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Vaughn Water Heaters

Hybrid Heat Pump SeriesV-Grid SeriesTop Performer Plus SeriesCommercial Indirect SeriesFeatherweight™ SeriesSolar Series

Hybrid Heat Pump Series

Electric Water Heater – Model WHPT

For More Information:
Manufacturer's Site
Vaugnn-Thermal-water-heater-WHPT--300x300

The American made Vaughn Heat Pump Water Heater combines the proven longevity of Hydrastone lining and steel construction with the latest in heat pump technology. The result is the most reliable and energy efficient water heater on the market. With three inches of high quality, CFC-free foam insulation, the Vaughn Heat Pump Water Heater has the lowest standby heat-loss rating in the industry. A streamlined user interface on the controller ensures ease of use and is highly versatile, including a customizable temperature differential, temporary mode overrides and child lock protection. A high level of efficiency ensures a fast payback period, and the long life of the Vaughn stone lined tank ensures additional long term savings. Suitable for even the coldest of climates, the Vaughn Heat Pump Water Heater offers a low-maintenance, affordable way to bring green technologies to your home.

Simple Operation

  • Fully integrated water heater easily replaces a standard electric water heater
  • User friendly electronic controller simplifies operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting
  • Low maintenance design
  • Designed for simple installation and service by a professional plumber

Long Life

  • Hydrastone cement lining ensures long tank life
  • Proven heat pump technology
  • Incoloy sheathed back-up electric elements resist corrosion and mineral build up

Heavy Duty Construction

  • Thick gauge carbon steel storage vessel with 1/2″ seamless Hydrastone cement lining
  • No anode rod required
  • Insulated with 3″ of CFC-free polyurethane foam insulation to minimize heat loss

No Sacrificial Anode Rod

  • Reduces operation expenses by eliminating periodic inspection and replacement costs associated with maintaining an anode rod

Warranty Information

  • 10 year limited tank warranty

V-Grid Series

Electric Water Heater – Model ME

For More Information:
Manufacturer's Site
Vaugnn-Thermal-water-storage-tank-VGRID-300x300

The V-Grid Series of Grid-Enabled/Grid-Responsive electric thermal storage (ETS) water heaters from Vaughn will meet the current requirements of utility demand response and load management programs while setting the stage for the introduction of Grid-Interactive Water Heating (GIWH). Grid-Interactive Water Heating is the consensus term describing high-speed, two-way communication between the electric water heating appliance and the Smart Grid – specifically, the electric utility, balancing authority, independent system operator or aggregation entity. When equipped with a grid-interactive control device, a V-Grid grid-enabled electric thermal storage (ETS) water heater becomes a ‘thermal battery’ for storing electric energy, having the ability to follow locational marginal pricing (LMP), providing fast regulation service and better integrating renewable energy, there by effectively reducing the carbon footprint of the appliance. Available in 80, 100 and 119 gallon capacities, V-GRID grid-enabled water heaters are designed to meet the long-term performance requirements of the electric utility while seamlessly providing for the hot water needs of the household. Minimal stanby heat loss, proven components and the industry’s longest lasting tank make the V-GRID Grid-Enabled electric water heater the best choice for utility demand response, load management, RTP/CPP and grid-interactive water heating programs.

Grid-Enabled Functionality

  • Grid-Enabled Electronic Thermostat with Communication Interface
  • Communication Protocol Flexibility – CTA2045, Open ADR, WiFi, Zigbee, Bluetooth, Cellular, Pager, Etc.
  • Precise Temperature Control
  • Activation Key Functionality
  • Meets the Requirements of the Energy Efficiency Act of 2015

Resilient Construction

  • Seamless Hydrastone Cement lining provides proven 20+ year tank life
  • Impervious to elevated operating temperatures
  • Plastic jacket is maintenance-free and will not rust, scratch or dent;
    eliminating the potential for damage due to shipping and handling
  • Impervious to water quality issues – No sacrificial anode required

Warranty

  • 15 Year Tank Warranty, Lifetime Warranty Optional

Top Performer Plus Series

Electric Water Heater – Model TPP

For More Information:
Manufacturer's Site
Vaugnn-Thermal-water-storage-tank-TPP-300x300

The Vaughn Top Performer Plus Indirect Water Heater combines advanced engineering and Hydrastone cement lining to provide the industry’s longest lasting and most reliable indirect water heater. The high efficiency design includes a factory installed and field removable all copper heat exchanger coil to provide maximum hot water output while significantly reducing mineral build up. The Vaughn industry leading technologies include an electronic thermostat with adjustable differential to ensure delivery of highly accurate and consistent hot water. The advanced tank design utilizes a Hydrastone cement lining for long life and is insulated with polyurethane foam for high efficiency and the lowest stand by heat loss rating in the industry. Time proven components, advanced engineering, long lasting tank and high efficiency design all make the Vaughn Top Performer Plus Indirect Water Heater the preferred choice for your water heating needs.

Heavy Duty Construction

  • Hydrastone cement lining provides long tank life
  • Plastic jacket will not rust, scratch or dent eliminating damage and is maintenance free

High Efficiency

  • Industry’s lowest standby heat loss reduces your operating costs

No Sacrificial Anode Rod

  • Reduces operation expenses by eliminating periodic inspection and replacement costs associated with maintaining an anode rod

Advanced Electronic Controller

  • Electronic thermostat provides accurate & reliable temperature control

Warranty Information

  • Residential, 2/10 Limited Warranty
    Two year labor, ten year full tank replacement including coil.
    Optional Lifetime Limited Warranty
  • Commerical 5 Year Limited Warranty
    A repair or replacement is provided (excluding labor and freight) if the tank or heat exchanger should leak for as long as the original purchaser owns the home.
  • Factory installed, field removable all copper heat exchanger

Commercial Indirect Series

Electric Water Heater – Model CI

For More Information:
Manufacturer's Site
Vaugnn-Thermal-water-storage-tank-CI-300x300

Hydrastone ® Lining

A seamless one-half inch thick stone lining impervious to any adverse water conditions, proven to be the most effective method of preventing tank failure due to corrosion.

Removable Heat Exchanger

Conveniently located and simple 8 bolt flange design for ease of installation and service. This superior design allows for periodic cleaning of coil to maintain maximum performance. Double O-ring flange design isolates the coil and prevents electrolysis.

New Heat Trap and Hot Water Outlet Location

Specially design, built-in hot water outlet pipe preventing unnecessary heat loss

Ultimate Insulation

Two to three inches of polyurethane foam insulation combined with heat-retaining stone lining allows less than one-third degree per hour heat loss. There is simply none better.

Featherweight™ Series

Electric Water Heater – Model PF

For More Information:
Manufacturer's Site
Vaugnn-Thermal-water-storage-tank-pf-300x300

The new Featherweight™ indirect water heater by Vaughn is the industry’s first heater to feature a fully pressurized thermoplastic storage tank paired with a factory installed and field removable heat exchanger coil that can meet and withstand even the most demanding hot water applications. As with Vaughn’s other well known products, no dissimilar metals are present and no anode rod is necessary, ensuring years of reliable service you have come to expect from a Vaughn.

Robust construction:

  • Thermoplastic storage vessel construction
  • 75-165 lb shipping weight
  • low standby heat loss

Corrosion resistant:

  • Water Quality Neutral
  • No anode rod needed
  • Fully Removable Heat Exchanger
  • Factory installed, finned, all copper heat exchanger
  • Single bolt stainless steel collar for easy access

Lifetime Warranty:

2/10 limited warranty

  • two year labor, year year non-prorated residential warranty on vessel and heat exchanger
  • optional lifetime residential warranty
  • 5 year non-prorated commercial warranty on vessel and heat exchanger

Solar Series

Electric Water Heater – Model SRW

For More Information:
Manufacturer's Site
Vaugnn-Thermal-water-storage-tank-srw-300x300

The American-made Vaughn Solar water heater is designed for use with a wide range of solar and multi-fuel system configurations. Heavy gauge steel construction paired with Hydrastone cement lining ensures long life. Premium CFC free polyurethane foam insulation provides a high level of efficiency and allows for very low heat loss, ensuring that the energy captured from any heat source remains in your system. Available model configurations include single or dual finned copper heat exchanger coils mounted on isolating, double O-ring flanges to allow for maximum heat transfer rates, while maintaining tank integrity and protecting against electrolysis.

Heavy Duty Construction

  • Hydrastone cement lining provides long tank life
  • Plastic jacket will not rust, scratch or dent, eliminating damage and is maintenance free

High Efficiency

  • Industry’s lowest standby heat loss reduces your operating costs

Removable Heat Exchanger

  • Field removable all copper heat exchanger is mounted on double O-ring flange, isolating the heat exchanger and eliminating the risk of electrolysis, while providing maximum hot water output

No Sacrificial Anode Rod

  • Reduces operation expenses by eliminating periodic inspection and replacement costs associated with maintaining an anode rod

Warranty Information

  • 7 year limited tank warranty
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                      Jim Lubratt

                      President & Chief Executive Officer

                      Jim Lubratt has been president of SVL since 2006. He first joined the company as a sales engineer in 1992 and was made a partner in 2000. He holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Southern Methodist University and first entered the HVAC industry as a marketing engineer for a heat pump manufacturer in Texas.

                      In addition to his role at SVL, Jim is vice president of AQC Industries, LLC, a manufacturer of specialized underground ductwork systems. He is also an investor and board member for Hydromx, Inc., a manufacturer of heat transfer nanofluids, and Crotega, Inc., creators of personal and building security solutions.

                      Jim and his wife, Tracy, met in college and married in 1993. They have three children, two of whom have graduated college in Texas, while their youngest is attending Grand Canyon University in Arizona.

                      Outside of work, Jim places a priority on his faith, family, friends, and fitness. He enjoys helping people-supporting charities, time with his wife and kids, road-biking with friends and efforts to stay physically fit.

                      A message from Jim on the achievements of SVL

                      SVL started in February 1967 by Charlie Schwab and Craig Vollhaber. Schwab-Vollhaber, Inc. (as it was named at the time) steadily grew and, in 1985, welcomed Paul Lubratt as another partner, becoming Schwab-Vollhaber-Lubratt, Inc. SVL’s founders had the determination to build the most talented, customer-focused HVAC representative in the Midwest. Our original drive and passion still shape the company and culture to this day. The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined efforts of every individual. From humble beginnings, SVL founders paved the way to industry success with hard work and determination. “Today, SVL is strongly organized with great people to lead our industry forward as we are challenged with fast-paced changes to reduce our environmental impact,” says Jim. Now, 55+ years later, SVL is under the leadership of two new principals who share the same vision and drive that has propelled SVL throughout the years. Built on a foundation of integrity, Jim Lubratt, and Charlie Vollhaber strive to ensure opportunities for personal growth, improved work environment, and shared life enrichment. The achievements of our organization are the results of the combined efforts of every individual.

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                      Charlie Vollhaber

                      Executive Vice President & Officer

                      Charlie Vollhaber is a third-generation employee at SVL, as a grandson of company co-founder Craig Vollhaber and son of former CEO Todd Vollhaber. Charlie holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering and an MBA, both from the University of Minnesota. He became an outside salesman for SVL in 2013, was made a partner in 2019, and then executive vice president and officer in 2022.

                      He grew up playing sports, including football, basketball, golf, and track, and enjoys the competitive nature of the HVAC industry. “I like that no two days are ever the same as there are always questions to answer and problems to solve,” he says. “Most of all, I enjoy working with great people and coordinating together on challenging projects to achieve positive results together.”

                      Outside of work, Charlie enjoys spending time with his wife, Lesley, and their three boys. He’s also fond of golfing, traveling, and attending concerts and sporting events. One of his favorite quotes is from the book of Philippians: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count other more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Because HVAC and construction is such a team effort, he says, “this mindset helps to create positive results in a vast majority of situations.”

                      A message from Charlie on the culture of SVL

                      “At SVL, we strive to cultivate a unique culture that revolves around finding and empowering exceptional individuals. We believe in equipping our team members with the right tools and resources to succeed.

                      As we’ve grown the business, we have deliberately maintained a small firm culture, fostering an environment where collaboration thrives. We encourage open dialogue and promote a sense of comfort among our employees, allowing anyone to ask questions and seek guidance from anyone else, regardless of their level within the organization.

                      We foster a workshop-like atmosphere where everyone’s contribution is valued. Presenting your work to another individual or a group of teammates provides a platform for collaboration, where ideas are shared, dissected, and improved collectively. We firmly believe in the power of mentoring and provide various avenues for both formal and informal guidance. Whether it’s through structured training programs or casual conversations, we encourage team members to discuss a wide range of topics, from work-related successes or issues to everyday personal life topics.

                      In summary, our culture is built on the foundation of attracting exceptional individuals, empowering them with the necessary tools, and fostering a collaborative environment where mentorship and growth thrive. We are committed to creating an atmosphere where every team member feels supported, valued, and encouraged to reach their fullest potential.”

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                      Al Gramse

                      Vice President of SVL Service Corporation

                      Al Gramse has been in the HVAC industry for over 30 years. He began as a service technician.  Then over his career worked in technical support, building automation, then service manager prior to his current role.

                      How did Al end up in the HVAC industry?  “After high school, I took a couple years to figure out what I wanted to do.   Where I was working at the time, a grumpy old coworker, who I didn’t get along with, walked up to me and said ‘What are you doing here?  Go back to school.’”  I said, “For what?”  He said “There’s a tech school down the street.  Go down there and pick something that interests you”. Then he walked away.  That weird interaction, with someone I didn’t get along with, sent me down a 30-year path in the HVAC industry.   Never underestimate the potential of a little encouragement.   Even if it is from a strange source.

                      Al has been with SVL for 15 years and is the head of our SVL Service division. “The people here are some of the best in the industry,” Al says. “A bunch of team-oriented, knowledgeable, go-getters.” His personal mantra is “figure it out,” “Do a little fact-finding on your own. Use your own brain before you use someone else’s. But know when to ask for help.” he prescribes. “It’s amazing what you can accomplish on your own if you dig in a little bit.”

                      Outside of work, Al has lots of outdoor hobbies, including hunting, fishing, and motorcycling, though his favorite pastime is simply hanging out with family.

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                      Jennifer Roach

                      Director of Marketing, Events & Administration

                      More than just a creative director, Jen brings 30 years of marketing and leadership magic to SVL. Her journey began in the trenches of graphic design, quickly evolving into crafting eye-catching campaigns for iconic brands like Target, Gabberts, Gander Mountain and Camping World. As a seasoned director and agency veteran, she honed her skills with recreational vehicle giant Parts Unlimited before leading creative teams at HOM Furniture and, ultimately, landing at SVL during a crucial growth phase.

                      Jen thrives on "servant-leadership," empowering her team and fostering a culture of trust and mutual respect. "It unlocks their potential, fuels creativity, and leads to work we're all proud of," she says. "I want my team to care, collaborate, and push boundaries together."

                      When not shaping impactful campaigns, Jen enjoys weekend adventures with her husband, Scott, and son, Crew. Their lives are a tapestry of shared passions, from bike rides and baking experiments to cheering on Simley High School wrestlers. And with her recently built forever home in Cottage Grove, her free time now includes a new, thrilling chapter: weekend renovation warrior!

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                      Mike Ruff

                      Vice President of Information Technology

                      Mike Ruff, the Vice President of Information Technology at SVL Inc., is a seasoned professional with an impressive 24-year tenure in the IT industry. His journey in the field is marked by extensive experience and expertise in various domains, including serving as a Cloud Architect focusing on Azure Software as a Service (SaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and both B2B and B2C solutions. Mike’s skills extend to being a Security Architect, where he has honed his knowledge in safeguarding digital assets, and he is also proficient in the Microsoft 365 stack, virtualization, routing, switching, and wireless technologies.

                      Beyond his professional roles, Mike is deeply passionate about technology in all its forms, which is evident in his career and personal hobbies. His love for technology is not just limited to his work but also spills over into his leisure activities. In the summertime, Mike enjoys the thrill of riding his motorcycle, embracing the freedom and adventure it brings. When winter arrives, he switches gears to snowboarding, seeking the excitement and challenge of the snowy slopes. These hobbies reflect Mike’s dynamic personality and continuous pursuit of technically engaging and physically exhilarating activities.

                      Mike Ruff's blend of professional expertise and personal passions make him a unique and valuable asset to SVL Inc., embodying a perfect synergy of technical acumen and a zest for life's adventurous aspects.

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