A.O. Smith Water Heater Reviews: 2022 Guide

| Last Updated: April 25, 2022

What is everyone’s biggest fear during the cold season of winter? A cold shower. It is followed by a list of tasks that require water interaction. Chores like doing dishes, laundry, and cleaning turn into a nightmare when you are using cold water to do them, especially during winter. Hot water is essential for any household, be it small or large. As they say, necessity is the mother of invention, and man invented water heaters to address this issue. They are a wonder that have been providing us with hot water for generations. 

A renowned name in the water heater industry is A.O. Smith. You cannot talk about water heaters without mentioning it. And why not? This company is largely responsible for revolutionizing water heaters. It has come up with a huge number of innovative ideas that have made water heaters as we know them today. They have always sought to make water heaters more and more efficient. All this effort has paid off by making them the leader in gas, electric, hybrid, tankless, tank-based, and even solar water heaters. In this article, we have reviewed the best A.O. Smith water heaters for you to have some prior knowledge about their products when you decide to replace your old water heater. 

A remarkably well-known brand in the water heater world, A.O. Smith is known for their long history as a company. With over 140 years of experience, the company continuously and constantly produces high-quality products that push the limits of energy efficiency, while including the latest technology. While some consider them to be a little expensive, A.O. Smith water heaters are of excellent value, last a long time with little maintenance necessary.

How Does A.O. Smith Compare to the Competition?

A.O. Smith is a recognized name in the world of water heaters. It is the largest producer of high-quality products. They stand out in terms of energy efficiency, innovation, and technology. Below we have discussed some of the qualities of A.O. Smith water heaters that help them stand out from their competitors. 

Eco-Friendly Approach

A.O. Smith stands strong in its dedication to helping the environment. They have recently set up a new facility in China. The multipurpose lab contains a complex water purification system that recycles 80% of the plant’s water. This has created a greener work environment as an eco-friendly approach. Their lab also meets all of the top Research and Development Center standards and the top certifications for the USA.

Along with this, their new production line, responsible for low-temperature electrostatic powder coating use, emits zero nitrogen and phosphorus emissions — a first in the pressure tank industry. It puts them ahead of their competition in eco-friendly production in their facilities.

Their solutions are designed to reduce energy consumption and lower the carbon emissions while delivering the same level of consistent hot water. Their entire catalog reflects it. It complies with 2018 ERP-legislation for ultra-low NOx emissions and more demanding levels of high efficiency. With A.O. Smith condensing range, in particular, maximum levels of efficiency have been reached.

Patented Glass Lining

A.O. Smith came up with an innovative idea of lining the inside of its tanks with glass coating. The idea was patented as Blue Diamond Glass Technology in 2004. This technology is twice as effective in preventing rust and corrosion as any other liner used by its competitors.

Energy Starred Products

A.O. Smith has also produced a large number of products that are certified by Energy Star, a sign of production efficiency in terms of energy conversion. They have also proven to be cost-effective by saving on the water heating cost. Customers have an unshakable faith in A.O. Smith for providing these features in its water heaters.

Proline Range
Photo credit: hotwater.com

ICOMM Connectivity

They have introduced the iCOMM app for remotely controlling their water heaters. This app is specially designed for commercial use but can be used for residential applications. It can be linked through the WiFi source fitted in the water heater. Once linked, consumers can control their water heaters from anywhere. 

Values Their Employees

High-quality service is very important to A.O. Smith, and the company understands that great service comes from happy employees. It is dedicated to looking after its employees and recognizing the service that they provide for the company. Their website honors employees of the company.

By showcasing their life and what they do for the community, it gives them a spotlight so they can be appreciated by customers as well as drawing attention to any causes the employees care about. Equally, employees highlight the great benefits they receive working for A.O. Smith, as well as the friendliness of colleagues.

Recently Added the Pro-Line Point-of-Use Water Heaters

A.O. Smith is known for staying ahead of the curve, frequently updating products to ensure they have the best technology on the market. Recently, the company upgraded the commercial-grade ProLine range, adding new products to the line at the same time.

These include 3 expert electric water heaters for use in low demand applications. Available as 2.5, 4, and 6-gallon models, these low-demand commercial-grade water heaters are great for all kinds of applications, from a home office sink to a classroom or a workshop.

Extremely durable, the brass drain valves are made from tamper-resistant brass. Each is fitted with a copper heating element with low-watt density. Coupled with this, the tank is glass-coated, and an aluminum anode rod is implemented to protect the water heater from corrosion.  The range comes with a 6-year limited tank and parts warranty as standard.

iCOMM Connectivity For Monitoring Their Products

Technology has become synonymous with staying ahead in the water heater world. As smart technology penetrates our homes, employing cutting-edge features is integral to stay ahead of the competition. This is why A.O. Smith has developed the iCOMM Connectivity Platform.

Photo credit: esmagazine.com

Via the A.O. Smith app, available both on Google Play and the App Store, customers can now have control of their systems. All MXi models in the Cyclone range come fitted with WiFi so that you can remotely connect to your water heater, without it costing a penny. Not only that, the system allows customers to be updated with real-time alerts and data reports.

A.O. Smith Has Won Awards For Their Remarkable Products  

The winner of the Excellence in Manufacturing Award in 2007 and 2008. It is clear that A.O. Smith stands above their competition through the whole production process. This is compounded by the company winning 5 awards in the Builder magazine’s Brand Leader Awards, across 2011 and 2012.

A.O. Smith has also been highly commended for the eco-friendly technology and staying ahead of innovation. In 2009, the company won North American Water Heaters’ award for Product Innovation of the Year. The very next year, they won Building Products Magazine’s Green Building Award, followed by featuring in GreenBuilder Magazine’s Hot 50 Products in 2011. They were also commended as Building Products’ ‘most-valued product’ in 2011.

A Drawback of A.O. Smith

Despite offering a relatively good warranty for the water heater industry, some A.O. Smith customers have reported having difficulties when it comes to accessing that insurance. It appears that customers have not always had their warranties upheld on account of minor issues.

Moreover, a collection of reviews notes that despite having a warranty in place for the tank and parts, when it came to the repair and refitting, labor costs were not covered. Not only did labor cost extra, but also the price was far higher than expected.

On top of this, some customers report that the service given to them by their installer was shoddy at best, and often they had problems with their water heater after installation. This has led to them needing to pay for further installation and repair.

Photo credit: sensibledigs.com

Comparison of the Best A.O. Smith Water Heaters

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Contains a single heating element
  • Insulated to make it more energy efficient
  • Features a compact design with side-mounted connections
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  • Best for the money
  • Features sacrificial anode rods
  • Takes up as little space as possible
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  • Best A.O Smith tankless water heater
  • Provides instant and continuous hot water
  • Has a compact design that frees up a lot of space
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  • Best A.O Smith electric water heater
  • Meets the standards of standby loss requirements
  • Capable of non-simultaneous single phase operation
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  • It offers exceptional energy saving
  • Best A. O. Smith 40 Gallon Electric Water Heater
  • Blue Diamond Glass Coating increases its durability
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  • It is an Energy Star rated model
  • Comes with a 59-Gallon capacity range
  • Best A.O Smith 50 gallon electric water heater and best A.O Smith hybrid water heater
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  • It offers flexible installation options
  • Eco-friendly with a low NOx emission
  • Best A.O. Smith 40 gallon gas water heater
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A.O. Smith is a reliable name in the water heater industry. It has come up with great innovative ideas to manufacture products that are not only high in quality but also efficient in performance. It has come up with a variety of products to facilitate its consumers.

Their lineup includes electric, gas, hybrid, tank-based, tankless, and the latest addition solar model. Here we have compared the best models from A.O. Smith in every variety so you can get a general idea which product will better suit your needs.

ModelIntended Household (Person)Fuel TypeCapacity (Gallons)Energy Factor
A.O. Smith EJC-61Electric / Solar6No
A.O. Smith SUN-805+Solar80
R4MA-320E3-4Electric400.90
A.O. Smith 80 GallonCommercialElectric80
ProLine ENT-402-3Electric400.95
Voltex Hybrid FPTU-50Electric503.61
A.O. Smith GPVT-402-3Natural Gas400.70
Proline XE Power Vent GPVL-503-4Natural Gas500.70

Review of the Best A.O. Smith Water Heaters

If you are searching for a replacement for your old, outdated water heater, you should consider one from A.O. Smith. It has a huge and diverse range available to suit the unique requirements of potential customers. However, deciding which A.O. Smith water heater is better for you can be a tough decision when you don’t have any prior knowledge.

Below you will find detailed reviews of the best A.O. Smith water heaters.

Best Overall

A.O. Smith EJC-6

AO Smith EJC-6 Residential Electric Water Heater

Specifications

Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A

Energy Factor (EF): N/A

Dimensions: 14.3 x 15.3″

Water Temp Range: N/A

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Why it Stands Out to Us

This water heater features a small compact design that’s suitable for installing in locations with limited space. The electrical and plumbing connections located in its side have given it an advantage of adjusting into crawl worthy spaces like under a cabinet, sink, or in attics. Easy to install and operate, it is perfect for point of use situations.

With a 6-gallon capacity, it manages to supply a sufficient amount of hot water to sustain a small household. It comes with a 5-year warranty for tank and component parts. Add that to the mix, and you have a great product that reaches the top as the best overall A.O. Smith Water Heater on our list. 

Bottom Line

In our opinion, the A.O. Smith EJC-6 is the best product created by its manufacturer. Its small and compact design facilitates its installation in cramped spaces. Being small with only a 6-gallon capacity, it cannot fulfill the demand of a large household. However, you can install multiple products to get the job done. It can also be installed as a backup to facilitate dishwashers or washing machines.

It certainly lacks in terms of Energy Star Certification, but it makes up for it by being compatible with amperage. All in all, it’s a highly recommended product from a great manufacturer. It is a purchase you will never regret. 

Pros

Very affordable product

Insulated to prevent heat loss

Contains eco-friendly insulation

Factory-built certified relief valve

Can be installed easily in tight spaces

Cons

Not for commercial use

Relatively small capacity

Not an Energy Star rated product

Best for the Money

ProLine ENL-30

Specifications

Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A

Energy Factor (EF): 0.9

Dimensions: 24.0 x 31.3″

Water Temp Range: N/A

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Why it Stands Out to Us

This product stands out as the best budget selection in this category of products. With a uniform energy factor of 0.90, it is sure to save you in terms of energy efficiency and cuts down your electricity bills. With a 28-gallon capacity, it easily fulfills the hot water requirement of any moderately-sized household comprising of 3 to 4 people.

It is very easy to install; you can even opt to do it yourself. It is also pretty basic to operate. Its compact and low design enables tight space installation in places that don’t offer much height. If you are tight on money and installation space, then this is the right product for you. 

Bottom Line

This is a wallet-friendly option from A.O. Smith. Although it is not given an Energy Star certification, it works efficiently to save you on costs. It features a compact design that makes for convenient installation in the smallest of spaces. It requires little maintenance and comes with a 6-year warranty on tank and 6-year limited warranty for component parts. However, it tends to last way longer than that.

To sum up, we do recommend this model as the best performer in its low price range. If it is meeting all your expectations, you should keep it as the first option when you head out to buy yourself a new water heater. 

Pros

Comes with an insulation blanket

Insulated with an eco-friendly foam

Cross-linked polymer reduces buildup

Has the elements of the fastest recovery

Elements are made of high-quality stainless steel

Cons

Exterior is easily dented

Pressure release valve can break with rough handling

Can trip when water reaches the desired temperature

Best A.O. Smith Tankless Water Heater

R4MA-320E

Specifications

Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A

Energy Factor (EF): 0.93

Dimensions: 17.0 x 18.0″

Water Temp Range: N/A

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Why it Stands Out to Us

The R4ma 320-E is a great tankless water heating device that can supply instant and continuous hot water when installed in the proper size. Its small, compact, and stylish wall-mounted design makes it a pretty addition to your home decor. Its scale reduction technology prevents deposits from collecting inside the chamber.

It also has a built-in Dry Fire prevention system that can prevent elements from failing prematurely. This and a number of A.O. Smith patented technologies have enabled it to beat its competition in the tankless category. It will supply you with hot water at a temperature you pre-set it to. With a 5-year limited warranty, you should look into buying it if you want a tankless option for your house. 

Bottom Line

This appliance is a highly useful product if you are looking to replace your old tank-based water heater with a tankless option. It has a compact and modern design. Its exterior is styled with such great care that if mounted on any wall, it won’t become an eyesore.

The digital interface set on the front not only adds to its appearance but makes it user-friendly too. You can easily pre-set the product to produce water at any temperature by simply interacting with the small buttons given below it. Simply put, it is a great device from a great manufacturer. 

Pros

Quite easy to install

Utilizes standard heating elements

Digital interface makes it user-friendly

Does not require extensive maintenance

Features a compact wall-mounted design

Cons

Does not have a WiFi source

Does not support the point of use

Lacks support for Bluetooth connectivity

Best A.O. Smith Electric Water Heater

A.O. Smith 80 Gallon

No products found.

Specifications

Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A

Energy Factor (EF): N/A

Dimensions: 24.0 x 60.0″

Water Temp Range: 12-181ºF

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Why it Stands Out to Us

A.O. Smith has produced this 80-gallon model to be the best in its class of electrically-operated water heaters. It is basically designed to fulfill the hot water demand of a small commercial setup. It can be adjusted to provide the temperature output ranging between 120° and 181°F and can be reset in case of very hot water.

It is perfect for an environment that goes through loads of hot water intermittently. Its anode rods have a stainless steel core, which gives it a longer life and it has a built-in superior tank protection system. The tank is also protected by a limited 3-year warranty. It’s good to consider all these features before you go out to get an electric water heater yourself, as this is the best there is. 

Bottom Line

This is a commercial-grade water heater, which is the best electrically operated model from A.O. Smith. It has a sturdy and strong build which extends its life. With its 2 heating elements, it heats up water effectively and almost instantly.

The A.O. Smith 80 Gallon is an energy-efficient product that will save you money by lowering your energy bills. If you love long hot showers, this is surely the right product for you. Using it, you won’t have a fear of running hot water ever. You will most certainly benefit from installing it in your commercial setup. It’s a highly recommended product from A.O. Smith. 

Pros

Suitable for light-duty commercial usage

Can be manually reset for a high-temperature cutoff

Adjustable thermostat with a range of 12°F to 181°F

Comes with a limited tank warranty coverage for 3 years

Stainless steel core inside anode rods increases their life

Cons

High upfront cost

Loud in economy mode

Not suitable for residential purposes

Best A.O. Smith 40 Gallon Electric Water Heater

ProLine ENT-40

Specifications

Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A

Energy Factor (EF): 0.92

Dimensions: 18.0 x 61.3″

Water Temp Range: N/A

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Why it Stands Out to Us

It stands out as the best electric heater in the 40 Gallon capacity. With this big capacity, it can easily supply a household of 3 to 4 people with sufficient hot water. It is very efficient at energy conversion with a uniform energy factor of 0.95.

The ProLine ENT-40 has a tall height with a narrow diameter and contains the A.O. Smith patented inner glass lining, which ensures a longer life. It comes with a 6-year warranty coverage for the tank and a 6-year warranty for component parts. All these features highlight it as the best electric water heater in the 40 gallon capacity from A.O. Smith. 

Bottom Line

If you are looking to install a large capacity electrically-operated water heater, then you must consider this appliance as your first choice. Efficient, durable, and reliable, it will definitely provide you with the best service and last a long time.

Even if it does fail at some point, you can easily have the malfunctioning component part or the tank replaced under the 6-year warranty coverage. It is highly effective at saving energy as well as your money. It has not received an Energy Star certification, but that doesn’t matter as even without it, this product is quite energy efficient.

Pros

Increased hot water output

Insulated with a non-CFC foam

Diffuser dip tubes prevent mineral deposits

Built-in heat traps increase energy efficiency

Heating elements are made from high-quality stainless steel

Cons

Not certified by an Energy Star

Not suitable for commercial usage

Burner plate can go bad after some time

Best A.O. Smith 50 Gallon Electric Water Heater and Best A.O. Smith Hybrid Water Heater

Voltex Hybrid FPTU-50

Specifications

Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A

Energy Factor (EF): 3.42

Dimensions: 22.0 x 63.0″

Water Temp Range: N/A

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Why it Stands Out to Us

This water heater operates on 3 modes: efficiency mode, hybrid mode, and electric mode. It stands out as the best water heater in both electric and hybrid units. It has an innovative heat pumping system that pulls the heat from the surrounding environment for water heating purposes. At the same time, it removes humidity and cools the air.

The Voltex Hybrid FPTU-50 gained its Energy Star certification for its efficiency mode. It has an energy factor rating of up to 3.24 when operating in Hybrid mode. It is electric mode is also great at conserving energy. All these features have gained this product the status of the best A.O. Smith electric and hybrid water heater

Bottom Line

This is one magnificent appliance. Strong and sturdy, it has a very attractive appearance. Its appearance is not the only good feature; the best thing about this product is its energy conservation capacity on all its operating modes, be it efficient, hybrid, or electric. It is among the highest Energy Factor rated water heaters. Its heat pumping technology sets it apart from the rest of the competition.

This is the best A.O. Smith electric water heater because if its energy-efficient operation and cost-effectiveness. It is also the best A.O. Smith hybrid water heater because of its high energy factor rating when used in hybrid mode. Once you decide to buy it, it will surely save you a lot of money whichever mode you decide to use it in. 

Pros

Lowers energy bills up to 71%

Three modes to cater to different needs

Efficient heat pumping system to heat water

Pulls heat from the environment for heating water

Delivers huge savings, thereby increasing its convenience

Cons

Needs a large space for air circulation

Can get noisy when installed against walls

Compressor continues running for several hours

Best AO Smith 40 Gallon Gas Water Heater

AO Smith GPVT-40

AO Smith GPVT-40 Residential Natural Gas Water Heater

Specifications

Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A

Energy Factor (EF): N/A

Dimensions: 20.5 x 63.0″

Water Temp Range: N/A

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Why it Stands Out to Us

The A.O. Smith GPVT-40 stands out from its category of gas burners for being big on its tank capacity yet promising energy efficiency. It has a sturdy build, which makes it durable and long-lasting. It is easy to install with all the different installation options. You can install it yourself as well.

This unit is very environment-friendly with its eco-friendly insulation preventing heat loss and close to zero NOx emissions. It is equipped with sensors that can detect flammable vapors and disable the burner to prevent fire threats. It has a user-friendly display with an easy-to-operate interface and an LED light showing information about operation and diagnostics. 

Bottom Line

If you want to opt for a gas-operating model to fulfill your hot water needs, this is the best Gas Water Heater from A.O. Smith with a 40-gallon capacity. Durable and easy to install, it comes with a variety of installation options. It is easy to set up and operate due to its user-friendly interface.

The A.O. Smith GPVT-40 is a go-green approach to water heating with its low NOx emissions, eco-friendly foam insulation, and lower heat loss. All in all, it’s a great and efficient product that will certainly prove its value if you do decide to get it. 

Pros

Very user-friendly

Rotatable blower outlet

Operates on natural gas

Energy Star qualified product

Features a 40-gallon tank capacity

Cons

A bit loud

Does not heat up instantly

Gas line from the valve to the burner is too long

Best AO Smith 50 Gallon Gas Water Heater

ProLine XE Power Vent GPVL-50

Specifications

Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A

Energy Factor (EF): 0.72

Dimensions: 18.0 x 50.8″

Water Temp Range: N/A

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Why it Stands Out to Us

This unit stands out to us mainly because of its huge 50-gallon capacity for a gas-operating water heater. It is easy to install and operate. It starts heating water as soon as it is turned on, working quietly and seamlessly.

With a large capacity, you never have to worry about running out of hot water. It is eco-friendly with low NOx emissions and thick non-CFC foam insulation, thus reducing heat loss. Its energy efficiency has gained it an Energy Star. We do recommend this product if you are thinking of getting a 50 gallon gas water heater

Bottom Line

The ProLine XE Power Vent GPVL-50 from A.O. Smith is a high-quality water heating device. With flexible installation options available, you can also do it yourself too. It supplies plenty of hot water and works without making much noise.

There have been some instances of strange smells emitting from the water it heated. They can be due to some manufacturing fault in anode rods. Despite that, it’s a good product that is sure to meet your needs in terms of hot water supply.

Pros

Built-in heat traps

Features a 2-inch thick insulation

Tank features a huge 50-gallon capacity

Can easily sustain a 3 to 4 person household

Optimizes inlet pressure to lower cold regions inside the tank

Cons

Heavy and bulky

Tendency to dent at places

Some users report that it can release a strange smell in the water

A.O.  Smith SUN-80

AO Smith SUN-80 Residential Solar Water Heater

Specifications

Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A

Energy Factor (EF): N/A

Dimensions: 24 x 63.25

Water Temp Range: N/A

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Why it Stands Out to Us

This water heater has outperformed all and has scored the runner-up spot on our list with its great features and performance. It comes with a number of different connection options that facilitate its installation according to your requirements.

Although it is specially created to be set up as a part of the solar heating system, it is quite efficient when switched to electric mode during nighttime. That said, you don’t need to do this often as the solar mode alone is enough to sustain a large household. With an 80-gallon capacity, it can easily supply a huge amount of hot water. Consider all these wonderful features, and you won’t be amazed to see it near the top of our recommended list.

Bottom Line

Solar-powered water heaters are the latest addition in the ever-increasing market of water heaters. They have to be efficient enough to maintain a consistent temperature during the day and night. The A.O. Smith SUN-80 does just that. With a large capacity, it is capable of storing hot water for longer periods of time.

Although it is not granted an Energy Star, it promises a great value for its price and service. It works so well that you can even consider capping off the non-solar pipes. Also, its creator is top notch and provides a great 6 year limited warranty to cover the tank and parts. To conclude, we are sure of this product. If it is suiting your needs, you should seriously consider getting it.

Pros

Maintains consistent water temperature

Operates on electrical as well as solar power

Multiple connection options ease its installation

Built-in diffuser dip tube reduces sediment buildup

Can be installed as a part of direct solar heating system

Cons

Unit is huge in size

Lacks energy star certification

Solar model cannot work at night

A.O. Smith GCR-50 ProMax Plus High Efficiency Gas Water Heater, 50 gal

A.O. Smith GCR-50 ProMax Plus High Efficiency Gas Water Heater, 50 gal

Specifications

Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A

Energy Factor (EF): N/A

Dimensions: 22.0 x 57.3″

Water Temp Range: N/A

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Review

This ProMax model is designed with families in mind. This 50-gallon gas-powered water heater has extremely high energy efficiency ratings; so high in fact, that they usually qualify the user to gas utility rebates. A high recovery model, this design makes them a great choice for large families. The heater comes with vent options enabling versatile installment in the home.

The A.O. Smith GCR-50 ProMax Plus High Efficiency Gas Water Heater has been complimented on its durability, on account of the Blue Diamond glass coating used on the products, which helps to prevent against corrosion. This material is far superior to the industry-standard equivalent. On top of this, it includes a Dynaclean diffuser tip tube, specially designed to help prevent the buildup of limescale and other sediments; helping to lengthen the lifespan on the water heater.

It comes with a 6-year limited tank and parts warranty. With a 40,000 BTU burner, it has a first-hour rating of around 84 gallons, recovering at 43 gallons an hour.

A.O. Smith GCR-40 ProMax Plus High Efficiency Gas Water Heater, 40 gal

A.O. Smith GCR-40 ProMax Plus High Efficiency Gas Water Heater, 40 gal

Specifications

Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A

Energy Factor (EF): N/A

Dimensions: 22.0 x 58.5″

Water Temp Range: N/A

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Review

With a 40,000 BTU gas burner and a 40-gallon tank, this gas-powered water heater can deliver 80 gallons of hot water in the first hour. Following this, the water heater can recover at 42 gallons per hour.

A little more efficient than the model above, this water heater has a Universal Energy Factor of 0.66, which doesn’t quite meet the Energy Star requirements but is still relatively efficient. The Green Choice burner installed in this water heat reduces NOx emissions by up to 33%.

This model also features Dynaclean and Blue Diamond glass coating to increase its durability and longevity. While the stainless steel anode rod helps to keep corrosion at bay. This water heater carries a 6-year limited warranty on the tank and parts.

A.O. Smith XCG-50 ProMax Tall Gas Water Heater, 50 gal

A.O. Smith XCG-50 ProMax Tall Gas Water Heater, 50 gal

Specifications

Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A

Energy Factor (EF): N/A

Dimensions: 21.0 x 60.8″

Water Temp Range: N/A

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Review

This gas water heater is made to be an economical option for any buyer, helping to lower the energy bills, while living a long lifespan. The 50-gallon tanks can heat 81 gallons in the first hour. It has a 41-gallon rate of recovery.

The A.O. Smith XCG-50 ProMax Tall Gas Water Heater comes with a 10-year tank warranty. Its Uniform Energy Factor is 0.62, and while it does not meet the rating to for the Energy Star seal, it does meet ultra-low NOx emissions standards.

Also fitted with a Blue Diamond glass coating, this water heater is highly resistant to corrosion from water, increasing its longevity, The Dynaclean diffuser dip tube also increases the durability by helping to protect it from limescale buildup, while ensuring maximum hot water is generated.

A.O. Smith Water Heater Models

A.O. Smith has an extremely comprehensive range of both commercial and residential water heaters. Water heaters can be fueled by gas, propane, electric, or solar.

The range of gas water heating solutions, known as ProLine, is both economical and environmentally-friendly. While also reaching high recovery rates. The range reduces NOx emissions by up to 33%, complying with the highest regulations in the USA.

It has high-efficiency lines targeted to customers looking to significantly reduce energy bills while switching to a greener option. These water heaters have the Energy Star seal, meaning high levels of energy efficiency. For large families, the range presents solutions for high demand application. With models delivering up to 150 gallons of hot water in the first hour, with 100,000 BTU.

Their electric models are also very highly efficient and can cope with high hot water demands if necessary. They are notably durable with commercial-grade components and come with a 6 to 15-year warranty, depending on the product line.

The top end of the line has been awarded the Energy Star. Models range from 2.5 to 80 gallons, with the larger models producing up to 84 gallons in the first hour.

They also offer high-efficiency boilers. With BTU ratings of around 100,000, and tankless models, known for their very high energy efficiency, functioning with a capacity for 199,000 BTU. The tankless models come with a standard 15-year warranty.

A.O. Smith even has a solar range called Cirrex, which has the highest efficiency ratings, and very low carbon emissions. This model can lower energy bills by up to 70%.

What Kind of Warranty Does A.O. Smith Offer?

A.O. Smith is so sure of its products that it backs them up with warranties that are longer than any other brand. There was a time when it used to offer a lifetime warranty to cover its products. This is not happening anymore, and the longest warranty it offers lasts 15 years over some tankless models. Some major key points of A.O. Smith warranty include:

  1. The warranty period can last a minimum of 6 years and a maximum of 15 years, depending on the model. 

  2. It warrants a 6, 8, or 10 years coverage of glass-lined tank and a 6-year warranty of component parts.

  3. A.O. Smith offers a complete replacement of the water heater in case of a leak. 

  4. It also agrees to provide new parts of any component part malfunctions. 

  5. The warranty is extended to the original owner only; any subsequent owners cannot benefit from it. 

  6. The warranty is applicable only if the water heater is in single household usage.

  7. If it is moved from its original place of installation, the warranty is reduced to 1 year instead of 6 years coverage and 3 years for 10 years coverage.

  8. Parts warranty is also reduced to 1 year if the appliance is moved from its original location

a. To make the most of the warranty, make sure that the product is installed according to the local fire and plumbing regulations

b. By an expert professional

c. According to the directions printed in the manual

d. With proper safety practices

Who is A.O. Smith?

A.O. Smith Corporation is the biggest supplier of water heating products. It is an American company that manufactures both residential and commercial-grade water heaters. It was founded in 1874 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and still has its headquarters there. It is named after Arthur Oliver Smith, who was the son of the company’s original founder Charles Jeremiah Smith. Today, it is operating globally with facilities working in the United States, Mexico, Canada, China, India, United Kingdom, Netherlands, and Turkey. To reach its consumers all over the world, it has a sales and distribution network spread over 60 countries. It has come up with a versatile product range that employs its innovation and efficiency. 

Having been operating for over 140 years, A.O. Smith was born from a small business created in 1874 by Charles Jeremiah Smith in Wisconsin. This small company made hardware specialties. Later employing Charles’ three sons, one named Arthur Oliver Smith.

Photo credit: smithpumps.com

A.O. Smith actually started out making car frames, having invented a lightweight frame that he sold to many of the top automobile manufacturers at the time including Cadillac and Ford. His son carried on the family business and developed it into an engineering company that far surpassed its competition.

The son, Ray Smith, led a team of engineers that found a more advanced method of welding. That allowed them to make advancements in their manufacturing of steel products, opening the company to the oil refining industry. Over the years, the A.O. Smith product line evolved with the development of steel tanks lined with fused glass. First used for beer kegs and brewery tanks, this technology fast made its way to the residential water heater world.

Expanding into China, the company has grown its research and development. The cutting-edge technological innovation gave to it the reputation it has today. Now it is one of the largest water heater manufacturers in the entire world. A.O. Smith delivers products with a focus on integrity, customer service, and dynamic innovation.

Tips to Reducing Water Heater Costs

Water heaters can be quite expensive to replace. In this sense, you’re looking to ensure you get the best deal. This not only includes the upfront price, but also the running costs of having it installed.

One of the main things is fuel consumption. No matter whether you’re choosing gas, propane or electricity, you want to consider the amount of energy it uses. Models that have the Energy Star, though more expensive up front, can reduce the cost of your hot water usage considerably. Think about choosing a high-efficiency model as it uses less fuel to produce high amounts of hot water.

Equally consider how you use your hot water. Installing an energy-efficient shower head and aerators on the taps will mean that you use less water at any one time. This prevents you from needing to heat so much.

Second, think of the rhyme, ‘if it’s not dirty, wash at thirty.’ Washing at 30C is usually enough to deal with clothes that aren’t very dirty. It also significantly reduces the amount of hot water you need to pump into your washing machine.

Photo credit: energystart.gov

Think about where your water heater loses heat on its journey. Try insulating any bare pipes so that the heat isn’t lost on its way to the sink or shower. Insulate your tank well as this is a huge source of heat loss. Moreover, consider using a tankless or point-of-use water heater, to reduce the heat loss even more as the water doesn’t sit cooling down and wasting money.

Conclusion

If you are looking to buy a new water heater or replace your old one, then you should definitely consider an A.O. Smith product. They are designed to perform efficiently to sustain all of your hot water needs. Strong and durable, they have a reputation of lasting as long as three decades when properly cared for. We all know that everything has an end date, but with their innovative ideas, A.O. Smith has managed to prolong the life of their products. From electrical, solar to gas-operated, tank-based to tankless, big or small, it always has something for everyone. It’s a highly recommended brand that is perfectly capable of satiating you with hot water. 

A.O. Smith is one of the most well-known brands, manufacturing products worldwide, and for a good reason. With high-quality products put through rigorous testing, and a high level of customer service, the products are exceptionally durable and well-designed.

However, be prepared to pay for that privilege; installation costs are also high. Despite this, customers generally report long lifespans for their A.O. Smith products, and good working order throughout that time.

People Also Ask

We have compiled a list of commonly asked questions, which we hope will be helpful for you in finding out the required answers.

How Long Do A.O. Smith Water Heaters Last?

A.O. Smith products are known for their durability and reliability. Looking at the 6 to 12 years warranty period, we know that the company believes it to be capable of performing for at least 10 years. However, its products tend to last longer than that. There have been some reports of A.O. Smith water heaters lasting for as long as thirty years when they were maintained well. So, we know that this manufacturer takes its products very seriously and crafts products that last much longer than expected.

Does A.O. Smith Own State Water Heaters?

Yes. A.O. Smith currently has the ownership of State Water Heaters. Also known as State Industries Incorporation, it was acquired by A.O. Smith, in 2001. Since then, it has endeavored to bring betterment to the company’s functions. After the acquisition, it has almost doubled the business for State Water Heaters.

What Year is My A.O. Smith Water Heater?

You can easily determine the year your A.O. Smith water heater was manufactured by checking its serial number. It is written on the identification sticker of your device. A.O. Smith employs an alphanumeric code as its serial number. The first two digits of the serial number signify the year of production.

Where is the Serial Number on an A.O. Smith Water Heater?

The serial number of all A.O. Smith water heaters are written on the product information sticker. The sticker is usually pasted over the warning labels beside the energy guide. It is hard to notice at first glance as A.O. Smith rating plates are a bit difficult to read; you have to look properly to find the serial number of your water heating product.



My name is Bob Wells and I am a retired HVAC tech from Washington state. I am currently retired and no longer do much with HVAC, however, I feel like I have a lot of knowledge in the subject and I wanted to create a website where I could talk about what I've learned and help upcoming HVAC techs. Find more info about me and HVAC Training 101.