Rinnai America launches PRO Tech loyalty program
Rinnai America launched PRO Tech, a unique loyalty program that recognizes individual plumbers and HVAC contractors who install and register Rinnai products. Created for installers across the U.S. and Canada, the PRO Tech loyalty program awards exclusive perks for eligible Rinnai products that are installed and registered through the Rinnai Central app. Simply install the product, register it and begin working toward perks. Perks and progress in the program stay with the individual, regardless of the company they work for. Anyone can participate, including technicians working independently, affiliated with a Rinnai PRO Network company, a Rinnai Member company, or an out-of-network company. In addition, when a PRO Tech account is linked to a Rinnai PRO Network company, the company earns Rinnai Reward Points while the technician earns separate perks, ensuring both benefit from every eligible registration.
Watts Backflow Hero Award winners announced
Watts announced the 2026 recipients of its annual Backflow Hero Award. This year’s recipients represent several admirable qualities that positively impact the backflow prevention industry, from a commitment to continuous learning in backflow prevention and protecting drinking water to upholding industry best practices and sharing innovative ideas that advance backflow prevention. The 2026 winners are: Mike Brune, Sr. solutions engineer, RepMasters; Kathy Riley, compliance specialist, Charlotte Water; and Pete Bertagna, engineering manager, Watts (retired). Recipients were selected by the Watts backflow leadership team from nominations received through its website.
NIBCO acquires UniTorq Actuators and Controls
NIBCO has completed the acquisition of UniTorq Actuators and Controls, expanding NIBCO’s presence in the commercial and industrial markets and strengthening its portfolio of valve actuation solutions. UniTorq will become part of NIBCO while retaining the people, products and reputation that have sustained its success. Located in Lawrenceville, Georgia, UniTorq has been providing commercial and industrial markets with innovative solutions for more than 25 years. The company specializes in developing valve actuation solutions designed to meet the unique needs of its customers.
IAPMO concludes 2026 annual conference, celebrates 100th anniversary
IAPMO conducted its annual Education and Business Conference at the Sheraton Universal Hotel in Universal City, California, concluding the association’s yearlong celebration of its founding 100 years ago in Los Angeles. Jeremy Stettler, coordinator/inspector, Davis School District, Clearfield, Utah, and Brian Hamner, senior plumbing inspector, city of Des Moines, Iowa, were re-elected president and vice president, respectively. Carlos Flores, division manager of Plumbing Inspections for the city of Houston, was appointed secretary/treasurer. David Gordon, senior plumbing inspector for the city and county of San Francisco; Armando Pulido, senior plumbing inspector for the city of Los Angeles; S.J. Peters, executive director of the Plumbing Contractors Association of Greater Chicago; and Samuel Santos, inspector for the city of Houston, were elected as directors. Preston Riehl, CEO of the A&J Training Trust, served as conference host and Laura Ceja, UA National Recruitment and Outreach coordinator, served as conference chair. Judaline Cassidy, New York City plumber and founder of Tools & Tiaras, delivered the keynote address.
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