Lowe's primary water heater brand is A. O. Smith, which makes reliable and efficient models—including highly rated hybrid heat pump units. However, big-box units often feature plastic parts and different internal components than professional-grade models. Consider sourcing the unit yourself and hiring an independent plumber for installation to secure the best service and support.
Water heaters typically last between 8 to 15 years depending on the unit type you purchase at Lowe's. Lifespans vary based on whether it is a traditional tank, a tankless model, or a heat pump.
Neither retailer is universally "better," as both carry the same core brands but offer different exclusive models and warranty perks. The right choice depends on the specific brand you prefer and how you plan to handle the installation.
For traditional tank water heaters, A.O. Smith and Rheem are widely considered the most reliable brands by both plumbers and consumers. For tankless systems, Navien and Rinnai are the top-tier, highly recommended choices. The best option depends heavily on the type of system and your specific household demands.
Lowe's generally charges between $500 and $900 for the labor portion of a standard water heater installation, depending on whether it is electric or gas, and the specific unit you choose. When combined with the price of the unit, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,100 to $3,000+ total, depending on your location and project needs.
The average labor cost to install a 50-gallon electric water heater ranges from $200 to $600. This generally breaks down to 1 to 3 hours of labor at an hourly rate of $45 to $200.
Lowe's provides installation and replacement services but does not offer servicing, repairs or ongoing maintenance. Additional fees may apply: An emergency fee may apply if you need work completed the same day and you purchase the project after noon on that day or if you need the job completed on a weekend or holiday.
Plumbers generally recommend professional-grade units from Bradford White, A.O. Smith (and its sister company, State), and Rheem. These brands are favored for their durability, superior internal components, and robust warranties.
There isn't a single "number 1" model, as the ideal water heater depends on your home's setup, but top-rated brands dominating the market include Rheem (best overall tank/tankless) and A.O. Smith (best for durability and commercial-grade units).
Tankless water heaters are the longest-lasting, averaging 20+ years, while the Rheem Marathon leads tank-style heaters with a lifetime warranty. Standard steel-tank models fail within 8–12 years, so maximizing longevity requires either choosing a premium model, a tankless unit, or maintaining standard units.
Overall, neither store is inherently "higher quality" overall; rather, their strengths differ based on what you are buying. The best choice usually depends on your specific project:
The Signature Series line of water heaters manufactured by A. O. Smith, the leading brand in the residential water heating market, will consist of the Signature™, Signature Select™, and Signature Premier™ options and includes a wide range of gas and electric tank-type models to suit all customer needs.
You can get a 20% discount at Lowe's by opening a new MyLowe's Rewards Credit Card. Alternatively, Pro members can use the Volume Savings Program for bulk orders, or you can use other reliable stacking strategies to reach big savings.
Water heater lifespans (typically 8–12 years for tanks, 15–20 for tankless) are primarily shortened by mineral scale buildup, skipped maintenance, and high water pressure. Neglecting sacrificial anode rods and setting temperatures too high also cause internal corrosion and premature failure.
A new 40-gallon water heater costs between $𝟒𝟎𝟎 and $𝟐,𝟎𝟎𝟎 for the unit alone, depending on the fuel type, brand, and efficiency. When factoring in professional installation, the total typically ranges from $𝟖𝟎𝟎 to $𝟑,𝟎𝟎𝟎.
A small (50- to 60-gallon) storage tank is usually sufficient for one to two three people. A medium (80-gallon) storage tank works well for three to four people. A large tank is appropriate for four to six people.
The top five water heater brands currently leading the market are Rheem (Best Overall), A.O. Smith (Best Traditional Tanks), Navien (Most Efficient Tankless), Rinnai (Best Tankless), and Bradford White (Best Contractor-Exclusive). The best choice for your home depends on your household size, fuel preference, and space constraints.
A standard tank water heater should generally be replaced every 8 to 12 years, while tankless models typically last 15 to 20 years. You should consider upgrading if your tank is over 10 years old, or if you notice rust, leaks, or frequent breakdowns.
Home Depot generally charges between $1,600 and $2,400 total for a standard tank water heater and installation. The labor itself typically ranges from $300 to $600 depending on the unit type, your location, and specific plumbing requirements. Tankless models run higher, averaging between $2,400 and $5,400 completely installed.
Industry experts and consumer consensus consistently rate A.O. Smith and Rheem as the most reliable hot water heater brands for traditional tank and tankless systems. Bradford White is also top-tier, though it is sold exclusively through plumbing professionals rather than big-box stores.
Neither brand is universally "better," but they cater to different buyers. Bradford White is generally favored by professional plumbers for its commercial-grade build quality and long-term reliability. Rheem is a great, budget-friendly option that offers better smart features and easy DIY accessibility.
Lowe’s charges an average labor and installation fee of roughly $500 to $800 for a standard water heater replacement. However, total project costs (including the unit, delivery, permits, and new materials) typically range from $1,000 to $2,500 depending on the unit type and your specific plumbing setup.
Replacing a water heater is costly primarily because you are paying for code-mandated safety upgrades, liability insurance, and heavy physical labor rather than just the tank. Plumbers also factor in the disposal of your old unit and specialized equipment.
To get free standard parcel shipping at Lowe's, you must spend at least $35 and be enrolled in the free MyLowe's Rewards program.