ASHLAND CITY, TENN. - A. O. Smith Water Products Co. is offering contractors exclusive deals on products for work and play. Beginning on Sept. 1, 2005, and continuing through Nov. 15, 2005, select A.O Smith residential and commercial water heater purchases will earn points toward outdoor gear. As a bonus, all contractors who participate in the promotion will be automatically registered as members of the A. O. Smith Professional Contractor Association.

A. O. Smith awards range from camping gear such as tents, backpacks and fishing equipment to electronic favorites such as portable MP3 players and DVD players. Plumbing contractors can buy the gear using points earned by purchasing qualifying water heaters. Points can be redeemed through Dec. 15, 2005 or at any time during the program.

Contractors interested in participating should contact or visit their local A. O. Smith wholesaler.

More information is available at www.aospca.com.

In another promotion, A.O. Smith's sister company, State Industries Inc. has partnered with Omaha Steaks to offer rewards with the purchase of State residential and commercial water heaters. Through Nov. 30, 2005, State water heater purchases will earn points toward steaks, burgers and boneless pork chops. Points can be redeemed through Dec. 15, 2005, or at any time during the program.

Contractors not already enrolled as a State Preferred Contractor (SPC) will automatically earn membership status when participating in the A Cut Above the Rest program. State Preferred Contractors benefit from product information, field training, sales and marketing tools, and other " SPC Only" promotions. Contractors interested in participating should contact their local State wholesaler for details.

More information is available at www.statespc.com.