Water heaters are an essential part of every household, providing hot water for showers, laundry, and other daily tasks. Choosing the right water heater can be a challenging task, as there are numerous options available in the market. Two of the most popular brands are Rheem and AO Smith. In this article, we will review and compare the top Rheem and AO Smith water heaters, their pros and cons, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions.
Rheem
Company background
Rheem Manufacturing Company is an American privately held manufacturer that produces residential and commercial water heaters and boilers. It was founded in 1925 and has its headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia.
Popular Rheem water heaters
Rheem Performance Platinum The Rheem Performance Platinum is a high-end water heater that comes with a 12-year warranty. It is available in both gas and electric models and has a tank capacity of 40 to 75 gallons.
Rheem Performance Plus The Rheem Performance Plus is a mid-range water heater that comes with a 9-year warranty. It is also available in both gas and electric models and has a tank capacity of 40 to 50 gallons.
Rheem Gladiator The Rheem Gladiator is a unique water heater that comes with a lifetime warranty. It is a hybrid electric water heater that has a tank capacity of 50 gallons.
Pros and cons of Rheem water heaters
Pros:
- Rheem water heaters are energy efficient and have a good energy factor (EF) rating.
- They come with long warranties, ranging from 6 to 12 years.
- Rheem offers a wide range of water heater models and sizes to fit every household’s needs.
Cons:
- Some customers have reported issues with Rheem’s customer service and support.
- Rheem water heaters are generally more expensive than other brands.
Customer reviews
Overall, Rheem water heaters have received positive reviews from customers. Customers have praised their energy efficiency, ease of installation, and reliable performance. However, some customers have reported issues with Rheem’s customer service and support, particularly with getting warranty claims processed.
AO Smith
Company background
AO Smith is an American manufacturer of residential and commercial water heaters and boilers. The company was founded in 1874 and is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Popular AO Smith water heaters
AO Smith Signature The AO Smith Signature is a popular water heater that comes with a 6-year warranty. It is available in both gas and electric models and has a tank capacity of 40 to 50 gallons.
AO Smith ProLine The AO Smith ProLine is a high-end water heater that comes with a 10-year warranty. It is available in both gas and electric models and has a tank capacity of 40 to 75 gallons.
AO Smith Voltex Hybrid Electric The AO Smith Voltex Hybrid Electric is a unique water heater that uses heat pump technology to provide energy-efficient heating. It comes with a 10-year warranty and has a tank capacity of 50 to 80 gallons.
Pros and cons of AO Smith water heaters
Pros:
- AO Smith water heaters are energy efficient and have a good energy factor (EF) rating.
- They come with long warranties, ranging from 6 to 12 years.
- AO Smith offers a wide range of water heater models and sizes to fit every household’s needs.
Cons:
- AO Smith water heaters are generally more expensive than other brands.
- Some customers have reported issues with durability and reliability.
Customer reviews
Like Rheem, AO Smith water heaters have received positive reviews from customers. Customers have praised their energy efficiency, ease of installation, and reliable performance. However, some customers have reported issues with durability and reliability, particularly with the heating elements and control panels.
Rheem vs AO Smith
Capacity and size options
Both Rheem and AO Smith offer a range of water heater models and sizes to fit every household’s needs. Rheem offers tank capacities ranging from 40 to 75 gallons, while AO Smith offers tank capacities ranging from 40 to 80 gallons.
Energy efficiency ratings
Both Rheem and AO Smith offer water heaters with good energy factor (EF) ratings, indicating that they are energy efficient and can help homeowners save on energy costs.
Durability and warranty
Both Rheem and AO Smith offer long warranties ranging from 6 to 12 years, depending on the model. However, some customers have reported issues with durability and reliability with both brands.
Price comparison
Rheem water heaters are generally more expensive than AO Smith water heaters. However, the price difference may be worth it for customers who prioritize energy efficiency, reliability, and warranty coverage.
Customer service and support
Some customers have reported issues with Rheem and AO Smith’s customer service and support. However, both companies offer online resources, such as troubleshooting guides and product manuals, to help customers resolve issues on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do Rheem and AO Smith water heaters last?
Rheem and AO Smith water heaters can last between 8 and 12 years, depending on the model and usage.
What is the warranty on Rheem and AO Smith water heaters?
Rheem and AO Smith offer warranties ranging from 6 to 12 years, depending on the model.
How do I know what size water heater I need?
The size of your water heater depends on the size of your household and Apologies, here’s the continuation of the article:
the number of people living in your home. As a general rule, a 40-gallon water heater is suitable for a household of 1 to 2 people, a 50-gallon water heater is suitable for a household of 3 to 4 people, and a 75-gallon water heater is suitable for a household of 5 or more people.
Can Rheem and AO Smith water heaters be repaired?
Yes, Rheem and AO Smith water heaters can be repaired by a licensed plumber or HVAC technician. However, if the water heater is experiencing major issues or is past its warranty period, it may be more cost-effective to replace the water heater instead of repairing it.
Are Rheem and AO Smith water heaters energy efficient?
Yes, both Rheem and AO Smith offer water heaters with good energy factor (EF) ratings, indicating that they are energy efficient and can help homeowners save on energy costs.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between Rheem and AO Smith water heaters, both brands offer reliable and energy-efficient options. While Rheem water heaters are generally more expensive, they may be worth the investment for customers who prioritize energy efficiency, reliability, and warranty coverage. AO Smith water heaters, on the other hand, offer a wide range of models and sizes to fit every household’s needs.
Ultimately, the choice between Rheem and AO Smith water heaters will depend on the specific needs and priorities of the homeowner. By considering factors such as capacity, energy efficiency, durability, warranty coverage, and price, homeowners can make an informed decision and choose the water heater that best meets their needs.