Dave Yates

Dave Yates began his career in the PHCP-PVF trades in 1972 with F. W. Behler, a third-generation plumbing/ HVAC firm he purchased in 1985. Besides running F.W. Behler, writing articles for industry trade publications and speaking at events, Yates also is an experienced teacher in the hydronics industry, serving as an adjunct professor and on the Technical Advisory Board for the Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. He can be reached at dyates@consultyates.com.

Loyalty is never lost: What is your value add for the customer?

Dave Yates

October 3, 2024

Price vs. value was always a key in every customer relationship I had during my 48-year career. Once I established trust, and folks knew I had their best interest at heart, price became secondary.

Two hikers in shadow climbing a mountain with the sun behind them.

Unveiling wholesalers' performance from a contractor's perspective

Critiques of wholesaler-distributors straight from the contractor customer.

Dave Yates

April 8, 2024

I thought it would be helpful to reach out to multiple mechanical contractors and request their feedback on suppliers, as well as a reflection on the challenges they faced during the pandemic.

AHR Roundup feature image of Chicago skyline at night

From the expo floor: An AHR roundup

Dave Yates

March 8, 2024

The AHR Expo was held in Chicago, attracting over 48,000 attendees and 1,875 exhibitors. The show featured the latest industry offerings, including new products, technology, skill learning, and demonstrations. The event utilized 527,520 square feet of space for booth displays.

SHT January 2024 Dave Yates Column opening image of two men talking about PVC pipes

Counter Talk | Dave Yates

Customer loyalty is far from dead

How to earn your contractors’ loyalty.

Dave Yates

January 8, 2024

What, pray tell, does training have to do with customer loyalty? Building your own personal knowledge base gives you an edge over your competition because you are positioned to give far better customer service.