Comparison
Rheem vs AO Smith Water Heater: Price, Warranty & Reliability (2026)
Rheem and AO Smith together account for the majority of residential water heaters sold in the US. Here's how they compare on price, warranty, and where to buy — plus Bradford White for the contractor route.
Unit Cost by Type (Equipment Only)
| Type | Rheem | AO Smith | Bradford White |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas tank (40–50 gal) | $400–$800 | $350–$750 | $500–$900 |
| Electric tank (40–50 gal) | $350–$650 | $300–$600 | $400–$700 |
| Tankless (gas) | $800–$2,000 | $900–$2,200 | $1,000–$2,300 |
| Heat pump | $1,200–$2,200 | $1,300–$2,500 | $1,400–$2,600 |
Equipment-only pricing. Installation labor adds $300–$1,500 depending on type.
Warranty Comparison
| Factor | Rheem | AO Smith | Bradford White |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tank warranty | 6–12 years | 6–10 years | 6 years |
| Parts warranty | 1–2 years | 1–2 years | 1 year |
| Extended options | Up to 12 yr (ProTerra) | Up to 10 yr (Signature) | Limited to 6 yr standard |
| Registration required | Yes (online) | Yes (online) | Yes (through contractor) |
Where to Buy
| Brand | Retail channel | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rheem | Home Depot (exclusive) | Available in-store and online. Pro referral program available. |
| AO Smith | Lowe's (exclusive) | Available in-store and online. Also sold through plumbing supply houses. |
| Bradford White | Contractor only | Not sold at retail. Must be purchased and installed by a licensed plumber. |
Choose Rheem When
- You shop at Home Depot
- Warranty length is a priority
- You want a heat pump (ProTerra line)
- You prefer a well-known consumer brand
Choose AO Smith When
- You shop at Lowe's
- Budget is the priority
- You want the lowest entry-level price
- Lowe's installation service appeals to you
Choose Bradford White When
- Your plumber recommends it
- You want contractor-grade quality
- Professional install is already planned
- You value plumber expertise over DIY
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rheem or AO Smith a better water heater?▼
Both are tier-1 brands with comparable reliability. Rheem edges ahead on warranty length (up to 12 years vs 10 for AO Smith) and wider retail availability through Home Depot. AO Smith offers slightly lower entry-level pricing. For most homeowners, the difference comes down to which store you prefer and which contractor your plumber recommends.
Why is Bradford White more expensive?▼
Bradford White sells exclusively through licensed contractors, not retail stores. The higher price reflects contractor markup but also includes professional installation expertise. Their units are considered commercial-grade and are a top pick among plumbers for durability.
What is the best water heater brand in 2026?▼
There is no single best brand. Rheem, AO Smith, and Bradford White all manufacture reliable units. Rheem and AO Smith dominate the retail/DIY market. Bradford White is the contractor favorite. For tankless, Navien and Rinnai are the premium choices. Brand matters most for warranty support and parts availability in your area.
Where can I buy a Rheem water heater?▼
Rheem is sold exclusively through Home Depot for residential models. AO Smith is exclusive to Lowe's. Bradford White is only available through licensed plumbing contractors. This exclusivity means your store preference often dictates your brand choice for retail purchases.