15 Best Water Heater Brands for Your Home in 2024

If you are looking to replace your current water heater, here are the best water heater brands to consider. You will probably opt for the same water heater type you have at the moment, and brand is an additional factor you need to consider.

Generally, heating water in every household takes around 20 percent of your monthly expenses for the household. The costs may rise, based on the number of family members living with you or the amount of time you spend at home.

People usually think about replacing the water heater once it breaks. But if your heater is old, you might want to replace it sooner. It will help you prevent the disaster of a flooded basement and won’t leave you without hot water!

Before I move on to the best brands for the water heater at the moment, I’ll walk you through the available water heater types.

Therefore, keep reading to learn everything there is about current water heater brands!

What is the Best Water Heater Brand?

The A. O. Smith is the best water heater brand to consider if you are ready to replace your old, inefficient heating device. The brand offers various types of water heaters, with average warranties from six to 12 years.

Other quality brands to consider for water heaters are:

• A.O. Smith
• Kenmore
• Rheem
• Bosch
• American Standard
• Eco Smart
• Bradford White
• Noritz
• American Water Heaters
• Navien
• Reliance
• Rinnai
• Takagi
• Stiebel Eltron
• Trutankless

5 Main Types of Water Heaters

Did you know that an average person only buys two water heaters per lifetime? Some people get married more times! Therefore, you need to consider different types of water heaters to choose the right water heater properly.

Here are the types of water heaters explained in detail.

Storage Tank Water Heater

You are probably familiar with a storage tank water heater, often called a conventional water heater. It is by far the most common water heater in all households.

The appliance consists of a tank for storage and water heating, and a pipe. The device has a temperature valve and a pressure-relief valve for safety.

There are electric and natural gas water heaters and the latter are more energy-efficient and cost-efficient to run.

On-Demand (Tankless) Water Heater

On-demand water heaters don’t have tanks to store water. Instead, they have heating coils and heat the water when you need it. In terms of energy efficiency, these tankless heaters are significantly better than tank water heaters.

But, they have limited hot water flow per minute, around 3 gallons.

These are only suitable for people who run every water source at a time. They also don’t require installation adjustments and are easy to install.

Watch this video to know more:

Hybrid Water Heater

Hybrid water heaters or pump water heaters are suitable only for an environment that has a temperature between 40 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They are more expensive than electric tank heaters and more energy-efficient.

They transfer the heat from the air to the water. These hybrid devices use 60% less energy than electric heaters to heat the same amount of water.

To operate properly, you need to put a heat pump on top of the device and ensure there are at least seven feet from ceiling to floor.

Solar Water Heater

Solar water heaters use energy from the sun’s heat to heat the water. They operate using roof-mounted cells and are an excellent choice for sunny areas. Thus, they ensure excellent savings in the summer. Some heaters even have a backup system that ensures you won’t be left without hot water even in cloudy weather.

These systems are expensive, and you might need to wait between ten and 30 years to recoup the costs. On the plus side, they are better for the environment, easy to maintain, and durable.

Condensing Water Heater

The last option on my list is condensing water heater, suitable for people who use natural gas as their energy source and need something that can ensure more than 55 gallons of hot water.

They operate similarly to an electric water heater with a tank.

They ensure no energy loss because they capture waste exhaust gasses to ensure a more efficient water heating process.

The Best Water Heater Brands Comparison Table

Here is a quick overview of all primary information related to the best brands to consider when choosing your new water heater.

Top 15 Water Heater Brands in 2021

If you have decided on the water heater type, the next thing to consider is the brand. I hope you find the next section useful!

#1 A. O. Smith

The first on my list of best water heater brands is the A. O. Smith. The company exists since 1874 and has been a market leader for many decades. What started as a small local hardware shop is now one of the best innovative companies in the North American market.

Water heaters and other plumbing items by A. O. Smith are sold across the country and have an impeccable reputation.

A. O. Smith sells conventional, tankless, hybrid and solar water heaters.

All devices are high-quality, but A. O. Smith is predominantly known for its gas heaters. Additionally, almost all A. O. Smith products have Energy Star certification, which ensures the highest level of energy efficiency. Therefore, you can apply for local tax credits and various money savings schemes.

The BTR-199 tank water heater by A. O. Smith is an excellent gas-powered device, suitable for any household.

How A. O. Smith compares to Bradford White and Rheem, explained by water heater expert.

#2 Kenmore

Kenmore is a large company that makes a lot of household devices, including vacuums, coffeemakers, and water heaters.

Kenmore exists from 1913, and since then it has spread across all households in the US, by offering quality devices.

The brand produces electric, natural, gas, propane and hybrid water heaters. In general, Kenmore is a contemporary brand that produces innovative solutions for the needs of modern people.

So, some water heaters are compatible with the Kenmore app. Therefore, you can control the water heater performance by your phone and customize the device when you’re not at home.

Conveniently, Kenmore also produces everything you need to install a water heater, replacement parts, pipes, assembly guides and offers great customer support.

#3 Rheem

Rheem is another excellent water heater brand on my list that exists for decades, more specifically, since 1925. The primary activity of the company wasn’t water heater production. But, Rheem slowly switched focus and became one of the best water heaters brands globally.

Back in 1973, the brand was divided into two halves – one dedicated to making the world’s best AC units, and the second focused on producing the best water heaters.

Whatever water heater type you are looking for, Rheem has something to offer. Among all types of water heaters that Rheem makes, they are most known for their tankless models. Also, conventional Rheem tank heaters are praised by customers for their durability and low maintenance.

If you are looking for a tankless water heater, I recommend you check their most famous model. The RTEX-18 electric tankless water heater by Rheem is practical, durable and easy to install.

You should see the video below:

#4 Bosch

Bosch is a German company, founded in 1886 that has been known for its quality engineering and innovation. In fact, over the years, Bosch has become a synonym for German precision and detail-oriented manufacturing. The brand offers a wide range of household appliances, power tools and automotive parts.

Bosch water heaters are durable, reliable and of consistent quality. The brand offers various tankless water heaters, with superior energy efficiency. You can choose between gas and electric tankless devices, and mini-tank water heaters, suitable for kitchens and other spaces where you need only a small amount of hot water.

Moreover, all Bosch water heaters require only minimal maintenance and come with long warranties. I also must mention the extensive manuals and comprehensive customer support.

The Bosch electric mini-tank water heater is highly practical and can store up to seven gallons.

#5 American Standard

The brand American Standard is focused solely on water heaters, and it does a pretty good job in supplying numerous commercial and residential properties with water heaters. Their water heaters are more suitable for residences in high demand for hot water and commercial places because of their high capacity.

They offer electrical and gas models. For example, if you are looking for a high-capacity water heater, you can get an American Standard device with 119 gallons of capacity!

You can also connect them with conventional residential storage tank water heaters or boilers to improve your current heating capacities.

Next, the American Standard has other water heater types apart from storage tank heaters. These include pump, tankless, natural or propane gas, and tankless condensing devices.

The American Standard CE-12-AS Electric water heater is excellent for installation in confined areas such as mop sinks and under the cabinets. It has up to a 6-year warranty which is pretty impressive for the device in its price range.

#6 Eco Smart

Eco Smart is one of the most affordable water heater brands on the market. At the same time, Eco Smart is kind to your wallet and the environment, which makes it a brand worth considering.

Their primary products are tankless water heaters, priced lower than competitors. The secret is in the brand’s exclusive SmartBoost technology. It allows them to expand their heating capacities at a fraction of the electricity consumption.

I also need to mention the excellent warranty policy Eco Smart nurtures. Because the company is confident in its products and quality, Eco Smart offers limited lifetime warranties.

Eco Smart is a modern, innovative brand that still has to prove its value on the market, but does an excellent job so far.

I recommend you look into the Eco Smart ECO 27 Electric Tankless Water Heater with self-modulating technology.

#7 Bradford White

Bradford White is a reliable choice for water heaters made in the USA. The company produces residential and commercial products, but also professional equipment for contractors and plumbers.

You can only purchase their products through authorized dealers and representatives, which can be inconvenient for customers in rural areas.

Also, Bradford White water heaters require professional installation to be able to use the warranty. Most commonly, the warranty is ten years which is exceptional, compared to some other brands that offer warranties shorter than five years.

Bradford White water heaters are high-end devices, but they will provide peace of mind in terms of maintenance, reliability, and performance. You can choose between electric and gas models, and your initial costs will pay off in the long run.

All water heaters are Energy Star certified, which means you’ll get better performance at lower costs. Moreover, the company invests in detailed quality control and consistently improves its products and services.

The 19-Gallon Water Heater by Bradford White is practical for most households.

#8 Noritz

Eco-friendliness is going to become a more important brand feature to consider in the future. Therefore, Noritz, as a less known brand, got on the list of best heater brands, passing some larger brand names.

Noritz has a lot to offer. It specializes in making tankless water heaters that sell at affordable prices.

Noritz is a brand founded in Japan in 1951 and has slowly built its reputation across the world. In some European countries, the US and Australia, Noritz is one of the best brands for water heating devices.

It nurtures an eco-friendly approach and invests in modern technologies. So, you can get the Noritz Wi-Fi adapter, install it outdoors and indoors and control your water heater remotely. It is a pretty nifty touch that modern customers will appreciate.

Noritz condensing water heater, model NRC66DVNG that operates on natural gas is top-notch and ensures endless hot water whenever you need it.

You should see the video below:

#9 American Water Heaters

American Water Heaters is a solid brand of water heaters that sells both commercial and residential products. The brand’s parent company is GSW, which has been bought by A.O.Smith, the best water heater brand on the market.

You can find their products under the names American Proline, and U.S.Craftmaster all across the country.

From the beginning of 1970, the brand enjoyed an excellent reputation. You can find gas, propane models, electric, tanked, tankless, and solar water heaters.

The customers praise their models for power efficiency and durability. Still, most of the available products are less capacity than some others. Therefore, they are more suitable for medium and small homes and medium businesses. The American Water Heaters brand also makes the best models for mobile homes.

#10 Navien

If you are looking specifically for condensing water heaters, you might want to look into the Navien brand of water heaters. Their condensing heaters are very efficient and reliable. They also have the brand’s exclusive Comfort Flow technology for endless hot water and recirculation pumps.

Navien doesn’t have a wide range of water heaters, only two lines – standard and a premium one. The primary difference between the two series is in the buffer tank and pump on the premium models that ensure quicker water heating.

 Every Navien water heater has Energy Star and LEED certification.

The brand offers an exceptional warranty of 15 years and professional customer service.

#11 Reliance

Reliance is another water heater brand owned by A. O. Smith. Reliance is a very user-friendly brand, which means that even if you are buying the water heater for the first time ever, you won’t have trouble finding the appropriate model for you.

They offer a simple questionnaire about your hot water needs and preferences that will help you decide.

Their products are available in many retail stores across the country and come within a medium price range. You can choose gas and electric, tankless and tank models, as well as pump tanks and powerful commercial water heaters. Overall, the brand offers good value for the money.

If you are looking for a compact and easy-to-transport water heater, make sure to check the 6-gallon Reliance 6 6 SOMS K water heater. It is affordable and practical!

#12 Rinnai

Rinnai was founded in Japan in 1920 and produced cooking stoves. Over the years, the band went back and forth from making aircraft parts and household items.

Sixty years ago Rinnai started producing water heaters.

In the present day, Rinnai has four water heater lines. All are tankless models and Energy Star certified.

Also, the latest Rinnai models have upgraded technology, so they have Wi-Fi capabilities so the user can control them via smartphone.

Rinnai water heaters are high-end heaters, which are worth the price tag. Their performance is exceptional and the brand ensures good support and warranty.

If you are looking for a propane tankless water heater, you might enjoy the Rinnai V65iP model.

#13 Takagi

Japan-located companies that operate in the US are top-notch when it comes to quality water heaters. Takagi is definitely one of the best brands and has been making excellent products since 1951.

The brand sells commercial and residential water heaters and invests in innovation and research.

They produce only tankless water heaters and have been part of the A. O. Smith brand. Therefore, their quality and reliability are guaranteed by a reputable owner.

I also need to mention their well-illustrated and comprehensive manuals, which eliminate the guesswork!

The Takagi water heater, condensing model T-H3-DV-N brings up some superior features, such as 10 gallons per minute flow, improved safety features and excellent efficiency.

#14 Stiebel Eltron

If you believe in German quality, and Bosch water heaters just don’t fit your needs or preferences, check the Stiebel Eltron brand. The brand has been in business since 1924 and is the largest water heater brand in Germany, and one of the best in Europe. Their quality products have found their way to US customers.

Stiebel Eltron brand specializes in producing smaller devices, predominantly tankless heaters, and heat pumps, but highly efficient and powerful. Their products ensure the most comfort to the users and exceptional safety.

This brand produces a range of models and is known for smaller units, tankless heaters, and heat pump models.

The product that sums up the years of experience and research from Stiebel Eltron is the Tempra 24 plus water heater. It has exceptional performance and ensures continuous hot water flow.

#15 Trutankless

Trutankless earned the spot on the list of the best water heater brands once some other more popular brands, such as Whirlpool dropped off the water heater market.

Nevertheless, Trutankless water heaters are of excellent quality and come with plenty of beneficial features. These include a reliable flow meter, improved water temperature consistency, remote control, smartphone compatibility, etc.

I also need to mention exceptional safety features such as freeze protection, leak detection. Overall, all features lower the risk of product failure and improve its lifespan and performance.

The Trutankless water heaters also consume less energy and cost less than some similar models on the market.

Choosing Water Heater a Decision You’ll Only Have to Make Twice

The A. O. Smith is a reliable choice for any commercial and residential setting. It is a reputable brand that ensures durable products. But, if you are ready to switch to some greener choices you can choose Noritz or Eco Smart.

Furthermore, several other brands on the market offer exceptional water heaters in various categories.

Which water heater do you currently own? How long has it been since you replaced it? What brand would you choose? Let’s talk more in the comment section!

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