Commercial Water Heaters – Student Nutrition Services (SNS)

Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) Procurement Services Department is seeking bids for Commercial Water Heaters for Student Nutrition Services (SNS) cafeterias through Invitation to Bid (ITB) No. 25048-ITB-DST. The procurement targets various commercial water heater types, including gas water heaters (199,900 BTU), electric water heaters (80-gallon), tankless gas water heaters, and mini tank hot water heaters, with an estimated annual usage of 15-20 units per item. Vendors must provide Energy Star certified equipment with specific technical requirements such as temperature range capabilities, venting options, and NSF ratings. Technical questions were due by February 20, 2025, with bids due on March 6, 2025, at 3:30 PM, and an anticipated award date of May 6, 2025. The initial contract term is one year (May 7, 2025 to May 6, 2026), with potential for four additional one-year renewals. Bidders are required to offer a minimum one-year warranty on parts and labor, submit detailed pricing including all delivery costs, and comply with various requirements including workers' compensation, E-Verify, insurance provisions, and safety regulations.

The solicitation emphasizes support for small businesses and minority-owned enterprises, with HCPS encouraging vendor diversity through voluntary self-identification in their Vendor Payment Profile. The procurement is supported by United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) funding, with a financial assistance award of $125,000.00 per year. Vendors must comply with federal regulations, including provisions for debarment checks, Clean Air and Water Pollution Control Acts, anti-lobbying certification, and domestic procurement preferences. Multiple vendors are expected to be awarded, with current recommended vendors including Amalgamated Services, Inc., Ferguson US Holding, Inc., and Tampa Winsupply Company. Water heater unit prices range from approximately $146.98 to $9,311.59, with warranty terms typically covering 1-3 years for parts and tank. The bid allows for purchases by other public agencies within Hillsborough County and charter schools, with no minimum order requirements and a 30-day delivery expectation after purchase order receipt.