State Water Heaters has made over 500 water heater products for both commercial and residential use. Their products count among the best water heaters in the United States. This article highlights State’s top products and other details about the company to help you decide if it is the right choice for you.
Priding itself on its technology and durability, State Water Heaters has a lot to offer to the water heating industry. For commercial or residential customers, they have more to offer than a widespread reputation.
They have an extensive and diverse range of products, with tools to help customers decide which device is better for them. Here is a little insight into why they make an excellent choice.
How Does State Compare to the Competition?
State Water Heaters Company is owned by A.O. Smith, which is one of the biggest names in this industry. They have the highest quality of manufacturing you can find anywhere. These are some things that make State standout among its competitors.
Efficiency
All of State’s water heaters are high-efficiency models and many of them comply with Energy Star standards. They all have thick insulation and energy-saving mechanisms to reduce standby heat loss. They can handle the high demands of large homes. All of these models have either ultra-low or low NOx emissions which makes then environment-friendly products. Their UEF and EF ratings are high, on average.
Variety
State has a wide variety of products. They can be divided into several categories.
Commercial
Commercial water heaters generally have higher capacities and better recovery time. They can be used in big buildings with high hot water demands. Their different kinds include:
- Natural Gas
- Oil
- Electric
- Solar
- Tank
- Residential
These products are built to handle the load of small to large homes. They come in different fuel and vent types, meeting the requirements of every homeowner.
- Natural Gas
- Liquid Propane
- Electric
- Solar
- Boiler
- Tankless
These can be found in standard atmospheric vent, direct-vent, power-vent, or direct-power-vent types. You can buy any water heater extra parts you might need from their stores.
Self-Cleaning
Over time, water heaters can get clogged up due to sediment accumulation and this reduces the water flow. This is why they require constant cleaning and maintenance, which can be hectic. State Water Heater products include self-cleaning technology to help reduce work while increasing product life and efficiency.
Comparison of the Best State Water Heaters
Here is a comparison of our top State Water Heater picks. They will help you get a quick overview of their main aspects to select the right one for your home.
| Model Name | Unit Size (Gallons) | Energy Efficiency (SEER) | Condenser Fan Motor | Cost of Unit Only |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS6-50-BRT(SELECT) | 50 | 0.60 | N/A | – |
| GS6-50-BRT | 50 | 0.62 | N/A | $409 |
| GS6-50-YBFT | 50 | 0.69 | Non -Condensing | $985 |
| GTS-540-NIH | N/A | 0.93 | N/A | $1,188 |
| EN6-50-DORT | 50 | 0.95 | N/A | $399 |
| HPX-50-DHPTNE | 50 | 3.45 | N/A | $1,530 |
| GS6-40YBPDS | 40 | 0.68 | N/A | $2,650 |
Review of the Best State Water Heaters
We have established that State offers a variety of water heaters. These are the top ones divided into categories to help you make a better decision. Have a look at our detailed reviews to see if you find the perfect one for you.
Best Overall
ProLine® XE High-Efficiency Flue Damper
Specifications
Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A
Energy Factor (EF): 0.69
Dimensions: 22″ x 57.25″
Water Temp Range: N/A
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Why it Stands Out to Us
ProLine water heaters are the top water heaters produced by any A.O. Smith subsidiary. They include many advanced features like Blue Diamond coating. This glass coating helps fight rust and sediment buildup in the tank. The self-cleaning mechanism adds to this feature. The XE line, which this product is a part of, also includes electronic control systems for faster heating response and better performance. Running diagnostics are also easy with its LED status indicator. It conforms to the low NOx emission standards and uses a stainless steel anode rod that has a higher life than brass. You can enjoy around five back-to-back hot showers with this gas water heater.
Bottom Line
Many water heaters have similar features but their delivery of service differs. That is why companies keep releasing newer versions with enhanced parameters. This 50-gallon water heater is from the latest series of ProLine heaters, i.e. the XE line. This model has high-efficiency and is environment-friendly. It has a safe electronic ignition system. This has a tall tank with a standard vent. This water heater is ideal for an average family. The automatic flue damper reduces the dangers of strong up-draft of gases.
Pros
It has low NOx emissions
Energy Star qualified water heater
LED status indicator for diagnostics
Electronic gas control for more efficient performance
The stainless steel anode protects the tank from corrosion
Cons
Its Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) is low
Runner-up
ProLine® Series 50-Gal Gas Water Heater
Specifications
Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A
Energy Factor (EF): 0.62
Dimensions: 21″ x 57″
Water Temp Range: N/A
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Why it Stands Out to Us
This product is made to reduce your monthly energy bills. It conforms to low NOx emission standards and reduces them by 33%. The first-hour rating is pretty good at 81 gallons. The Piezo push-button igniter ensures safe start-of-the-art operation. It uses a self-cleaning dip tube that swirls water inside itself and keeps the sediments from settling down. The dip tube is made from PEX cross-linked polymer used in cooling systems, domestic water piping, and hydronic radiant heating for its thermal resistance and strength. The anode rod is standard durable stainless steel. It has an internal microprocessor for a faster heating response.
Bottom Line
Since we have established that ProLine is the best line of water heaters from A.O. Smith and State, our runner-up is, of course, from the same series. This is not the latest XE series but is still good enough to deliver efficient performance and continuous hot water whenever needed. It also has features like self-cleaning and the signature Blue Diamond coating that makes State water heaters great. It uses a standard vent and the recovery rate is an average of 41 gallons per hour. You will enjoy four back-to-back showers or three showers at the same time with this gas water heater.
Pros
It has low NOx emissions
Uses safe Piezo push-button igniter
Stainless steel anode prevents corrosion
Self-cleaning dip tube made from durable PEX cross-linked polymer
The electronic gas control does not require any external power supply
Cons
This product is not Energy Star verified
It has atmospheric-type venting which is not as efficient as direct or power-venting
Best for the Money
GTS-540-NIH Tankless Water Heater
Specifications
Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A
Energy Factor (EF): 0.93
Dimensions: 11.25″ x 17.75″ x 63″
Water Temp Range: N/A
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Why it Stands Out to Us
Tankless water heaters always save energy because they do not need to be kept on for long periods of time to get hot water. This water heater uses a recirculation pump that gives hot water instantly. It is certified by Energy Star and has a good UEF rating of 0.93. The two heat exchangers used in its tank ensure fast heating. One is made from copper, which has high thermal conductivity and one is made from stainless steel that has a higher lifespan. Its features include an electronic temperature control and display that also let you choose between different modes. There are protections against overheating, surges, and freezing.
Bottom Line
Tankless water heaters are an important consideration while buying water heaters. They deliver higher efficiency than standard water heaters and cost much less on both installation and fuel. Sometimes, they are not acceptable when there is a huge demand for hot water, but in a normal or small home, they are a perfect choice. There is no need to waste space and money on large tank water heaters that will be a hassle and require maintenance. This water heater does not need a chimney to vent, instead, it can use a much cheaper PVC pipe. This product has an excellent 15-year limited warranty.
Pros
This is an Energy Star verified product
Easy-to-use interface to control efficiency
Condensing technology ensures minimum power waste
Dual heat exchanger technology to give instant hot water
Includes several safety features for protection and safe use
Cons
Primary heat exchanger is stainless steel which has less thermal conductivity than copper
Electric Water Heaters
The following are the best electric water heaters State has put out in the market:
Best State Select Electric Water Heater
EN6-50-DORT Select® Standard
Specifications
Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A
Energy Factor (EF): 0.95
Dimensions: 22″ x 60″
Water Temp Range: N/A
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Why it Stands Out to Us
Electric water heaters can save you money on extra fuel and the headache of finding the right type of venting system to suit your home. They don’t need all that. This water heater is designed to maximize the hot water output in an environment-friendly way. It uses non-CFC foam for insulation and decreases any chance of standby heat loss. It has two heating elements that work on 4500 watts, which improves the recovery time. Both heating elements and the anode rod are made from durable stainless steel. The dip tube has a self-cleaning mechanism and is made from PEX cross-linked polymer.
Bottom Line
This water heater is from the SELECT line of water heaters, exclusive to State Water Heaters. It has a Blue Diamond Coating and uses a stainless steel material that makes it highly durable and strong. You get a good heating time with this product and the insulation ensures a good Energy Factor rating of 0.95. Electric water heaters are mostly used in areas where the power bills are not too high. In those cases, this type of water heater can save money and deliver high efficiency at the same time. This product has a good first-hour rating of 73 gallons and a recovery of 21 gallons per hour.
Pros
Dual 4,500 Watt heating elements
It has a Blue Diamond Glass coating
CoreGard anode rod protects from corrosion
Self-cleaning dip tube that reduces sediment build-up
Environment-friendly insulation that reduces standby heat loss
Cons
It has no digital control system
This product is not Energy Star qualified
Best State 50-Gallon Electric Water Heater
ProLine® XE Hybrid Electric Heat Pump
Specifications
Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A
Energy Factor (EF): 3.45
Dimensions: 22″ x 63″
Water Temp Range: N/A
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Why it Stands Out to Us
Apart from being electric, which already means fewer flue gasses, this water heater has a Uniform Energy Rating of 3.45, which is well above the minimum limit set forth for electric water heaters by Energy Star. Tier 3 advanced water heaters have stricter regulations to be environment-friendly and efficient. This product meets those requirements. The digital user-interface is easy to use. You don’t only get to control the temperature but also the different modes like the vacation mode. This mode helps reduce power consumption when nobody is home. You can also read diagnostic codes on the display. It uses hybrid heating technology that reduces the use of electricity even further by using environmental heat when demand is low.
Bottom Line
Electric water heaters have one main issue with them; they substantially increase the monthly power bill. This is why hybrid features were introduced which minimize the use of electricity. This water heater can reduce your energy costs by approximately 73%. Of course, all other necessary features are included like the heavy-duty anode rod to prevent rust and dual heating elements that reduce recovery time. With its Tier 3 specifications, you can be sure to enjoy hot water, even in cold weather. It also makes installation easy with opposite intake and outlet connections.
Pros
High Uniform Energy Factor of 3.45
Tier 3 advanced water heater standards
Dual heating elements for fast recovery time
2-inch foam insulation that increases heat retention
Easy-to-use electronic interface for temperature settings
Cons
Foam insulation is not non-CFC
Gas Water Heaters
To cater to the needs of different people, State has also introduced the following gas heaters:
Best State Select Gas Water Heater
Select Gas Tank Water Heater GS6-50-BRT
Specifications
Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A
Energy Factor (EF): 0.60
Dimensions: 21″ x 57″
Water Temp Range: N/A
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Why it Stands Out to Us
This water heater from the SELECT 300/301 Series was made to give an efficient performance at low energy costs. Its first-hour rating is pretty high at 88 gallons, while meeting the low NOx emission standards by emitting less than 40ng/J. This model also includes the self-cleaning dip tube feature to make maintenance easier. It has an internal microprocessor that lets you control enhanced parameters and provide an accurate temperature sensor reading. You can also run diagnostics with the LED status indicators. It also has a Blue Diamond Coating, along with a stainless steel anode rod to increase its life and performance.
Bottom Line
This water heater is from an older line that uses atmospheric venting. But its delivery is exceptional. You will get continuous hot water for your entire house with its good recovery rating and 50-gallon tank size. The stainless steel build ensures long life and rust prevention. With its Intelligent Control Logic, the diagnostics, efficiency, and use have been made easier. This water heater will give you long-lasting performance with the 40,000 BTU gas burner.
Pros
Blue Diamond Glass coating for durability
LED status indicator lights for diagnostics
It complies with low NOx emission standards
Intelligent control unit that optimizes performance
Has a good 50-gallon capacity for average-sized families
Cons
Low Uniform Energy Factor of 0.60
Uses atmospheric venting instead of direct or power-vent
Best State 40-Gallon Gas Water Heater
ProLine® XE Power Direct Vent
Specifications
Max Water Flow (GPM): N/A
Energy Factor (EF): 0.68
Dimensions: 22″ x 49.63″
Water Temp Range: N/A
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Why it Stands Out to Us
This direct-vent water heater is made to handle space heating, as well. You get a two-in-one function that will save you money on fuel. Apart from that, this product is also Energy Star qualified and meets the low NOx emission standards. This model uses a hot-surface ignitor to start combustion. It does that by using friction like the filament of a light bulb. This reduces energy consumption compared to the standing pilot feature. This water heater also includes a self-cleaning dip tube and stainless steel anode rod that increase its life.
Bottom Line
This model is our last pick from the endless line of top-quality State water heaters. It has all the standard features that a good water heater ought to have including, but not limited to, a tamper-resistant valve, standard female hose, ¼-turn radius screwdriver slot, and easy usage. This gas water heater is highly durable and delivers strong performance throughout users, just like any ProLine XE Series water heater. Its tank capacity is ideal for an average-sized home and family.
Pros
Includes a self-cleaning dip tube
It is an Energy Star qualified water heater
Can handle both water and space heating
Conforms to low NOx emission standards
Hot surface igniter reduces energy consumption
Cons
Has a limited 6-year warranty only
The Best of State Water Heaters
With an indisputably good reputation, State Water Heaters are known for being leaders in innovation. Here are a few reasons why:
Product Selection Software
One of the most integral things in order to find a water heater that is right for you, is calculating the right size for your needs. This increases efficiency and ensures you have a comfortable and consistent experience.
State Water Heaters has integrated an online software called “StateSize” on its website that helps you calculate the size you need and to find products that match your requirements. Their PayBack Calculator also helps you to find a heater that will help you with energy savings and determine how long it will take to recoup the initial cost.
In line with their focus towards customer service, this software is an easy way to choose something that’s right for you. Their PayBack Calculator also helps you to find a cost-effective heater.
Recirculating Pump for Condensing Tankless Heaters
The new line of condensing tankless water heaters in State’s collection integrates a recirculation pump that connects easily to standard recirculation systems. This allows it to provide hot water instantly, even in large residential applications.
With an Energy Factor of 0.95, these devices are extremely energy efficient. So much so that they have been awarded the Energy Star rating.
Ideal for large applications, this tankless water heater can deliver 199,000 BTU (British Thermal Units) per hour, while still complying with ultra-low NOx standards.
Extremely durable, these water heaters are made from marine-grade stainless steel and come with a 15-year warranty, demonstrating confidence in their products.
Durability Features
State Water Heaters make very durable products; something they pride themselves on. All their products, both in their residential and commercial ranges, are lined with the proprietary Blue Diamond coating to protect them from corrosion. The Blue Diamond lining is known to be the most effective corrosion-protectant in the industry.
All residential models come with a self-cleaning system to reduce your maintenance time while keeping the water heater clean and free from damaging sediment and corrosive compounds. Equally, the anode rods used to protect from corrosion come with a stainless steel core; another extremely efficient method of protection. The drain valves are all made of brass to cut down on oxidation and help keep them secure for longer.
Energy Star Qualified Products
The Energy Star Seal is given to water heaters that perform exceedingly above energy efficiency requirements. State water heaters have proudly gained this rating due to their innovative “green” design. By being more efficient, State’s water heaters save you money on your gas bills.
State Water Heaters employs “Green Choice” gas burners into its products. These burners reduce NOx emissions by 30%, while also completing their combustion processes in a very efficient manner. This reduces the fuel used and bad emissions, while also saving you money and reducing your carbon footprint.
Dynaclean Diffuser Tube
The DynaClean diffuser tube installed in State’s water heaters is employed in the self-cleaning system. The special tip produces turbulence in the water, because of the water jets. Unlike other systems, this helps to breakdown sediment and limescale as it forms on the heaters.
By employing this diffuser tip, these products are more durable than their counterparts. As it helps the system to clean automatically, State’s products tend to continue to work at high efficiency, unlike competitive products that become subject to limescale damage.
The tips themselves are made from PEX cross-linked polymer, which makes them extremely tough and durable. The material also ensures that they experience longevity, as it doesn’t degrade quickly.
ICOMM Platform
State has developed an app which can be used with its products, as part of a smart home. Stepping into the future, ICOMM is an innovative way to control your water heaters remotely. This puts State’s products streaks ahead in terms of technology.
The app allows you to cross-reference the performance of your device with any of their devices and helps to make a personal product recommendation for your requirements.
If you have a State water heater, ICOMM allows you to connect to your device to have advanced control and management over its features. This helps you monitor and enhance its performance through the system’s capabilities.
A Major Drawback of State
There is a common problem with State Water Heaters, however. They tend to clog up, especially if they are in the same room as a clothes dryer. The dryer collects fabric and dust, which gets put out on to the ground and into the air when we do our laundry.
The problem with the blockage is that it causes the pilot light to go out. This is a safety mechanism to prevent it from catching on fire. However, when we try to relight it, it will have problems. For this reason, if you’re thinking of investing in a water heater with a tank, it needs to have an area that is clutter-free and doesn’t coincide with your laundry room.
Overview of State Products
Here are some of State’s most popular products and a little guide about each of them:
ProLine Gas Water Heater
This model is a high-efficiency power-direct vent water heater that can also be used for space heating. They incorporate 199,000 BTU gas burners with varying size tanks. With a thermal efficiency rate of 96%, this model is extremely energy efficient, which can save you money.
With a recovery rate of 253 gallons an hour, you have an enormous supply of hot water at your disposal, kept at a consistent temperature for comfortable use. The power-direct vent design is very easy to install and an easy-to-use touchscreen display diagnoses issues and ensures temperature precision.
The burner complies with ultra-low NOx standards, while the spiral heat exchanger keeps hot combustion gases inside the tank for a longer period, for more even heat distribution.
ProLine Electric Water Heater
Decreasing water heating costs by up to 68% using their innovative heat pump design, the ProLine Electric Water Heater is a great choice for energy efficiency and cost-savings. Drawing the environmental heat from the atmosphere, while cooling and dehumidifying the ambient air, this technology creates an energy-saving device for heating water.
In addition to the heat pump, this model has two heating elements which help to reduce the recovery time when the water heater is in high demand.
The easy-to-use interface enables users to control the precision of the temperature, select modes, and deal with diagnostics on performance. The operating modes also help to increase efficiency, giving you the choice of efficiency, hybrid, or electric mode, with the protective anode that is made from super-durable material to ensure it helps the tank’s longevity reach its full capacity.
Condensing Tankless Water Heater
State’s Condensing Tankless Water Heater provides on-demand instantaneous hot water. With a good Energy Star rating and 1.5 LEED points (a Green certificate with a maximum of three points), this model incorporates a recirculation pump that provides instant hot water when connected to a standard recirculation system. The easy-to-use digital interface enables you to manage the operation of the pump, to maximize the water heater’s efficiency. The tank can heat up to 199,000 BTU an hour, which can supply more than enough hot water for a three or four bathroom home.
The copper heat exchanger is far more resilient to corrosion and has 25 times the heat transfer capacity of stainless steel heating elements.
This model also incorporates some extra safety features such as an air-fuel ratio sensor to protect it from noxious gases, and exhaust and water temperature safety control.
What Kind of Warranty Does State Offer?
Water heaters all have different warranties depending on their fuel type. Electric water heaters generally have a lower lifespan of about six to ten years. Gas water heaters have longer warranties from ten years to more. How long the warranty is depends on other factors as well, like the anode, and tank build material. The longer the warranty, the more trust the manufacturers have in their products. Sometimes, it is just the parts that have warranties and not the tank.
Both ProLine water heaters have a warranty of six years for both the tank and parts. For the tankless water heaters, the warranty lasts for 15 years for the heat exchanger and five years for parts. The hybrid water heater has a longer life with a ten-year warranty for both its tank and parts.
Since every water heater we have listed here is residential, their warranties are only covered if used in domestic settings. Only the person who first bought it can claim a warranty. The warranty does not apply if the water heater has been misused or has not been installed according to the guidelines. To claim the warranty, you need to provide your product’s number, model number, serial number, date of purchase, date of installation, and location of installation.
How to Save on Your Next Purchase of Water Heaters
When you’re looking to purchase your next water heater, there are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, you need to consider size as a means to understand which is the best fit for you. Think about size, if you have somewhere suitable to fit a tank, you have that option, otherwise, you’ll need to place a tankless water heater.
Secondly, consider the size and the capacity of water it can heat. Tank water heaters will hold a lot of water but may heat it unnecessarily if your family that doesn’t need a lot. Think about your usage, in regard to the capacity you need.
With tankless water heaters, you need to look at the rate of gallons per minute. This will tell you how much hot water it can produce per minute, giving you an idea of how much you’ll need to fulfill your household demand. With a tank water heater, consider the first-hour rating as much hot water it will produce.
When it comes to upfront costs, make sure to use some of the software apps for comparison. If you use State’s app, you’ll be able to see how other models compare to the others they have to offer. This will help you choose one in your price range.
Energy efficiency will help a lot your cost savings. While the upfront cost is something to consider, the more energy-efficient a model is, the less you spend on utility bills each month.
Moreover, energy efficient and green models help to reduce the fuel consumed while reducing emissions into the atmosphere. These models also help with being a little more eco-friendly. As a general rule, tankless models are a far better fit.
Durability is also key to saving you money. Check out reviews from customers that give you an idea of longevity. State prides itself on durability, saving you money on costs and repairs in the future.
Don’t forget to look at the warranty. Make sure to thoroughly read what the warranty covers and always take it into consideration. While giving you something to fall back on, in case the product has an issue, longer warranties show the confidence a company has in its product’s longevity.
Who is State?
State Water Heaters is a subsidiary of one of the largest water heater manufacturers, A.O. Smith. They first opened the shop back in 1946 and were owned by Herbert Lindahl, Sr. Their initial business was making coal and wood-burning stoves. They started out in a small garage in Nashville, Tennessee and went on to become one of the leading water heater manufacturers in the world.
They divide their products into these categories: residential electric, residential heat pump, residential gas, gas tankless, commercial electric, commercial gas, storage tanks, pump tanks, and expansion tanks.
All of their products have advanced self-cleaning features and high efficiency. The expansion tanks provide protection from water damage. Most of these products are Energy Star qualified and all conform to low NOx emission standards.
Founded by Herbert Lindahl, Sr, State Water Heaters was established in 1946. A small business at the time, State produced coal and wood burning stoves in Tennessee. By 1948, State had produced its very first electric water heater, showing their dynamic innovation. In 1954, they had expanded the range further to include a state-of-the-art, gas-powered water heater, improving them to include galvanized steel tanks by 1956, shortly followed by porcelain lining the year after. This lining went on to be the standard industry method of corrosion protection, and is still used today.
As the years progressed, State stayed ahead as an innovator, introducing the Sandblaster Commercial Water Heater design in 1979, which reduced sediment and limescale inside the tanks. At this time, they also introduced foam insulation to prevent against heat loss.
By 1996, State became the world’s largest manufacturer of water heaters, with nearly 3000 employees on the books and a daily production rate of 10,000 units.
Still leading the industry today, State Water Heaters still dedicate themselves to dynamic thinking, staying ahead of technology and sourcing new materials to improve the quality and durability of the products.
Conclusion
State Water Heaters have been established as one of the best in the world. State Water Heaters claim to be the largest water heater manufacturer in the world. This article lists the best of their products with a full comprehensive comparison between several of them. Before buying any water heater, you should make sure to read its efficiency and BTU readings.
Choosing a water heater made by State is likely to be a good fit. With a diverse range to meet everyone’s needs and innovative technology to help the daily running of the household, State has stayed ahead of the curve with its dynamic products. With excellent customer service and a great reputation, State helps you with the selection process all the way to installation. Just remember to consider your specific needs before you make a choice!
People Also Ask
Below are a few common questions:
State Water Heaters have a lifespan of about six to ten years and sometimes, they can last for 15 years, as well.
Yes, A.O. Smith does own State Water Heaters. A.O. Smith owns a number of different water heater and electric products manufacturing companies including GSW and American Water Heaters.
