A.O. Smith water heaters are highly rated for their durability, energy efficiency, and smart connectivity features, making them a popular choice among plumbers and homeowners. However, professional and user reviews note that big-box store models may differ in build quality from professional-grade units, and some users report frustrating customer service experiences during warranty claims.
The most reliable water heaters depend on the type of unit you need. For traditional tank water heaters, plumbers and industry experts consistently rank A.O. Smith, Bradford White, and Rheem as the most dependable brands. For tankless systems, Navien and Rinnai are the top-rated choices.
A.O. Smith water heaters generally last between 8 to 12 years for traditional tank models, and 15 to 20 years for tankless units. However, their actual lifespan largely depends on usage, water quality, and maintenance.
A.O. Smith and Rheem are the two leading water heater brands in the US. Choose A.O. Smith if you value commercial-grade durability, robust metal construction, and traditional, "set it and forget it" reliability. Choose Rheem if you prioritize top-tier energy efficiency, smart home integration, and quiet hybrid models.
Common problems include insufficient hot water from faulty heating elements, leaks from loose connections, strange noises from sediment buildup, and rust-colored water. While DIY repairs work for simple tasks like replacing anode rods or flushing tanks, professionals ensure proper tools, safety, and faster repairs.
Water heater manufacturer A.O. Smith Corp. on Monday was hit with a proposed class action in Wisconsin federal court alleging that its home water heaters have defective plastic valves that can suddenly leak and flood basements, ruin floors, and cause expensive repairs.
Yes, A.O. Smith is widely considered an excellent, high-quality water heater brand. They are highly regarded for their durability, energy efficiency, and commercial-grade components, though professional installation and regular maintenance are crucial to getting the longest lifespan out of your unit.
We recommend going with Rheem, specifically for the Professional Series with 8 Year Warranty.
A. O. Smith water heaters are manufactured by the A. O. Smith Corporation, an American company headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
A. O. Smith Water Products Company is headquartered in Ashland City, Tennessee, home of the world's largest water heater factory. The A. O. Smith network includes five manufacturing facilities in North America, plus plants in Nanjing, China and Veldhoven, The Netherlands.
An A.O. Smith water heater warranty typically ranges from 6 to 12 years for standard residential tanks and 5 to 15 years for tankless models. Labor is generally covered for 1 to 3 years. Exact terms depend heavily on your specific model, installation type, and registration.
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.
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.
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).
The Home Depot offers traditional water heater tanks and modern tankless units, both powered by either gas or electricity. Depending on your selection, the average cost for standard tank installation is generally between $1,600 to $2,400. Tankless installation can range from $2,400 to $5,400.
Quick Answer: Rheem is better for homeowners who want easier service and long-term reliability. AO Smith is a strong option when installer preference or model availability is the deciding factor.
A 40-gallon tank water heater installation costs $700 to $2,300, with an average cost of $1,650. Prices vary based on energy source and installation complexity. The national average cost to install a 40-gallon tank water heater ranges from $700 to $2,300.
Top 10 Water Heater Brands of 2026
Top-of-the-line water heaters combine cutting-edge energy efficiency, smart-home integration, and long-term reliability. Premium models are typically broken down into Hybrid Heat Pumps for standard storage needs and Condensing Tankless systems for on-demand, endless hot water.
You should generally replace a tank water heater every 8 to 12 years. If you have a tankless water heater, it typically lasts between 15 to 20 years. However, the exact timing depends heavily on your local water hardness and how well you maintain the unit.
Rheem. Rheem consistently ranks as the top-rated tank water heater brand thanks to its dependable performance, wide availability, and strong efficiency ratings. With over 100 years in the industry, Rheem's heaters are built to last, offering both gas and electric models suited for households of any size.
If you own an A.O. Smith water heater, the primary recall to be aware of involves roughly 616,000 residential Ultra-Low NOx gas and propane water heaters manufactured between April 2011 and August 2016. These units can develop tears in the gas burner screen, creating a fire hazard if installed directly on combustible floors.
State Water Heaters and A.O. Smith are both manufactured by the same parent company, A.O. Smith Corporation. They share similar core engineering and internal components. The primary differences come down to their brand positioning, hardware tiers, and distribution channels.
A.O. Smith water heaters generally last between 8 and 12 years for standard tank models, with many lasting up to 15 years with proper maintenance. Tankless models typically last longer, often 15 to 20 years. Longevity is highly dependent on water quality, consistent maintenance (like flushing sediment), and proper installation.