Neither brand is universally better; the right choice depends on your priorities. A.O. Smith is ideal if you want a reliable, commercial-grade workhorse that requires minimal maintenance. Rheem excels in smart-home integration, smartphone app controls, and ultra-high efficiency, making it the top choice for tech-savvy homeowners.
For traditional tank water heaters, Bradford White, A.O. Smith, and Rheem are consistently ranked as the most reliable brands by plumbers and industry experts. For tankless systems, Rinnai and Navien are widely considered the gold standard for long-term durability and performance.
There are several reasons why your Rheem water heater may stop producing hot water, including a malfunctioning thermostat, sediment buildup, or issues with the heating elements. If you're not getting hot water, it's advisable to consult with a plumbing expert who can diagnose and fix the problem effectively.
Forbes Ranks Rheem the No. 1 Air Conditioning Brand. Quiet operation, price and excellent customer service earned Rheem top marks as the number 1 air conditioning brand.
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.
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.
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.
A standard Rheem water heater lasts between 8 to 12 years for traditional tank models, and 15 to 20+ years for tankless units. The exact lifespan largely depends on the system type, water quality, and whether you keep up with routine maintenance like flushing the tank and replacing anode rods.
Affordable Upfront Cost: Rheem systems are often significantly more budget-friendly, allowing you to get a high-quality unit without the financial strain.
Yes, Rheem manufactures many of its residential and commercial water heaters in the USA, though they also operate production facilities in Mexico and other global locations.
To check if your unit is affected by a safety recall, locate the rating plate near the bottom of the unit. The most significant voluntary recall involves Rheem "Performance Platinum" electric water heaters (40, 50, and 80-gallon) sold at Home Depot between 2014 and 2016.
Yes, Rheem systems are known for their solid construction, energy efficiency, and affordability. They're a dependable choice for homeowners who want consistent comfort without the higher cost of premium models.
Rheem water heater warranties range from six years to a limited lifetime depending on the series, with Classic models offering six-year coverage and Marathon models providing a lifetime tank warranty with six-year parts coverage.
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.
Yes, A.O. Smith is highly regarded as a premium, reliable brand. They are widely considered a top-tier industry leader, particularly favored for their heavy-duty, commercial-grade build quality and "set it and forget it" long-term reliability.
Yes, many of A.O. Smith's water heaters and boilers are made in the USA. The company manufactures a large portion of its North American products at facilities in Ashland City and Johnson City, Tennessee; McBee, South Carolina; and Charlotte, North Carolina.
A class action settlement (West v. Rheem Manufacturing Company, and Melet Plastics, Inc.) resolved allegations that specific Rheem water heaters with round poly drain valves (sold between 2019 and 2023) are defective and prone to leaking. The final deadline to submit a claim for this settlement was March 20, 2026.
Choose Bradford White if you prioritize premium, commercial-grade build quality and long-term durability. Choose Rheem if you want cutting-edge smart features, high energy efficiency, and a more budget-friendly, readily available unit.
Yes, Rheem is owned by a Japanese company. Since 1988, Rheem has been a wholly owned subsidiary of Paloma Co., Ltd. (based in Nagoya, Japan), which is one of the world's largest producers of gas appliances.
The most reliable water heater brands generally include A.O. Smith, Rheem, and Bradford White for traditional tanks, and Navien or Rinnai for tankless models. These brands consistently rank highest among plumbers and consumer reviews for durability, parts availability, and long-term performance.
Rheem water heaters typically last between 8 to 15 years for traditional tank models and 15 to 20+ years for tankless systems. The exact lifespan largely depends on the type of unit you have, your local water quality, and how consistently it is maintained.
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.
This Limited Warranty will not cover: i) Damages, malfunctions or failures caused by operating the water heater with any parts removed or with modified, altered, or unapproved parts installed.
The longest-lasting water heater brands are Bradford White and Rheem (specifically the Marathon series). Bradford White is favored by plumbers for professional installations and longevity, while the Rheem Marathon uses a unique fiberglass tank backed by a true lifetime warranty.