Reviewing between two different brands of water heaters can be tricky. Knowing the differences between them, whether they are vital pieces or just small parts that won’t significantly change how the water heater performs, is essential to determine water heater brands better.
In this post, I’ll review the differences between Bradford White and Rheem water heaters, the pros and cons of each, and compare some of the models that each makes to help you decide which will be better for you.
Bradford White Brand Overview
Bradford White is a brand not sold at any local hardware store. You can only have it installed through licensed professionals.
So, if you see a Bradford White water heater installed at some residency or commercial building, you will know that it was installed by a professional. It will be up to code and be the top-of-the-line for water heaters.
Bradford White has a lineup of residential and industrial water heaters and every type of water heater currently on the market. This makes them incredibly adaptable to almost any configuration for water heater systems that you can think of.
This also means their water heaters have some of the latest technology available, which allows them to be at the forefront of quality and new developments in the industry and create new innovations.
They have been around longer than most water heater companies. As with most companies nowadays, you must continue producing quality products for a long-lasting business.
If you were to look for reviews on Bradford White as a company, you would get mixed reviews. People tend to neglect to review if they have had good or neutral experiences, especially regarding products you take for granted.
As you can probably relate, most customers tend not to care to bother with writing reviews to begin with. Because of this, customer reports or customer reviews cannot always be trusted for the overall experience with a product.
However, you want to be aware of the products you are receiving and ensure they are in standard condition since all companies have warranties for faulty pieces that fall through the cracks.
Bradford White Pros:
- Nicer-looking unit – if yours is exposed in the garage or interior, this will look nicer than others.
- Typically lasts longer than other water heater brands when maintained properly.
- Known for their high-quality and durable products.
- Offers a wide range of models, including electric, natural gas, and propane models
- Features include energy efficiency, a self-diagnostic system, and advanced safety features.
- Many models are Energy Star certified
Bradford White Cons:
- Unreliable controller
- Harder to repair when needed
- Costs to repair can be 2x more compared to other brands
Rheem Brand Overview
The first things discussed on the Rheem Company website are sustainability and customer-centered approaches. This is a different approach and shows that the company focuses on more than itself.
They offer water heaters that range from basic low-end water heaters to high-end, top-quality water heaters. They also have various products that give them all types of residential and industrial water heaters. They are sold at Home Depot and other retailers, not just through a licensed plumber.
Rheem is a well-established water heater industry brand with a good reputation for producing high-quality and reliable water heaters. Many customers report satisfaction with the performance and durability of Rheem water heaters, and the company offers a wide range of products to suit various needs and budgets.
Rheem Pros:
- Been around for 100+ years – the oldest water heater brand in the USA
- Easier to work on
- Low Maint.
- It has double anode rods, which doubles the life of the unit
- Lower cost to repair
- Offers a wide range of models, including electric, natural gas, and propane models
- Features include energy efficiency, a self-diagnostic system, and advanced safety features.
- Many models are Energy Star certified
- Offers a wide range of options for commercial and residential use
Rheem Cons:
- Heavier units and harder to install compared to Bradford White
Product Line Comparison
Rheem Water Heater Product Line Review
Rheem products will vary from the smallest (an electric 19-gallon tank) to the biggest (a solar water heater with a 120-gallon capacity).
The gas tank water heaters will range from 29 gallons to 98 gallons. Their gas tanks will have different add-ons or protections to improve warranties further and longer lifespan water heaters.
The electric water heaters will be the least efficient, ranging from a 19-gallon tank to a 55-gallon tank. These will be the cheapest water heaters since electric systems are the least efficient.
Rheem also offers hybrid, solar, and tankless options. Of these, tankless is the most common, but it will still be a little on the expensive end. Hybrid and solar will be the most expensive of these options.
- External digital thermostatic control with LED display (+/1 degree accuracy)
- Most advanced self-modulation, adjust power to meet hot water demand
- Durable Copper immersion two heating elements, field Serviceable. Flow Rate- up to 4.4 GPM
- Simple installation – bottom 3/4 inch NPT water connections
- Threaded for easy replacement, simple installation, digital temperature display
- ON/OFF Dial Control with adjustable digital temperature display
- Self-modulating power control
- 11kW Model Flow Rate: up to 2.68 GPM
- Side 1/2″ NPT water connections
- On demand, consistent and continuous hot water
- ON/OFF Dial Control with adjustable digital temperature display
- Self-modulating power control
- 24kW Model Flow Rate: up to 5.9 GPM for RTEX-24
- Bottom 3/4″ NPT water connections
- On demand, consistent and continuous hot water
Bradford White Water Heater Product Line Review
Note: Regardless of the models I discuss below, you can only get Bradford White Heaters through an authorized seller. If you want to find one in your area, please contact me and I’ll get you sorted.
Bradford White has a range of capacity sizes, going from 6-gallon electric water heaters to 116-gallon sized water heaters, offering sizes for residential to industrial.
They offer electric, gas, tankless, hybrid, and solar water heaters. These will all have different perks, as far as quality and innovations, etc., go.
Bradford White Electric water heaters
Include models such as the Bradford White Electric Water Heater and the Bradford White Electric Water Heater with Self-Cleaning.
| Model | Capacity (gal) | Voltage (V) | Elements |
|---|---|---|---|
| RE330S6 | 330 | 240 | 1 |
| RE240S6 | 240 | 240 | 1 |
| RE340S6 | 340 | 240 | 1 |
| RE340T6 | 340 | 240 | 2 |
| RE350S6 | 350 | 240 | 1 |
| RE250S6 | 250 | 240 | 1 |
| RE250T6 | 250 | 240 | 2 |
| RE255T6 | 255 | 240 | 2 |
Bradford White RE350S6 Water Heater Review
One of the most popular models in their electric line is the RE350S6. As a user of this model for 3 years, I have been thoroughly impressed with its performance, efficiency, and durability. The advanced features like the Vitraglas lining and Hydrojet system have provided me with a reliable and consistent hot water supply while ensuring minimal maintenance and energy consumption. The easy installation and comprehensive warranty are additional benefits that make the RE350S6 an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a high-quality electric water heater.
- Vitraglas Lining:
In my experience, the Vitraglas lining has proven to be a highly effective barrier against corrosion. This protective layer has kept the tank in excellent condition, even after several years of use. I appreciate the durability and longevity of the Vitraglas lining, as it gives me peace of mind knowing that I won’t have to replace the tank prematurely due to corrosion.
- Hydrojet Total Performance System:
The Hydrojet system has been a game-changer in terms of efficiency and performance. I’ve noticed a significant reduction in sediment buildup inside the tank, which has led to consistently high performance even after prolonged use. As a result, the RE350S6 has required minimal maintenance, saving me time and money.
- Dual 4,500-watt Heating Elements:
The dual heating elements in the RE350S6 have provided me with a rapid and consistent hot water supply. Even during high-demand periods, such as early mornings and evenings, the water heater has maintained a steady flow of hot water without any noticeable dips in temperature. The fast recovery rate is a huge advantage, especially for households with multiple occupants.
- Energy Efficiency:
I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the energy efficiency of the RE350S6. The non-CFC foam insulation and Hydrojet system have significantly reduced standby heat loss, which has led to lower energy consumption and utility bills. As someone who’s environmentally conscious, I appreciate the lower carbon footprint and cost savings provided by this water heater.
- Easy Installation:
When I installed the RE350S6, I found the process straightforward and hassle-free. The unit’s compact size allowed me to fit it into a tight space without any issues. Additionally, the clear and detailed instructions made it easy to complete the installation without needing professional assistance, saving me additional costs.
- Six-Year Limited Warranty:
The comprehensive warranty offered by Bradford White has given me confidence in the quality and reliability of the RE350S6. I feel secure knowing that the company stands behind their product, and I have peace of mind knowing that any potential issues will be addressed promptly.
Bradford White Gas Water Heaters
Include models such as the Bradford White Natural Gas Water Heater and the Bradford White Natural Gas Water Heater with Self-Cleaning. But their gas heater line is extensive that includes:
- Atmospheric vent: This type of gas water heater uses a natural draft to vent combustion gases to the outside of the building.
- Power vent: This type of gas water heater uses a fan to force the combustion gases out of the building through a vent pipe.
- Direct vent: This type of gas water heater uses a sealed combustion chamber and a vent pipe to draw in air for combustion and exhaust combustion gases to the outside of the building.
- High Efficiency: This type of gas water heater is also known as condensing gas water heater; it’s a type of gas water heater that is designed to be more energy efficient than a standard gas water heater by recovering heat from the flue gases that would otherwise be lost up the chimney.
- Tankless or On-demand: This type of gas water heater heats water only when it is needed, it doesn’t store hot water in a tank like traditional water heaters.
Tankless water heaters
Include models such as the Infinity GR, GS, L, K, High Efficiency, and Mid-Efficiency.
Commercial water heaters
- Atmospheric vent gas water heaters: These water heaters are designed for commercial and industrial use and use natural drafts to vent combustion gases to the outside of the building. They come in various sizes and capacities to meet the demands of different commercial and industrial applications.
- Power vent gas water heaters: These water heaters use a fan to force the combustion gases out of the building through a vent pipe. They are ideal for commercial and industrial applications that require high input and/or recovery water heaters.
- Direct vent gas water heaters: These water heaters use a sealed combustion chamber and a vent pipe to draw in air for combustion and exhaust combustion gases to the outside of the building. They are ideal for commercial and industrial applications where venting is a concern.
- Electric water heaters: These water heaters are ideal for commercial and industrial applications where natural gas or propane is not available or practical. They come in various sizes and capacities to meet the demands of different commercial and industrial applications.
- Indirect water heaters: These water heaters use a heat exchanger to transfer heat from a boiler or furnace to the water stored in the tank. They are ideal for commercial and industrial applications where a large volume of hot water is required.
Bradford White also offers a line of specialized models, such as the Bradford White Solar Water Heater, the Bradford White Heat Pump Water Heater, and the Bradford White Power Vent Water Heater.
Best Aspects
Rheem and Bradford White’s best aspects will be a little different. For Rheem, the best aspects will range from:
- Accessibility: By being sold at Home Depot and online through Amazon, the accessibility of purchase options is more significant, and with that, you will be able to get a better deal if you are watching prices for water heaters, which would be great if your water heater is reaching the end of its life. This also means that you will be able to find more people who are knowledgeable in repairing water heaters, so the prices for labor will be a little lower potentially.
- Selection: Rheem has a wide selection of water heaters and can accommodate many different types of water heaters you may want to purchase.
- Customer-Oriented: They are customer-focused, readily available for contact about issues or warranties, and register your products with fewer complications.
For Bradford White, the best aspects will be:
Selection: They also have one of the widest selections for types of water heaters.
Add-ons: Since they focus on technology and innovations, they will also have some tremendous patented add-ons that allow them to have products that can last longer and have better efficiency than others.
Cost Differences Between Bradford White & Rheem
No matter what brand you get, the water heater system’s costs will vary with the type of water heater you buy.
For a Rheem water heater from Home Depot, you can see a price of about $300-$2200 based on what water heater you buy. This depends on your market, the cost of living and materials, and the time of year you buy.
Based on these factors, water heaters may have more significant discounts during certain times of the year and in locations with higher prices due to living expenses.
For a Bradford White water heater, you can expect prices to range from $700-$2500 for sizes that will work for a household. The $700 tank will likely be a 40-gallon tank, while the high price of $2500 will provide 100-120 gallons.
To show a price comparison, here is an idea of the costs side by side for basic electric and gas water tank heaters from both companies for common 40- and 50-gallon tank sizes:
Which Water Heater Brand is More Reliable?
The reliability of the different brands depends on two main factors: maintenance and quality. This is because the quality grade for how high-end your water heater is gives you a more reliable water heater. Maintenance is also the other most significant factor. Forgetting proper maintenance will impact your water heater’s reliability, regardless of how much money you put into it.
The one variable that all these companies have, no matter what, is that they all can have parts that go bad or defective. Some companies will have this occur more often than others, but it is improbable for any company to avoid it altogether.
Bradford White vs Rheem Energy Efficiency: Which One is more energy efficient?
Energy efficiency depends on the type of water heater and its quality. Suppose you are purchasing an electric water heater from either company. In that case, the company you choose does not matter significantly because the materials used to make the electric water heaters will not change that much, which is a significant factor in efficiency.
Suppose you go to the top end for what most people will have for a water heater tank in their homes. In that case, you will look at a stainless-steel inner tank that does not need much insulation. A top-end anti-corrosion coating will allow the stainless steel to last much longer and be incredibly energy-efficient.
Tankless, hybrids, and solar water heaters will cost the most, but they will also be some of the top-ranked water heaters in efficiency. This is because they are not as convenient for systems and have a lot of technology to make them smaller and work wherever needed.
FAQ’s
Will a Bradford White or Rheem Water Heater Last Longer?
This will depend on how well a water heater is maintained and how high a quality water heater you got. Generally, you can get 6-10 years without any problems for most water heaters, and if you manage to get the highest quality of manufactured parts, they can end up lasting you 20 years or longer.
Is Bradford White a Good Brand?
Yes, Bradford White is a good brand. It has been around since the 1880s, and any company that has been around that long will tend to be a good brand. Since they go through licensed professionals only for sales, you can be sure that when you see one in a house, you know that someone made the conscious decision to choose quality over price, instead of trying to save a few dollars by hiring an unlicensed plumber or by trying to install it themselves.
Is Bradford White the Best Water Heater?
It has the case for being among the top brands, but when you get to the top tier of water heaters, you cannot say which one is the best water heater brand since there are so many different models by each company.
However, note that the cheaper the water heater price is, the lower the quality you can expect. This goes for Bradford White, along with eerie other water heater brands.
Are Rheem Water Heaters Any Good?
Rheem water heaters are good. The same thing will be said for them as for most other reputable brands that have been around for a while: a water heater is only as good as the maintenance and the materials it was made with. If you get the lowest-end Rheem water heater, you cannot expect it to act like the top-end water heater they have.
If you get a low-priced electric water heater because it is cheaper, do not expect to have low utility bills if you replace a gas water heater with an electric one.
What Is the Longest Lasting Water Heater?
The longest-lasting water heaters will typically be either the top-end gas tank water heaters or the top-end hybrids. This is because of how they are made, the efficiency of the tanks, their durability and ability to withstand heat, and the ability to displace the stresses of being used every day over a larger surface area.
You may still see the rare stories of other systems lasting longer than usual, or the gas tanks even lasting 25 to 30 years, even though this is not the normal life expectancy of water heaters.
This does not mean you will have the same results if you get the same gas tank. The best judgment for how long yours will last is to go by the manufacturer’s estimated water heater lifespan.
Final Thoughts
If you are deciding between these two brands, there is little to go wrong with them. Both are good brands and will serve you well if you follow proper maintenance and have them installed properly.
Some people have had these last 5-15 years longer than any warranties cover through proper maintenance, which shows the quality you get from either brand.
“Bradford White vs. Rheem Water Heaters” is an insightful article that compares two popular water heater brands. I appreciate how the article dives into the key features and differences between Bradford White and Rheem, helping readers make an informed decision when choosing a water heater. The article provides a clear overview of each brand’s reputation, product offerings, energy efficiency, and warranty options. It’s helpful to see the pros and cons outlined for each brand, allowing readers to weigh their preferences and priorities. Additionally, the article offers useful tips on maintenance and installation considerations.