Are you in the market for a tank-style water heater but are unsure which is the best brand? There are several different brands of water heaters on the market, and deciding which one is right for you can be daunting with so many options available. But it doesn’t have to be.
In this article, we will talk you through the top tank-style water heater brands for 2024, along with their benefits and drawbacks, so that you can make the best decision for you and your home needs.
Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating & Air has been in business for over 15 years, and we have helped thousands of clients choose which water heater is right for them. We are passionate about what we do, and by the end of this, you will have a better understanding of where to begin looking for a tank-style water heater.
Who Is the Best of the Best?
Choosing the right tank-style water heater brand can be scary, considering how many options there are on the market today. However, do not fear because we have done the research for you and discovered the top water heater brands in 2024 (in no particular order):
- A.O. Smith
- Rheem
- Bradford White
- American Standard
A.O. Smith
A.O. Smith is one of the top water heaters on the market and repeatedly pops up as a major water heater manufacturer, but how good are A.O. Smith's products compared to the competition? The water heater brand offers several gas tank-style water heaters that use high-end materials in all its products.
While any heater from A.O. Smith will be a solid investment, the brand is especially known for its gas heaters, as they are among the most reliable and most efficient currently available. In fact, many of their products carry Energy Star efficiency certification, making them eligible for tax credits or rebates under some local laws.
The company produces a range of high-efficiency electric heaters that are worth checking out. In fact, A.O. Smith offers about 60 various models of natural gas and liquid propane tank water heaters. Most gas and propane tank-style water heaters can hold up to 40 gallons of water, which is suitable for three-person households. Additionally, A.O. Smith offers more than 30 models of electric water heaters, and most have a warranty of up to six years.
A.O. Smith water heaters come with both benefits and drawbacks, including:
Benefits
- Between 5-to-10 years warranty on all models
- Come in different sizes, making them suitable for all households
- Has electric, natural gas, and propane models
- Some models are Energy Star certified, saving you money on energy bills
Drawbacks
- Limited reliable electric models compared to its competitors like Rheem
- Shorter warranty compared to competitors
Rheem
Rheem water heaters are one of the best water heater brands on the market. The company has built a reputation for providing high-quality products, exceptional customer service, and cutting-edge innovation, making them preferable to many homeowners. Over the years, the brand has managed to establish itself as a reputable name in the industry based on experience and quality.
Did we also mention that Rheem now produces a full range of water heaters, including solar, gas, electric, tankless, and heat pump models? Well, they do! In fact, their tank-style water heaters are known for their reliability and their low maintenance requirements. Rheem water heaters also last anywhere from 8 to 15 years, depending on your water heater and if you are keeping up with your yearly maintenance.
Rheem water heaters come with both benefits and drawbacks, including:
Benefits
- 6-to-10-year warranty on most models, with the option to purchase an extended warranty
- Offers a variety of water heaters, both gas and electric
- Water heaters have long lifespans (8 to 15 years)
- Models are energy-efficient
- Offers smart technology features, such as EcoNet
- Can be found at wholesale suppliers, like Home Depot or Lowes
Drawbacks
- Prorated warranty among parts/the tank; limited 5-year to 12-year warranty that covers select parts and tank leakage.
- Specific parts: Rheem makes components unique for their products, meaning you will not be able to use any other parts for replacements. You will need to go through Rheem or your contractor to get substitute parts.
- Professional installation is required to take advantage of the warranty
Bradford White
Bradford White is one of the leading names when it comes to reliable water heaters. The company has built a reputation for itself based on its unrivaled customer service and support. Bradford White is all-in on expanding its production of efficient and environmentally friendly products. And if you’re looking for a water heater that is built to last, look no further, as Bradford White water heaters can last up to 10 years.
Additionally, the brand offers a 6-to-10-year warranty for its water heaters. Bradford White water heaters must be installed and serviced by authorized technicians. In other words, if you decide to purchase and install a Bradford White water heater on your own, your warranty will be void.
Bradford White water heaters come with both benefits and drawbacks, including:
Benefits
- Wide variety of water heaters, both gas, and electric
- Water heaters have long life spans (10 years)
- Comes with excellent safety features
- Most models are Energy Star-certified
- 6-to-10 year warranty
- Has excellent customer service
Drawbacks
- Can only be purchased through an authorized dealer
- The warranty does not cover labor to install or repair the water heater
American Standard
American Standard is one of the oldest manufacturers of water heaters and one of the best in the game when it comes to tank-style water heaters. The company has been a leader in the industry for more than 140 years, making both electric and gas water heaters. American Standard prides itself on building heaters that last longer than the competition. How do they do this, you ask? Well, they make their tanks with a heavy-gauge steel interior, which is fortified with a fiberglass filler that prevents corrosion and makes the tank last even longer.
Additionally, when it comes to warranty, American Standard sets the "standard." Get it? The "standard." But seriously, each water heater with the brand comes with a six-year warranty, which covers the costs of most issues that you might encounter. And if you pay a little extra, you can extend the warranty to 12 years. So, considering that the average water heater lasts for 15 years, you could have coverage for almost the entire lifespan of your appliance.
American Standard water heaters come with both benefits and drawbacks, including:
Benefits
- Ability to extend the warranty
- Offers a variety of tank-style water heaters, both gas, and electric
Drawbacks
- Pricier compared to competitors
- No “smart options”; homeowners cannot control their water heaters nor check their usage from anywhere
Closing Out Top Water Heater Brands
Because water heaters are an investment, choosing the right one for you can be daunting, especially considering how many options are available. However, when it comes to tank-style units, A.O. Smith, Rheem, Bradford White, and American Standard are among the top water heaters this year. From easy installations to affordability, these four brands are the best on the market this year.
Eager to continue your tank-style knowledge and better determine which tank-style water heater is right for you? Check out the articles below as we dive into how much a water heater costs and the factors that affect the overall price, as well as an entire page dedicated to helping you find out how long a water heater lasts.
How Much Do Water Heaters Cost?
How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
When it comes to water heaters, Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating & Air wants to set you and your home up for success. If you live in the Los Angeles area and have any other questions regarding tank-style water heaters, you can call us at 310-853-8690, and one of our call center representatives would be happy to help you. Or visit our water heater service page for more information.
