The Libra Aurora freestanding tub from BainUltra features softly sloped interior walls that mirror each other and provide restful lounging space for two bathers to enjoy a restorative soak. The tub’s defined upper rim creates a halo-like effect and frames the top with a dramatic, elegant accent. Measuring 66 by 34 by 24 inches, this tub is offered in two configurations with a full menu of therapy options. Choose from the luxurious soaker tub or the Thermomasseur version, which provide hydrotherapy massage via 40 adjustable air jets, a heated backrest and Geysair hot air system. It is crafted from 100% pure acrylic, creating a nonporous surface that is durable, resistant to stains and scratches, and easy to clean and maintain. Tubs are available in a glossy white finish, a dramatic black and white combination, or the brand’s UltraVelour matte finish. 800-463-2187; www.bainultra.com
MTI Baths Magda
The Magda freestanding tub from MTI Baths has a streamlined silhouette and bold geometric detailing, with its only ornamentation being the fluted detailing that is distinctive of the Deco era. The tub was designed with comfort in mind and includes gently angled backrests and room enough for two bathers. Measuring nearly 66 inches long, it is offered as a relaxing soaker tub or as an indulgent air bath with a hydrotherapy package featuring 20 air jets with heated blower and waterproof remote control. It is crafted from cast-engineered stone using a mineral composite blend of organic dolomitic limestone. Its finishing process results in a nonporous surface that is durable and easily cleaned. The tub may be ordered in a glossy white finish or matte options in white, gray or black. 800-783-8827; www.mtibaths.com
COATINGS/LININGS/SEALANTS
Flow-Liner Systems Neofit+Plus Expandable Pressure Pipe
Neofit+Plus Expandable Pressure Pipe from Flow-Liner Systems is a trenchless technology that creates an impenetrable barrier between drinking water and the existing host pipe. Host pipes (like lead and copper) can leach dangerous levels of toxic materials in your drinking water. The Neofit+Plus EPP structural material has been scientifically proven by examining extensive hydrolysis testing, indicating it will last well over 100 years. It often only requires a single small access pit, saving yards, trees, sidewalks and floors from demolition. The speedy process allows for many installations a day and immediate return to service. 800-348-0020; www.flow-liner.com
FORMADRAIN Formapox 101
Formapox 101 from FORMADRAIN is a durable steam-cured liner that eliminates the mess and cost of traditional dig-and-replace methods. It is made from a watertight, thin, yet extremely strong composite material and a specially formulated resin. The liner is bright blue in color. It is the mainstay of the company’s pushed- or pulled-in-place, steam-cured, fiberglass and epoxy underground pipe repair system. It can be used in line sizes from 2 to 48 inches. The repair is so thin that pipes sustain their original flow capacities, even with a liner installed in such small diameters. 888-337-6764; www.formadrain.com
Oatey Hercules Megatape
Hercules Megatape from Oatey is a gray, all-purpose, professional-grade PTFE thread-sealing tape designed for use on a wide variety of threaded pipes. The tape is 3.5 mil thick, and seals threads on virtually any piping system, including stainless steel pipe, cast iron, PVC, CPVC and ABS pipe, brass and chrome fittings, and gas connections with less rips/tears and fewer wraps. It is available in 1/2-, 3/4- and 1-inch widths.800-321-9532; www.oatey.com
Picote Xpress BrushCoating System
The Picote Xpress Brush Coating System provides a solution for refurbishing pipes ranging from 1 1/4 to 12 inches in diameter, boasting rapid curing times, zero waste, and quick setup providing savings in both cost and time. Used in conjunction with Picote Millers, the heart of the system is the Xpress Coating Pump featuring dual hydraulic resin cylinders for the new 1-1, single color epoxy. It has a built-in extended life battery and internal resin heater providing several hours of working time. The system also includes a motorized delivery hose reel with 131 feet of delivery hose, allowing for easier setup, movement and storage. The Xpress Epoxy is applied at approximately 1 mm thickness per layer, and curing time is as low as an hour between coats, resulting in a minimal number of coats needed, little time between coats, and a quick return to service. 864-940-0088; www.picotegroup.com
DRAINS
1916 Collection Universal Freestanding Tub Drain
The 1916 Collection Universal Freestanding Tub Drain works with freestanding and island center and offset tubs. When installed at rough-in, it provides simple installation between the P-trap and tub — without needing access from below the floor. Available in ABS, PVC or cast iron with a plastic or stainless steel flange, this drain is compatible with brass or Schedule 40 tailpieces. 800-321-9532; www.lrbrands.com
FAUCETS
PRIER Products C-434
The PRIER Products C-434 heavy-duty, residential, self-draining hydrant provides peace of mind year-round in areas that are subject to freezing temperatures. It is ideal for people who like to keep their hose attached (or just plain forgot), because the hydrant will drain even under pressure without spray back. The hydrant valve is connected to the supply piping in the heated portion of the structure, eliminating the possibility of freezing. It combines freezeless hydrant features with self-draining, anti-siphon and two backflow check valves. The vacuum breaker/backflow preventer provides protection against cross-connection of the potable water supply, while venting to eliminate any vacuum. It features a satin nickel-plated solid brass body, a soft-grip full turn handle and built-in drainage pitch. 800-362-9055;www.prier.com
The extendable-body 3-inch Branch Line Backwater Valve from Mainline Backflow Products eliminates the need for access boxes and sleeves, providing convenient floor access to the valve. The valve is easily extended using standard DWV pipe, resulting in a simple and cost-effective install.877-734-8691; www.backwatervalve.com
REHAU, Building Solutions Division EVERLOC+
Designed for use with RAUPEX UV shield PEXa pipe in potable water applications, the EVERLOC+ compression-sleeve fitting system from REHAU, Building Solutions Division features both polymer and lead-free brass fittings in diameters up to 2 inches, as well as the EVERLOC+ power tool. Connections are made using a two-step expansion and compression process, both performed by the power tool. First, the pipe is expanded, then the sleeve is actively compressed over the pipe and fitting for a secure connection that is immediately ready for pressure testing. The fitting system includes couplings, tees, elbows, transition fittings, multi-port tees and accessories in sizes from 3/8 through 2 inches. 800-247-9445; www.everlocplus.com
Supply Smart Brass PEX Fittings
Supply Smart offers a variety of Brass PEX Fittings in a choice of brands and sizes. Whether you’re a Crimp PEX or Expansion PEX plumber, you’re covered. The fittings provide strong connections that are anti-corrosive, resulting in long-lasting, quality work. With the ability to withstand extreme temperatures, they are a popular choice among plumbers. 860-631-7793; www.supplysmart.com
FIXTURES
Aquaguard WAGS Valve
WAGS Valves from Aquaguard can stop a leaking water heater tank from continuously refilling and dripping, or until the tank fails catastrophically. The shut-off valve halts the incoming water supply, and on gas-fired units, shuts off the gas supply to ensure the home’s safety from water heater failure. They are mechanically operated; meaning no maintenance, no electricity or no battery checks are required. They sit in a drip pan under the water heater and are activated when leaking water accumulates to a predetermined level in the pan. Once activated, the industrial-duty, one-shot safety valve shuts off the water and gas supply if so equipped. A red tab pops out to indicate valve activation. 844-438-9247; www.wagsvalve.com
CORRO-PROTEC Powered Anode Rod
CORRO-PROTEC Powered Anode Rods made of titanium stop corrosion, rotten egg smell and limescale buildup inside hot water tanks. Designed to last over 20 years, they are a long-term solution that don’t require any maintenance. The power supply, plugged on top of the titanium anode rod, provides small electrical current that completely stops corrosion. With that unlimited source of protection, it can double the life of the tank and prevent unwanted reactions like the sulfur smell in hot water, limescale buildup inside the water heater and air in water pipes. Since the anodes won’t deteriorate over time, they are 12 inches long and easy to install in a wide range of water heaters starting from 10 gallons to 120 gallons, including a specific model for Bradford White tanks. They fit on electric, gas, solar, hybrid, indirect and geothermal water heaters.877-466-6660; www.corroprotec.com
Vista Water Group VersaCheck QC
Finding space to install backflow prevention can be quite challenging, particularly under a residential sink. Not all municipalities are satisfied with the single check cartridges in faucets and pull-out sprayers, requiring something that is both accessible and serviceable. To tackle this issue, Vista Water Group offers an adapter kit designed to simplify the installation of their VersaCheck QC backflow preventers. For installations involving PEX tubing, the backflow preventer can be easily inserted into the line using its push-to-connect fittings. But with the new adapter kit, a quick installation is possible even with braided supply lines. The dual check backflow preventers are certified by QAI and are an affordable way to satisfy requirements, even in isolation states. They are sold through most wholesalers and are available directly from the website. 419-565-5702; www.vistawatergroup.com
PIPES
Jones Stephens PEX-A Piping Systems
PEX-A Piping Systems from Jones Stephens include a range of PEX-A pipe and F1960 expansion and F1807/F2159 crimp fittings, including large diameters. The benefits of PEX-A piping are significant for both new construction and repair jobs because it is manufactured in corrosion-resistant material and is highly flexible due to its crosslinking pattern. Other advantages of PEX-A piping include expansion in frigid air; less kinking for efficient installation; superior sound absorption for a quiet system; and high-thermal resistant properties for saving energy. Cold expansion fittings are also available which, along with brass and plastic crimp fittings, provide a dependable, leak-free, and secure plumbing connection. The product line includes PEX-A piping for potable water and oxygen barrier applications. 800-355-6637; www.jonesstephens.com
SharkBite PEX-a
SharkBite PEX-a pipe is designed to reduce the risk of a burst pipe in the winter. With superior flexibility and durability, it is less susceptible to burst in freezing conditions. This flexibility also makes installations faster, with longer pipe runs and fewer fittings needed for a job. When used with SharkBite expansion fittings, made from highly engineered polymer materials, it makes a complete system that is easy to install and durable. 877-700-4242; www.sharkbite.com
SHOWERS
PULSE ShowerSpas Atlantic Shower System
The Atlantis Shower System from PULSE ShowerSpas is a sleek, three-function shower system that compliments any bathroom. It features a 10-inch rain showerhead, five body jets with PULSE Power Nozzles and a wand handshower. The all-brass body and fixtures make this showerhead one of the most durable of its kind. It is surface mounted, pre-plumbed and designed to use two functions at a time. It is available in brushed nickel, chrome, matte black and oil-rubbed bronze. Typical install is less than 1 hour – even for novices. An optional ADA-compliant assist bar is available. 888-785-7320; www.pulseshowerspas.com
TOOLS
Channellock SpeedGrip V-JawTongue & Groove Pliers
CHANNELLOCK SpeedGrip V-Jaw Tongue & Groove Pliers combine the strength of the company’s original Tongue & Groove Pliers with a push button for ultra-fast adjustments. The 10-inch 432X with 15 adjustments and 12-inch 442X with 12 adjustments are best suited for gripping round stock and tubing. They also include a Safe-T-Stop feature to prevent finger pinch, a reaming feature to easily deburr pipe, and CHANNELLOCK BLUE non-slip grips for greater control and reduced hand fatigue. The pliers are forged from 100% high-carbon U.S. steel. 800-724-3018; www.channellock.com
Cherne Clog-Buster Drain Flusher
The Cherne Clog-Buster Drain Flusher unclogs drain pipes in seconds, and can attach to a standard 3/4-inch garden hose fitting. Users can remove the aerator from the spigot of the faucet and attach the faucet adapter. When connected to a water source, it will pressurize the seal and deliver a blast of water to free a clog. This will help keep drainlines clean and clear of debris so water can flow freely. While using this product, insert it as far as possible into the drain and slowly turn on the cold water. This should almost immediately lead to the clog dislodging. It also eliminates the need for using chemicals. It is available in three variations of sizes, ranging from 1-2 inches to 4-6 inches. 800-843-7584; www.cherneind.com
CPI Products DrainTrain
Residential piping is smaller than commercial piping, and when doing video inspection, getting an accurate camera image is extra challenging. Most camera skids are simple shaped ends to help cameras slide through pipes. They often plow debris in from of the camera lens and cannot get through sharp curves and P-traps. The DrainTrain from CPI Products has wheels and ribs to allow debris to pass by. It fits 3-inch and larger pipes and gets the camera further down the pipe due to the specially designed shape and wheels. Cameras fit up to 1.376 inches in diameter. It comes with all the adapters required, has three separate segments, and a specially designed shape enables the camera to navigate complex plastic piping includingP-traps. Roller skids are available in additional sizes for larger pipes and cameras. 413-443-0925; www.cplasproducts.com
Dallas Specialty Internal Pipe Cutter
The Internal Pipe Cutter from Dallas Specialty has a free spinning shaft and blade that attaches easily to the chuck. It is quickly adjustable using the convenient twist/set handle. Simply release the twist/set handle and slide the guide collar over the shaft gauge to the correct depth, tighten the twist/set handle, insert into pipe and cut. Cuts pipe 1 1/2 to 6 inches, and has an adjustable cutting depth of 1 to 6 inches. A safety collar prevents the blade and shaft from falling down the pipe. It is ideal for tight spaces, and for cutting pipes against walls and below concrete surfaces. A handle gives stability and control to the cutter. 800-222-5644; www.dallasspecialty.com
DiscountSawBlade.com DIABLO Steel Demon
DIABLO Steel Demon carbide-tipped reciprocating blades from discountsawblade.com are designed for extreme metal cutting, including high-strength alloys, cast iron and stainless steel. This high-performance carbide-tipped blade delivers long cutting life in extreme thick metal cutting applications. Increased blade body height produces straighter cuts with less vibration. The Perma-shield nonstick coating and the high-performance carbide teeth provide greater durability with less friction and greater blade life. 888-641-9798; www.discountsawblade.com
Koul Tools EZ-ONHose Press 426
The EZ-ON Hose Press 426 from Koul Tools is suitable for installing 1/4- to 1-inch barbed fittings. It features a redesigned drive train and clamping system that utilizes guide rods for its moving parts. The lead screw drive train requires only a ratchet or small impact gun to assemble hoses quickly and safely. Simply secure the fitting in the vice, clamp the hose in the traveling carriage, and turn the lead screw system to install the hose in a matter of seconds. 928-854-6706; www.koultools.com
Milwaukee Tool M12FORCE LOGIC Press Tool
Milwaukee Tool’s M12 FORCE LOGIC Press Tool provides portability and accessibility around installed pipe. Weighing only 3.8 pounds, it offers a balanced, in-line design, allowing plumbers to press with one hand and giving them unrivaled access nearly anywhere they can fit their arm. Equipped with REDLINK electronics, the battery-powered press tool enables plumbers to monitor the force output, delivering quality connections. When used with Milwaukee’s press jaws, the press tool delivers quality press connections on copper, PEX, black iron and stainless steel on all major fitting brands. A visual indicator alerts the user when a secure connection is achieved or when calibration is needed. It only requires service every 32,000 crimps, allowing plumbers to perform more connections between services and keeping the tool on the job site longer. 800-729-3878; www.milwaukeetool.com
RIDGID K9-12 FlexShaftDrain Cleaning Machine
The RIDGID K9-12 FlexShaft Drain Cleaning Machine is the smallest in the FlexShaft line, making it ideal for residential use, eliminating the need to repeatedly unclog the same household drainlines. Clearing up to 30 feet of 1 1/4- to 2-inch pipe, it breaks up grease, hair and other soft blockages, making it suitable for kitchen and bath sinks, as well as tubs and shower drains. Powered by an 1,800 to 2,500 rpm cordless drill, the machine’s chain knocker expands inside the pipe to quickly clear the blockage and restore the pipe to full flow. A flexible, protective sheath encapsulates the cable, keeping it fully enclosed for less mess and faster cleanup. The built-in clutch design also extends the cable life. 800-474-3443; www.ridgid.com
WATER CONDITIONERS
Aqua-Rex
To soften water you need to get rid of the dissolved calcium, and Aqua-Rex does this by stimulating scale production in suspension in the water. Independent tests have shown it can reduce hardness to below 50 ppm, less than the U.S. Geological Survey definition of soft water. Over five years ago Aqua-Rex published the IAPMO test reports showing it reduced scaling by 83% in Las Vegas water heated to 180 degrees F. It was the first “no salt softener” to get such performance verification, according to the company. 877-640-2170; www.aqua-rex.com
WATER HEATERS
Bradford White Water Heaters AeroTherm Series
With 50-, 65- and 80-gallon capacity units available, the Bradford White Water Heaters Energy Star-certified AeroTherm Series offers value, efficiency and versatility. The heat pump water heaters are easy to install and maintain and offer an integrated smart control panel plus five operating modes (heat pump, hybrid, hybrid plus, electric and vacation). Units are fully compliant with California’s Title 24 energy-efficiency standards and are eligible for many local and state utility rebates throughout North America. The series includes Vitraglas lining, an engineered enamel formula that provides superior tank protection from the corrosive effects of hot water.800-523-2931; www.bradfordwhite.com
Heat-Flo Extra High Output
The Heat-Flo Extra High Output indirect series of tanks are available in 85- and 115-gallon capacities. The entire tank including the 100 feet of coil, body and dip tube are all made of 316L stainless steel. All the piping connections are easily accessible and make for an efficient, cost-effective installation. The finished tank is jacketed with a dent- and rust-resistant HDPE plastic and is highly insulated to minimize standby heat loss. Applications requiring high volumes of domestic hot water but are limited to a small tank footprint are ideal. These tanks excel when utilized in apartment buildings, dormitories and nursing homes. 508-278-2400; www.heat-flo.com
Intellihot Legionator
Intellihot’s Legionator is a point-of-use disinfection tankless water heater that significantly reduces the potential for Legionella using water heating technology which includes a built-in ozone generator and quartz scale-free heating. It uses a set of high-quality quartz tubes to heat water to a comfortable temperature when there is water demand. As the water is exiting the unit, ozone gas is injected into the water. This has two effects: 1) it kills the bacteria in water; and 2) the ozone is also carried in the water to the faucets and kills the bacteria present within the faucet valve seats and aerators. The result is good, clean, safe and efficiently heated water ensuring a building and its occupants are protected from waterborne bacteria illnesses. 866-692-6791; www.intellihot.com
Navien NPE-2
Navien NPE-2 series high-efficiency condensing tankless water heaters are offered in four Standard (NPE-S2) models up to 199,900 Btu/h and three Advanced (NPE-A2) models up to 199,900 Btu/h and feature high-efficiency up to 0.96 UEF and field gas convertibility from natural gas to liquid propane or natural gas high elevation operation. NPE-A2 models include ComfortFlow technology, which includes a built-in recirculation pump and buffer tank that resolves issues of minimal flow rates. Other features include a turndown ratio up to 15-1, an increased 2-inch PVC venting length up to 75 feet, built-in HotButton on-demand recirculation system controls, expanded cascade capability up to 32 units, expanded common venting capability up to 12 units, and an EZNav advanced multi-line control with built-in intuitive software and easy-to-use Setup Wizard. 800-519-8794; www.navieninc.com
Rheem Maximus
Energy Star certified, the Maximus high-efficiency gas water heater from Rheem reduces energy use and carbon emissions by up to 36% and NOx emissions by up to 75%. With a powerful yet efficient burner design, this water heater allows homeowners, especially those with larger homes, to enjoy optimal hot water performance while benefiting from energy cost savings. The combined power vent and power direct vent unit is also easy to install. It fits into small spaces like a closet with flexible venting options and top and side water connections. Models feature built-in EcoNet smart monitoring technology, which offers complete control of adjusting temperature, operating modes, scheduling and the ability to view energy usage and system health. 800-621-5622; www.rheem.com
Rinnai SENSEI RX
The SENSEI RX condensing tankless water heater from Rinnai includes Smart-Circ Intelligent Recirculation. This highly efficient tankless series makes the pro’s job easier to sell, install, and service. Setup is faster with SmartConnect. It allows the pro to quickly connect a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth and gives pros the ability to register the product for customers through the Rinnai Central App. This one unit has the versatility to be installed both indoors and outdoors through an optional VersaVent accessory, providing the ultimate installation flexibility. With SENSEI’s SmartSense, the units run on natural or liquid propane gas for optimal combustion. 800-621-9419; www.rinnai.us