The Best Water Heater Brands

Author: Your Local Plumber
November 18, 2025

Choosing the right water heater is one of the most important decisions a homeowner can make. A quality system provides consistent hot water, lowers energy bills, and lasts for years with minimal issues. As plumbing professionals, we work with water heaters every day—and we know which brands consistently deliver performance, reliability, and long-term value.

Below are the top water heater brands we recommend to homeowners.

AO Smith

AO Smith is one of the most trusted names in residential and commercial water heating. Known for durability and innovation, their gas, electric, tankless, and hybrid models offer great energy efficiency and long life spans. AO Smith also provides strong warranties, giving homeowners extra peace of mind.

Why we recommend AO Smith:

Wide variety of models
Excellent energy efficiency
Reliable customer support.

Bradford White

Bradford White manufactures premium, contractor-grade water heaters made in the USA. They’re built with high-quality materials designed for long-term performance. Bradford White units are only sold through licensed professionals, ensuring proper installation and longevity.

Why we recommend Bradford White:

Exceptional build quality
Long lifespan
Professional-only installation.

Navien

Navien is a leader in high-efficiency tankless water heaters. Their advanced condensing technology delivers endless hot water while keeping utility bills low. Navien systems are compact, eco-friendly, and excellent for homeowners upgrading to modern tankless systems.

Why we recommend Navien:

Industry-leading efficiency
Compact design
Strong warranty coverage.

Rheem

Rheem has been producing dependable plumbing equipment for nearly a century. They offer everything from traditional tank models to hybrid heat pump units and tankless options. Rheem water heaters are known for affordable pricing, solid reliability, and wide availability.

Why we recommend Rheem:

Great value
Smart-home options
A wide model selection

Rinnai

Rinnai specializes in high-performance tankless water heaters. Their systems provide endless hot water, impressive energy savings, and precise temperature control. Rinnai products are a top choice for homeowners seeking premium tankless performance.

Why we recommend Rinnai:

High efficiency
Long-lasting reliability
Excellent customer ratings.

Each of these brands—AO Smith, Bradford White, Navien, Rheem, and Rinnai—offers dependable options for different needs and budgets. The best water heater for your home depends on factors such as household size, fuel type, and energy goals.

If you need help choosing the right model or scheduling a professional installation, our plumbing team is here to help.

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