For many contractors, heat pump water heaters still feel like a niche product; something tied more closely to rebates, energy programs or high-efficiency upgrades than to everyday water heater replacement work. But, according to Gregg Holladay of Bradford White, that perception is about to change quickly.
On a recent episode of And So It Flows, Kristen Bayles sat down with Gregg Holladay, business development manager for specialty markets at Bradford White, to discuss the growing role heat pump water heaters are expected to play in the residential plumbing market and why contractors need to start preparing now.
Unlike traditional high efficiency models, the Voltex 120V HPWH is designed to plug into a standard electrical outlet–eliminating the need for adaptors or restructuring.
The Green GOOD DESIGN program is in its 18th year.
March 6, 2026
The award is presented by The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies and The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design and recognizes the world’s most important examples of sustainable design.
The ecodanPro line aims to help buildings and industrial facilities transition away from fossil-fuel burning boiler systems and create all-electric spaces.
High efficiency units are highly sought after in the commercial water heating industry and can lessen the environmental footprint while still delivering great hot water output.
Voltex MAX Heat Pump Water Heater and Emerge-X Air Source Heat Pump Water Heater recognized for excellence in the Building Materials category.
January 13, 2026
A. O. Smith has earned 2025 GOOD DESIGN Awards recognition for its Voltex MAX and Emerge X heat pump water heaters, highlighting the company’s continued focus on efficiency, performance and industrial design.