The popularity of hybrid heating systems comes at a time when boilers are making a resurgence. The residential boiler market is expected to reach $164 billion by 2035. The versatility, cost and efficiency of boilers, combined with heat pump technology, can provide reliable heating year-round. 

Columnist Tom Soukup discusses his plans for his mechanical contracting firm after retirement. He shares his philosophy about preparing his sons, Richard and Thomas, to take on leadership roles and eventually run the company.

Back in November of 2023, I discussed building a team, or at least my approach to building a team.  This month, I’d like to cover keeping that team together. 

System feeders are self-contained units with a pump, pressure control and liquid storage vessel. They are installed in place of a system’s fill valve, so the system isn’t drawing water from the potable water supply but rather from the system feeder’s tank. 

Tom Soukup explains the importance of carefully reviewing contracts before signing and pushing back on unfair terms; stand firm on your prices and prioritize your bottom line.

Mechanical contractors must continue to deal with the volatility of material prices and the need to keep employees by raising hourly wages. To do so, they need to raise their rates or they won’t be in business anymore.

Societal divisions don’t only happen in the virtual world. The construction trades have seen the middle ground give way to high-end plumbing/heating applications and low-bid, low-skilled jobs. Tom Soukup has some ideas as to why that happened.

Communicating effectively, highlighting potential issues and providing options demonstrates your expertise to your customers and sets you apart from the lowest bidder. And when unforeseen circumstances arise, you’ll not bear the financial burden. 

Keep an open mind when approaching potential boiler replacement projects. You do your customers a disservice when you don’t offer the premium option, only the low-cost one. Not every customer is willing or able to invest in the absolute best solution, but none will if you don’t offer it.