Consumers’ love Bradford White water heaters, but it isn’t easy to know whether or not they’re any good without doing a lot of studies. Fortunately, we’ve already done the legwork for you! We’ll give you an in-depth evaluation of Bradford White water heaters in this post and tell you is Bradford white a good water heater and whether they’re worth the money or not.
White Bradford Background
Bradford White, founded in 1881 and based in Philadelphia, has various critical manufacturing plants worldwide. Despite its long history, the corporation has managed to keep up with technical changes. It has created cutting-edge water-heating technologies, including the Vitraglas Lining, Hydrojet Total Performance System, and Smart Controls. Bradford White is dedicated to creating water heaters that are the ideal blend of performance, efficiency, and longevity.
White Bradford Water Heaters Developed
Bradford White Water Heaters are made entirely in the United States. With nearly 2,000 employees, there are currently four locations: Middleville, Michigan; Niles, Michigan; Delton, Michigan; and Rochester, New Hampshire.
Bradford White’s mission is to be the best maker, not the biggest. This desire informs every decision they make, from where manufacturing sites are located to who they hire. Bradford White Corporation has chosen a different course than other companies, which have chosen to market their products through massive retail box stores. This choice has increased the initial cost of their products, but it has allowed them to maintain their high-quality standards across the board.
Core Characteristics and Advances in Bradford Water Heaters
Bradford White is a well-known brand in the water heater industry, and if you’re wondering is Bradford white a good water heater, you’re in luck! Before buying a Bradford White water heater, please read this article to learn everything you need to know about them.
Highly efficient water heaters – People are becoming increasingly worried about the efficiency of the devices in their homes, and with good reason. Start by looking at Bradford White’s Energy Star water heaters if you want to make your home as energy-efficient as possible. They’re made efficient and appropriate for all types of homes and people. Most importantly, you’ll save money in the long run.
1 – Gas Control System by ICON Structure
It isn’t just any old pilot light. The ICON System features all the bells and whistles you need to ensure your heater performs at its best. Consistent and accurate temperatures, a pilot “on” indicator, tight temperature differentials, and strong First Hour Delivery ratings are expected. With intelligent diagnostics, you can also get help with setup and troubleshooting.
2 – Reliable and dependable
Bradford White’s products result from continuous testing, analysis, and improvement. It is how the corporation ensures that the highest standards are adhered to throughout the organization. It’s one of the reasons the organization has such a stellar reputation for quality and dependability. Every Bradford White water heater is designed to be the best; they’re engineered to last for many years of use.
3 – Bradford Water Heaters Vitraglas
Bradford White uses Vitraglas to shield the steel in their water heaters from corrosion. The tank, base, head, and flue tube are all coated with Vitraglas, then heated at 1600° F to adhere to the steel surface. As a result, the liner is better and corrosion-resistant.
Bradford White’s unique feature set a standard for crystal tanks in the hot water system business.
4 – Defender Security System (DSS)
The Defender Safety System is a feature of Bradford White’s gas-fired water heaters, and it’s designed to keep you, your family, and your house safe. It prevents flammable vapors from igniting outside the water heater in the event of a spill. It is accomplished by sensing the fumes and turning off the water heater to eliminate the possibility of an ignite.
5 – Innovation for Scale Reduction
Scale Reduction New tech is used in the Infiniti Tankless Water Heater Series (SRT). Hotspots, where scale is prone to accumulate, are eliminated by disrupting the water flow. The overall performance of the water heater improves, maintenance costs fall, and the service life rises with less scale build-up.
6 – Bradford White Water Heater Guarantee
Bradford White water heaters go with warranty coverage, which means that depending on the model of unit you choose, it will protect your water heater for either 6 or 10 years.
Bradford White differs from other organizations because they do not amortize their warranties, which means their coverage does not dwindle over time. However, keep in mind that the guarantee somehow doesn’t cover installation costs.
As long as the device is in its original installation location, the limited warranty covers the glass-lined tank and components for the leak or other faults caused by parts or artistry faults.
A few specifics, such as having the unit serviced by someone who isn’t an authorized Bradford White technician and using parts that aren’t from an approved Bradford White dealer, could void your warranty. Bradford White works exclusively with builders on all warranty claims, so having a skilled installer will be helpful if you need a repair.
7 – Overall Performance Solution (Hydrojet)
The Hydrojet Ultimate Product is another feature included on all Bradford White water heaters. This method is unique to Bradford White and is based on a dip tube system that runs incoming water via jet apertures.
As the water fills the tank, the dip tube design forces it to counter-rotate in a tumultuous manner. The silt cannot accumulate due to the increased turbulence in the stream and is driven into suspension. It will extend the water heater service life by preventing sediment build-up on the bottom of the tank, but it will also work more efficiently and use less energy.
8 – Bradford Maintenance costs
To extend the life of water heaters, maintain them properly. The activities are simple enough for a homeowner to complete, or you may hire a professional to do them for you.
As a general rule, the T&P safety valve should be inspected and the sediment drained from the tank once a year. After the heater is a few years old, it is recommended to check the anode rod. It’s also good to regularly inspect the fittings for corrosion and leaks.
The Price of Bradford White Water Heaters
Is Bradford white a good water heater after knowing about it? Is it expensive to get a new water heater? after learning about their products and services? Depending on the tank’s size and energy source, a fast Google search will produce results ranging from $700.00 to over $4,000.00.
Bradford White does not sell its items to mainstream merchants since they are committed to producing the finest quality products. You’ll need to contact a qualified and licensed plumbing contractor near you if you want to get a water heater from the Bradford White Corporation. Bradford White is adamant about only allowing qualified, licensed specialists to install and service their goods.
When It Comes To Bradford White Water Heaters, How Long Do They Last?
Built to be the Best® is Bradford White’s trademark. A Bradford White heater can potentially last ten years if you follow these guidelines.
- A certified Bradford White technician has kept it in good working order.
- The site has not been relocated from its initial installation.
- A qualified technician installed the water heater.
While most water heaters will live a long time even if they’re left in the middle of the garage, it’s a great way to give your water heater some TLC now and again. Here are a few basic things to check for to help you assess the condition of your water heater and, as a result, extend its lifespan.
1- Presence
Is there any rust on the tank or in the water? Do you see any evidence of a leak around the tank?
2- Thermometer
Is the temperature of your hot water staying the same or dropping? Is it taking a long time for it to warm up?
3- Noisy
When the tank starts up, do you hear a popping sound?
4- Longevity
Is your water heater approaching its ten-year mark? Isn’t it possible that a bit of time has passed?
Some of these symptoms may be simple to resolve, but it’s better to leave it to the pros, mainly if a guarantee covers your product.
Which Water Heater Is The Right Choice?
Built to be the Best®, all Bradford White water heaters are designed, built, and produced to the highest standards.
- Using Hydrojet® Total Performance System, you can extend the life of your water heater while increasing performance.
- Vitraglas® tank lining provides unrivaled corrosion resistance.
- Defender Safety System®– flame arrestor technology keeps your family safe by preventing flammable vapor from igniting outside the tank.
Their sophisticated gas control, the Icon SystemTM, provides improved operation and diagnostics.
Which Model Is Suitable For You?
Is Bradford white a good water heater? A Bradford White water heater is a terrific choice for your house because of its top features, performance, and dependability. Installation criteria, energy source, household size, and demand are all aspects of deciding which Bradford White heater is right for you. Your plumber can assist you in determining which Bradford White models are suitable for you. Regardless of whatever model you choose, you can count on a Bradford White water heater to deliver years of dependable service.
Bradford White is a wholesaler manufacturer, which means their product will only obtain via a licensed plumber or contractor. It can be a pain for do-it-yourselfers, but the procedure has some benefits. A professional will assist you in selecting the appropriate water heater for your home. Also, you can rest assured that it will install correctly. Although Bradford White water heaters aren’t available at big box stores like Home Depot and Lowes, Amazon has a limited quantity of some of their most popular models.
Gas Water Heater RG240T6N 40-Gallon | BUY ON AMAZON
This 40-gallon natural gas water heater includes Bradford White’s Defender Safety System and all the regular features that customers expect. Low NOx emissions of less than 40 ng/J are achieved by the RG240T6N, which utilizes an Atmospheric Vent. It even comes with a tank warranty of six years.
Electric Water Heater RE350S6 50-Gallon | BUY ON AMAZON
The Bradford White 50-gallon electric tank water heater is a popular and well-known choice. This type runs on 240 volts, but it’s also available in 120 volts, 208 volts, 277 volts, and 480 volts. The hydroject entire performance system is included a 6-year tank warranty, brass drain valve, VitraGlas tank lining, magnesium anode rod, and a 6-year tank warranty. It is an excellent option if you’re looking for an electric water heater.
Typical Bradford White Water Heater Issues
Leaks, poor anode rods, and the pilot light going out were all common concerns with Bradford White water heaters. In three years, Bradford White has had 30 complaints from the Better Business Bureau. Ten of the complaints were over the warranty, while the other 20 were against a product or service. Nine of the complaints were resolved last year. Bradford White reacted to each criticism and fixed the problem.
While it’s difficult to say if these problems are exclusive to Bradford White water heaters or water heaters in general, you can decide.
A. O. Smith and Rheem versus Bradford
In Terms of Durability and Reliability
Bradford Water Heater
The Vitraglas Tank Lining and the Hydrojet Total Performance System are two of Bradford White’s most significant durability-enhancing innovations. Vitraglas Tank Lining is an enamel tank lining that protects the steel tank and other components from the corrosive effects of hot water. It also has a unique compound structure that flexes in response to the tank’s movements. The Hydrojet Total Performance System, on the other hand, is a tube that provides cold water to reduce silt buildup, which is the most significant threat to a water heater’s longevity.
A.O. Smith Water Heaters | BUY ON AMAZON
On its top Conservationist® home water heaters, A.O. Smith launched its proprietary Blue DiamondTM glass coating in 2004. Compared to another industry-standard glass lining, this unique coating delivers twice the corrosion protection. Initially, A.O. Smith water heaters were only available through authorized dealers. In 2017, the company expanded to become Lowe’s home improvement shops’ primary residential water heating equipment provider.
Rheem Water Heaters | BUY ON AMAZON
Rheem’s water heaters are incredibly long-lasting, such as the Rheem 240V Heating Chamber RTEX-13. They have a full tank that offers excellent protection from the elements. Compared to Bradford White models, they provide fewer unique features for preventing internal wear and tear. On the other hand, the Marathon water heater is a non-metallic kind that doesn’t rust or corrode and has copper upper and titanium bottom parts to prevent lime buildup. This machine has a lifetime guarantee, but it also comes at a high price.
Pricing
Bradford White water heaters are typically more expensive because they are manufactured in the United States. They also require professional installation, which raises the overall cost. Because Rheem and A. O. Smith’s water heaters are manufactured in Mexico and primarily marketed through wholesalers, they can offer lower prices.
Bradford Wins In Terms Of Efficiency
Both Rheem and A.O. Smith make it simple to stroll into your local retail store and walk out with a high-quality unit. On the other hand, Bradford White is the firm to employ if you desire a company that prides itself on the quality of its goods to the point where they only hire approved personnel.
Is Bradford white a good water heater in general? Yes, Rheem may be the correct choice for you if you want a water heater that is reasonably priced and has modern functionality. On the other hand, if you want a water heater that’s strong, efficient, and long-lasting, Bradford White might be a better option.
Conclusion
Hundreds of different water heaters are available from various manufacturers and in various shapes and sizes. There are tankless water heaters, solar water heaters, electric water heaters, gas-powered water heaters, etc. Each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. When deciding which type of water heater to install in your house or company, you must consider it. If you’re trying to figure out is Bradford white a good water heater, you should know that we have a lot of options.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Because they have a lower power rating, short water heaters are often more energy efficient. Due to the lesser water volume in the storage tank, they also heat the cold water faster than the tall ones.
Rheem is an excellent, mid-range water heater that isn’t too pricey. Its reputation for producing long-lasting, dependable water heaters makes it a perfect choice for most households. The company offers gas, electric, tankless, solar, and hybrid water heaters.
Most households should clean their water heaters every six months, but you may want to flush them more frequently if you have hard water. Depending on the mineral level of your local water supply, you may need to wash your hot water heater every few months.