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Fulton Boilers: Innovative Heat Transfer for a Sustainable Future

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Can condensing boilers play a role in reducing HVAC system emissions?

We recently sat down for a Coffee Break with Joel Southwell, vice president of sales for Fulton, to discuss the latest innovations in condensing boiler technology and how they contribute to reducing carbon emissions.

You don’t want to miss our upcoming Coffee Break webinars — featuring insight into the latest advancements in HVAC straight from the experts who innovate them. Ask your SVL sales engineer for an invite to future sessions.

What is driving decarbonization in the HVAC market?

It’s a confluence of several factors. States are issuing regulatory changes, including bans or limitations on fossil fuel-fired equipment. Corporations are working to comply with global regulations and voluntary green initiatives. New building designs prioritize fossil fuel reduction and minimizing infrastructure impact.

HVAC equipment accounts for 45% of the CO2 generated by a building, giving it the most potential for emissions reduction. Different fuel choices and HVAC design choices can help further lower emissions.

What are the advantages of a hydronic heating system?

There’s one central location for mechanical equipment and a smaller equipment footprint throughout the building (pipes are much smaller than ducts). Hydronic systems are future-proof (they can be upgraded as technology improves) and distribute no refrigerant, avoiding regulations, restrictions, and costly leaks. Hydronics is also comfortable for the user, with simple and precise zone control and a better temperature gradient.

How do condensing boilers contribute to decarbonization?Fulton-ENDURA-XE

Condensing boiler technology offers high energy efficiency, but we must understand a few concepts to get the most benefit out of the design.

When air and fuel ignite and become flue gas traveling through the boiler’s firetube, the goal is to cool that gas to its dew point in the heat exchanger because the condensing process releases a considerable amount of latent heat — 8,340 Btu per gallon of condensate. That energy would have typically gone up the stack in a non-condensing boiler.

The more of this energy we can capture, the more the efficiency of the boiler increases. As efficiencies increase, carbon emissions are reduced because the boiler won’t operate as long to satisfy the heating load.

We want the coolest possible returning water temperature to get the highest efficiency out of a condensing boiler. The lower the return water temperature, the easier it is to get flue gasses to condense in the heat exchanger.

The newest boiler technology constantly adjusts the air/fuel ratio to respond to changes in outdoor air temperature and O2 levels in the combustion air, maintaining efficiency and decreasing carbon emissions.

What solutions does Fulton offer for limiting emissions?

Fulton has a full line of condensing boilers that range from 399,000 to 12,000,000 Btuh for natural gas and dual fuel configurations. They also offer flexible, hybrid solutions for hydronic systems because no one design fits every application.

For example, Fulton can package condensing boilers with electric boilers, skid-mounted together with piping, VFD, power supply, and header connections. In this setup, the natural gas-fired boilers would only be used when the load surpasses the capacity of the electric boiler (which has zero emissions and almost 100% efficiency).

Condensing boilers can also be paired with heat pumps. This reduces electrical infrastructure requirements compared to electric boilers and reduces energy consumption versus an all-heat pump system. The boilers would allow the system to gain temperature on higher-demand days, and the heat pumps could shoulder the remainder of the load.

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                      Jim Lubratt

                      President & Chief Executive Officer

                      Jim Lubratt has been president of SVL since 2006. He first joined the company as a sales engineer in 1992 and was made a partner in 2000. He holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Southern Methodist University and first entered the HVAC industry as a marketing engineer for a heat pump manufacturer in Texas.

                      In addition to his role at SVL, Jim is vice president of AQC Industries, LLC, a manufacturer of specialized underground ductwork systems. He is also an investor and board member for Hydromx, Inc., a manufacturer of heat transfer nanofluids, and Crotega, Inc., creators of personal and building security solutions.

                      Jim and his wife, Tracy, met in college and married in 1993. They have three children, two of whom have graduated college in Texas, while their youngest is attending Grand Canyon University in Arizona.

                      Outside of work, Jim places a priority on his faith, family, friends, and fitness. He enjoys helping people-supporting charities, time with his wife and kids, road-biking with friends and efforts to stay physically fit.

                      A message from Jim on the achievements of SVL

                      SVL started in February 1967 by Charlie Schwab and Craig Vollhaber. Schwab-Vollhaber, Inc. (as it was named at the time) steadily grew and, in 1985, welcomed Paul Lubratt as another partner, becoming Schwab-Vollhaber-Lubratt, Inc. SVL’s founders had the determination to build the most talented, customer-focused HVAC representative in the Midwest. Our original drive and passion still shape the company and culture to this day. The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined efforts of every individual. From humble beginnings, SVL founders paved the way to industry success with hard work and determination. “Today, SVL is strongly organized with great people to lead our industry forward as we are challenged with fast-paced changes to reduce our environmental impact,” says Jim. Now, 55+ years later, SVL is under the leadership of two new principals who share the same vision and drive that has propelled SVL throughout the years. Built on a foundation of integrity, Jim Lubratt, and Charlie Vollhaber strive to ensure opportunities for personal growth, improved work environment, and shared life enrichment. The achievements of our organization are the results of the combined efforts of every individual.

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                      Charlie Vollhaber

                      Executive Vice President & Officer

                      Charlie Vollhaber is a third-generation employee at SVL, as a grandson of company co-founder Craig Vollhaber and son of former CEO Todd Vollhaber. Charlie holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering and an MBA, both from the University of Minnesota. He became an outside salesman for SVL in 2013, was made a partner in 2019, and then executive vice president and officer in 2022.

                      He grew up playing sports, including football, basketball, golf, and track, and enjoys the competitive nature of the HVAC industry. “I like that no two days are ever the same as there are always questions to answer and problems to solve,” he says. “Most of all, I enjoy working with great people and coordinating together on challenging projects to achieve positive results together.”

                      Outside of work, Charlie enjoys spending time with his wife, Lesley, and their three boys. He’s also fond of golfing, traveling, and attending concerts and sporting events. One of his favorite quotes is from the book of Philippians: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count other more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Because HVAC and construction is such a team effort, he says, “this mindset helps to create positive results in a vast majority of situations.”

                      A message from Charlie on the culture of SVL

                      “At SVL, we strive to cultivate a unique culture that revolves around finding and empowering exceptional individuals. We believe in equipping our team members with the right tools and resources to succeed.

                      As we’ve grown the business, we have deliberately maintained a small firm culture, fostering an environment where collaboration thrives. We encourage open dialogue and promote a sense of comfort among our employees, allowing anyone to ask questions and seek guidance from anyone else, regardless of their level within the organization.

                      We foster a workshop-like atmosphere where everyone’s contribution is valued. Presenting your work to another individual or a group of teammates provides a platform for collaboration, where ideas are shared, dissected, and improved collectively. We firmly believe in the power of mentoring and provide various avenues for both formal and informal guidance. Whether it’s through structured training programs or casual conversations, we encourage team members to discuss a wide range of topics, from work-related successes or issues to everyday personal life topics.

                      In summary, our culture is built on the foundation of attracting exceptional individuals, empowering them with the necessary tools, and fostering a collaborative environment where mentorship and growth thrive. We are committed to creating an atmosphere where every team member feels supported, valued, and encouraged to reach their fullest potential.”

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                      Al Gramse

                      Vice President of SVL Service Corporation

                      Al Gramse has been in the HVAC industry for over 30 years. He began as a service technician.  Then over his career worked in technical support, building automation, then service manager prior to his current role.

                      How did Al end up in the HVAC industry?  “After high school, I took a couple years to figure out what I wanted to do.   Where I was working at the time, a grumpy old coworker, who I didn’t get along with, walked up to me and said ‘What are you doing here?  Go back to school.’”  I said, “For what?”  He said “There’s a tech school down the street.  Go down there and pick something that interests you”. Then he walked away.  That weird interaction, with someone I didn’t get along with, sent me down a 30-year path in the HVAC industry.   Never underestimate the potential of a little encouragement.   Even if it is from a strange source.

                      Al has been with SVL for 15 years and is the head of our SVL Service division. “The people here are some of the best in the industry,” Al says. “A bunch of team-oriented, knowledgeable, go-getters.” His personal mantra is “figure it out,” “Do a little fact-finding on your own. Use your own brain before you use someone else’s. But know when to ask for help.” he prescribes. “It’s amazing what you can accomplish on your own if you dig in a little bit.”

                      Outside of work, Al has lots of outdoor hobbies, including hunting, fishing, and motorcycling, though his favorite pastime is simply hanging out with family.

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                      Jennifer Roach

                      Director of Marketing, Events & Administration

                      More than just a creative director, Jen brings 30 years of marketing and leadership magic to SVL. Her journey began in the trenches of graphic design, quickly evolving into crafting eye-catching campaigns for iconic brands like Target, Gabberts, Gander Mountain and Camping World. As a seasoned director and agency veteran, she honed her skills with recreational vehicle giant Parts Unlimited before leading creative teams at HOM Furniture and, ultimately, landing at SVL during a crucial growth phase.

                      Jen thrives on "servant-leadership," empowering her team and fostering a culture of trust and mutual respect. "It unlocks their potential, fuels creativity, and leads to work we're all proud of," she says. "I want my team to care, collaborate, and push boundaries together."

                      When not shaping impactful campaigns, Jen enjoys weekend adventures with her husband, Scott, and son, Crew. Their lives are a tapestry of shared passions, from bike rides and baking experiments to cheering on Simley High School wrestlers. And with her recently built forever home in Cottage Grove, her free time now includes a new, thrilling chapter: weekend renovation warrior!

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