Plumbing Weekly Brief: June 17–23, 2025
From the EPA boosting water system funding to new backflow certification recognition in California, it’s been a busy week for plumbing professionals. We also saw important updates for online business visibility and new insights into plastic plumbing materials. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s been making waves.
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EPA Boosts Water Systems Funding
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced nearly a billion dollars in grant funding for states and territories this week. This substantial sum, sourced from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), is specifically aimed at helping small and disadvantaged communities tackle per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other emerging contaminants in their drinking water. Eligible projects include constructing and upgrading treatment facilities, providing technical assistance and training, and even supporting testing for households.
Published: June 17, 2025
https://www.asdwa.org/2025/06/18/epa-announces-fy-2025-state-funding-and-waterta-assistance-to-help-small-and-disadvantaged-water-systems-with-pfas-and-emerging-contaminants/ -
California Recognizes Backflow Certification
Big news for backflow testers in California: the State Water Resources Control Board has officially recognized the ASSE 5110 certification program this week. This means all jurisdictions across California can now officially accept this specific certification for backflow prevention testers. This move standardizes qualifications and helps ensure drinking water safety across the state by establishing a clear benchmark for expertise in cross-connection control.
Published: June 20, 2025
California State Water Board Formally Recognizes ASSE 5110 Certification for Backflow Testers | IAPMO
Tools & Tips
- Housecall Pro’s Spring Update: Enhanced Job Documentation & AI Tools
Housecall Pro recently rolled out a “Spring Update” with some useful features designed to make work faster and clearer. The new “HCP Cam” allows users to capture multiple photos and 60-second videos right in the app, with options to add annotations and share progress with clients. The platform is also emphasizing AI tools, with users reporting significant time savings (an average of 4.2 hours per week) and even revenue gains (an average of 9%) by automating tasks and improving overall efficiency.
2025 Spring Updates That Help Pros Go Further, Faster
Fun Fact
Did you know that Philadelphia holds a special place in U.S. plumbing history? It was the very first city in America to implement a modern plumbing system back in 1804! This historical milestone underscores plumbing’s long-standing and foundational role in public health and urban development across the nation.
Fun Plumbing Facts | One Source Home Service
We’d love to hear from you! Have you participated in any Plumbing events or utilized new Plumbing tools recently? Share your experiences or insights with us—we’re featuring selected community voices in next week’s edition.