AHR VEGAS 2026 Post Show

Smarter, High-Efficiency Water Heaters From the AHR Show Floor

Designed with the contractor in mind

Cyclone Flex Water Heater — Staff photo
**FLEX:** The Cyclone delivers up to 98% thermal efficiency and features AiQ adaptive gas technology.

Water heaters were on full display at the 2026 AHR Expo, with manufacturers introducing new commercial and residential models designed to balance high efficiency, with smarter connectivity, and simpler installation. From water heaters with gas technology and hybrid heat pump systems to improved cold-climate performance and remote monitoring capabilities, these products all point to the growing demand for electrification, sustainability, and contractor-intuitive design.

A.O. Smith

Cyclone Flex Commercial Gas Water Heater

FLEX: The Cyclone delivers up to 98% thermal efficiency and features AiQ adaptive gas technology. (Staff photo)

What HVAC contractors will like about this product: The Cyclone Flex Commercial Gas Water Heater delivers the superior, high-efficiency performance Cyclone is known for while remaining on the cutting edge of technology. Featuring A. O. Smith’s first-to-market AiQ adaptive gas technology, the Cyclone FLEX water heater provides clean, smooth, and efficient combustion. Longer venting runs and multiple sizes provide improved installation flexibility. With up to 98% thermal efficiency, leak detection, iCOMM remote monitoring, and over-the-air updates, this new generation of Cyclone lives up to its reputation.

Availability: Now

For more information: www.hotwater.com/info-center/cyclone-commercial-water-heaters/cyclone-flex.html

Bradford White

AeroTherm Series G2

EFFICIENCY: The residential hybrid electric heat pump water heater has UEF of up to 4.20. (Staff photo)

What HVAC contractors will like about this product: Bradford White’s ENERGY STAR certified AeroTherm Series G2 residential hybrid electric heat pump water heater is the company’s most efficient line of water heaters yet, with a UEF up to 4.20. The G2 features the new ICON System LED digital display with built-in connectivity to the new Bradford White Wave mobile app as well as ultra-quiet operation, trilingual smart control, and Bradford White’s exclusive Vitraglas tank lining with Microban antimicrobial technology. Also includes StartGuard for “dry-fire” protection and built-in connectivity to the Bradford White Wave app, which provides easy remote control functionality. The G2 is available in 50-, 65-, and 80-gallon models, and the smaller installation footprint requires zero-inch clearances on the sides and rear.

Availability: Now

For more information: forthepro.bradfordwhite.com/our-products/usa-residential-heat-pump/aerotherm-series-g2

Lochinvar

Veritus 208V Air Source Heat Pump Water Heater

BELOW COLD: The Veritus can operate in below freezing ambient conditions of 23°F. (Staff photo)

What HVAC contractors will like about this product: The addition of the 208V model to the Veritus Air Source Heat Pump Water Heater family furthers accessibility to critically important heat pump water heating technology. All Veritus HPWH models feature an ECM Variable Speed Pump that ensures precise control, higher efficiency, and reduced noise levels. The unit operates efficiently in below-freezing temperatures due to its innovative reversing defrost cycle that minimizes defrost time, allowing the unit to be installed in colder climates without losing performance.

Availability: Now

For more information: www.lochinvar.com/en_US/products/veritus-air-source-heat-pump-water-heaters-product-line-sg110/ahp140-480-110/ahp140-480-110.html

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Navien

NWP500 Heat Pump Water

HUSH: With the NWP500 comes quiet operation: less than 45 dBA. (Courtesy of Navien)

What HVAC contractors will like about this product: The new Navien NWP500 heat pump water heater sets a new standard in durability. This innovation features a corrosion-resistant stainless-steel tank that eliminates anodes, aluminum refrigerant coils for longevity, top and side connection options, standard round air duct connections, and an intuitive LED control panel with a built-in setup wizard. Demand response ready with EcoPort (CTA-2045), and built-in Wi-Fi via NaviLink for updates and monitoring. Rated up to 4.05 UEF, it meets NEEA AWHS Tier 4 standards, uses R-134A refrigerant, operates from 41°F–113°F, and offers five operating modes.

Availability: Now

For more information: www.navieninc.com/series/nwp500?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=NWP500

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Hannah Belloli is editor-in-chief of Plumbing & Mechanical and Supply House Times. She brings six years of experience as a trade journalist with BNP Media, including four years as an editor at The ACHR NEWS and two years with Walls & Ceilings. Hannah holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Wayne State University, where she also earned minors in English, journalism, and creative writing. As the daughter of a carpenter, she has long held an appreciation for the skilled trades and the professionals who drive the industry forward.