2014. The key revision to their Act that affects the plumbing industry is the change in the definition of “lead free.” The new regula-tion significantly reduces the current allowable level of lead content from that content which complies with the industry standard (NSF 372) or 8 per cent dependent on product. It moves down to no more than a weighted average lead content of 0.25 per cent on wetted surfaces when evaluated for pipes, valves, pipe fittings, and plumbing fittings, anticipated to convey or dispense water for human consumption through drinking or cooking.

Legislation and regulations, across all sectors over the last four decades, have strived to decrease the introduction of lead to the environment by eliminating it from gasoline, from paints, for in-dustrial emissions, and now vastly reducing the already low levels from the water we drink.

Historically, it has been understood that no amount of lead entering the human body is safe, especially for infants and young children.

Canada has moved forward in mirroring the intent of the U.S. regulation for low lead policies in the US Safe Drinking Water Act with an effec-tive date as early as January 2014 in some prov-inces. However, there are no intentions to create federal regulations relating to lead content in plumbing products in Canada.

content requirement. New versions of ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1 and CSA B125.3 standards for plumbing fittings specify the test method in NSF 372 for the low-lead evaluation requirements. This standard was recently refer-enced in the changes to the National Plumbing Code. Various provinces adopted the model for their provincial codes.

The updated CSA standards state that, fit-tings intended to convey or dispense water for human consumption through drinking or cooking should not contain a weighted average lead content in excess of 0.25 per cent when evaluated in accordance with the test method in NSF/ANSI 372.

The ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1-12 and CSA B125.3-12 standards are now published and available, meaning that a manufacturer with applicable product within the standards’ scope must comply with them by December 31, 2013.

Based on recent communications from the provinces, the Canadian Institute of Plumbing & Heating (CIPH) has compiled the most up-to-date matrix of Low-lead Requirements for Po-table Plumbing Products in Canada.

As provinces finalize their intentions to adopt the latest versions of the National Plumbing Code, CIPH will be updating the matrix. PM

Kevin Wong, BSc. MBA, CAE, is technical director at the Canadian Institute of Plumbing & Heating. CIPH is a not-for-profit trade asso-ciation that represents more than 260 compa-nies who manufacture and distribute plumb-ing, hydronic heating, industrial, waterworks, and other mechanical products.

Regulators, legislators and Health Canada approached the issue through the national sys-tem of plumbing codes that can be adopted and enforced provincially/territorially through the recognized network of plumbing and health inspections. Health Canada has been an active participant on the development of the standards and the integration of these standards into the Canadian Model National Plumbing Code.

A new version of the ASME/CSA standard for plumbing fittings was published on Decem-ber 15th 2012 in Canada indicating the require-ments needed in order for plumbing fittings to meet the 0.25 per cent weighted average lead

Let us be your partners in Building Integration & Energy Solutions

Looking to green your building operations?

[email protected] 604-521-9282


water

radiant Heating solutionsBy kaMBiz pisHgHaDaM

buildings are built for inhabitants and their indoor air quality is vital for peo-ple’s wellbeing, productivity and the

planet’s sustainability outlook. Meanwhile, build-ings are producing approximately one-third of the greenhouse gas emissions, while consuming 40 per cent of energy resources.

Sustainable buildings have been designed to:

• provide a healthy and comfortable indoor environment for occupants (HVAC, natural daylight and lighting solutions);

• utilize minimum resources (thermal energy, water, electricity, materials, etc.);

• reduce the CO2 emission and carbon foot print throughout the lifecycle of the building.

A radiant ceiling heating and cooling system is a cutting edge HVAC solution that addresses the sustainability goals mentioned above.

Radiant heating and cooling systems have been widely used in buildings throughout history. Today, the modern version features heated or cooled water circulated in pipes embedded in room surfaces. The systems are used extensively in Asia and Europe with North America only recently catching on.

Radiant heating systems are flexible and can be installed in floors, walls or ceilings. A ceiling radi-ant system is ideal for heating and for cooling of spaces with huge benefits for health. This system could appear in a modular metallic or plaster-board drywall ceiling.

In the system’s upper part, a thermal activation consisting of pipes (PEX or copper) and thermal diffusers would allow control of the temperature on the surface by transforming the surface into a radiant heating and cooling system.

The cooling capacity of the modular system can achieve 100 Watt/Sq.m through chilled wa-ter supply with an average 15°C - 16°C, as well as heating capacity of 120 – 150 Watt/Sq.m through hot water supply with an average of 38°C - 44°C. These output characteristics are sufficient to man-age the entire heating and cooling loads for high performance buildings.

A radiant ceiling heating and cooling system with metallic modular panels with an integrated LED lighting can be a complete HVAC sustain-able solution. Key features are:

• Reducing the thermal and electrical energy up to 40 per cent;

• Improving the hygiene and the indoor air quality;

• Offering the most comfortable HVAC solu-tion, which is close to the ideal human tem-perature profile;

• Reducing sick building syndrome; • Supporting the maintenance free HVAC

system as opposed to the traditional all air solutions;

• Being compatible with the entire renewable source of energies including Hydrogen boiler, district energy, waste process heat, solar and geothermal solutions etc;

• Proving uniform, comfortable and homog-enous temperature distribution;

• Maintaining the most flexible and cost ef-fective HVAC solutions (modular) for a tenant improvement and the new required layout;

• Providing a quick response heating and cool-ing environment to achieve the required space condition.

Radiant ceiling panels (modular metallic and plasterboard drywall type) can be used in a wide range of applications including office buildings, hospitals, banks, hotels, residential buildings, showrooms and art galleries.

In addition, it should be noted that while the system is providing the most comfortable thermal condition for occupants, the following criteria have to be considered during the design phases (according to EN ISO 7730):

• Operative temperature;• Local comfort (surface temperature, vertical

air temperature, metabolic rates and appli-cable clothing etc.);

• Dedicated outdoor air system to introduce fresh air and avoid draught, noise and high air velocity and air change rate;

• Radiant temperature asymmetry;• Perceived air temperature and the acceptable

humidity rate;• Acoustic comfort and noise issues;• Dew point criteria (condensation consideration)

The radiant heating and cooling system will address all of the above consideration, while im-proving the overall quality of the human comfort inside the buildings by utilizing a high efficient heating and cooling system. PM

Kambiz Pishghadam is a branch manager of Giacomini Consulting Canada Inc., and has been providing sustainable HVAC solutions consulta-tion and project management for diverse buildings in the Middle East, Persia and Canada since 1999. He has a BSc (Eng) degree in mechanical engineer and a certification in project management.

Giacoklima solution —

The Exchange building (LEED Platinum

office tower, Vancouver)

Commercial • Institutional • Multi-purpose • Industrial • MarineThe members of the British Columbia Insulation Contractors Association, mechanicalinsulation experts, have led the industry for over five decades. Quality Standards forMechanical Insulation Manual, published by BCICA, is the reference manual of choice forconscientious members of the design community uncompromised in their pursuit of energyconservation. BCICA is proud to introduce a new proprietary Quality Assurance Certificateprogram, designed to provide mechanical systems specialists with confidence that energysavings and investment potential are not undermined by value engineering.

BCICA contractor members – experts at “saving energy for the future”

ADVANTAGE THERMALPort Coquitlam, BC604 945 [email protected]

B.C. THERMAL APPLICATORS LTD.Nanaimo, BC250 758 [email protected]

C & G INSULATION LTD.Kelowna, BC250 769 [email protected]

CARMIKE INSULATIONNorth Vancouver, BC604 988 [email protected]

COLUMBIA THERMAL SERVICESLangley, BC604 534 [email protected]

COQUITLAM INSULATION LTD.Sechelt BC604 740 [email protected]

INDIAN HEAD CONTRACTING LTD.White Rock, BC604 290 [email protected]

NEW CENTRAL MECHANICALINSULATION LTD.Langley, BC604 514 [email protected]@newcmi.ca

PACIFIC RIM INDUSTRIALINSULATION LTD.Surrey BC604 533 8179 [email protected]

REMCO INSULATION LTD.Prince George, BC250 562 [email protected]

TIGHT 5 CONTRACTING LTD.Burnaby, BC604 874 [email protected]

WESTCOR SERVICES LIMITEDCoquitlam, BC604 519 [email protected]@westcorservices.com

WEST COAST INDUSTRIALINSULATIONVictoria, BC250 384 [email protected]

Protect your investment.Invest in energy conservation.

www.bcica.org [email protected] [email protected]

BCICA MCABC ad9x12_Layout 1 14-03-11 2:04 PM Page 1


uPCOMING EVENTS

Find complete events listing at

www.mcabc.org/events

april 25Th

North island Golf Tournament

Nanaimo Golf course

May 2nd & 3rd

Mcabc annual conference & aGM

Whistler, bc

May 23rd

Fraser Valley Golf Tournament

Ledgeview Golf course

abbotsford bc

association corner

associates corner

Advanced Mechanical Solutions www.div15mechanical.com

604‐214‐8730

Air System Supplies is excited to announce the completion of their new 50% LARGER ware-house! This newly expanded space now means they have can keep the following in stock: Thou-sands of fire dampers, 25% more grilles/regis-ters, 100% more diffusers, 3x the stock of access doors, expanded inventory of vibration isolation/seismic restraints, and hundreds of fans including Panasonic & Acme. 3610 E.1st Ave, Vancouver. www.airsystemsupplies.com

Westpoint Sales Inc. has been appointed the manufacturers rep/agents for OS&B (Oakville Stamp & Bending) and Kanex Concrete can-ning sleeves.

ICE Western is pleased to announce Kent Fiissel, (C.E.T.) as factory representative in the Greater Vancouver area and Pacific region.

Kent brings 15+ years of HVAC knowledge & experience in installation, energy recover systems, gas equipment design & applications. He will provide the Greater Vancouver area and outlying Pacific Region with assisted equip-ment selection, custom design concepts & fac-tory direct support.

Unistrut Building Systems has been renamed to UBS Industries with a newly renovated sales and design center in Coquitlam. Jim Kerr also joined the company as the new general manager in Sep-tember 2013. He brings 20+ years of experience from wholesale/distribution sales in the building industry.

Driving Force has a new Langley facility lo-cated at: 9522 200 St. It will operate as Driving Forces western British Columbia head office. www.drivingforce.ca

REHAU announces that Ali Sajjadi has been ap-pointed heating and plumbing account manager, Western Canada. With his extensive technical experience in radiant floor heating design and the geothermal industry, Sajjadi will manage sales development of RAUGEO™ crosslinked polyeth-ylene (PEXa) piping system in earth energy appli-cations. Contact Sajjadi at (604) 937-8812.

RAUGEO is the first PEX system available in Canada that complies with the revisions to CSA C448/2013 Design and Installation of Earth En-ergy Systems. visit na.rehau.com/raugeo.

BFL CANADA Insurance Services Inc. is pleased to introduce Sean O’Connor as the newest member of its Surety team. Sean’s re-sponsibilities at BFL CANADA include devel-oping new client business, servicing the needs of existing clients as well as developing and en-hancing relationships with underwriters.

Kwantlen Polytechnic University Cloverdale Campus is now known as KPU Tech. Along with this name change, the Plumbing Program wel-comes two new instructors, Brian Ott and Robert Lafreniere. Brian is an instructor at the Garibaldi Secondary School teaching the AceIT Plumb-ing course. With this new plumbing program, KPU strengthens its existing partnership with the Maple Ridge School Board. Robert from Liqui-dus also joins in the program’s expansion at the Cloverdale Campus instructing the foundation program. This expansion allows for Plumbing Ap-prentice level 3 to be introduced, with a focus on pumps and cross connection control.

The J. Russell St. Eloi UA Scholarship Fund Society is currently accepting scholarship appli-cations. The scholarships offered are directed to individuals entering the piping trades or to those wishing to serve a piping apprenticeship. The funds are to enable success in furthering career opportunities, and to relieve financial hardships which may be preventing applicants from pursu-ing a career in the piping trades. Please visit www.steloischolarship.org to download the scholarship application form, or email Al Phillips, executive director [email protected] for more information.


association corner

Mcabc open House and Holiday Fundraiser

MCABC and the Paul Sugar Palliative Support Foundation (PSPS) would like to thank all the silent auction do-

nors, cash donors, and enthusiastic participants who contributed to the grand success of the Holi-day Fundraiser on December 5th, 2013.

Thanks to their support, MCABC continues to raise generous funds for honorable charities in British Columbia. Together, the association raised $5,039 that will be used to help terminally ill patients in their time of need. With the help of donations, the PSPS Foundation will do their best to ensure that no one endures serious illness without respect, dignity and comfort, regardless of their economic circumstances.

Without the generous donations, this could not have been possible. MCABC and PSPS are proud of their collective accomplishment.


political scene

Remember Dennis Hopper? He starred in such iconic movies as Easy Rider and Apocalypse Now. He died back in 2010

of prostate cancer. Although technically a bit old-er than the baby boom generation, the front end of that demographic bulge is well into its 60s.

Perhaps no nation on Earth experienced as large a post war baby boom as did Canada and as a result in the coming decades the escalating costs of caring for seniors is set to now sky rocket. The problem is that when it comes to public health care dollars, British Columbia is already pretty much tapped out.

Despite the fact that 40 cents of every dollar the provincial government takes in is now spent on health care, people are seeing longer waiting times at the emergency room, increases in MSP fees and more stacking of patients in hallways.

Just as there was a scramble to build schools in the 1960s now there is a scramble to build seniors care facilities. In some ways Hopper was lucky, de-spite decades of drug abuse, it was cancer rather than dementia that overtook him. Many aging boomers won’t be so lucky.

Unless we are all going to simply take a long walk off a short pier when we get too old to take care of ourselves, British Columbia is going to need a lot more in the way of revenue. Canada isn’t bringing in enough young immigrants who will pay the taxes for us as we age and thanks to million dollar fixer upper homes many young people are forgoing the dream not only for home ownership but of having kids altogether.

The short answer is that British Columbia’s government is betting heavily that LNG exports will provide enough in the way of revenue to help get us through the coming decades. The oil and gas sector is also one of the few areas where a young person can hope to find a decent paying job that allows them the opportunity to own a home and raise a family.

There are environmental reasons why British Columbians should support the construction of pipelines. The first is that moving oil and gas by pipeline is safer than moving it by train. Forty-sev-en people were killed and more than 30 buildings destroyed in the town of Lac-Megantic in Quebec on July 6, 2013 when a 74 car freight train carry-ing crude oil derailed and exploded.

New pipelines can be built so as to avoid heav-ily populated areas; old railroads were built to connect our towns and cities. If we don’t allow the building of pipelines, railroad companies are hap-py to keep building more tanker cars. Either way

Pipelines imperative to b.c’s economy

that oil and gas is going to get to market. Anyone who believes otherwise is being painfully naive. China did not invest billions of dollars into Cana-da’s oil and gas sector just to see the resource sit in the ground and meanwhile the United States is so busy fracking that it is set to once again become a net oil exporting country.

The second reason is air pollution. Right now China with its population of more than 1.35 bil-lion people relies heavily on coal for its energy needs. As a result Beijing often sees its concentra-tion of toxic air particles rise to between 20 and 30 times the level considered safe for humans to breathe. In fact in January of 2014 Beijing’s smog level was at 24 times the safe level.

There is some suggestion that China has pumped so much pollution into the Earth’s atmo-sphere that it is starting to overwhelm the effects of global warming leading to record cold weather in much of North America this winter.

As a species we need to clean up our act. Switching from coal to liquid natural gas is a much needed first step. The next step is switch-ing to energy that does not require the burning of fossil fuels. That is why I am involved with a company called AOE Canada that is able to convert wave energy into compressed air which in turn can be used to provide energy as well as clean drinking water.

Much has changed in China over the past 60 years. In 1952 the average Chinese person was poorer and had less to eat than in 952 — that’s right they were worse off than where they had been a thousand years earlier. Now they have got their population growth under control and their economy is booming.

As China transitions from coal to LNG it will mean less global air pollution and acid rain. As China transitions to alternative energy such as solar, wind and wave, then greenhouse gas emis-sions will also start to fall.

British Columbians can be part of this posi-tive change by supporting cleaner fuels like LNG as well as the development of alternative energy. Just as importantly we can also help ourselves, our parents and our children by ensuring that we get maximum value for our oil and gas exports so that we can afford to retire and die with dignity.

In the meantime, be nice to your kids, they are the ones who get to pick what retirement home you will be living in. PM

Michael Geoghegan is a government relations consultant based in Victoria.

By MicHael geogHegan

british Columbia’s government is betting

heavily that LNG exports will provide enough in the way of revenue to

help get us through the coming decades.

The view and opinions expressed herein are those of the author. They are not endorsed by MCABC and do not necessarily reflect the views of MCABC, its board or executives.

Long-term revenue stream needed to address aging population.


industry news

aSHRaE RECoGnIzES CanaDIanSFive Canadians from B.C. were recognized at the ASHRAE society’s 2014 Winter Conference in New York. Cameron E. Lowry, an industrial mar-kets leader with Trane Canada in Burnaby, B.C., received the Milton W. Garland Commemorative Refrigeration Award for Project Excellence. This award recognizes innovative, new technologies in comfort cooling applications.

A group of students from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver were also rec-ognized by ASHRAE. Jayson Bursill, Natasha Palmer, Angela Walton and Gavin Wong re-ceived first place in the HVAC System Design Calculations student competition.

The ASHRAE Student Design Project Com-petition challenged teams of students to create an integrated sustainable building design and complete HVAC system design calculations for a high-rise residential building in Dallas, Texas.

vICa ELECtS nEW BoaRDThe Vancouver Island Construction Association (VICA) has elected its new board of directors at its AGM on November 14th. Video conferencing allowed the event to take place simultaneously in Nanaimo and Victoria.

Angus Macpherson, Cairnview Mechanical is the incoming chair, “I am honoured by the vote of confidence my colleagues have given me to lead the organization. We are committed as a group to support our industry and ensure that our voices are heard”.

Five VICA members stood for election to fill three vacancies on the board. Don Cameron of G & E Contracting was re-elected and will serve as vice chair. Pete White, Kinetic Construction Ltd. is past chair.

Eric Ulrich of Playsted Sheet Metal and Ty-ler Galbraith of Jenkins Marzban Logan are the newest members elected to the board. Other directors on the 2013-2014 board are: Marlon Brown, Cornerstone Tile Ltd.; Alan Fletcher, AFC Construction Ltd.; Dave Flint, Flynn Canada; Anthony Minniti, Century Group Inc.; Sheldon Saywell, Saywell Contracting Ltd.; Todd Skelton, Independent Concrete Ltd.; Ger-rit Vink, Farmer Construction Ltd.; and Roger Yager, Knappett Projects Inc.

GooD BUDGEt nEWSThe Canadian Construction Association (CCA) is pleased by the continuing recognition in the 2014 federal budget of the importance of infrastructure investment and prudent labour market develop-ment to Canada’s long-term economic prosperity.

“Sustained investment in infrastructure is criti-cal to Canada’s long-term economic growth,” said Michael Atkinson, CCA president. “The additional federal commitments announced today, together with the earlier announced 10-year $53 billion Building Canada Plan effective April 1, 2014, will help governments across Canada continue the pro-cess of infrastructure renewal and set Canada on the path to a more globally competitive economy.”

The budget provides an additional $1.3 billion over two years in strategic investments in public infrastructure and transportation services.

The government also focused on further mea-sures to promote apprenticeship training and to assist in the implementation of the new Expression of Interest (EOI) economic immigration system.

Budget 2014 introduces a new interest-free Canada Apprentice Loans program for appren-tices in Red Seal trades of up to $4,000 per train-ing period to help defray costs associated with the technical training portion of their apprentice-ships. Another highlight jobs training measure is $75 million over three years to expand the Tar-geted Initiative for Older Workers program.

The deficit is projected to decline to $2.9 bil-lion by 2014-15. A surplus of $6.4 billion is ex-pected in 2015-16.

affInItY PaRtnERSHIPS naMED PRE-fERRED PRoPonEntAffinity Partnerships has been selected as a pre-ferred proponent for the new Acute Care Centre at BC Children’s Hospital and BC Women’s Hos-pital & Health Centre. The next stage in the com-petitive selection process is for negotiations to begin between Affinity and the provincial govern-ment and the Provincial Health Services Author-ity. A performance-based contract is expected by the spring of 2014

The total cost of the redevelopment project is estimated at $680 million. Construction of the new Acute Care Centre is anticipated to get un-derway in the winter of 2014/15.

SavInG EnERGY foR tHE fUtUREThe Quality Standards for Mechanical Insula-tion manual by the British Columbia Insulation Contractors Association has recently been re-written to reflect new code changes as well as current industry best practices. The association has also been developing the Quality Assur-ance Certificate (QAC) program as a means of ensuring that the most energy efficient and ap-propriate levels of insulation are supplied and properly installed whenever and wherever a BCICA QAC is specified.

Building owners, residents and tenants, will experience reduced operational costs, as well as during the lifecycle of the building when the work specifies a BCICA QAC. Design profes-sionals no longer have to worry about inferior workmanship or poorly manufactured prod-ucts because with a QAC, it is clear what is and is not acceptable.

CaGBC annoUnCES LEED v4The Canada Green Building Council (CaG-BC) has announced the availability of LEED v4 in Canada. Canadian LEED v4 projects will be certified by CaGBC using LEED Online in collaboration with the Green Building Certifi-cation Institute. To ensure LEED v4 will meet the expectations of the Canadian market-place, CaGBC is actively participating in the LEED International Roundtable and leading development of Alternative Compliance Paths (ACPs).

The ACPs will provide a streamlined way for Canadian projects to demonstrate compli-ance with credit requirements. This approach to tailoring LEED to the Canadian market al-lows CaGBC to speed up the delivery of the new system to market, and make all LEED rat-ing systems available in Canada including those specifically designed for schools, healthcare facilities, data centres and hotels, as well as volume certification.

In order to facilitate the transition to LEED v4, Canadian projects will still be able to regis-ter under the current rating system, LEED Can-ada 2009 until June 1, 2015. This will give pro-fessionals and owners a period of time to learn about and prepare for the new requirements.


mcabc buyer's guide 2013 addendum

fixTures & Brass

hy-line sales ltd. 2a - 27355 Gloucester Way Langley, bc V4W 3Z8 Phone: 604-856-5648 Fax: 604-856-8684 Website: www.hylinesales.com Email: [email protected] contact: rob newmarch

Gas fiTTinG

ua piping industry college of British columbia #101-1658 Foster's Way, annacis island Delta bc, canada, V3M 6s6 Tel: 604-540-1945 Fax: 604-540-1946 Website: www.uapicbc.ca E-mail: [email protected] contact: al d. phillips

heaT TracinG

central Mechanical insulation ltd 20420 Grade crescent Langley, bc V3a 4J7 Phone: 604-514-8450 Fax: 604-514-8451 Website: www.newcmi.ca Email: [email protected] contact: ron russell

hvac services

stolz Mechanical systems service inc. 111 - 4268 Lozells ave burnaby, bc V5a 0c6 Phone: 604-244-2225 Fax: 604-244-2255 Website: www.stolzmss.com Email: [email protected] contact: david stolz

insulaTion


MeTers

QMc Quadlogic Meter canada inc. 341 - 17 Fawcett road coquitlam, bc V3K 6V2 Phone: 604-526-5155 Fax: 604-526-7667 Email: [email protected] Website: www.qmeters.com contact: James spooner

pipes - plasTic


pluMBinG


schools

okanagan college 188 Penno road Kelowna, bc V1X 6s2 Phone: 250-762-5445 Fax: 250-491-4073 Website: www.okanagan.bc.ca Email: [email protected] contact: Brad oliver


sheeT MeTal

piedmont sheet Metal ltd 7439 Lowland Drive burnaby, bc V5J 5a8 Phone: 604-430-1911 Fax: 604-430-1535 Website: www. piedmontsheetmetal.ca Email: [email protected] contact: Toby Knowles

sound aTTenuaTion


sprinKler fiTTinG


sTeaM fiTTinG


WaTer heaTers


WeldinG


colleGes

okanagan college 188 Penno road Kelowna, bc V1X 6s2 Phone: 250-762-5445 Fax: 250-491-4073 Website: www.okanagan.bc.ca Email: [email protected] contact: Brad oliver

drains

Wade drains canada 1757 burlington st. E Hamilton, oN L8N 3r5 Phone: 905-312-1485 Fax: 905-312-1434 Email: [email protected] Website: www.wadedrains.ca contact: Greg Gillespie

fire Barrier applicaTion


fire Barrier applicaTion


2012-2014

MCAbC bOARD MEMbERS

presidentDean Loewen

vice president, vancouver chapter chairman

Wayne Davidson, Davidson bros. Mechanical contractors

vice president, lower Mainlandandrew Wong

alpha Mechanical contracting Ltd.

vice president, vancouver islandiMira president

angus Macphersoncairnview Mechanical Ltd.

secretary Treasurer & past president

Mike ohlmann, Fred Welsh Ltd.

executive vice presidentDana Taylor

directorbrian bradshaw

altac services inc.

directorJohn Davina

Kal-West building systems inc.

directorbrad Haysom

Tight 5 contracting Ltd.

directorNeil Holbeche (associates chairman)

ipex inc

directorross Macdonald

control solutions Ltd.

directorrichard McLatchieLockerbie & Hole

directorDale Miller

Division 15 Mechanical Ltd.

directorrob Noel (Mira President)

bc comfort Ltd

directorEarl storey

(associates 1st Vice-chairman)b.a. robinson

director Dan Taillefer

Viaduct sheet Metal Ltd.

director Len Voon

aarc West Mechanical insulation

Connected to your project every step of the way

Contact the Viaduct Online Ordering System Sales team today for a free demo. Call Dan Taillefer or Terry Lindsay at: 604.575.1600

viaductsheetmetal.net | viaductsheetmetal.ca

Available 24/7 for all ductwork, fittings and accessoriesContACt us todAy for A demonstrAtion And free ACCess

Proud Member of:

Online Ordering System

No Waiting, Real Time Quotes!

Viaduct_MCABC_Winter_2014.indd 1 14-03-07 1:19 PM

Documents

Mcabc winter 2014