Open federal opportunities

45--HEATER,WATER,ELECTRIC

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.TROOP SUPPORT CONSTRUCTION & EQUIPMENT.DLA TROOP SUPPORT · Response deadline: Mon, 26 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop Support is seeking to procure electric water heaters under a total small business set-aside. This falls within NAICS code 333414, which covers heating equipment (except warm air furnaces) manufacturing. The classification code 45 indicates supplies and equipment specifically for plumbing, heating, and waste disposal equipment.

Electric water heaters for military use are typically procured to support infrastructure at bases, barracks, dining facilities, medical centers, and other DLA-supported installations worldwide. These units must generally meet commercial standards while potentially requiring modifications for military applications or specific installation environments. See the solicitation for exact specifications, quantities, and any required certifications such as Energy Star ratings or compliance with relevant military standards.

Key facts

Who can bid

This opportunity is restricted to small businesses under the total small business set-aside. To qualify, your business must:

• Meet the SBA size standard for NAICS 333414 (1,000 employees)
• Be registered in SAM.gov with active status
• Have any required certifications current at time of award

Manufacturers of electric water heaters are primary candidates, though small businesses under this NAICS may also include distributors or value-added resellers if the solicitation permits non-manufacturer exceptions. Verify your small business status in SAM.gov before bidding. If you are a veteran-owned, woman-owned, or disadvantaged small business, ensure these certifications are current—they may provide competitive advantages in future DLA procurements even though this is a general small business set-aside.

How to put together a competitive bid

Verify technical requirements early. Electric water heater solicitations typically specify capacity (gallon size), voltage, energy factor ratings, and dimensional constraints. Download the full solicitation from SAM.gov to obtain specifications, warranty requirements, and any mandatory testing or labeling. Do not assume standard commercial products will qualify without checking for military-unique modifications.

Pricing strategy for DLA supply contracts. DLA Troop Support awards are often firm-fixed-price. Research historical prices for similar NSN items through DLA's Customer Interaction Center or past procurement data. Factor in lead times for specialized components; DLA may evaluate proposals based on price and delivery schedule.

Compliance documentation. Prepare to submit:

• Technical data showing product compliance with solicitation specs
• Proof of product testing or certifications (UL, Energy Star, etc.)
• Past performance references for similar federal or commercial orders
• Small business representation and certifications

Packaging and marking requirements. DLA has strict military packaging standards (MIL-STD-2073). Clarify whether commercial packaging is acceptable or if Level A/B military packaging is required, as this significantly affects cost.

Next steps

1. Read the full solicitation immediately at SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE8E827T0186 to obtain complete specifications, quantities, delivery requirements, and evaluation criteria
2. Confirm your SAM.gov registration remains active through the award period
3. Submit your proposal before the deadline of October 26, 2026

Given the 12-day window between posting and response deadline (noted), prioritize downloading technical documents and determining product applicability this week to allow time for pricing validation and internal review.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →