A. O. Smith, a global pioneer in water heating and water treatment, was recognized for excellence in the Chicago Athenaeum GOOD DESIGN Awards, which honors the yearly achievements of the best world manufacturers and industrial and graphic designers for their pursuit of extraordinary design excellence.

Building and Architectural awards

The Adapt™ Premium Condensing Gas Tankless Water Heater with X3® Scale Prevention Technology and the Voltex® 120V Plug-In Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH) both won in the Building and Architectural awards category.

The Chicago Athenaeum Museum received a record number of submissions for this year’s contest, with submissions from the world’s renowned manufacturers and industrial and graphic design firms from over 55 countries, representing the best in consumer design and engineering. 

Two 2024 GOOD DESIGN® Awards

"As we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of excellence, receiving two 2024 GOOD DESIGN® Awards is a true honor. These recognitions reflect our team's dedication to designing products that not only meet the highest standards of performance, but also elevate the user experience with forward-thinking design," said Betsy Curran, Director of Marketing and Customer Engagement.

Betsy Curran adds, "At A. O. Smith, we remain committed to sustainability, quality, and innovation, and these awards for the Voltex 120V heat pump and Adapt water heater reaffirm our mission to lead in creating smarter, more efficient solutions for our customers." 

Adapt tankless water heater

To enhance installation flexibility, the Adapt line offers two- and three-inch dual pipe venting

A. O. Smith is proud to receive an honor for the Adapt tankless water heater, as the product is the first tankless water heater designed and manufactured entirely by A. O. Smith.

To enhance installation flexibility, the Adapt line offers two- and three-inch dual pipe venting, 1/2- and 3/4-inch gas line options, and universal indoor/outdoor installation. A.O. Smith designed the units, so they can be converted from natural gas to liquid propane in the field with an included kit. 

installation flexibility

These features work together to provide plumbing professionals unparalleled installation flexibility when working in the field. Plumbers have a unit that conforms on the spot to fit their needs, regardless of install location, fuel type, or existing venting.

With additional premium features, including an integrated recirculation pump, a patented heat exchanger, and highly efficient performance, the Adapt tankless water heater meets the needs of busy contractors and homeowners.  

hassle-free transition

Ongoing electrification and decarbonization requirements led A. O. Smith to create a heat pump water heater that provides a hassle-free transition from gas to electric water heaters. The Voltex 120V model can be plugged directly into a shared circuit wall outlet, ensuring a simplified installation process.

Top water connections and a zero-clearance design support an easy installation for contractors and allow for the unit to be installed in a variety of applications. The Voltex 120V unit is also ENERGY STAR® certified and qualifies for many federal, state, and local incentives. 

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