The 2025 Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Awards highlight a remarkable array of innovative products designed to enhance efficiency and productivity in these essential trades. This year’s category features everything from compact hand tools and specialized trade equipment to advanced cordless solutions and versatile cross-category innovations that appeal to professionals across multiple disciplines.
If you don’t immediately see something among this impressive lineup of MEP tools and accessories that could save you time, money, or effort, it’s worth a closer look—you might discover exactly the solution you need!
WINNER – Cable Puller
Greenlee® GX10-MVBA Tugger™
What they said:
The Greenlee® GX10 Tugger™ builds on Greenlee’s long-standing reputation for delivering the best 10,000-pound cable pullers in the industry. It sets a new benchmark by offering up to twice the pulling speed and a higher continuous pull rating than previous models. The result is faster job completion, improved productivity, and meaningful savings for contractors.
At the core of the GX10 is a durable, UL-approved motor that shifts between two speeds with a simple double tap of the footswitch. This gives the operator precise control during demanding pulls and supports continuous operation. An LED force indicator provides real-time feedback to help prevent damage to cable and equipment, while enhancing operator confidence and safety.
Designed for adaptability, the GX10-MVBA includes the Mobile VersiBoom™, which allows complete setup in under two minutes. It also works seamlessly with existing Greenlee booms, chains, floor mounts, and adapters, reducing the need for additional investments. The compact footprint and multiple mounting options make it a smart solution for a wide range of jobsites, from open areas to tight, confined spaces.
Additional features include a right-angle sheave that keeps the operator safely out of the direct line of pull, and full compatibility with Greenlee’s Pull Connect™ system and new High Performance Rope.
The GX10 doesn’t just boost performance—it helps reduce strain on workers and brings real savings to the bottom line. Based on internal testing, it can save up to $10,000 per year compared to legacy tuggers and up to $5,500 annually when stacked against other models in the market.
What we say:
The Greenlee GX10 Tugger lets operators switch speeds using a foot switch. The integrated LED force gauge monitors the pull force from 0 to 10,000 pounds. We liked the inclusion of the Mobile VersiBoom, which is only one of three ways to mount this puller. It uses a right-angle sheave and is compatible with Greenlee’s Pull Connect system for remote operation and synchronization.
Price: $14,500
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Cable/Wire Strippers
Ripley Tools US01-7100 Adjustable Cable Stripper
What they said:
The US01-7100 brings a new level of capability, preparing any covered conductor overhead power lines. Fully hotstick-operable for work on live tree wire or spacer cable, the US01-7100 introduces a range of intuitive features to improve safety and functionality for linemen. Balanced design and extended hooks to sit comfortably on the cable during adjustments; Oversized eyehook handles for ease of rotation; An innovative jacket-ejecting design to ensure the stripped insulation does not remain on the conductor; Tool rotation and cut direction engravings for first-time user confidence; Simple ring / spiral-cut selector switch sized for a switch stick; Compact total swing radius designed to fit within spacer cable arrangements; Built in spare blade to minimize field downtime.
The US01-7100 builds on the success of Ripley’s earlier US01-7000 hand-turned insulation stripper by incorporating feedback from active and former linemen into every aspect of its design. As covered conductor usage grows, having the right tools to properly prepare the cable becomes critical. The US01-7100 fills that need and ensures linemen are always ready to meet the moment.
What we say:
The US01-7100 adjustable insulation stripper stands out in the market due to its user-centric design and advanced features tailored specifically for linemen. It features a balanced design and extended hooks for stability during use. Oversized eyehook handles facilitate easy rotation using a variety of tools. The innovative jacket-ejecting mechanism efficiently removes insulation without leaving any on the conductor. It even includes a built-in spare blade. This is a great tool for both experienced and novice linemen when preparing covered conductor overhead power lines.
Price: $945
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Cordless Cable/Wire Strippers
Milwaukee M18 FUEL™ Covered Conductor Cable Stripper Kit 2937-21
What they said:
Our M18 FUEL™ Covered Conductor Cable Stripper with Adjustable Bushings is the industry’s first cordless tool optimized for end-stripping insulation on aerial, 600V secondary, and medium-voltage cables, offering an unmatched cable stripping experience. Designed for ultimate versatility, our six adjustable bushings accommodate cable diameters from 0.5″ to 2.1”, eliminating the need for excess accessories while ensuring a clean, precise strip every time. Powered by M18™ FUEL, our cordless stripper removes covered conductor at 1” per second, up to 4X faster than manual tools, boosting efficiency and productivity.
With no exposed blades, this solution significantly reduces the risk of cuts and lacerations, providing a safer way to strip covered conductor. AUTOSTOP™ kickback control prevents over-rotation in a bind-up, while user-controlled speed and optimized max RPMs provide precise control during operation. Equipped with an adjustable 6” depth gauge for precise strip lengths, the tool eliminates over- or under-stripping and can be removed for extended length applications as needed. Delivering optimized ergonomics, the tool’s pistol-grip design ensures easy maneuverability in tight spaces. POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor delivers more power to handle tough materials in any environment. REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence ensures peak performance while protecting against overload, and ONE-KEY™ delivers easy tracking and tool management.
What we say:
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Covered Conductor Cable Stripper offers six adjustable bushings to accommodate cable diameters from 0.5 to 2.1 inches. This all but eliminates the need for extra accessories. With an impressive stripping speed of 1 inch per second, it clears wire up to 4X faster than manual tools. We love that there are no exposed blades and the tool features Milwaukee’s AutoStop kickback control to stop the tool if it binds up. The ergonomic pistol-grip design gives you excellent leverage—with enough reach to still access tight spaces.
Price: $3,500
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Conduit Bender
IDEAL Guardian™ Bender w/Handle 3/4″ EMT (74-057)
What they said:
The Guardian™ Conduit Bender from IDEAL Electrical™ provides exceptional conduit bending convenience with its unique set-angle stopper. This built-in feature automatically stops the bender once the conduit reaches the desired angle, preventing over- or under- bending that often requires time-consuming adjustments or even leads to expensive conduit scrap. In a first for the industry, this stopper is seamlessly built into the bender head to eliminate the risk of losing a separate piece. Electricians can easily slide the stopper along the bender head to prepare for a wide range of common bending angles, including 10°, 22.5°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90° bends. The machined-in angle locations provide firm stopping points for accurate bends every time.
Beyond the stopper, the 3/4″ EMT Guardian Bender features additional thoughtful upgrades tailored to improve the bending experience. With clearer, recessed markings that wrap around the backside of the head, the bender makes observing the angle during air bends easier. In addition, electricians can use the handle as a straightedge and easily square up when measuring. The dedicated bend correction hole in the head eliminates the need to flip the bender when adjusting, while the high visibility, textured blue handle resists corrosion and enhances grip. The bender head is constructed of rugged ductile iron to provide exceptional durability for a lifetime of use.
The new Guardian Bender builds upon the proven foundation of existing IDEAL Electrical conduit benders used on jobsites worldwide. While it does not replace a specific previous model, it elevates the category by incorporating a range of jobsite-driven enhancements. This combination of precision, ruggedness, and ease-of-use makes the Guardian Bender a valuable solution for both seasoned pros and apprentices still learning to master conduit bending. Using the Guardian Bender, electricians can ensure consistent, professional bends on the first try and reduce rework.
What we say:
The IDEAL Electrical Guardian Conduit Bender stands out in the market due to its unique built-in set-angle stopper. New hires are always joining the trades, and this feature ensures precise bends at common angles without the risk of over- or under-bending. This innovative feature eliminates the hassle of adjustments—reducing material waste. Additionally, the bender’s clearer, recessed markings and dedicated bend correction hole make it easier to use. Ductile iron construction should make this a long-lasting, durable tool. The textured handle also improves grip.
Price: $119
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Cordless Drain Snakes
RIDGID® K-46 Cordless SinkSnake™
What they said:
For tough blockages in residential settings, the RIDGID® K-46 Cordless SinkSnake™ is a game changer. The handheld drain cleaner clears blockages in sinks, tubs, and showers with the drain-cleaning performance and reliability customers have come to expect from RIDGID. An integrated, multi-position kickstand helps alleviate the weight of the tool for easier use in common work environments such as under cramped vanities and in tubs.
To access drains for cleaning, professionals may regularly find themselves crouching, extending their arms, or having to work around plumbing fixtures while holding their drain cleaner. This can become tiresome quickly, even for a short job. The K-46 features a built-in kickstand that supports the load of the tool in vertical, angled, or flat positions for better stability, control, and reduced user fatigue. The K-46 can be rested on a flat surface, angled upwards towards a drain opening for working in a sink vanity, or rested vertically in a tub without exposing the battery to water. Powered by the RIDGID 18V Advanced Lithium Battery Platform, the K-46 is compact, lightweight, and can be used in 3/4″ to 3″ drain lines. It comes equipped with a 5/16″ by 25′ inner core cable and is compatible with 1/4″ and 3/8″ cable diameters up to 50′ in length. It can also be paired with multiple cable tools, including dropheads, spades, and c-cutter augers, for unmatched convenience and versatility.
A top-mounted LED light illuminates work areas while the 360-degree rotatable AUTOFEED® advances and retrieves the cable in forward and reverse cable rotations for improved pipe navigation in tight bends and p-traps. An enclosed rotating drum protects plumbing fixtures from accidental damage, while the cable lock feature improves cable handling when manually working the blockage. Six patents were filed for innovation in the kickstand, cable lock, drum assembly, and LED light.
What we say:
We love the integrated multi-position kickstand on the Ridgid K-46 Cordless SinkSnake. It alleviates the hassle of having to hold the tool at a precise angle while working, freeing you up when working in cramped spaces and giving you hands-free operation. The 360-degree rotatable Autofeed also enhances maneuverability in tight bends, while the enclosed rotating drum protects plumbing fixtures from damage. The system uses RIDGID (red, not orange) 18V batteries, so you get the convenience of cordless operation. This is a well-designed drain-cleaning solution every pro should want to check out.
Price: $550
For more information, click here.
Finalist
WINNER – Fish Rods/Tape
IDEAL BlueView™ S-Class® Fish Tape (31-661)
What they said:
The new BlueView™ S-Class® Digital Fish Tape from IDEAL Electrical™ delivers modern convenience to save electricians time when pulling cable on the jobsite. Featuring a real-time BlueView digital length display, this fish tape solves an everyday challenge electricians face: knowing exactly how much tape they’ve deployed or retrieved during cable pulls. BlueView eliminates the frustrating guesswork through a built-in digital screen in the handle that shows the exact amount of tape being fed or retracted. It’s programmed to round up to the nearest foot, preventing wires from being cut short and enabling quick precision. Tested in real-world environments, the industry-exclusive display is built tough and withstands exposure to lubricants, dirt, debris, metal shavings, and extreme temperatures. BlueView can also be easily recalibrated to ensure ongoing accuracy over time, and features auto sleep/shutoff modes to extend battery life. For added convenience, backup batteries can be stored directly in the handle.
The product represents a next-generation upgrade of our popular S-Class Fish Tape. S-Class fish tape features a quality fiberglass core, providing excellent column strength. The core is encased in a durable nylon outer jacket that decreases friction when pulling. Its round shape allows for omni-directional movement, making it well-suited for navigating tough bends. With a pulling strength of 500 lbs., electricians can measure for new runs, identify hangups, and troubleshoot issues with confidence and speed.
For smarter, faster, and easier cable pulls, the new BlueView S-Class Fish Tape combines modern technology with a fiberglass core for exceptional jobsite performance.
What we say:
Ideal’s BlueView S-Class Digital Fish Tape is the very first we’ve seen with a real-time digital length display. This is fantastic for eliminating guesswork when running and pulling wire. It keeps the rugged design we’re used to from Ideal products. The fiberglass core offers exceptional strength, while the nylon jacket reduces friction for smooth pulls. If your tape breaks, you can quickly and easily reset the digital counter in seconds, getting you back to perfect accuracy. Idea has literally redefined what a fish tape can be with this product.
Price: $262
For more information, click here.
Finalist
WINNER – Pipe Beveling & Grooving
Milwaukee 2927-22 M18 FUEL™ RINGER™ Roll Groover
What they said:
Our M18 FUEL™ RINGER™ Roll Groover is the industry’s first cordless Roll Groover, designed to optimize productivity of on-site grooving. The RINGER™ delivers the fastest setup to finish with the easiest setup and transportation around the jobsite, enabling operators to work where its most convenient without the limitations of a cord. This portability, paired with the power of M18 FUEL™ eliminates the strain of traditional grooving, enabling sprinkler fitters and pipe fitters the ability to efficiently work anywhere, even at the point of install.
With runtime up to 25 3” Sch 40 grooves with the two (2) kitted FORGE™ XC8.0 Batteries, the RINGER™ stands up to the demands of a day on the jobsite. The easy-to-use groove controls enable the operator to simply select pipe material, size, and schedule to control groove depth. The groove depth offset control also provides the ability to adjust groove depth to the tolerance of a specific pipe batch, eliminating ratcheting & cranking, reducing guess and check, and enabling hands-free operation – making the RINGER™ the easiest way to groove on-site.
What we say:
The M18 Fuel Ringer Roll Groover is the first cordless roll groover in the industry. Grooving pipes without a power cord creates new opportunities for on-site grooving during installations. The Ringer includes a groove depth offset control that reduces the need for manual adjustments. Using the included Forge XC8.0 battery, it can make up to 25 grooves on 3-inch Schedule 40 pipe. It should be an invaluable tool for sprinkler installers and pipe fitters.
Price: $4,000
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Cordless Pipe Cutters
Milwaukee M18 FUEL™ ½”-1” Steel Pipe Cutter 3469-20
What they said:
Our M18 FUEL™ ½”-1” Steel Pipe Cutter delivers the easiest, consistent, clean cuts on ½”-1” (up to 1-5/16” OD) steel pipe. Delivering square cuts with minimal burrs, Steel Pipe Cutter offers the fastest process for cutting steel pipe for press and threading installs. This solution is exclusively compatible with the 1/2” – 1” Steel Pipe Cutting Blade (48-40-4062), offering up to 200 cuts per blade on 1” steel pipe. Needing as little as 2.5” of clearance, the tool delivers controlled cuts on installed pipe, preventing the risk of overcuts. The tool’s foldable cut fence allows you to make controlled cuts on new pipe without the need for fixturing.
Powered by M18™ REDLITHIUM™, the Steel Pipe Cutter delivers up to 50 cuts on 1” steel pipe per charge on an M18™ REDLITHIUM™ XC5.0. Our Steel Pipe Cutter features a POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor, delivering the power and productivity to achieve the fastest cut-to-connection process. This solution is equipped with REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence to ensure maximum performance and protection from overload. The M18 FUEL™ Steel Pipe Cutter delivers the first truly optimized steel pipe-cutting solution for residential plumbing and mechanical contractors, providing unmatched productivity for steel pipe installations.
What we say:
Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL ½”-1” Steel Pipe Cutter is compact, requiring just 2.5 inches of clearance. This lets you make controlled cuts on already-installed pipes while reducing the risk of overcuts. The foldable cut fence simplifies cutting on new pipes without fixturing. It’s also almost ridiculously simple to use. You get up to 200 cuts per blade and as many as 50 cuts per charge. This should be a great tool for both shop use and working in the field.
Price: $399
For more information, click here.
Finalist
WINNER – Press Jaws
Milwaukee Streamline® ACR Pivoting Press Ring 49-16-2650MX
What they said:
Our ACR Pivoting Press Rings are designed for use with M18™ & M12™ FORCE LOGIC™ Press Tools. The ACR Pivoting Press Ring is a more efficient alternative to sweat and solder, enabling you to press connections on copper tubing. Pivoting functionality delivers greater access in tight spaces when paired with a compatible Milwaukee® Ring Jaw and FORCE LOGIC™ Press Tool. Our press blocking system prevents improper ring and ring jaw mismatch, providing peace of mind in quality connections. The ACR Pivoting Press Rings, combined with a compatible Milwaukee® Ring Jaw and in-line FORCE LOGIC™ Press Tool, deliver unrivaled access in tight spaces, providing controlled, flameless copper connections for unmatched productivity.
What we say:
Designed for use with Milwaukee Ring Jaws and Force Logic Press Tools, the ACR Pivoting Press Rings represent a significant innovation in plumbing technology. Their pivoting functionality gives you better accessibility when working in tight spaces. Unlike competitors, these rings feature a press blocking system that prevents mismatches with ring jaws, ensuring high-quality, reliable connections every time.
Price: $389
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Cordless Press Tools
RIDGID® RP 251 Press Tool
What they said:
With its powerhouse performance and total access, the RIDGID® RP 251 Press Tool delivers more in every press, working harder to help professionals work smarter and perform better on residential and commercial jobs with less fatigue and more efficiency.
Featuring endless 360-degree head swivel, the RP 251 reaches tight spaces from practically every angle and has an ergonomic design with a forward-positioned trigger and in-line SlimGrip™ handle for easy, one-handed use. It also comes equipped with a brushless motor capable of over 60,000 press cycles, requiring no scheduled maintenance for maximized jobsite performance. An improved 360-degree LED light ring provides bright visibility in dark conditions for enhanced execution.
It is compatible with all RIDGID compact series jaws, rings, and actuators and can press up to 1 1/4″ (32 mm) on copper and stainless steel; up to 1 1/2″ (40 mm) on PEX tubing; up to 1″ (25 mm) carbon steel; and up to 1 3/8” (35 mm) on copper tubing in refrigeration. It can complete up to 140 presses per charge with the 12V Li-Ion Battery.
The RP 251 also features advanced technology with Bluetooth® connectivity that pairs with the free RIDGID Link app for access to tool information, including amount of press cycles, service intervals, tool locking, battery status, and more. It is backed by the RIDGID Full Lifetime Warranty.
What we say:
The RIDGID RP 251 Press Tool has a 360-degree head that swivels to access tight spaces from any angle. The ergonomic design features a forward-positioned trigger and SlimGrip handle for one-handed operation. Ridgid claims you can expect over 60,000 press cycles without maintenance on the brushless motor, and Bluetooth connectivity with the Ridgid Link app provides real-time tool information.
Price: $2,499
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Transfer Pumps
Milwaukee MX FUEL™ 1HP 2″ Submersible Pump – MXF211-1XC
What they said:
Our MX FUEL™ 1HP 2” Submersible Pump provides the portability to pump anywhere by eliminating the need to chase power and work safer with zero emissions in vaults, manholes, trenches, and other confined spaces without a generator. Milwaukee’s Submersible Pump offers users three pumping modes (Auto, High, & Low) providing the ability to select the performance needed. Utilizing Auto-Mode, the pump automatically detects the water level, shutting the POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor off with two inches of water remaining. The pump adjusts performance over time to match changing flow and optimizes run-time. Auto-Mode saves you time and protects the pump from running dry. The Submersible Pump includes a wireless remote that notifies you of the status, reducing the need to supervise the pump. REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence ensures optimal performance and provides overload protection to protect your machine and battery during the toughest applications. With the MX FUEL™ XC8.0 FORGE™ battery, the MX FUEL™ Submersible Pump delivers between 27 minutes (High Mode) and 110 minutes of run-time on Low Mode. On Auto-Mode, users can expect a minimum of 40 minutes of run-time and 2,800 gallons per charge as the pump optimizes run-time and flow rate. The Portable Pump Power Base is ONE-KEY™ Compatible. You can track, manage, and secure equipment from your mobile device or computer. The Submersible Pump is compatible with all MX FUEL™ batteries.
What we say:
The Milwaukee MX FUEL Portable Pump allows cordless pumping in confined spaces by eliminating the need for generators. Its innovative Auto-Mode intelligently detects water levels and shuts down the system when there’s no water. A wireless remote is included and lets users monitor pump status remotely. Additionally, the integrated backpack harness promotes mobility, enabling quick setup by a single person.
Price: $$2,499
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Cordless Specialty
Milwaukee MX FUEL™ Electrofusion Processor MXF545-XC
What they said:
Our MX FUEL™ Electrofusion Processor delivers superior performance to reliably fuse up to 8″ couplings and 12″ saddles without the hassles of a generator or extension cords. Being up to 40% lighter, the Processor delivers the easiest transport that is designed to move with your work. The instant setup enables a simplified fusing process with 15′ leads and a wireless barcode scanner to fit the needs of any job site. Last fuse technology ensures you do not start a fusion that you cannot complete and indicates how many fusions remain before swapping battery packs. With the included MX FUEL™ REDLITHIUM™ FORGE™ HD8.0 battery pack, you can achieve all-day runtime and the ability to swap batteries with any MX FUEL™ equipment.
The incorporation of ONE-KEY™ enables a more detailed, customizable fusion log report, ensuring an accurate and comprehensive overview of your fusion history. The included wireless barcode scanner, fusion leads, and 4.0mm and 4.7mm fusion tip sets are field replaceable, minimizing time spent waiting for units to be serviced. With the ability to service anywhere and fast turn times for everyone, MILWAUKEE® delivers the best warranty in the industry.
What we say:
The big deal with Milwaukee’s MX FUEL Electrofusion Processor is that it completely eliminates the need for generators or extension cords when fusing pipes. It also weighs up to 40% less than competitors, making it a more portable solution for jobsites where these tools are often used. It sets up quickly and features a wireless barcode scanner and customizable fusion log reports that work with Milwaukee One-Key. Milwaukee claims you’ll get all-day runtime when using a single MX FUEL Forge HD8.0 battery.
Price: $7,499
For more information, click here.
Finalist
WINNER – Wire Hanging
DEWALT ToughWire Cable Hanging System
What they said:
Take advantage of Fast, Strong, and Easy suspension solutions with TOUGHWIRE™ Cable Hangers. Combine Wire Assembly Attachments, Wire Locking Devices, Components, and Accessories with TOUGHWIRE™ Cable hangers to create a suspension solution catered to the HVAC, Sheet Metal, Electrical, and Plumbing/Pipe trade applications.
Install TOUGHWIRE™ up to 28% Faster vs than traditional method (using threaded rod). Each assembly is individually wrapped & color coded, making a safe & fast assembly process with less room for error during installation. Integrates with our existing DEWALT Anchors & Fastening solutions
What we say:
DeWalt’s Toughwire Cable Hangers offer a fast and easy alternative to threaded rod for the HVAC, electrical, and plumbing industries. DeWalt made each assembly individually wrapped and color-coded to minimize errors during setup. Toughwire products also integrate with existing anchors and fastening solutions from DeWalt. It’s certainly an innovative choice for professionals in a variety of MEP and similar fields.
Price: $100–$300
For more information, click here.