A. O. Smith, a leader in water heating and water treatment, was recognized for design excellence by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies in the 2023 Chicago Athenaeum GOOD DESIGN Awards for its Voltex AL Hybrid Electric Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH). The awards honor products and industry leaders in design and manufacturing that have chartered new directions for innovation and pushed the envelope for competitive products in the world marketplace.

“We are thrilled to have our product development team recognized by the Good Design Awards,” said  Arthur Smith, A. O. Smith product manager. “Voltex AL is one of the most efficient units on the market, providing homeowners with a water heating solution that is both sustainable and cost-effective. A. O. Smith is committed to providing homeowners with sustainable, efficient options, and the Voltex AL heat pump water heater is a great representation of the level of innovation we continue to strive for.” 

The Voltex AL (anti-leak) hybrid electric heat pump water heater is a water heating solution for professionals and homeowners seeking a highly efficient, intuitive and user-friendly product. With integrated leak detection, smart connectivity and flexible top and side water connections, A. O. Smith has created a versatile heat pump water heater for residential application. 

With one of the highest Uniform Energy Factors (UEF) on the market at up to 3.88, Voltex AL units provide homeowners with roughly $4 of hot water for every $1 of energy spent. Up to four times more efficient than a standard electric water heater, the Voltex AL HPWH saves homeowners more than 75% in annual energy bills, or over $606 per year. 

Homeowners gain peace-of-mind when installing a Voltex AL unit thanks to the fully integrated iCOMM Smart Connectivity, which supports features like the unit’s anti-leak technology through the use of integrated leak detection. The unit’s smart anode adapts to local water conditions to further protect and extend the life of the water heater. This model also has two backup electric heating elements that help the water heater recover quickly during periods of high demand. Also, ENERGY STAR certified, the unit allows homeowners to take advantage of utility rebates and tax credits for additional savings.