July brought plenty of reasons to celebrate, from Air Conditioning Appreciation Day on the third and fireworks on the Fourth to a month-long spotlight on Smart Irrigation. With all that going on (and a packed service schedule to match), it’s no surprise if you didn’t have the time to catch every industry headline. Luckily, that’s what JB Warranties is here for.
In our June Round-Up, we covered clean energy incentives on the chopping block, shrinking construction backlogs, and cash flow challenges hitting trade businesses particularly hard. We also highlighted new partnerships from HomeServe and Redfin aimed at helping contractors grow. Now that we’ve caught you up to speed, take a look at what made news in July!
In the commercial category, 13 finalists went head-to-head in the final voting round, but Lennox’s Xion RTU came out on top. This fan-favorite 2–25 ton rooftop unit features the Lennox Core Lite Unit Controller and is purpose-built for fast-turn commercial installs. It’s a versatile choice for schools, strip malls, office buildings, warehouses, and restaurants.
“Earning an HVAC All-Star Award affirms what our teams set out to achieve with Xion™, a rooftop unit made for the demands of emergency replacement,” says Lennox Building Climate Solutions President and EVP Joe Nassab. “It’s fast, adaptable, and built to perform when it matters most. It’s rewarding to see a product this purposeful being recognized across the industry.”
On the residential side, Rheem took top honors. The winning unit impressed voters with its compact footprint, ease of servicing, and broad compatibility, making it ideal for both replacement and new construction. With energy ratings up to 19 SEER2, 13 EER2, and 10 HSPF2, it gives contractors a high-efficiency option that can deliver month-after-month savings for customers.
If you caught our recent Guide to HVAC Asset Management, you might’ve already heard the news: Workiz, a leading field service management platform with over 120,000 customers, has officially announced a new integration with JB Warranties! Known for its advanced AI features that automate quotes, inventory, dispatching, and online payments, Workiz helps business owners save up to 15 hours a week — and now, it’s a JB Partner.
Through this strategic alliance, Workiz users have a prime opportunity to increase sales and build lasting customer relationships. When an HVAC unit or water heater is covered by JB Warranties, the original technician not only fulfills the warranty but is also sent out as the preferred provider when service is needed. It’s a simple way to strengthen client ties and create ongoing revenue streams, all through an operations-boosting platform.
“Homeowners and business owners want to feel confident that they are making a wise investment in their plumbing or HVAC systems and to experience real peace of mind about any repairs or new installation work,” explains Didi Azaria, CEO of Workiz. “By offering their clients additional consumer protections from JB Warranties, technicians can instill that peace of mind, ultimately boosting the value of their service offerings.”
Learn more about Workiz on the JB Dealer Services Marketplace.
Founded by longtime real estate investor Ryan Nelson, PropertyBuild is shaped by firsthand experience managing everything from single-family homes to large commercial properties. After years of juggling vendors and estimates, Nelson created a tool to solve the headaches rental property owners face every day — especially when it comes to sourcing skilled labor.
Contractors can apply to join the network by completing a quick registration and meeting qualification standards. The platform currently connects users to pros in:
Head to PropertyBuild.com to learn more or join the contractor network.
While PropertyBuild helps connect experienced pros to property projects, SupplyHouse is focused on building the next generation of tradespeople. The company’s second annual Track to the Trades scholarship is now open, awarding ten $2,500 scholarships to students pursuing careers in plumbing, HVAC, electrical, or closely related fields.
Applicants must be U.S. residents, at least 18 years old, and currently enrolled in or accepted to a trade school program. Along with technical ambition, candidates should embody G.R.I.T. — generosity, respect, integrity, and teamwork — SupplyHouse’s core values. The application window runs from July 7 to November 7, with winners announced on December 7.
“We’re proud to stand behind students choosing careers in the trades,” says Kaylin Staub, CMO of SupplyHouse. “Our goal is to remove financial barriers and continue to highlight the importance of this industry.” Click here to apply and take the next step toward a career in the trades, without the worry of financial burdens holding you back.
This year’s theme, Water for Climate Action, is especially relevant for plumbers, irrigation pros, and others working directly with water systems. Attending signals your commitment to eco-conscious practices — a marketing advantage in today’s sustainability-driven world. Customers care about green efforts, and sharing your participation (even virtually) can build trust and boost your reputation.
World Water Week 2025 runs from August 24 to 28 and offers both in-person and online participation. Registering for a free virtual pass unlocks access to live sessions, networking, recorded talks, and the online expo. Whether you’re joining from your work truck or your desk, it’s a chance to stay informed on the future of climate and technology.
This month’s stories exemplify what’s shaping the future of the trades, including the tools and talent of today that are building tomorrow’s success. JB Warranties is here to help you stay informed and stay ahead. Be sure to check back next month for more industry insights, or browse the JB Warranties Blog today to stay sharp between service visits.