Water Heaters Guide
Water heaters are essential home appliances that provide hot water for bathing, cleaning, cooking, and heating. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about water heaters, including different types, top brands, common problems and solutions, maintenance tips, installation guidance, and cost considerations. Whether you're shopping for a new water heater, troubleshooting issues, or looking to optimize your current system, you'll find expert advice and detailed resources to help you make informed decisions.
Types of Water Heaters 4
View All Water Heaters TypesUnderstanding the different types of water heaters available helps you choose the best option for your home's needs, budget, and space constraints. Each type has unique advantages in terms of efficiency, capacity, and operating costs.
Heat Pump Water Heaters
Highly efficient systems that use electricity to move heat from air or ground to heat water. Can reduce energy costs by 60%.
Read MoreSolar Water Heaters
Eco-friendly systems that use solar panels to heat water. Great for sunny climates and long-term savings.
Read MoreStorage Tank Water Heaters
Traditional water heaters with insulated tanks that store and heat water continuously. Most common residential option.
Read MoreTankless Water Heaters
Energy-efficient units that heat water on demand without storing it in a tank. Perfect for homes with limited space.
Read MoreWater Heaters Brands 25
View All Water Heaters BrandsChoosing a reputable water heater brand ensures quality, reliability, and strong warranty support. These leading manufacturers offer a range of models with proven track records for performance and durability.
AO Smith
A. O. Smith is an industry leader offering a complete range of residential and commercial water heaters including tank, tankless, heat pump, and solar models. Their Vertex line achieves up to 96% thermal efficiency, and the Cyclone series is a commercial workhorse. ProLine and Signature series cover standard residential needs with strong warranty support.
Read MoreBosch
Bosch offers a full range of water heating solutions including gas and electric tankless models, hybrid electric heat pump water heaters, point-of-use mini-tanks, and indirect storage tanks. Their Greentherm series of condensing tankless units achieves up to 97% thermal efficiency with ultra-low NOx emissions. Tronic series covers electric tankless and small storage needs.
Read MoreBradford White
Bradford White manufactures a full line of gas, electric, tankless, heat pump, and solar water heaters for residential and commercial applications. Their Defender Safety System prevents accidental ignition of flammable vapors, the Hydrojet Total Performance System reduces sediment buildup for longer tank life, and their Vitraglas enamel lining protects against corrosion. Also offers the AeroTherm Series heat pump water heater and the Brute commercial line.
Read MoreEcosmart
EcoSmart electric tankless water heaters feature patented self-modulating technology that adjusts energy usage based on water flow and inlet temperature. Models range from single-point-of-use units (ECO 8/11) to whole-house systems (ECO 27/36). Their compact design saves space and their endless hot water supply eliminates the standby energy losses of traditional tank heaters.
Read MoreEemax
Eemax manufactures electric tankless water heaters across residential, commercial, and industrial lines. Their HomeAdvantage series serves whole-house residential needs, the AccuMix series integrates thermostatic mixing for safety-critical applications, and their commercial SafeAdvantage line is designed for high-demand environments like restaurants and healthcare facilities.
Read MoreEternal
Eternal manufactures hybrid condensing water heaters that pair a high-efficiency condensing burner with a small stainless steel buffer tank. This hybrid approach delivers instant hot water, eliminates cold-water sandwich, and achieves up to 0.96 UEF efficiency. Models are available in natural gas and propane configurations for residential and light commercial use.
Read MoreGE
GE-branded water heaters (manufactured by Rheem) include tank-style gas and electric models, hybrid heat pump water heaters, and tankless units. Available exclusively through Home Depot, they offer strong warranty coverage and wide parts availability.
Read MoreGiant
Giant manufactures a full line of residential and commercial water heaters including electric tank, gas tank, tankless, heat pump, indirect-fired, oil-fired, and solar-compatible models. Their products are engineered for Canadian cold-climate conditions with high first-hour ratings, advanced insulation, and CSA-certified energy efficiency.
Read MoreHoneywell
Honeywell gas control valves and thermostats are the OEM standard in the majority of residential gas water heaters sold in North America. Their electronic ignition controls, gas valves, and thermocouple assemblies are essential replacement parts for water heater maintenance and repair.
Read MoreHTP
HTP manufactures high-efficiency condensing and near-condensing water heaters, combination boiler/water heaters, and indirect-fired water heaters. Their stainless steel heat exchangers provide exceptional corrosion resistance and longevity. Key products include the Elite Ultra (up to 96% thermal efficiency), Versa-Hydro combi unit, and SuperStor indirect tanks.
Read MoreIntellihot
Intellihot manufactures smart tankless water heaters for commercial, multi-family, and residential applications. Their Neuron series features multiple independent heat exchangers that fire sequentially based on demand, IoT connectivity for remote monitoring and diagnostics, and cascade-capable designs that link multiple units for virtually unlimited hot water capacity.
Read MoreKenmore
Kenmore-branded water heaters (manufactured by various OEMs) include electric and gas tank models, as well as tankless and hybrid heat pump options for residential use.
Read MoreLochinvar
Lochinvar manufactures high-efficiency condensing and non-condensing water heaters, boilers, and pool heaters for residential and commercial applications. Their KNIGHT and CREST condensing boilers achieve up to 96% thermal efficiency. The ARMOR commercial water heater line and EnergyRite pool heaters round out the portfolio. All products feature SMART SYSTEM controls with CON-X-US remote monitoring.
Read MoreNavien
Navien manufactures condensing tankless water heaters, combi-boilers, and condensing boilers for residential and commercial applications. The NPE-2 series tankless units feature ComfortFlow with built-in recirculation pump and buffer tank for instant hot water. The NCB-E combi-boiler provides both domestic hot water and hydronic space heating. NaviLink WiFi enables remote monitoring and diagnostics via smartphone. All units feature dual stainless steel heat exchangers.
Read MoreNoritz
Noritz manufactures condensing and non-condensing tankless water heaters for residential and commercial applications. The EZ Series features ComfortCore heat exchanger technology and simplified installation with integrated controls. The CB Combi-Boiler provides both domestic hot water and space heating. Commercial models handle high-demand applications for restaurants, hotels, and multi-family buildings.
Read MorePaloma
Paloma manufactures gas tankless water heaters sold primarily under the Rheem brand in North America. Legacy Paloma-branded units may still be found in existing installations. Paloma is the parent company of Rheem Manufacturing.
Read MoreReliance
Reliance manufactures gas and electric tank water heaters and tankless water heaters for residential applications. Their product line includes standard and high-efficiency models in 30-80 gallon capacities with self-cleaning dip tube technology. Positioned as A.O. Smith's value brand for budget-conscious homeowners.
Read MoreRheem
Rheem manufactures a complete range of residential and commercial water heaters including gas and electric tank models, tankless condensing and non-condensing units, ProTerra hybrid heat pump water heaters, solar water heaters, and commercial high-volume systems. The Performance series is available at Home Depot, while the Professional/Prestige series is sold through plumbing contractors. EcoNet smart connectivity enables WiFi monitoring and control.
Read MoreRichmond
Richmond manufactures gas and electric tank water heaters and tankless water heaters for residential use. Built on Rheem's manufacturing platform, Richmond models provide reliable performance at value pricing through select retail distribution.
Read MoreRinnai
Rinnai manufactures condensing and non-condensing tankless water heaters, condensing boilers, and hybrid tank-tankless systems. The Sensei RU series delivers up to 0.96 UEF with ThermaCirc360 built-in recirculation for instant hot water. The RSC condensing boiler and RE hybrid tank-tankless provide additional options. Wi-Fi module enables remote monitoring via the Rinnai app. Commercial models support cascading for high-demand applications.
Read MoreRuud
Ruud manufactures gas and electric tank water heaters, tankless water heaters, and hybrid heat pump water heaters for residential and commercial applications. Sold exclusively through wholesale distribution to professional contractors. Products share Rheem's engineering platform with contractor-focused features and support.
Read MoreState
State manufactures gas and electric tank water heaters, tankless water heaters, and hybrid heat pump models for residential and commercial applications. The Select series offers reliable standard models while the ProLine series provides enhanced features for professional contractors.
Read MoreStiebel Eltron
Stiebel Eltron manufactures whole-house electric tankless water heaters, point-of-use mini-tank and tankless units, and heat pump water heaters. The Tempra Plus series features Advanced Flow Control for consistent temperature. Their Accelera heat pump water heater is among the most efficient available.
Read MoreTakagi
Takagi manufactures condensing and non-condensing tankless water heaters for residential and commercial applications. The T-H3 and T-H3S are their flagship condensing models with up to 0.95 UEF. Commercial models support cascading for high-demand installations.
Read MoreWhirlpool
Whirlpool gas and electric tank water heaters for residential use, available at major home improvement retailers.
Read MoreCommon Water Heaters Problems 6
View All Water Heaters ProblemsWater heater issues can disrupt your daily routine and lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Learn to identify common problems, understand their causes, and find effective solutions to restore hot water quickly.
Leaking Water Heater
Water around the base demands immediate attention -- floor damage, mold, electrical hazards. Could be loose fittings, a failing T&P valve, a bad drain valve, or a rusted-through tank that needs replacement.
Read MoreNo Hot Water
No hot water from any fixture? Cause depends on gas vs. electric. Common culprits: pilot light out, tripped breaker, failed element, faulty thermostat or gas valve.
Read MorePilot Light Won't Stay Lit
Lights but will not stay lit? Almost always the thermocouple -- a safety sensor that detects the pilot flame. When it fails, the gas valve shuts off. Straightforward DIY repair, under $25.
Read MoreRusty or Discolored Water
Brown or rusty water? Could be corroding pipes, deteriorating heater tank, depleted anode rod, or a municipal main disturbance. First step: hot only, cold only, or both? That narrows the source immediately.
Read MoreStrange Noises from Water Heater
Popping, rumbling, crackling, hissing? Almost always sediment buildup. Water trapped under the layer superheats and steam bubbles pop as they escape. Warning sign that the heater is overworked and maintenance is overdue.
Read MoreWater Not Hot Enough
Warm but not hot enough -- different from no hot water. Heater is working but something prevents it from reaching or holding temperature. Thermostat too low, sediment insulating the element, failing element, or undersized unit.
Read MoreWater Heaters How-To Guides 11
View All Water Heaters GuidesMaster essential water heater maintenance and repair tasks with our step-by-step guides. From routine maintenance to troubleshooting, these tutorials help you keep your system running efficiently and extend its lifespan.
How to Adjust Water Temperature
Set your gas or electric water heater thermostat to the right temperature for comfort, safety, and lower energy bills -- plus how to verify the actual output with a thermometer.
Read MoreHow to Choose the Right Size Water Heater
Calculate the right water heater size so you never run out of hot water -- covers first-hour rating for tanks, GPM for tankless, quick sizing charts, and the mistakes that leave people taking cold showers.
Read MoreHow to Flush Your Water Heater
Flush sediment from your tank water heater to cut energy bills, eliminate rumbling noises, and add years to its life -- the most important maintenance task most homeowners skip.
Read MoreHow to Insulate Your Water Heater
Cut your water heating bill by insulating the tank with a blanket and wrapping the first 6 feet of pipe -- a $20-50 project that pays for itself within a year.
Read MoreHow to Replace a Water Heater
Replace a tank-style water heater from start to finish -- drain, disconnect, swap the unit, reconnect plumbing and gas or electric, and test for leaks and proper operation.
Read MoreHow to Test Pressure Relief Valve
Test your water heater's T&P relief valve in 2 minutes to make sure it will actually open when it matters -- plus how to replace a failed valve.
Read MoreHow to Flush a Water Heater
Drain sediment from your water heater tank to restore heating efficiency, reduce noise, and extend the unit's lifespan. 30-minute annual maintenance task.
Read MoreHow to Install an Expansion Tank
Install a thermal expansion tank on your water heater to absorb pressure spikes, protect pipes, and meet code. A $30-50 part that prevents serious damage.
Read MoreHow to Light a Water Heater Pilot
Relight a gas water heater pilot light safely. Takes 5 minutes once you know the sequence. Covers both manual and electronic ignition models.
Read MoreHow to Replace a Thermocouple
Fix a pilot light that will not stay lit by replacing the thermocouple -- the $10 safety sensor that tells the gas valve to stay open. 15-minute job.
Read MoreHow to Replace an Anode Rod
Swap the sacrificial anode rod in your water heater to prevent tank corrosion, eliminate rotten egg smell, and extend the unit's lifespan by years. $20-30 part.
Read MoreWater Heaters Installation & Replacement
View All →Professional installation ensures safety, efficiency, and warranty compliance. Learn about the installation process, costs, and when replacement is necessary.
Installation Process
Step-by-step overview of professional water heater installation including preparation and timeline.
Read MoreInstallation Costs
Detailed breakdown of labor costs, materials, permits, and regional price variations for installation.
Read MoreWhen to Replace
Signs your water heater needs replacement including age, efficiency loss, and repair vs replace decisions.
Read MorePermits & Regulations
Local building codes, permit requirements, and compliance standards for water heater installation.
Read MoreWater Heaters Maintenance
View All →Regular maintenance extends your water heater's lifespan, improves efficiency, and prevents costly repairs. Follow our maintenance schedule for optimal performance.
Annual Maintenance Checklist
Complete yearly maintenance tasks to keep your water heater running efficiently and safely.
Read MoreFlushing & Draining
Remove sediment buildup with proper flushing techniques to maintain efficiency and prevent damage.
Read MoreAnode Rod Replacement
Protect your tank from corrosion by inspecting and replacing the sacrificial anode rod as needed.
Read MoreSeasonal Maintenance
Prepare your water heater for seasonal changes with specific maintenance tasks for winter and summer.
Read MoreWater Heaters Cost Guide
View All →Understanding all costs associated with water heaters helps you budget effectively. Explore installation, operation, repair, and replacement costs.
Purchase Prices
Average costs for different water heater types, sizes, and brands from budget to premium options.
Read MoreOperating Costs
Monthly and annual energy costs by fuel type, efficiency rating, and household usage patterns.
Read MoreRepair Costs
Common repair expenses including parts, labor, and when repairs are worth the investment.
Read MoreROI Calculator
Calculate payback period and lifetime savings when upgrading to energy-efficient models.
Read MoreFrequently Asked Questions
How long do water heaters typically last?
Traditional tank water heaters last 8-12 years on average, while tankless models can last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Lifespan depends on water quality, usage, and maintenance frequency.
Should I choose a tankless or tank water heater?
Tankless heaters offer endless hot water and energy savings but cost more upfront. Tank heaters are less expensive initially but have limited capacity. Consider your budget, space, and hot water needs.
What size water heater do I need?
For tank heaters, a 40-50 gallon unit suits 2-3 people, while 50-80 gallons works for 4-5 people. Tankless heaters are sized by flow rate (GPM) based on simultaneous usage.
How much does water heater installation cost?
Installation costs range from $800-$1,500 for standard tank replacements, $1,000-$3,000 for tankless units, and $2,000-$6,000 for solar systems. Costs vary by location and complexity.
Can I install a water heater myself?
While DIY installation is possible, it's not recommended due to safety risks, code requirements, and warranty concerns. Professional installation ensures proper setup and compliance.
How often should I flush my water heater?
Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup. In areas with hard water, consider flushing every 6 months to maintain efficiency and prevent damage.