Let’s Compare Bradford White vs. Rheem Water Heaters

It can be challenging to decide on a water heater brand with so many options available. Two brands that often come up in discussions are Bradford White and Rheem. While both manufacturers are known for producing high-quality water heaters, there are key differences to consider. Let’s explore a detailed comparison between Bradford White and Rheem water heaters to help you determine which brand better suits your needs.

Brand Overview: Bradford White, established in 1881, is headquartered in Philadelphia and operates manufacturing facilities worldwide. They have a long history of staying up-to-date with technological advancements and offer innovative features like the Hydrojet Total Performance System, Vitraglas Lining, and Smart Controls. Their focus is on delivering water heaters that excel in performance, efficiency, and durability.

Rheem, founded in 1925, is based in California and gained popularity with the introduction of the first gas storage water heater in 1931. They offer a wide range of water heaters to meet various hot water needs, including gas, propane, electric, indirect, hybrid, and solar-powered models. Rheem is known for producing functional and affordable water heaters.

Product Line: Both Bradford White and Rheem offer extensive and diverse selections of water heaters. Their models range in capacity from 10 to 120 gallons, catering to different households and businesses.

Bradford White specializes in gas and electric water heaters, but they also provide oil, indirectly powered, and solar models. They offer a wide range of configurations, including point-of-use and tankless models, atmospheric and power-vented models, and specialty models for residential, commercial, and industrial use.

Rheem manufactures almost every type of water heater, including gas, propane, electric, indirect, hybrid, and solar models. Each type is available in both residential and commercial versions, with various configurations from direct-vented tank-type models to condensing tankless models.

Durability: Durability is crucial when selecting a water heater, as it is a long-term investment. Bradford White water heaters are widely recognized for their durability. They come with features designed to withstand regular wear and tear. The Vitraglas Tank Lining, an enamel lining, protects the steel tank and other components from the corrosive effects of hot water. The Hydrojet Total Performance System minimizes sediment buildup, extending the water heater’s lifespan.

Rheem water heaters are also durable, featuring thick tanks that provide excellent protection against external damage. While they generally have fewer specialized features for reducing internal wear and tear compared to Bradford White, Rheem offers the Marathon water heater. This non-metallic model resists rust and corrosion and comes with a lifetime warranty, although it comes at a higher price.

Efficiency: Choosing an energy-efficient water heater can help reduce utility bills. Both Bradford White and Rheem produce highly efficient models, with Bradford White having a slight edge.

Bradford White’s Hydrojet Total Performance System not only enhances durability but also improves energy efficiency by reducing sediment buildup. For optimal efficiency, the Infiniti K Series model with Steadiset Technology prevents energy waste by utilizing existing water in the heat exchanger. Bradford White offers over 60 ENERGY STAR-certified water heater models.

Rheem also offers energy-efficient models, particularly in hybrid and solar-powered options. Their hybrid water heaters come with features like EcoNet Wi-Fi connectivity, energy-saving scheduling, and LeakGuard auto shut-off valve. However, Rheem’s electric water heaters generally have slightly lower energy efficiency compared to Bradford White.

Pricing: Bradford White water heaters tend to be more expensive due to being manufactured in the United States and requiring professional installation. Rheem, on the other hand, offers more competitive prices as their water heaters are produced in Mexico and distributed through wholesalers.

In conclusion, if you prioritize competitively priced water heaters with modern functionality, Rheem may be the better choice. However, if you value powerful, highly efficient, and long-lasting water heaters, Bradford White is a solid option.