HEALTH AND SANITATION 33
“ Recirc systems need to be smart,” he said.“ They don’ t need to run continuously, and they need to run when you need to do one thing, and that’ s take a shower in the morning.”
Smart recirculation example Holladay also shared a personal example of how on-demand recirculation can improve efficiency and comfort. A California company, ACT, once approached him after hearing him speak about smart recirculation at a contractor event. They offered to let him test one of their Bluetooth-activated systems, assuring him they wanted only his honest feedback. He agreed, and later installed the system in his own home.
He placed the small wireless button at the end of the sink and cabinets in one of their bathrooms, where it could be pressed before using hot water. He told his wife to make a habit of pressing the button each morning. Within about 20 seconds, the pump runs quietly beneath the floor, and the shower is ready with instant hot water.
“ She loves it,” he said.“ Anybody that puts one in will never go back.”
He also pointed out another personal example for simple installation details that can prevent future problems.
“ Condensate drains should have a T; they’ re not required,” he said, but noted that using a T-fitting makes clearing a clog far easier than cutting out an elbow.
Safety and service Holladay said some manufacturers are beginning to use new refrigerants, including mildly flammable blends. While he did not take a position on the refrigerant used, he noted that these models include additional warnings and handling considerations of which installers need to be aware.
“ This raises a lot of questions,” he said.“ I’ m not going to try to editorialise on it. I’ m just going to present this information.”
Holladay also pointed out a major difference in how various brands are built. Some heat pump water heaters are designed in a way that requires full unit replacement if sealed system components fail. The Bradford White AeroTherm, he said, is fully serviceable – meaning individual parts, including the sealed system, can be repaired or replaced without discarding the entire water heater. That distinction can significantly reduce longterm costs for homeowners and reduce waste at the end of the product’ s life.
Even during power outages, the units remain practical.
As he spoke, Holladay pointed to the demonstration unit he had brought to the front of the room, using it to illustrate how little power the system requires.“ This uses 500 watts of power,” he said.“ I can have hot water and use the same amount of power that’ s in a refrigerator to make that happen.”
Sizing and training Correct sizing remains essential. Bradford White’ s product-selection app helps contractors choose the right model based on bedrooms, bathrooms and overall demand.
“ You have to size it right,” he said.“ Nobody ever complained about having too much hot water, have they? No. Bigger is always better.” Throughout his presentation, Holladay returned to one central message: read the installation instructions and help others do the same.
“ Read the book— every page,” he said.“ Don’ t assume that you know anything about heat pump water heaters because you probably don’ t.”
He encouraged inspectors and installers to work closely with manufacturers as the transition accelerates.
“ Partner with the manufacturer, ask questions, get clarity, learn from us,” he said.“ Help the installer learn and gain valuable experience. In some cases, you could be the best teacher.”
His final instruction was simple – and timely:“ Get ready to see a lot of these.” PA
Supplied by IAPMO
Gregg Holladay.
October 2026 Volume 32 I Number 08 www. plumbingafrica. co. za