DiscoverThe Authority Podcast: Plumbing and Mechanical
The Authority Podcast: Plumbing and Mechanical
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The Authority Podcast: Plumbing and Mechanical

Author: IAPMO

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When talking about the built environment, we would do well to remember, "We shape our buildings, and afterwards, our buildings shape us." Therefore, on each episode, we'll discuss the latest trends from IAPMO in plumbing and mechanical safety, sustainability, and resiliency. Join me, your host Christoph Lohr, and together, we'll explore the ways we can make our buildings shape us for the better.
53 Episodes
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In this episode, we discuss the General Services Administration (GSA) order to address the risk of Legionella and other waterborne pathogens in the water systems of GSA-controlled buildings. The GSA, which owns 1,600 federal buildings and leases space in over 6,500 buildings nationwide, was spurred to action after detecting elevated levels of Legionella bacteria at six GSA-controlled buildings in different regions since 2023. Our guest Dr. Abraham Cullom, a microbiologist with expertise in pl...
In this powerful episode, we delve into the reconstruction journey of Paradise, California following the devastating 2018 Camp Fire that destroyed more than 18,000 structures and killed 85 people. Our guest, Tony Lindsey, Paradise Building Official and Fire Marshal, shares his unique perspective as both a building official and a resident who lost his home in the disaster. Lindsey offers exclusive insights into the challenges faced during evacuation, the complexities of rebuilding ...
Join IAPMO experts Dan Cole and Christoph Lohr for a technical exploration of storm drainage system design and the critical equations engineers need to calculate effect flow rates through piping.Among the key insights is the impact of pipe material on flow velocity. For instance, PVC and cast iron pipes of the same size can have vastly different flow capacities. Dan and Christoph discuss the key differences between the Manning and Darcy-Weisbach equations, why current plumbing code tables may...
In this episode, we discuss challenges and opportunities in residential water use and efficiency. Our expert guest, Andrew D. Morris, Senior Manager of Policy & Programs with the Alliance For Water Efficiency, shares how water consumption in single-family and multi-family homes has evolved over the years, including a 15% decrease in indoor water use between 1999 and 2016 driven by state-level fixture standards and federal appliance regulations. Andrew provides a vision for future areas of...
In this episode, Green Builder Media CEO Sara Gutterman delves into strategies and technologies that revolutionize water conservation in the built environment, from advanced irrigation systems to smart water management technologies. We explore the government policies and regulations in driving these initiatives and discuss the critical role of community engagement and education. Finally, we look ahead to future directions and emerging research areas that promise to shape the sustainability la...
In this episode, Jonah Schein, Technical Coordinator for Homes and Buildings with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) WaterSense® program, demonstrates how water-efficiency measures also save energy and reduce carbon emissions, using data from 219 WaterSense-labeled homes in Menifee, California. Jonah describes how every gallon of water has an "energy signature" based on the processes required to extract, convey, treat, and distribute that water, noting the dramatic differenc...
In this insightful episode, Mechanical Hub hosts Tim Ward and John Messenbrink discuss three major plumbing industry trends: the push towards electrification, artificial Intelligence (AI), and the skilled trade gap, especially as it relates to attracting a more diverse workforce. Regarding electrification, Tim and John note that while electrification is important for environmental reasons, they caution about the need for a measured approach and improved infrastructure to support this tra...
In this episode, we delve deep into the critical issue of backflow prevention, exploring the latest technologies and methodologies that are transforming the field. Join master plumber Sean Cleary, vice president of operations for the Backflow Prevention Institute (BPI), as we discuss the causes of backflow, the risks to water systems, regulatory compliance requirements and real-world case studies. Related Links: Backflow Prevention Institute Website: https://iapmobpi.org/Beginner’s...
In this episode, guest Sal Aridi, a professional engineer and director of Special Projects at IAPMO, discusses water reuse. He elaborates on his 25-year career in water technologies and explains the different types of water reuse, such as greywater and blackwater. The conversation covers definitions, standards, and the practicalities of water recycling, emphasizing the importance of robust systems and the misconception that water reuse is inherently problematic.
In this episode host Christoph Lohr discusses structural and behavioral water waste with Jim Lutz, a retired researcher from Lawrence Berkeley National Lab. Jim details his career, focusing on water heater efficiency and plumbing systems, and explains how his research has shown the significance of structural waste in residential plumbing, particularly in hot water distribution systems. He emphasizes the inefficacy of low-flow showerheads due to structural waste and advocates for compact plumb...
In this episode, we welcome David Dexter, a professional engineer with over 40 years of experience in the plumbing trade. Dexter discusses his transition from a master plumber to a professional engineer and his active involvement in the ASPE Professional Engineering Working Group. They highlight the importance of a specialized plumbing engineering exam under the mechanical discipline to ensure the verification of expertise and enhance public safety. The conversation emphasizes the collaborati...
On this week’s episode, we’re going to be talking about how Seattle improved water savings and reduced new construction costs through accurate pipe sizing. Seattle recently mandated the use of the IAPMO Water Demand Calculator® for multifamily residences, also known as R2 occupancies. The inclusion of Appendix M in the city’s plumbing codes puts Seattle on the cutting edge of sustainability and resiliency by creating a pathway for significant reductions in potable water use, improving energy,...
In this episode, host Christoph Lohr welcomes Sara Gutterman, CEO of Green Builder Media, to discuss the pressing issue of water sustainability in building practices. Sara emphasizes the importance of water conservation and quality, highlighting innovative solutions such as net-zero water impact plans, appropriate water pricing, and the adoption of smart water technologies like leak detection and smart irrigation systems. She stresses the need for municipalities to prioritize water management...
In this episode Tony Marcello, IAPMO senior vice president of Training and Credential Services, returns to discuss the ASSE 12000 series, focusing on ASSE 12060, ASSE 12080 and Legionella prevention. The standard is crucial for those working in health care facilities to conduct risk assessments and develop water management plans to protect occupants. They delve into the certification process, emphasizing the importance of training and education. Additionally, they explore the broader implicat...
In this episode we welcome guests Kelly Cunningham from PG&E and Steffi Becking from 2050 Partners to discuss the adoption of the Water Demand Calculator in California. They delve into the significance of this adoption, highlighting its potential to save water, energy, and construction costs while improving building efficiency and sustainability. Steffi and Kelly share insights into the adoption process, stakeholder engagement, and the importance of data validation in overcoming objections.
In this episode we welcome Tim Bartrand, executive director of ESPRI, and Gary Burlingame, senior scientist with ESPRI, to discuss water quality and construction practices for potable water. We’ll delve into bridging the gap between water utilities and building plumbing systems, emphasizing the significance of factors like pH, alkalinity, and disinfectants in maintaining safe and reliable water supply.Additionally, Bartrand and Burlingame will provide insights into the Manual of Water Qu...
Local jurisdictions and states have varying rules when it comes to water reuse. Join us for an insightful discussion with Stuart Bailin from Wahaso as we delve into the world of water reuse and purification. Learn about the process of harvesting water from rainwater, groundwater, stormwater condensate, and greywater, and the subsequent cleaning, sanitization, and repurposing for common applications such as site irrigation, cooling tower makeup, boiler makeup, and toilet flushing. One of ...
On this episode, we talk with Steven Rodzinak, director of code enforcement for the borough of Bound Brook, New Jersey about if specific building codes hurt or help FEMA reimbursement. Bridgewater, New Jersey is situated on a floodplain of the Raritan River and has experienced devastating floods for decades from Hurricane Dora in 1971 to Hurricane Ida 50 years later. According to Riskfactor. com, 70% of all properties in the municipality have greater than a 25% chance of being severely ...
The EWTS provides a unique opportunity to meet well-known experts from across the globe. Participants are able to discover ideas and approaches about emerging technologies that benefit drinking water and wastewater systems, improve efficiency, and preserve public health. Of particular interest is how these new technologies help cope with drought, reduce carbon emissions, and contribute to overall water sustainability. This year’s theme will focus on the nexus between sustainability and s...
Scaling UP! H2O podcast features weekly podcast episodes and daily digital content across social media platforms. With over 10,000 monthly downloads and a ranking in the top 3% of all podcasts globally by Listen Notes, Scaling UP! H2O serves as an invaluable, free educational resource for professionals in the water industry. On this episode, we'll be speaking with Trace Blackmore, CWT, LEED AP, esteemed CEO and founder of Blackmore Enterprises and host of the Scaling UP! H2O podcast, about ho...
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