Best brand gas hot water heater?

Question

Need a new gas HW heater. Never used a gas one before. Is there a best brand. Internet search not showing the best brand.

Thinking a good 12 yr should be around $500.

Jay S. · Answer

I just got off the phone with a seller, who I asked about any major repairs needed and he stated water heater needs to be replace for sure...then I found this discussion, so thank you ALL for the helpful information!!!

Chris K. · Answer

Ahhh gotcha. Never thought about it like that.

Jeff S. · Answer

Ended up with a 6 year Depot GE after my plumber told me it is not worth the money to pay more for a 12 year. Heard this from others too. It was 3 something for a 50 gal. The quote I got for a 12 year 50 gal from a local plumbing co was $1200. Was hearing it is hard to collect on the 12 year late in the game.

Steve Babiak · Answer

Pressure reducing valve right after the water meter and an expansion tank (for potable water) at the hot water heater will fix the high water pressure problems.  The expansion tank is a good idea even without high water pressure.

Bill S. · Answer

@Chris K. - my teens take endless showers. With a tank heater eventually it runs out and gets cold and the teens get out of the shower. Long showers with a tankless costs more than keeping the tank heater warm overnight.

Very high use on demand heaters will not have energy savings.

Chris K. · Answer

Bill, whats the negative of having teens in a home with a tankless??

Bill S. · Answer

I have been told all tank water heaters are made the same and there is only one or two plants that make them and put the various names on them. Not sure if it's true. The tanks with the 6 year and 12 year are exactly the same. Sure they fail but the warrantee is only on the equipment. You have to pay for the install separately.

If it were my house, it would be on demand tankless unless you have teenagers. Can't wait until mine leave the house and my 50 gal becomes a tankless.

Justin Donohue · Answer

Another vote for AO Smith. I had an electric one that lasted 24 years. Needless to say I replaced it with another AO Smith.

Daniel Guillermo · Answer

I recently had an AO Smith installed in my house.  I did the research over a year ago and this is the brand that got the most recommendations.

Jeff S. · Answer

Interesting @David Krulac. Like those that last forever. It is true, they don't make them like they used to. Also used to be able to buy used appliances and have them last. Not anymore, they are disposable.