DON’T WAIT for Regulations to Catch Up!
Planning ahead with future-ready solutions helps you stay in control on every job!
Canada is updating its energy efficiency regulations for commercial-duty gas water heaters to align with modern performance expectations and international best practices.
These changes are expected to impact commercial gas storage and instantaneous water heaters with proposals scheduled for pre-publication in the Canada Gazette, Part I in 2026.
Download the NRCan Amendment 19 Planning Guide
NRCan Amendment 19 is coming in 2027, and early planning can help you avoid disruptions.
Complete the form below to download a clear, easy‑to‑reference overview explaining the new Canadian water heater efficiency requirements, which commercial and mid‑efficiency gas models are impacted, and A. O. Smith’s recommended future‑compliant replacement solutions to keep your projects on track and code‑ready.
Upcoming Changes
| Water Heater Type | Current Standards before 2027 | Amended Standards effective 2027 |
|---|---|---|
|
Gas-Fired Storage |
80% Thermal Efficiency (TE) |
95% Thermal Efficiency (TE) |
|
Gas-Fired Instantaneous |
TE = 80% Standby Loss (SL) (≥10gal) = Q/800 + 110(Vr)1/2 |
TE = 96% Standby Loss (SL) (≥10gal) = (Q/800 + 110(Vr)1/2) |
|
Residential-Duty Commercial Gas-Fired Storage |
Variable (based on draw pattern) |
Higher UEF standards (e.g., 0.93 UEF for high draw) |
Water Heater Type |
Current StandardsBefore 2027 |
Amended StandardsEffective 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Gas-Fired Storage | 80% Thermal Efficiency (TE) | 95% Thermal Efficiency (TE) |
| Gas-Fired Instantaneous | TE = 80% Standby Loss (SL) (≥10gal) = Q/800 + 110(Vr)1/2 |
TE = 96% Standby Loss (SL) (≥10gal) = (Q/800 + 110(Vr)1/2) |
| Residential-Duty Commercial Gas-Fired Storage | Variable (based on draw pattern) | Higher UEF standards (e.g., 0.93 UEF for high draw) |
What A. O. Smith is Doing
Amendment 19 raises minimum thermal efficiency requirements for commercial-duty water heaters, effectively phasing out most non-condensing designs.
In response, we are transitioning our product line toward compliant condensing solutions. Our goal is to give contractors and distributors:
- Clear timelines for product phase-out
- Advanced notice for inventory planning
- Comparable condensing replacements
- Ongoing technical and installation support
By acting early, we’re helping our partners minimize disruption and maintain continuity across bids, specs, and installations.
Available Compliant Products
A. O. Smith offers a full portfolio of compliant, high-efficiency gas water heaters engineered to meet upcoming regulatory standards without disrupting your workflow. Our gas models deliver dependable performance, simplified installation, and broad application coverage for upgrade and replacement projects. With advanced combustion technology, optimized energy efficiency, and proven durability, these solutions help ensure confidence in code-compliant installations.
When regulations change, A. O. Smith keeps your business ready.
Electric Alternatives
A. O. Smith’s electric water heater lineup is built to help navigate new efficiency regulations with confidence. From standard electric models to heat pump technology, our solutions are engineered for installation flexibility, reliable hot water delivery, and long-term energy savings.
Designed to support retrofit, replacement, and new construction applications, these electric options simplify compliance.
Future-ready products. Proven reliability. Built for your business.
