May 2, 2008

A. O. SMITH INTRODUCES ITS NEXT PEAK PERFORMER:
THE VERTEX 100

New Generation High-Efficiency Water Heater Establishes Industry Standard

ASHLAND CITY, Tenn. – (April 22, 2008) – Building upon the successes of its revolutionary Vertex™ residential gas-condensing water heater, A. O. Smith Water Products Company has raised the bar with the Vertex 100™.

Employing a top-fired burner and blower combination for more effective combustion, the power-direct-vent Vertex 100 delivers a continuous flow of hot water for shower after shower at an impressive 96 percent thermal efficiency. Previewed at the 2008 International Builders’ Show® (IBS) in Orlando, Fla., the new-generation Vertex is set for an April 2008 launch.

The original Vertex caught the attention of environmentalist and actor Ed Begley, Jr., who featured the high-efficiency water heater on an episode of the HGTV series Living With Ed. While conducting presentations on green living and the environmental benefits of the Vertex at this year’s IBS, Begley had a Vertex 100 installed in his environmentally friendly home.

“At A. O. Smith, we are dedicated to delivering the highest energy-efficient products to the market,” said David Chisolm, A. O. Smith water heater brand manager. “With lower fuel usage and cost of operation compared to conventional models, the Vertex 100 is proof of this commitment, setting a new standard for all residential water heaters.”

A. O. Smith, a leader in the hot water heater industry for over 70 years, partnered with the U.S. Department of Energy to develop the Vertex product family. Modern American lifestyles are built around high peak demand periods, with multiple showers and other hot water consumption taking place simultaneously (bathing, washing the dishes, doing laundry, etc). The Vertex 100 is designed to handle these peak demand periods.

The Vertex 100 features a sealed combustion system that draws air in and vents air out through sealed vents. With advanced diagnostic capabilities, the new Vertex records performance history and has a backlit LCD display that details model functions including accurate temperature control.

With standard electrical/plumbing requirements and footprint similar to conventional models, the Vertex 100 uses the same electrical, water and gas connections as a standard power-direct-vent model. Using inexpensive PVC pipe for venting, the Vertex 100 does not require special materials, construction or ductwork.

About A. O. Smith:
Headquartered in Ashland City, Tenn., A. O. Smith Water Products Company is a leading manufacturer and marketer of residential and commercial water heaters and hydronic boilers. A. O. Smith offers contractors an additional competitive advantage in that the company designs, builds, distributes and field supports the world’s broadest and deepest line of residential and commercial water heaters, as well as commercial boilers. This single-source concept simplifies ordering, installation and service and is backed by more than 70 years of research and innovation.