Heat Pump Expo Showcases Innovations in Residential and Commercial Water Heating

Dozens of manufacturers display latest heat pump water heater models and technologies at the nation's largest HVAC trade show.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The recent AHR Expo in Las Vegas, a major trade show for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry, featured a strong showing of heat pump water heater (HPWH) manufacturers. The author, a self-described "heat pump dork," visited dozens of booths and spoke with manufacturers to get a firsthand look at the latest innovations in residential and commercial HPWHs. Key takeaways include a wide variety of new HPWH models from major brands, the emergence of central HPWHs for commercial buildings, growing interest in air-to-water heat pumps that can handle both space and water heating, and the arrival of split HPWH systems.

Why it matters

The proliferation of heat pump water heaters on display at the AHR Expo signals growing momentum for this energy-efficient technology, which can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from water heating compared to traditional electric or gas-fired water heaters. As the U.S. works to decarbonize its building sector, the availability of innovative HPWH products across residential and commercial applications will be crucial to driving widespread adoption.

The details

The author noted that dozens of HPWH brands were represented at the expo, including major names like GE, Bradford White, LG, Rheem, and A.O. Smith. Many manufacturers highlighted that HPWHs are a key part of their future product strategies, citing benefits like grid support, utility bill savings, and environmental impact. While there weren't many brand-new HPWH models on display, the author observed significant product updates and innovations, such as tankless HPWHs, dual-fuel HPWHs with gas backup, and modular central HPWHs designed for commercial buildings.

  • The AHR Expo took place in early February 2026 in Las Vegas.
  • Many of the new HPWH products highlighted are slated for launch later in 2026.

The players

AHR Expo

An annual trade show focused on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment, including a strong presence of heat pump water heater manufacturers.

GE

A major appliance manufacturer that launched a new residential HPWH product in the past year.

Navien

A water heater manufacturer that debuted a dual-fuel HPWH with gas backup at the expo.

Eco2Systems

A company launching a larger central HPWH model in 2026.

Nyle

A manufacturer introducing a new modular central HPWH called the Velo.

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What they’re saying

“HPWHs are 'the future' and that manufacturers are excited about it. Manufacturers told me again and again that they were highly invested in the technology and that HPWHs meet so many of their goals to help the grid, help lower utility bills, help the environment, and yes, help their bottom line.”

— Multiple manufacturers

What’s next

Many of the new HPWH products highlighted at the AHR Expo are slated for launch later in 2026, so consumers and building owners should watch for the availability of these innovative water heating solutions in the coming year.

The takeaway

The strong presence of heat pump water heater manufacturers at the nation's largest HVAC trade show underscores the growing momentum for this energy-efficient technology as the building sector works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The wide variety of new residential and commercial HPWH models and configurations on display signals that manufacturers are investing heavily in heat pump water heating solutions to meet evolving market demands.