The AHR Expo – the HVACR industry's largest and most influential annual gathering – returned to Las Vegas from February 2–4, 2026, drawing over 53,000 industry professionals to the Las Vegas Convention Center. Water heater innovation took center stage, with manufacturers rolling out new commercial and residential models designed to balance high efficiency, smarter connectivity, and easier installation. Here are four key trends that defined the show.
Trend 1: Heat Pump Water Heaters Go Mainstream
If there was one dominant theme at AHR 2026, it was the sheer ubiquity of heat pump water heaters (HPWHs). Residential HPWH manufacturers were out in full force – I counted a dozen brands with products on display. GE, Bradford White, LG, Stiebel Eltron, Vaughn, Navien, Ariston, Rheem, A. O. Smith, Noritz, Bosch, SanCO2, and Rinnai all had HPWHs proudly displayed.
Manufacturers told me, again and again, that they were highly invested in the technology as HPWHs meet so many of their goals: helping the grid, helping lower utility bills, helping the environment, and helping their bottom lines. Notable new products included Noritz's first HPWH entry and Navien's dual-fuel HPWH with gas backup.
Commercial HPWH innovation was equally impressive. Every boiler manufacturer seems to be coming out with a heat pump. Laars launched a smaller 50 kW version of its central HPWH following a larger 2025 release, while Transom introduced a small commercial HPWH called the Trent. Nyle debuted a modular HPWH called the Velo that promises to fit through a doorway without needing a swing tank, and Colmac launched the CXA 15.
The drivers behind this trend are clear: regulatory changes, including DOE standards taking effect in 2029 that will require most electric water heaters to incorporate heat pump technology, are accelerating the shift. For OEM buyers, this means ensuring your supply chain includes heat pump capability is no longer optional – it's a competitive necessity.
Trend 2: Hybrid and Dual-Fuel Systems Take Center Stage
The industry is moving beyond single-energy solutions toward flexible, hybrid systems that optimize performance across multiple energy sources.
Navien showcased its hybrid solutions theme throughout the show, demonstrating how HVAC and water heating technologies can be integrated to optimize performance. The company previewed its upcoming NXW Dual-Fuel Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater, which combines electric heat pump operation with gas backup. When hot water demand spikes or loads fluctuate, gas supplements to ensure stable supply.
KD Navien (Navien's parent company) highlighted the Dual Fuel Hybrid Water Heater – the first heat pump water heater in the U.S. storage water heater market capable of operating with both electricity and gas simultaneously. Under normal conditions, the electric-driven heat pump runs for energy savings; when demand increases, gas backup ensures stable hot water supply.
Rheem presented its 2035 Sustainability Roadmap alongside more than 15 new and enhanced HVAC and water heating products. The company also spoke on recent trends in heat pump adoption across North America, citing improved affordability.
Midea (美的) made a strong showing as the only Chinese brand invited to participate in AHR Expo's official heat pump commercialization panel discussion. Midea's kitchen and water heating division launched two major innovations: an upgraded X98 fully pre-mixed condensing gas water heater and its first hybrid gas water heater.
For OEM buyers, the hybrid trend signals that end users increasingly value flexibility – the ability to switch between energy sources based on cost, availability, and environmental considerations. Products that can adapt to regional energy mixes will have a clear competitive advantage.
Trend 3: Smarter Connectivity Becomes Table Stakes
Connectivity is no longer a differentiator – it's becoming a baseline expectation.
GE Appliances debuted a fully connected whole-home water protection ecosystem at AHR 2026, bringing together water heating and leak detection into a unified experience. The SmartHQ™ Leak Detect System provides a connected approach to risk mitigation by linking app-based sensors and appliances to monitor and control water use in real time.
Bradford White introduced its AeroTherm Series G2 residential hybrid electric heat pump water heater featuring the new ICON System LED digital display with built-in connectivity to the Bradford White Wave mobile app. The app provides remote control functionality, energy tracking, and system monitoring.
Rinnai equipped its SENSEI® RX gas tankless water heater with Smart Connect™, enabling faster setup and easier service using a smartphone or tablet. The Rinnai Central™ App equips PROs with tools to simplify installation and manage units more efficiently.
A. O. Smith showcased its Adapt tankless water heater suite with iCOMM remote monitoring and over-the-air updates.
Nearly every major manufacturer now offers connected equipment. For OEM buyers, this means connectivity features are rapidly becoming a requirement rather than an upgrade. Products without smart capabilities will increasingly struggle to compete in markets where remote monitoring and predictive maintenance are valued by end users and contractors alike.
Trend 4: Installation Efficiency and Contractor-Centric Design
Exhibitors recognized that even the most efficient water heater is only as good as its installation. This year's show emphasized products designed with the contractor in mind.
Rinnai emphasized shorter setup times and flexible solutions designed to support PRO needs. Its REHP Series electric heat pump water heater is duct-ready for indoor use, requiring zero clearance for tight indoor spaces. Guided setup and fast unit configuration through the Rinnai Central App significantly reduce installation time.
Lochinvar positioned its Knight units as designed to make installation, setup, and serviceability straightforward for contractors.
Bradford White designed the AeroTherm G2 with a smaller installation footprint requiring zero-inch clearances on the sides and rear.
Noritz launched its "Commercial One" marketing campaign at the show, led by the NCC199 CDV Pro commercial condensing tankless water heater – a high-efficiency condensing unit with a maximum input of 199,900 BTU per hour. The campaign emphasized time- and labor-saving installation features.
A. O. Smith highlighted longer venting runs and multiple sizes on its Cyclone Flex Commercial Gas Water Heater, providing improved installation flexibility.
For OEM buyers, contractor-friendly design translates directly to faster adoption. Products that reduce installation time, simplify setup, and minimize service calls create value for distributors, contractors, and end users alike.
What These Trends Mean for OEM Buyers
For professional buyers sourcing water heating products, the AHR Expo 2026 revealed several clear takeaways:
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Heat pump capability is becoming essential – With DOE standards approaching and consumer demand rising, OEM buyers need suppliers with heat pump water heater expertise
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Hybrid systems offer competitive differentiation – Dual-fuel flexibility allows products to adapt to regional energy cost variations and regulatory environments
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Connectivity is now table stakes – Remote monitoring, app-based control, and predictive maintenance are no longer optional features
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Installation efficiency drives adoption – Products designed for quick, simple installation will win in markets with labor shortages and rising installation costs
Taiming Technology: Your Partner in Water Heating Innovation
At Taiming Technology, we understand the importance of staying ahead of industry trends. With over 11 years of gas water heater manufacturing experience and exports to over 80 countries, we are committed to delivering products that meet evolving market demands.
As the industry continues its rapid evolution toward heat pump integration, hybrid systems, and smart connectivity, Taiming remains committed to innovation and quality manufacturing. We welcome OEM buyers and brand partners to explore how we can support your product development needs.
About Taiming Technology
Founded in 2015, Zhongshan Taiming Appliance Technology Co., Ltd. specializes in gas water heaters, kitchen electric water heaters, and RV appliances. With over 11 years of gas water heater manufacturing experience and 7 years in RV appliances, Taiming exports to over 80 countries and regions across five continents. In 2025, the company established Shuangmei Electrical Co., Ltd. as a dedicated foreign trade subsidiary. Guided by the core values of "product innovation, honest operation, forge ahead, unity and efficiency," Taiming strives to become a leading global OEM manufacturer of water heating and RV appliance solutions.
Contact Information
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