American Water Heaters connects smart water heater to Lowe's Iris smart home solution

ASHLAND CITY, Tenn., Jan. 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- American Water Heaters today announced the development of the industry's first fully integrated electronic water heater control module that allows homeowners to remotely control their water heater from a smart phone or tablet through Lowe's Iris. 

Iris is Lowe's exclusive smart home solution created to monitor and control virtually everything in the home anytime, anywhere from the homeowner's computer, smartphone, or tablet.

The Iris compatible control modules will be featured on American Water Heaters' premium Energy Smart™ electric water heaters.

The connected water heater will allow homeowners to use a smartphone or tablet to set water temperatures and operating modes, including activating the money-saving "Vacation" mode while away. Iris also will share diagnostic information regarding water heater operation with the homeowner. An optional leak detection sensor will be available to notify homeowners in the event of a water leak.

Future developments include integrations that will provide homeowners with information on energy use, as well as connect with electric utilities' demand response systems—the much-discussed "smart grid." This reporting will enable homeowners to conserve power in exchange for utility rebates. The "Smart Port" that delivers this connectivity is already available on the Energy Smart line of water heaters.

"We are pleased to continue a longstanding partnership between Lowe's and American Water Heaters by connecting our premium water heaters to the Iris system," said Rusty Frontz, vice president of retail sales for American Water Heaters. "Iris facilitates enhanced control of the home environment, so water heater control is a natural next step for homeowners to better manage and monitor their water usage and costs."

The hardware for the water heater control module was designed by American engineers for integration with American's successful Energy Smart line of premium electric water heaters, according to Frontz.

American Water Heaters' premium Energy Smart electric water heaters are available now in Lowe's stores nationwide, and the Iris compatible control module will be in select Lowe's stores by this summer.

About American Water Heaters

Headquartered in Ashland City, Tenn., American Water Heaters offers a full line of residential and commercial water heating products. American is committed to being a reliable partner by providing well-built products and superior service. For more information, please visit www.americanwaterheater.com.

Rely on American

SOURCE American Water Heaters