Keeping Boilersource Running Hot
Tony Ranallo, Principal & Chief Operating Officer: Leadership Driving Innovation and a Commitment to Efficient & Effective Solutions
For over four decades, Tony has been a standout in the mechanical sales and boiler systems industry. His career began in 1979 when he took on a drafting job, eager to learn the ins and outs of the trade. Through hard work and a knack for problem-solving, he quickly became the go-to guy for startups, taking on more responsibilities and growing within the industry.
His career brought him to Boilersource, where he found a permanent home serving three generations of customers and vendors. Tony initially joined the company as an unofficial partner and later took the helm alongside Tricia Meilner after the passing of Boilersource’s owner and mentor, Ed Meilner. During this time, the company underwent a transformation that included a name change and restructuring, positioning Boilersource for long-term success.
Tony's passion for energy conservation and efficiency has been a cornerstone of the company’s mission since his involvement with ASHRAE in the early 2000s. Rising through the ranks from reception committee chair to president, Tony played a pivotal role in making his ASHRAE chapter a key player in industry discussions. Throughout his career, Tony has witnessed the evolution of heating systems, particularly the shift from steam boilers to hot water systems driven by efficiency and cost-effectiveness. While acknowledging this trend, he also highlights the enduring role of low-pressure steam in existing infrastructure and of high-pressure steam for industrial processes. Inspired by industry leaders like the late Raymond Lach of Maxi-Therm, Tony continues to advocate for practical, sustainable solutions to reduce carbon emissions. He cautions against the rapid push toward electrification, warning that such a shift could increase carbon intensity and significantly raise energy costs. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of balancing innovation with economic feasibility.
Tony's passion for finding the best solutions goes beyond his professional life; it is deeply personal. Whether he is discussing the future of heating systems or enjoying time with his wife, Kristy, and son, Kyle, over good food, wine, and theater, Tony's love for his work and his community shines through. At Boilersource, his leadership drives progress, ensuring that customers receive not only products but also expert guidance tailored to their individual needs.