PSI (Plumbing Services Inc.) delivers high-performance heating in the Colorado Rockies by blending proven hydronic principles with modern low-ambient heat pump technology. The company transforms dated mountain residences into weather-resilient sanctuaries using systems engineered for extreme altitude and rapid temperature swings. For more than 25 years, the contractor has specialized in complex projects, including snowmelt systems, hydronic heating, and climate-responsive HVAC solutions for luxury residences.
Jim Harper, owner of PSI, notes that reliability depends on supply chain management. “Through years of field experience and trial-and-error in remote mountain towns, we’ve learned that the reliability of your supply chain is just as critical as the quality of the hardware,” he says. When jobsites are only accessible through mountain passes during harsh winters, having strong relationships with local manufacturer reps is essential.
Dual-Stage Comfort for Extreme Conditions
PSI’s recent work on a high-end overhaul in the Eagle-Vail area demonstrates how these systems function under pressure. The project stripped the existing residence down to the framing and expanded it from 4,500 to roughly 5,500 square feet. It also included a new two-car garage and a massive 6,000-square-foot outdoor snowmelt system.
For the primary heating and snowmelt, PSI designed a system centered on an IBC high-efficiency boiler paired with a domestic sidearm water heater. The builder and homeowner chose Warmboard radiant subflooring to distribute heat efficiently while minimizing spatial impact on the original framing. Inside the channels, PSI installed Uponor PEX tubing, managed by Tekmar controls.
To address rapid weather changes, the team integrated an extensive Mitsubishi Electric mini-split heat pump system. These low-ambient cold-climate units operate efficiently even when outdoor temperatures dip to -15°F. The mini-splits act as a dynamic secondary heat source, quickly responding to sharp drops in ambient air. Meanwhile, the Warmboard radiant system steadily brings the structural mass of the home up to target temperature, maintaining an even profile over long periods.
By utilizing outdoor reset sensors linked to the controls, the IBC boiler modulates water supply temperatures based on real-time weather. This ensures indoor comfort whether it is 40°F or -20°F outside.
Heating objects and surfaces rather than moving air eliminates the architectural constraints of ductwork and floor registers. The result is a cleaner aesthetic that allows complete freedom for furniture placement and silent operation. “For luxury mountain homes, radiant floor heating remains the gold standard,” says Harper.
The Aspen-based firm also protects critical infrastructure from cyber threats. Hackers are increasingly targeting water systems, a trend that highlights the need for robust security measures in essential services. Harper emphasizes that mechanical contractors must prioritize both physical and digital safety in their operations.
