Hot water becomes more important than ever as the weather gets chillier. Many central heating systems in houses and office buildings depend on hot water to keep the space warm and comfortable, while some houses require hot water specifically for kitchen and bathroom usage. No matter which category of users you belong to, a water heater is something you probably do require.
In this article, we will share insights into the most successful Kenmore water heater models to date, and provide model comparisons and price comparisons to help make your purchase decision easier. Hot water is something we tend to take for granted, except when it’s no longer available in the house. Some homes depend on water heaters to heat up the whole building, while others use it only for hot water in the kitchen and bathroom.
If you’ve noticed leaks or strange noises in your water heater and are suspecting possible failure, or are on the lookout for a new water heater, consider the Kenmore line of water heaters. We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of this renowned brand of water heaters and suggest some models you should consider.
How Does Kenmore Compare to the Competition?
Kenmore has been serving the consumer market for over 100 years now and is one of the most popular brand names when it comes to household appliances, especially in the United States and Canada. Be that as it may, many consumers do not know that Kenmore produces water heaters and furnaces as well, and they are of just as good quality as the other household appliances Kenmore is known for. Here’s why:
Added Safety and Protection
All the gas models in the Kenmore water heater range come with a cobalt-blue glass lining to increases protection. Some higher-end models feature a sturdier Ultra-Coat lining and are even safer.
Low Maintenance
Most Kenmore water heater models have a self-cleaning inlet tube for cold water, which decreases sediment buildup and reduces the frequency of cleaning and maintenance tasks.
Energy Efficient
All the electric models in the Kenmore water heater range are insulated with a complete three inches of energy-efficient foam, which prevents heat loss. This allows the heater to heat up faster, retain heat for longer, and conserve energy.
Smart Technology
One major concern of consumers regarding water heaters is a leak when left unattended. The latest Kenmore models are now equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows you to turn your heater off even when you are away from home, and will also alert you of any occurring leaks in time for you to address the problem.
Comparison of the Best Kenmore Water Heaters
Kenmore has a variety of gas, electric, and hybrid heaters; each of the models has different specifications in terms of space occupied, capacity, efficiency, power, and overall cost. Based on these features, different models are best suited to different needs. To help you pick what fits your requirements, we have summarized the key features of popular models below:
Model Name | Warranty | Tank Insulation Thickness | Tank Height | Tank Lining | Tank Capacity (Gallons) | Uniform Energy Factor | First Hour Rating | Control Type | Fuel Type | Number of Anode Rods |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 33176 | 12 Years Limited | 2 | 57 | Glass | 74 | 0.6 | 125 | Mechanical | Natural Gas | 1 |
| 59250 | 10 Years Limited | 2 | 63 | Glass | 50 | – | 66 | Digital | Electric | 1 |
| 57651 | 6 Years | 1.5 | 57.25 | Glass | 50 | 0.6 | 88 | Digital | Liquid Propane | 1 |
| 58250 | 12 Year Limited | 3 | 60.5 | Glass | 50 | 0.95 | 81 | Digital | Electric | 2 |
| 58640 | 6 Years Limited | 3 | 60.25 | Glass | 40 | 0.92 | 53 | Mechanical | Electric | 1 |
| 58650 | 6 Years Limited | 3 | 62.5 | Glass | 50 | 0.93 | 62 | Mechanical | Electric | 1 |
| 57240 | 12 Years Limited | 2 | 60.25 | – | 40 | 0.66 | 80 | Digital | Natural Gas | 2 |
| 57951 | 9 Years Limited | 1.5 | 57.25 | Glass | 50 | 0.62 | 81 | Mechanical | Natural Gas | 1 |
| 57641 | 6 Years Limited | 2 | 58.25 | Glass | 40 | 0.61 | 65 | Digital | Natural Gas | 1 |
Review of the Best Kenmore Water Heaters
Now that you’ve seen a quick comparison, let’s go into the detailed reviews of these models. With these, you can determine which one suits your needs the best.
Best Overall
Kenmore 33176
Specifications
First Hour Rating (Gal.): 125
Uniform Energy Factor (UEF): 0.60
Recovery at 90°F Rise: 81 GPH
Vent Size: 4″
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Why it Stands Out to Us
The Kenmore 33176 is the most reviewed Kenmore water heater. It is a tall, atmospheric, standard heater, but has an impressive warranty of 12 years. Equipped with RotoSwirl technology, this self-cleaning unit will minimize maintenance cleaning rituals and increase longevity. It can also be considered a “green” appliance since its energy-efficient foam insulation prevents heat loss and minimize fuel usage. It also comes with Ultra-Coat lining and an anode rod to prevent corrosion and keep the unit up and running. Lastly, it has an inbuilt pressure and temperature monitor to keep your family safe and protected.
This 74-gallon water heater is designed for a household of up to five people with normal water usage. It runs on natural gas and uses thick foam insulation to prevent corrosion and heat loss.
The cobalt blue Ultra Coat™ glass-lined tank comes with an anode rod to protect the tank from corrosion. The self-cleaning RotoSwirl cold water inlet tube reduces mineral buildup and the factory-installed temperature and pressure safety relief valve ensure your family is safe.
Choose this water heater if you have a larger household where fast water heating is needed due to several people using hot water at once.
Bottom Line
This 74-gallon water heater is atmospheric and tall with mechanical controls and is fueled by natural gas. It features thick energy-efficient foam insulation to quicken heating, prevent heat loss, and save energy. Its Ultra Coat lining with a single anode rod gives added protection to the unit by preventing corrosion. Not just that, it also comes with an intelligent pressure and temperature safety relief valve to ensure that you and your family always remain safe.
It could be your best choice if you require fast water heating and minimal energy consumption. It also comes with a 12-year warranty, so you can leave all the worries about leaks and such to the manufacturer.
Pros
Designed to last 12 years, with a 12-year limited warranty
A thick, energy-efficient foam insulation to minimize heat loss
An Ultra-Coat protective glass lining in the tank to prevent corrosion
RotoSwirl self-cleaning inlet tube for cold water to decrease mineral buildup
A factory-installed safety relief valve for temperature and pressure regulation
Cons
Lacks a low NOx Burner
Does not come with a power cord
May leak if subjected to improper installation procedures
Runner-up
Kenmore Elite 59250
Specifications
First Hour Rating (Gal.): 70
Uniform Energy Factor (EF): N/A
Recovery at 90°F Rise: 21 GPH
Temperature Range: 80°F – 150°F
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Why it Stands Out to Us
The Kenmore Elite 59250 is a hybrid model with the potential to reduce both your carbon footprint and electricity bills. It traps heat from the surrounding air as a supplemental heavy source for periods of heavy hot water usage, and will, therefore, keep your electricity bill low.
In fact, Kenmore claims that this model uses only half as much energy as other water heaters of similar size. Adding to this, it is also compatible with the Kenmore Wi-Fi app for remote control, regulation, and monitoring of the unit. The LED display and digital interface are intuitive and easy to use.
Bottom Line
This hybrid electric heat pump model by Kenmore makes use of compressor technology, alongside an environment-friendly refrigerant to draw heat from the surroundings and pass it to the water, which cuts down on energy consumption, heating time, and your electricity bills.
It is an indoor unit with quiet operations and comes with a pressure and temperature safety valve to ensure safe regulation, as well as a washable air filter for added convenience. Most importantly, it has an LED display and digital controls, which make it extremely user-friendly. It can also be remotely controlled through the Kenmore Wi-Fi app, thanks to its smart technology.
Pros
Washable air filter for added convenience
Temperature and pressure relief valve for security
Extremely energy efficient with a 3.42 Energy Factor Rating
Intuitive digital user interface permits easy control of temperature and other settings
Backup heating elements offer a long-lasting, supplemental heat source for periods of heavy use
Cons
No power cord is included
It is not a self-cleaning unit
Lacks a heavy-duty anode rod
Best for the Money
Kenmore 57651
Specifications
First Hour Rating (Gal.): 88
Uniform Energy Factor (UEF): 0.60
Recovery at 90°F Rise: 38 GPH
Vent Size: 3″ or 4″
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Why it Stands Out to Us
This product is best for its convenient size and good capacity, which make it just the right size for average-sized families with average water usage. It comes with a digital user interface that is intuitive and easy to use, making it easy to operate, set, and monitor.
It also has Kenmore’s signature energy-efficient foam lining to prevent heat loss, which makes it quick to heat up, as reflected by the remarkable 88-gallon first-hour rating. A self-cleaning water inlet tube prevents mineral from building up, which saves maintenance and cleaning costs over time.
Bottom Line
The Kenmore 57651 is a 50-gallon liquid propane water heater which is best suited for up to five-person households with average water usage. Built for indoor installation, it is quiet in its running, and with an inbuilt safety valve, it is also safe to use. The tank is also lined with energy-efficient thick foam lining, which will reduce energy consumption.
Most importantly, it also has a digital control display, which makes the interface extremely user-friendly. However, do note that it has a digital display, but not Wi-Fi connectivity, therefore, it cannot be remotely controlled.
Pros
Digital user interface and control type for added convenience
Self-cleaning cold-water inlet tube to prevent sediment buildup
An 88-gallon first-hour rating, which is higher than most similar models
Features heat trap fittings for increased heat retention and better functioning
Energy-efficient insulating foam lining to prevent heat loss and maximize power
Cons
Does not have a low NOx burner
Smaller warranty period than other models
Does not have Kenmore Wi-Fi app compatibility
Best Kenmore Electric Water Heater
Kenmore 58250
Specifications
First Hour Rating (Gal.): 81
Uniform Energy Factor (UEF): 0.95
Recovery at 90°F Rise: 25 GPH
Temperature Range: 60°F – 150°F
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Why it Stands Out to Us
This water heater has it all. It is a self-cleaning device to prevent mineral build-up, and also has a baked enamel exterior finish for additional resistance to lime build-up. This gives the heater unit extra efficiency and durability, thereby saving heating time, as well as your electricity bill. Not only this, the water heater is one step ahead of its counterparts because it features two heavy-duty anode rods for heat transmission to the water. This ensures that water will heat up quicker and better. Lastly, the digital controls make it user-friendly and conveniently operated.
This 50-gallon water heater meets the minimum recommended size for a three to four-person household with typical water use. It has three inches of foam insulation for better thermal efficiency and a long-life baked enamel exterior finish. The elements on this Kenmore electric water heater are designed to combat lime build-up.
It also features a polymer dip tube, a cobalt-blue glass-lined tank, and two large anode rods for protection against corrosion. The tank and parts have a 12-year limited warranty. Self-cleaning, cold-water inlet tube swirls the water to prolong tank life and maintain energy efficiency by discouraging lime buildup and comes with built-in temperature and pressure safety relief valves. This heater is compatible with the Kenmore Smart Water Heater Module for smartphone remote control.
Bottom Line
The Kenmore 58250 is a standard atmospheric tall electric heater, best suited for a three to four-person household with average hot water consumption. It comes with added protection against mineral and lime build-up, which increases the life of the unit and also supplements its functioning by retaining heat. It is easy to maintain thanks to the self-cleaning water inlet tube and is also easy to use because of the digital user interface, which allows easy monitoring and manipulation of temperature and pressure settings.
Pros
The body and parts are extra-resistant to lime build-up
Self-cleaning inlet tube for cold water to prevent build-up
Extra heat retention through a polymer dip tube and glass lining
Long-lasting baked enamel finish on the exterior for added efficiency
Three-inch, energy-efficient foam insulation lining for increased heating power
Cons
Might leak if subjected to improper installation methods
Does not come with a power cord, so it has to be purchased separately
Does not come with a power cord, so it has to be purchased separately
Best Kenmore 40-Gallon Electric Water Heater
Kenmore 58640
Specifications
First Hour Rating (Gal.): 53
Uniform Energy Factor (UEF): 0.92
Recovery at 90°F Rise: 21 GPH
Temperature Range: 110°F – 150°F
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Why it Stands Out to Us
This is the best option available for those who do not require larger units. In even a small size, this electric water heater has all the features needed for a good heater. It comes with a self-cleaning water inlet tube guaranteeing longevity, a three inches thick foam insulation to increase energy efficiency and save on electricity bills, and a heavy-duty anode rod to supplement the heating function. To top it all off, it also has a digital LED display, which makes it very user-friendly.
Bottom Line
This tall model of the standard atmospheric electric water heater is designed for a household of up to four people and has a capacity of 40 gallons. Even though it is small, it possesses all the features found in its larger counterparts.
It has a self-cleaning cold water inlet tube to decrease sediment buildup, which makes it easy to maintain, both in terms of effort and money. Its thick foam insulation and anode rod feature also make it energy efficient and quick. Lastly, the digital display and controls guarantee the utmost ease of control.
Pros
Dual heating elements increase performance and efficiency
Anode rod feature helps fight corrosion and adds to product life
Three-inch energy-efficient insulation foam lining for quick heating
Safety relief valve for pressure and temperature for maximum protection
Comes with a self-cleaning inlet tube for cold water to decrease the mineral build-up
Cons
Power cord is not included
The capacity is relatively lower
Few options in the heating range
Best Kenmore 50-Gallon Electric Water Heater
Kenmore 58650
Specifications
First Hour Rating (Gal.): 62
Uniform Energy Factor (UEF): 0.93
Recovery at 90°F Rise: 21 GPH
Temperature Range: 110°F – 150°F
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Why it Stands Out to Us
This product is exactly the same in all its features as the Kenmore 58640 reviewed just above. However, this is the bigger version of that product, meaning it is better suited to larger households. At a 50-gallon capacity, it is easy to maintain and operate thanks to its self-cleaning cold water inlet tube, thick foam insulation, two heating elements of 4500W each, and its anode rod attachment. What makes the experience even better is the digital display and controls.
Bottom Line
Designed for households of up to five people, this 50-gallon electric water heater is a standard atmospheric tall unit. It is simple and easy to use and does not require much maintenance or upgrades, either.
If you don’t require remote control options, this could be the best choice for you with its digital display for user convenience. Its foam insulation and anode rod guarantee quick and long-lasting heating, and a self-cleaning water inlet tube prevents mineral and lime build-up.
Pros
Three-inch thick foam insulation for heat loss prevention
Self-cleaning water inlet tube to reduce maintenance costs
Anode rod feature for added efficiency and longer product life
Dual heating elements for quicker and more consistent heating
Temperature and pressure safety relief valve for the utmost protection
Cons
No power cord is included
Might leak if subjected to improper installation
Does not offer a wide range of heating options
Best Kenmore Gas Water Heater
Kenmore 57240
Specifications
First Hour Rating (Gal.): 80
Uniform Energy Factor (UEF): 0.66
Recovery at 90°F Rise: 41 GPH
Vent Size: 3″ or 4″
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Why it Stands Out to Us
This natural gas water heater with a capacity of 40 gallons is ideal for smaller households that wish to save on electricity costs and use the relatively cheaper natural gas fuel option. It is even more cost-effective with its energy-efficient foam insulation, which boosts the heating function alongside the complementary anode rods. The digital control makes it extremely convenient to use, while the self-cleaning inlet is resistant to corrosion, thereby reducing maintenance requirements.
Bottom Line
For smaller households who want to minimize their water heating costs, this heater offers good value. It is operated on natural gas and has a 40-gallon capacity. It also comes with foam insulation and anode rods in the tank, which guarantee energy efficiency and quick heating for longer periods.
The self-cleaning water inlet tube makes it easy to maintain by preventing sediment buildup and increases the service life of the heater. Lastly, it has digital controls for maximized user-friendliness and ease of use.
Pros
2-inch thick energy-efficient foam insulation
Inbuilt pressure and temperature safety relief valve
Cobalt-blue glass lining in the tank for longer life of the tank
Two anode rods instead of one for added corrosion prevention
Self-cleaning water inlet tube for cold water to prevent sediment buildup
Cons
No power cord is included
Does not have a low NOx burner
Might leak if subjected to improper installation procedures
Best Kenmore 50-Gallon Gas Water Heater
Kenmore 57951
Specifications
First Hour Rating (Gal.): 81
Uniform Energy Factor (UEF): 0.62
Recovery at 90°F Rise: 41 GPH
Vent Size: 3″ or 4″
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Why it Stands Out to Us
This water heater is safe to use with its Kenmore Signature Safety Relief Valve for pressure and temperature in order to maximize safety for its users. It is also very easy to operate and maintain. While the self-cleaning cold water inlet tube prevents sediment buildup, the thick foam insulation and anode rod attachments in the tank also prevent heat loss. These features increase efficiency and boost performance. It also has a wide range of heating options.
Bottom Line
This heater is best designed for five-person households with average water consumption, as it has a capacity of 50 gallons. It also has a self-cleaning inlet tube that adds to the service life of the water heater. The thick foam insulation and anode rod feature found in the tank adds to heat retention and the consequent heating power, making it an extremely efficient appliance. The only possible drawback one could find with this model is that it has a mechanical control, which some people find difficult to manage.
Pros
Anode rod for longer life of the product
1.5 inches of energy-efficient insulation foam lining
Tank is lined with glass for extra protection against corrosion
Wide heating range options between 55 and 155 degrees Fahrenheit
Safety relief valve for pressure and temperature to maximize protection
Cons
Power cord is not included
Does not have a low NOx burner
Does not have a digital control and display
Best Kenmore 40-Gallon Gas Water Heater
Kenmore 57641
Specifications
First Hour Rating (Gal.): 65
Uniform Energy Factor (UEF): 0.61
Recovery at 90°F Rise: 36 GPH
Vent Size: 3″ or 4″
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Why it Stands Out to Us
This Kenmore water heater is a natural gas type and has a capacity of 40 gallons. Because it is smaller than its counterparts, it is ideal for those with lower hot water consumption. This model comes with heat trap fittings, which ensure maximum heat synthesis and retention, thereby guaranteeing that it heats up water quickly and consistently. The heating efficiency of the heater is supplemented by the thick foam insulation and anode rod attachment. It also has a safety relief valve for pressure and temperature, making it safe for your homes.
The Kenmore 57941 has a 40-gallon tank capacity and runs on natural gas. A 40-gallon natural gas water heater is the minimum recommended size for a two to four-person household with typical water use.
It uses two inches of foam insulation for energy efficiency and has a cobalt-blue glass-lined tank with a large anode rod to protect the tank from corrosion. It also includes a self-cleaning cold water inlet tube that reduces and protects against mineral build-up in the tank. It has a nine-year warranty on the tank and parts. Like the other water heaters in this list, it comes with factory-installed temperature and pressure relief valve.
Go for this option if you have a small household with limited hot water needs.
Bottom Line
For those looking for a compact water heater to cater to a relatively lower hot water demand, this natural gas heater is not only an efficient appliance, but also very cost-effective. It has thick foam insulation in the tank and heat trap fittings throughout to guarantee efficient heating.
The self-cleaning cold water inlet tube alongside the anode rod feature prevents sediment buildup, promising minimized maintenance checks. To top it off, it also has a digital display and control type.
Pros
2-inch thick foam for insulation and heat retention
Anode rod and glass-lined tank for corrosion prevention
Relief valve for pressure and temperature to increase safety
Self-cleaning cold water inlet tube for protection against the buildup
Heat trap fittings to retain maximum heat and increase performance
Cons
No power cord is included
Does not have a low NOx burner
Smaller capacity than other counterparts
The Best of Kenmore Water Heaters
Over its 100 years of history, Kenmore has delivered high quality and innovation to hundreds of millions of customers. It is the most awarded brand in the appliance industry and has received numerous awards, including the Consumers Digest Best Buy Award, 32 Reviewed.com awards, as well as five Women’s Choice Awards from 2014 to 2018.
This is an indicator of the excellent reception from buyers and homeowners who have used Kenmore appliances. You can be confident in having a good experience when you purchase a Kenmore-branded appliance.
Complete Buyer’s Guide
In case you’re having a tough time figuring out which Kenmore product is right for you, we have good news. Kenmore has a brand and product buying guide on its website, which explains the characteristics of each product line and the features you can expect. Because not every customer is looking for the same features and price points, not every product in their line will be best for you.
Using their buying guide can point you in the right direction for the product or appliance you want for your home.
Kenmore Has a B2B Platform
For people looking to partner with Kenmore, their B2B platform KenmoreDirect™ offers features suitable for builders and property managers. Kenmore offers services like full delivery and installation, flexible credit options, and a dedicated account manager.
This platform helps Kenmore stand out from the competition, giving it an advantage in gaining loyal corporate customers while enabling builders and property managers to meet with Kenmore and have possible contracts.
Warranty
One of the queries a lot of consumers have is whether their product will be backed by a solid warranty. Kenmore offers a limited warranty for their products, and depending on the product, the period of the warranty can vary from six to twelve years. This is slightly higher than the average brand warranty of three to twelve years.
You will need to provide the proof of sale to claim this warranty, and there are certain conditions for the warranty. For water heaters, the warranty coverage applies when it is correctly connected, installed, operated, and maintained according to Kenmore’s instructions.
Thanks to its solid warranty and relatively easy claim process, buyers of Kenmore water heaters can rest easy, knowing that the manufacturer will help them out in case something goes wrong with their purchase.
Smart Technology
One concern that homeowners have is that their water heater might leak while they are out of the house, causing flooding and expensive damage. But Kenmore has a nifty solution for this, as well.
A few Kenmore water heaters are compatible with Kenmore Smart Water Heater Module, which has Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring, control, and leak detection from your smartphone. This system will ensure that you are alerted remotely when a leak takes place, allowing you to get the problem fixed before major damage occurs. Using the free Kenmore Smart App, you can have full control of your hot water heater remotely.
In the highly connected world we live in today, such innovations can really make life easier for us, and Kenmore is always at the forefront of such useful inventions in home appliances. Whether it’s turning the heater off remotely to save utility costs or getting warned about leaks, this type of “smart device” is sure to make life more convenient.
A Slight Complaint on Kenmore Water Heaters
While most Kenmore water heaters run just fine, some owners have complained about their water heaters leaking after a few years of operation. You should keep this fact in mind when shopping for a new water heater. And always check consumer reviews about a particular model you may be considering.
Leakages can be caused by defects in the system or by improperly installed equipment. So to avoid the latter, always choose a reputable licensed professional to perform the installation of your water heater.
What Kind of Warranty Does Kenmore Offer?
In order to claim a warranty, the customer must show proof of original sale from Kmart, Sears, or any other authorized Kenmore retailer. Kenmore offers a limited warranty on tanks, parts, and labor, and the warranty period and type of warranty varies across models. Given that all advised connection, installation, operation, and maintenance protocols were followed, Kenmore offers the following warranty coverage:
- For one-year from date of sale: If defective workmanship is found, the heater will be repaired or replaced free of cost. Any new parts will also be installed free of cost.
- For [WARRANTY DURATION] years from the date of sale: If leaks are found, the heater will be repaired or replaced free of cost. If defects in workmanship are found, the part will be repaired or replaced, but installation costs are payable by the customer. The warranty duration varies for different models and usually ranges between 6 and 12 years.
Note that all warranties are limited. Kenmore will not be liable to any bystander harmed by an appliance; only the purchaser can hold the manufacturer liable.
Types of Kenmore Water Heaters
Kenmore water heaters are available in electric, hybrid, liquid propane, and natural gas-powered variants. Each type of heater is suitable for certain applications and homes.
These water heaters come with features like a glass-lined tank and foam insulation, which help to ward off corrosion and heat loss, thus ensuring maximum performance.
Electric
Electric water heaters have a few advantages over gas water heaters. Electric heaters have no chance of a gas leak and don’t require a pilot light, preventing the inconvenience of relighting the flame. Installing an electric water heater is easier and faster than gas heaters, and in general, is much cheaper to install. Electric water heaters generally last longer than gas water heaters, providing you with good value for your money.
Hybrid
Hybrid water heaters use a heat pump to pull heat from the air to heat the water. It works like a refrigerator in reverse and cools the area surrounding the tank. When a lot of hot water is needed at once, the hot water heater switches to electric heat to fulfill the extra needs. This combination of heating technologies allow for more energy efficiency, saving you money in the long run.
Kenmore hybrid water heaters are also compatible with the Kenmore Smart Water Heater Module, which connects your smartphone to your heater, giving you remote control capabilities.
Gas
Kenmore gas-powered water heaters also have some advantages over their water heaters. For example, they heat water around twice as fast as electric water heaters, which is ideal for large families. They are available in a wide range of sizes and capacities, from 30 to 98 gallons. Unlike electric heaters, a gas water heater is still operable during periods of no power.
Liquid Propane
One big advantage of liquid propane hot water heaters is that they typically use even less energy than electric water heaters. Kenmore liquid propane water heaters have thick insulation to keep the tank warm, while the cobalt-blue glass lining protects the tank from corrosion.
How to Know Your Water Heater Is About to Fail
You can often tell that your water heater is about to give out before the failure actually happens. Here are some common signs to watch out for.
Lack of Hot Water
One of the first signs of an impending water heater failure is the lack of sufficient hot water. Over time, mineral deposits from the water can build up in the tank as sediment and create a barrier between the burner and the water. It means that the heater’s effectiveness decreases, and your heater heating element has to work harder. It is not only costly in terms of fuel or energy but also hastens the failure of your heater.
Popping or Rumbling Noises
Another sign of possible water heater failures about to happen is creaking or rumbling noises. These noises can be caused by hard water and mineral buildup, or as the minerals form a layer on the surface of the water heater. The rumbling sound is caused by pockets of air in the sediment layer boiling along with the water in your tank.
Minor Leaks
Small leaks are often a sign of upcoming major leaks and possibly expensive repairs. If you notice water around your water heater, or if it leaks when standing, chances are that your heater’s inner tank is close to the end. These slow leaks can quickly turn into big leaks, potentially causing a flood.
As soon as you suspect that your water heater is about to fail, you should call in a professional to thoroughly check it out. Early and prompt action can save you a lot of money from flood damage and repairs.
Kenmore Water Heater History
Introduced in 1993 and owned by Transform Holdco, Kenmore is a popular brand of household appliances across the United States and Canada. Kenmore’s products are sold by Sears and a few other authorized retailers, while they are manufactured by a host of leading appliance manufacturers like LG, Whirlpool, and Panasonic. Kenmore has a large portfolio of household appliances, including refrigerators, vacuum cleaners, television sets, and barbeque grills, to name a few.
The brand Kenmore first appeared on sewing machines in 1913 and was introduced by Sears, Roebuck, and Co. The brand soon appeared on more home appliances, and after WWII, Kenmore offered the latest home items that every homeowner wanted in their kitchen. The brand stood out from others by offering appliances in various colors.
Over time, the company continued to offer novel and useful products to help make everyday chores a little easier, ranging from countertop appliances to vacuum cleaners.
Kenmore is the number one manufacturer of home appliances in the industry today. Kenmore is exclusively available at Sears and is ranked in either the number one or number two spot in every major appliance that they sell.
Conclusion
With some of the top heaters by a company with 100 years of experience reviewed in detail, you now have an array of product features to choose from according to your needs. Do remember to keep an eye out for heater size, control type, and fuel type, and follow up with any other specific requirements.
Now that you know the background of Kenmore products and what sort of features they offer in their water heater range, you are well positioned to make an informed decision about whether Kenmore water heaters are right for you. Keep in mind the warranty offered, the kind of water heater (gas, electric ,or hybrid) you will need as well as the extra features, such as smartphone-based control offered. Also factor in the price and capacity of the water tank into your decision making. Happy buying!
People Also Ask
Customers often have questions about products they are considering, and here we have responded to the most frequently asked questions about Kenmore water heaters and given you all the key details you need to know before making an informed decision:
Different models are designed to last for different periods. Normally, with proper maintenance, Kenmore heaters outlast their intended service life. The average life expectancy of Kenmore water heaters is eight years, but there can be variations depending on the model, location, maintenance schedule, and installation quality.
Some parts, such as the safety relief valve, should simply be replaced upon showing signs of failure. However, if a heater that is 8-12 years old has leakage or works inconsistently, then it would be best to replace it and not wait for failure actually to occur. In this case, do check if the problem is attributed to the unit itself or an external source.
A.O. Smith is a manufacturing brand independent of Kenmore. A.O. Smith owns GSW, a competitor of Kenmore, also manufactures for Whirlpool, which is a manufacturer for Kenmore. This is why consumers often get confused between the two brands.
