The two most popular water heater companies in the US are Rheem vs AO Smith. They both offer a wide range of different heater technologies for households, and they are mostly used between households on US soil.
Both companies offer a wide range of different water heaters and models that are powered both by electricity and gas. This is why we are writing this Rheem vs. AO Smith comparison, and water heater review for products these companies are selling. Give yourself a few minutes and read this Rheem vs AO Smith comparison, making your decision easier.
Table of Contents
- Rheem vs. AO Smith Water Heater Comparison
- What’s the Best Type of Water Heater for You?
- The Difference Between a Storage Water Tank Heater and Tankless Water Heater
- AO Smith Water Heater vs. Rheem
- Final Verdict
Rheem vs. AO Smith Water Heater Comparison
In the beginning, we must say that both companies produce quality water heaters for residential and commercial use. Still, for a better choice for your own home, these are the differences you should know about. We took some time to take a closer look at the differences in brand awareness, product line, price, quality, warranty. This way you can make the right decision buying a water heater branded either AO Smith or Rheem.
NOTE: Things you should look at are: maintenance, installation ease, support service, and return policies.
The first thing to note is that AO Smith is solely focused on the water heaters while Rheem has a broader range of products including air conditioning, heating, and cooling systems. This could make you think that AO Smith is better by default, which isn’t true. They both produce a good quality product, and it is up to you to choose wisely.
It is true that AO Smith water heaters are the preferred choice of many plumbers in the US. This fact speaks volumes for AO smiths quality and reputation and you wouldn’t be making a mistake purchasing one. Still, if there are some other issues on your mind, read our review completely, and choose the best product model for your home.
These facts are very important for water heaters. You don’t want to be left without warm water for longer than one day. Rheem company is a good, mid-level water heater brand that’s not too costly. Its reputation for manufacturing durable, reliable water heaters makes it a good choice for most homes. AO Smith delivers quality water heaters as well. What is comes down to is what model fits your personal needs and situation best.
An interesting fact: Overall, AO Smith is probably the better choice for gas water heaters. You should still be aware that Rheem is the major player in the US amongst Electric Tankless Water Heaters with a market share of 22%.
What’s the Best Type of Water Heater for You?
There are so many different water heater types and models available on the market right now. That is great for innovation and price, but also it can be hard for buyers to make a choice just by looking at the specifications.
First, you should decide between electricity and natural gas. Both designs are good, with a budget difference. First off electric water heaters are less expensive, but they can be more costly in the long run. One more thing, every household has electricity but not so many have gas. On the contrary, natural gas water heaters are more expensive in the first place, but they will cost less in the future due to the lower price of gas when compared to electricity.
After you decide to go with an electric or gas water heater, it is time to choose the water heater type that performs best for your household.
The Difference Between a Storage Water Tank Heater and Tankless Water Heater
Bigger households should consider a water heater with a storage tank. This type consists of an insulated tank and a water heating element. When the water in the storage tank achieves a certain temperature, the heater stops working.
Tankless Water Heater is suitable for smaller and medium sizes households. However It will only heat the water as needed. Given the fact that they don’t store the hot water and only use power when you need it, they are more efficient. However, they can’t heat a significant amount of water at a time which is why they are not suitable for bigger households.
AO Smith Water Heater vs. Rheem
AO Smith vs Rheem gas water heater comparison based on consumer reports. According to consumer reports, 37% of households prefer AO Smith gas-tanked water heaters against 22% going with Rheem. The complete A. O. Smith line of natural gas and liquid propane tank water heaters comprises around 60 different models while the Rheem brand has developed a line of 43 models.
If we compare AO Smith vs Rheem electric water heater things are a bit different. In this category, Rheem water heaters are a better choice. You definitely cannot go wrong with the Rheem electric water heater. It is a professional choice for homeowners who do not want to tend to leaky water heaters year-round even though AO Smith has a wider range of models in this category.
Final Verdict
We think that an AO Smith is probably the better choice for gas water heaters, but only by a slight advantage. You should still be quite happy with a Rheem especially if you take care of it regularly. Rheem is the major player in the US amongst Electric Tankless Water Heaters with a market share of 22%.
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