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The CREST Condensing Boiler from Lochinvar. The Thermal Gradient Header system from Thermenex. J U N E 2 0 2 5 | 55 Mechanical & HVAC Systems P H OTO G R A P H Y CO U RT E S Y AQ UA-T EC H ; T H ER M EN E X Canada's mechanical and HVAC sector is booming despite economic turbulence by ROBIN BRUNET H igh inflation that has resulted in project delays notwithstanding, business is booming for Canada's mechanical and HVAC provid- ers, thanks to ever-increasing expectations of energy efficiency. Aqua-Tech Sales and Marketing Inc. mainly supports high-efficiency condensing boiler and water heater products plus commercial heat pumps for the construction industry. Its head office in Burlington, Ontario has over 70,000 square feet of warehouse space, and it also has 5,000 square feet in Port Coquitlam, B.C. Plus, Aqua-Tech is well known for its staff's technical knowledge. Whether at the design or layout stage, or in the boiler room, the company is very capable of working with engineers, contractors, and distributors to solve any problem. While business is brisk, Darryl Singleton, president for Aqua-Tech, voices what virtually everyone in his sector is thinking with regards to upcoming opportunities in the mechanical and HVAC field. "We're in a time of unprec- edented chaos, and although it seems certain the U.S./Canada tariff conflict will affect our sector, we don't know to what extent. For example, we have no way of knowing how they will impact raw materials costs, only that prices will go up. "In this environment, planning becomes extremely hard to do, and for many companies that have established set project prices from bidding that occurred prior to the tariffs being announced, it will be challenging to get the job done." But Singleton tries to maintain an optimistic outlook. "Aqua-Tech has enjoyed a robust first quarter and I expect things will continue to be good for the rest of the year. We can only hope that by then there will be some positive developments between the U.S. and Canada." Whether market conditions are favourable or not, innovation continues to drive the mechanical/HVAC sector. Thermenex is a good example: its patented Thermal Gradient Header (TGH) is a game-changer for heating and cooling efficiency and continues to be recognized as such. This year, the International Federation Climate Meets Control

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