Bradford White Water Heater Review 2023 – Is It Great?

9. Bradford White Water Heater Review1
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How effective is the Bradford White water heater line? This guide will provide you with all the information you require if you’re thinking about buying a Bradford White hot water heater. Next, let’s discuss it.

Pros & Cons of Bradford White Water Heater

Pros

  • Endless hot water – there’s almost nothing worse than running out of hot water halfway through a shower. With a tankless water heater, you will have an endless amount of hot water to use
  • Space-saving – tankless water heaters can be mounted to a wall to free up floor space. This makes these heaters ideal for smaller homes or rooms
  • Very efficient – you may be worried about how efficient a tankless water heater can be, especially as it can deliver hot water all the time. These are actually the most efficient type of water heater though
  • Long lifespan – water heaters are a considerable investment, so you want them to last a long time. Typically, these heaters will have a lifespan of at least 20 years

Cons

  • High cost – both the cost of buying a tankless heater and the installation costs are very high

How Durable Are Bradford White Water Heaters?

Although it’s impossible to predict how long a water heater will last, Bradford White has proven their dedication to producing high-quality items that endure for years.

Some of their exclusive features include:

  • ICON System– a system of controls that makes it easier for the homeowner to control and consistently delivers accurate water temperatures. Despite being an electronic valve, it doesn’t require external electricity.

The pilot flame’s heat energy is transformed into electrical energy by the control using the well-proven millivolt technology of Bradford White. ICON, or Intelligent Control, is the result.

  • Flammable vapors are prevented from leaving the tank by the Defender Safety System with ScreenLok, a patented screen. Our water heaters are typically located in locations where flammable materials are also kept, so this is a crucial feature., paint cans in the garage).
  • Bradford White stands out from other manufacturers thanks to its Hydrojet® Total Performance System. As sediment accumulates in the tank over time, the water heater is strained. The buildup will eventually destroy the water heater if the sediment is not removed.

If the water is not maintained at an even temperature, cold and warm water layers form, providing the ideal conditions for harmful bacteria to flourish.

  • Vitraglas® is a patented enamel lining that guards the tank against the corrosive effects of hot water. This enamel’s lining can expand and contract along with the steel tank thanks to its special compound structure. Nearly all tank water heaters made by Bradford White come with it as standard equipment.
  • Eco-Defender Safety System®– Nox (nitrogen oxide) is reduced by 75% when using a high primary air radiant burner design. Any temperature changes inside the combustion chamber are picked up by a digital thermal sensor. An information relay to the Honeywell gas control and a secure shutdown of the system occur when a change outside of the normal use is discovered.

How Long Do Bradford White Water Heaters Last?

The slogan “Built to be the Best” is used by Bradford White. A Bradford White water heater can easily last 10 years if:

  • the water heater was installed by a qualified professional
  • has been properly maintained by a qualified Bradford White technician
  • has not been moved from the original install location

It’s a good idea to occasionally give your water heater some attention even though the majority of water heaters can last a long time despite being neglected in the garage corner. Here are a few straightforward signs to watch out for in order to assess the condition of your water heater and ultimately increase its lifespan.

  • Appearance. Is there rust on the tank or in the water itself? Do you notice any leakage indicators near the tank?
  • Temperature. Does the heat in your hot water hold steady or does it diminish? Is the temperature rise taking a while?
  • Noise. Does the tank make a popping sound when it first starts up?
  • Age.Is the ten-year mark approaching for your water heater? Maybe a little worn out?

Even though some of these symptoms might be simple to fix, it’s best to leave that to the experts, especially if you have a warranty.

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Where Are Bradford White Water Heaters Manufactured?

Only in America are Bradford White Water Heaters made. With more than 2,000 employees, there are currently four locations: Middleville, Michigan; Niles, Michigan; Delton, Michigan; and Rochester, New Hampshire.

Bradford White wants to be the best manufacturer, not the largest. The location of manufacturing facilities and hiring practices are both influenced by this desire. Bradford White Corporation has chosen a different strategy than other businesses, which have opted to sell their goods through big-box retailers. Their products now cost more up front as a result of this choice, but they are still able to produce all of their products to the same high standards.

Cost of Top Bradford White Water Heater Models

After learning about Bradford White’s water-heaters and what they have to offer, the next logical question is, “What will the price of a new water heater be?” Depending on the size and energy source of the tank you choose, a quick Google search will turn up results ranging in price from $700.00 to over $4,000.

Bradford White does not make their products available to big-box retailers because they are committed to producing the highest-quality goods. Contact a qualified and registered plumbing contractor in your area if you’re interested in buying a water heater from the Bradford White Corporation. Bradford White is adamant that their products should only be installed and maintained by trained, licensed professionals.

You can typically find a few options for a local professional by doing an online search or even asking a friend. To find a professional in your area, however, you can always visit the official Bradford White website and use their search tool if you are not tech-savvy or are new to your area.

There are many benefits to having a professional install your water heater, even though it might not be as convenient as stopping by your neighborhood Lowe’s or Home Depot. Changing out units alone is not always enough.

If you decide to replace an existing unit, for instance, this might require installing new gas lines, rerouting plumbing, or even retrofitting utility hookups. A licensed professional will be familiar with the local code requirements. They will also be able to help you choose the water heater that best suits your requirements based on the size of your home, the amount of usage, the installation requirements, and the energy source.

When it comes time to service your water heater, having a professional who is familiar with Bradford White products on your side will be a big help.

Why Use Bradford White Water Heaters?

Innovation is equated with the Bradford White brand. The company has been in business for a long time and during that time has developed new safety features, systems, and designs.

Their heaters are strong, long-lasting, and have a long lifespan. For larger homes with high hot water demand, this is a fantastic option.

As Bradford White has become known as the leading inventor in gas water heater innovations, it is no surprise that they have a large range of gas-powered water heaters.

Each of their gas-powered models features the company’s patented signature technology. Additionally, their products come with what are arguably the best warranties in the water heating sector.

The majority of Bradford water heaters are made with a Vitraglas lining for added durability, and they are packed with special features. The company’s intelligent gas control system, ICON, is also featured.

Their entire line of gas water heaters is also very energy-efficient, with the majority of models having an energy factor of 0.54 or higher. A big percentage of their models are also Low NOx and in accordance with NAECA.

How to Choose a Water Heater

When you are looking to buy a water heater and have a variety of brands to choose from, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Energy Efficiency

There are numerous ways to assess a water heater’s energy efficiency. If the Energy Star seal is displayed on the heater, it means that the heater exceeds regulatory standards. This is one sign of a water heater that is highly efficient.

An alternative is to look for the Energy Factor on the heater’s label. This value represents how effectively the heater converts energy to heat. An EF rating of 0.83 indicates that a heater is 83% efficient and that 17% of the energy it consumes is lost.

Capacity

A water heater’s efficiency in a household is dependent on its capacity. A water heater with a big capacity is necessary in homes where there is a lot of simultaneous demand for hot water use.

You will run out of hot water if the model you choose is too small, and you will have to wait for the water to reheat.

Choosing a model that is too large for your actual needs will cause you to heat up more water than you require. thereby wasting both money and energy.

To determine which capacity water heater you need, keep track of your daily hot water usage. Analyze your hot water usage during the busiest period, such as the morning. multiple showers running while the dishwasher is on. You’ll likely use about as much hot water as you need from the water heater in that hour.

The Bradford White Advantage

Given Bradford White’s background and reputation, it should be obvious that you should consider this brand when shopping for a new or replacement water heater.

The company consists of several different divisions, including Laars Heating Systems, Bradford White Canada, and Niles Steel Tank.

To help you decide which of their products are good and which are bad, we’ll examine them in more detail in the remaining sections of this article.

Durability

If you want to make sure you get value for your money, durability is a crucial factor. Examine the technologies employed to make the products last longer when contrasting brands and models.

Find customer reviews to see what others have thought of the company’s products and how long they lasted. Excellent customer service is crucial, but it won’t help much if the average lifespan of the product is only five years.

Costs

It can be very challenging to compare prices when examining various brands. Consider the size of the water heater you require first before comparing models and brands; only after that, proceed with the comparison.

Naturally, the cost of a larger model will be higher than that of a smaller one. You might not necessarily need the larger one, though. A larger one will also be inefficient because it will only heat water that you won’t use.

The purchasing cost of a high capacity water heater with an Energy Star seal may be more than other similar models without the same efficiency. But cutting your energy costs will significantly impact your overall operating costs.

Not all expensive models are better. You might end up purchasing capacity that you don’t need if you select a model at a higher price. Or perhaps you’re paying for appearances rather than usability and effectiveness.

When comparing prices, consider every aspect of the cost. Including the cost of extended warranties, installation, running, and purchase price.

Another consideration should be the heater’s anticipated lifespan. This is due to the fact that it would be preferable to pay 30% more for a model that would last twice as long as its rival.

Comparing Bradford White Hot Water Heaters to Its Competitors

I discovered that Bradford White is not only the oldest, but also one of the most well-respected, hot water heater manufacturers as I was writing these reviews. They provide exceptional value in terms of durability, effectiveness, and safety. The heaters from this brand are distinguished from similar products by the features listed below.

Wide Range

There are many different water heater models made by Bradford White that come in different capacities.

In addition to hybrid models, they offer gas- and electric-powered units. Few manufacturers of water heaters offer their customers such a wide range of options.

Safety

Consumer safety is Bradford White’s top priority, regardless of the type of water heater you choose. Their Eco-Defender safety system is far ahead of anything their competition can bring to the table.

Hydrojet Engineering

Dregs that collect at the bottom of the tank have the potential to significantly reduce a water heater’s performance. To solve this problem, the company designed their innovative engineering with hydrojets that removes sediment from their systems. This ensures that they run efficiently and at peak performance.

9. Bradford White Water Heater Review2

Defender Safety System

Without mentioning the distinctive Bradford White Defender system, these reviews of Bradford White water heaters would be incomplete.

A gas hot water heater can be very dangerous to use. I can recall a number of house explosions in the large metropolis I reside in.

The internal functioning of the heater is the only aspect of safety that most manufacturers concentrate on. However, Bradford White has taken their Eco Defender Safety System a step further. The water heater will be turned off before an accident occurs when it detects threats from the outside.

With the Bradford White Defender water heater, the business can detect and get rid of external threats in addition to protecting its products from internal operations.

Bradford White’s Dedication to Innovation

Since their inception, Bradford White has worked to be the best brand for both the customer experience and innovation. This is what has made the company a well-liked brand of home hot water heaters. There are three reasons why:

Enamel Tank Lining

The main threat to tanks is corrosion, which can damage them to the point where they must be abandoned. Corrosion gradually causes the tank to break or leak as it eats away at the material. Bradford White works to produce products of the highest caliber and durability.

With this goal in mind, they install their exclusive enamel tank lining called Vitraglas, into all their water heater’s tanks. This enamel lining is put inside the tank where it creates a barrier that protects the metal tank from the corrosive elements in hot water.

In Bradford White’s lab, Vitraglas has undergone a lot of testing. Compared to the linings used by their rivals, it offers unmatched protection for the tank. This top-notch tank lining makes the tank more durable and extends its lifespan.

Bradford White Defender System

All Bradford White’s gas water heaters have incorporated their Defender System, a safety system that aids in the suppression of fires and explosions. The Bradford White Defender System has been engineered as a flame arrestor and uses their patented ScreenLok Technology.

The Bradford White Defender water heater has 18,000 tessellated louvers, which accelerates the airflow into the heater.

If flammable vapors are able to enter the heater and burn, they produce a phenomenon known as a “vector effect” in the ignition chamber. Fast-moving gases experience the vector effect, which prevents flames from turning around and exiting the system through the flame arrestor’s plate.

ICON System

The ICON System is exclusive to Bradford White. This gas control technology was created to give users better control over how much hot water they use. This system uses a microprocessor to provide Advanced Temperature Control to monitor and operate the burner. This feature aids users in maintaining consistent, exact water temperature levels to offer a very comfortable experience.

The system’s Performance Software provides advanced temperature control mechanisms and improves Scores for First Hour Delivery.

While the Intelligent Diagnostics assists users in understanding issues with their water heater and provides troubleshooting tools to help solve the problem. The ICON system also includes Pilot-On-indication.

Bradford White Water Heater Reviews from the Pros

The water heater and boiler industries’ subcontractors highly praise Bradford White.

A 2006 study on the satisfaction of subcontractors for HVAC, water heater, and boiler contractors was conducted. It was conducted by renowned J.D. and McGraw-Hill Construction. Power and Associates.

When compared to other boiler and water heater manufacturers, Bradford White was one of the highest rated businesses.

The best manufacturer was determined to be Bradford White after the study examined subcontractors’ satisfaction levels when using different brands.

Categories like sales, product, price, warranty and repair services, ordering, delivery, and marketing support were all covered. Bradford and White outperformed the competition, particularly in terms of product quality, repairs, and warranty.

Day & Night Support

Customers hold Bradford White in high regard as a brand that prides itself on offering exceptional customer service. They are committed to making sure they are always available to help with any problems because they realize that problems with their water heater can occur at any time, day or night.

Their American-based telephone support staff. and consists of Service and support for warranties. The Bradford White-employed specialists who provide the telephonic support service are on call around-the-clock. Professional and well-trained, these staff members can quickly diagnose customer issues and offer effective solutions.

Disadvantages / Complaints

The issues listed in this section are based on customer feedback, so they may not always be entirely accurate.

The fact that the product’s warranty is nullified if it is installed by contractors who Bradford White has not expressly authorized is a significant concern raised by a number of customers. Although these customers find these engineers to be very expensive, they feel they must hire them in order to receive the warranty.

However, a review of Bradford White’s terms and conditions reveals that the only requirements are for installation to be carried out by licensed electrical and plumbing contractors. Due to the fact that they are accountable for adhering to all applicable laws, codes, and regulations. The phrase “specifically licensed by Bradford White” is not always present.

A water heater’s warranty only being valid when installed by a licensed professional is actually common practice among many water heater brands.

Because the heater’s anode rod is made of magnesium, some customers claim that when used in areas with hard water, it produces a fair amount of hydrogen. As a result, there is an odd smell, and even the water has an odd flavor.

With any brand of hot water heater, this is very likely to occur. Although I can’t recommend them, water heaters with aluminum anodes do not have this issue. This is due to the possibility of having aluminum in your water, which is a serious health risk.

Also consider the possibility that bacteria are to blame for the rotten egg odor. Bacteria are to blame if the smell is present in both hot and cold water.

Several customers have also expressed concern that some of the tanks have a propensity to corrode relatively quickly in regions with hard water. Water heater leaks are brought on by this corrosion after 6 to 7 years.

Any brand of water heater may experience issues due to hard water. In this situation, it makes sense to spend money on a water softening system. Or water conditioning products, as it will help protect your investment in a water heater.

Bradford White Water Heater Warranty

The components and the glass-lined tank are covered by a 5–6 year limited warranty offered by Bradford White for its entire product line. They promise that there are no defects in the essential parts caused by poor workmanship or inferior materials. The warranty covers any malfunction or leak brought on by poor craftsmanship or defective components.

The manufacturer specifies that only licensed and experienced professionals should install and maintain their water heaters. The warranty is null and void if this is not done.

They deal directly with distributors and contractors (not you) for all warranty claims regarding water heaters and parts. As a result, claims can only be made via the service technician who will be installing or repairing your water heater.

With parts approved by Bradford White, the expert will identify and fix the issue. The professional will work with their neighborhood Bradford White distributor to handle the warranty claim.

The first owner’s warranty will automatically be transferred to additional, succeeding owners. That is, if the appliance hasn’t been moved from where it was originally installed.

Also available from Bradford White is an upgrade they call the BUILT BEST extended limited warranty. You will be able to prolong the initial warranty period for tanks with glass lining and component parts as a result. The warranty extension period lasts an additional two to four years.

Their official website has a “warranty check” box at the top of the page. You can enter the serial number there to see if an appliance is eligible for the extended warranty. If your appliance is eligible, you can extend the warranty by providing the model and serial number to your expert installer.

Bradford White Water Heater Company

In colder climates, winter is not enjoyable, and even the hardest of us start to shiver if we don’t have clothes and appliances to keep us warm. Warm water is a luxury we frequently take for granted in these circumstances.

But consider for a moment the effort needed to perform even the most routine, every day tasks like washing the dishes, doing the laundry, taking a bath, or taking a shower without hot water.

You must be shivering just from the thought of performing those tasks without hot water. Because of this, hot water heaters are excellent technology.

For our comfort in colder climates or ANY climate, water heaters are an absolute necessity. Due to this fact, a wide range of different hot water heater types have been developed by numerous manufacturers. Bradford White is among the market’s most seasoned and reputable manufacturers.

In this article, we’ll examine a number of Bradford White hot water heaters to assist you in making the decision about which one will best meet your individual needs and increase the comfort in your home. The primary factor that distinguishes Bradford White from its rivals is superior customer service.

All engineering, design, and production for this American business are done domestically.. In addition to having been in business the longest among water heater manufacturers, Bradford White is also regarded as a top brand by subcontractors. It offers products of the highest caliber possible and makes use of robust technology for longevity.

The Long History of Bradford White Innovating Products

Bradford White is an employee-owned manufacturer of water heating products that was established in 1881. The collection of businesses, all owned by Americans, dominates the country. in the manufacturing of combination heating, space heating, water heating and storage solutions for industrial, commercial, and residential applications.

Middleville, Michigan serves as the location of the company’s manufacturing facility, while Ambler, Pennsylvania serves as its headquarters. For the 135 years that Bradford White has been in business, American artisans have been employed to produce high-quality products.

Even today, they continue to produce high-quality goods, only pausing to construct pressure vessels for the Maritime Commission during World War II. In 1951, Bradford White introduced the Vitraglas, a cutting-edge water heater with a glass-lined tank.

However, the business didn’t begin concentrating on producing water heaters until 1959. Around the same time, they changed their name to The Pennsylvania-Bradford Appliance Corporation.

In 1968, the merger of Pennsylvania-Bradford and White Products gave rise to the business that is now known as Bradford White. The merger increased the size of the new company while also intensifying its commitment to innovation. Its first power-vented water heater was a result of this strategy, which was successful in 1985.

Employee Ownership and More Innovation

The employee-owned company continued to innovate throughout the 1990s, setting new industry standards for both warranty duration and quality.

In 1993, the HydroJet system was introduced, followed in 1994 by Bradford White becoming an employee-owned company as we know it today.

Bradford White significantly extended its tank warranties for residential models in 1996, further revolutionizing the water heating sector. For storage tank heaters, the new warranty lasted for six years. However, Bradford White has also accomplished other industry firsts.

Bradford White commissioned a comprehensive research and development laboratory for its products in 1996, placing them streets ahead of their competition in engineering and innovation.

Then Bradford White started winning awards for the dynamic technology they used by 1999, and the The Optimizer water heater from Bradford White was named a best consumer buy by Consumer Report.

Bradford White in 2003 announced a new safety feature for their water heaters, while also releasing a new model, known as the PowerStor Series indirect water heaters. A year later, they released the EverHot series, thereby expanding into the market for tankless water heaters.

The ICON system, a gas control valve, was introduced between 2009 and 2010. More energy was saved and homeowners were protected thanks to this control valve.

Bradford White expanded even more though a series of buy-outs, including Laars Heating Systems.

In 2012, the company unveiled a brand-new training facility with LEED certification. The Bradford White International Technical Excellence Center focuses on developing new appliances that are eco-friendly.

Don’t expect Bradford White to give up their current top-tier reputation for quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction any time soon.

They differentiate themselves from their rivals thanks to the incorporation of intelligent ICON systems into every one of their products.

As a well-known American brand, all of our products are developed and produced here., they pride themselves in providing the best possible consumer experience and are among the highest rated for consumer satisfaction by subcontractors.

Propane and Gas

It shouldn’t be surprising that Bradford White has a sizable selection of gas-powered water heaters because the company is the driving force behind innovations for gas water heaters. These heaters can run on either propane or natural gas.

Every model comes equipped with patented technology and is covered by what is arguably the best warranty available.

Bradford White’s Customer Service

There is no need to worry if your Bradford White heater experiences any issues. Their customer service is outstanding, and they offer phone numbers, fax numbers, and email addresses for support.

On their support website, users can access a wealth of educational articles, data sheets, and user manuals. Additionally, specific models have their own manuals, which contain all the information necessary to address any technical issues you might encounter or assist you in setting up and configuring your new device.

Summary

Customers and plumbers have generally had nothing but positive things to say about Bradford White water heaters.

A reputable company with a track record of superior customer care is Bradford White. Powerful control and safety features are present in Bradford White products, and they are durable. The protective elements built into each unit increase their dependability and durability.

They have a broad and extensive selection of water heaters. The most well-liked gas water heaters will be the only ones I mention in this article.

Before choosing the model that is best for you, you should ascertain what your hot water needs are.

However, their knowledgeable support staff is on hand around-the-clock if you run into any post-sale problems. Any issues will be quickly resolved with their assistance.

Without resorting to ostentatious bells and whistles, these water heaters have all the features required to make your experience as enjoyable as possible. while still being constructed to endure the test of time. One of the best in the business is the Bradford White Water Heater Warranty.

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Frequently Asked Questions

We have made an effort to present all the pertinent information in this article to help you make a decision about whether to buy a water heater from the Bradford White Corporation. We have collected some of the most frequently asked questions in this section.

What is the Life Expectancy of a Bradford White Water Heater?

Bradford White water heaters are Built to be the Best®. With a professional installation and proper maintenance, our water heaters can last 10 years or more.

What is the Quality of Bradford White Water Heaters?

Bradford White water heaters are widely regarded as some of the most durable on the market. They are equipped with a variety of well-considered features that allow them to withstand various forms of wear and tear that come from frequent use. They last longer than Rheem water heaters overall.

How Often Should You Flush a Bradford White Water Heater?

Typically, we advise to drain off one gallon a month from the water heater to help remove silt and sediment. The operations manual for your model contains information on periodic preventative maintenance tasks, such as tank draining.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Bradford White Water Heater?

A gas unit will cost between $1,000 and $1,500 up front, whereas an electric model can be purchased for between $600-$800. Installation cost: Installing the device and retrofitting utility hookups costs around $600 to $2,000, depending on local costs and the amount of work required.

Where Are Bradford White Water Heaters Manufactured?

In Middleville, Michigan, Bradford White has a sizable manufacturing complex that extends up to 1,000,000 square feet. The setup is quite modern since it was constructed in 2016. The goal of more than 1,000 workers is to build the best water heaters possible.

How Can I Determine My Bradford White Water Heater’s Age?

By examining the first two letters of the serial number on your water heater, you can determine how old it is. The first letter of the serial number, YM234567, stands for the year of manufacture.

Beginning in 1964, every letter in the alphabet goes through a 20-year cycle of recycling.

‘Therefore, A’ can stand for 1964, 1984, or for newer water heaters, 2004. ‘B’ shows that the heater was manufactured in 1965 and so on

The second letter, “A,” denotes January, and “M,” denotes December, denoting the month of manufacture.

Where Can I Find a Bradford White Water Heater’s Serial Number?

The rating plate has each hot water heater’s unique serial number for Bradford White. which is a sticker with adhesive that is placed close to the warning labels.

In order to quickly locate the serial number, start by looking for warning labels. The model and serial number can be read off at that point. which is inscribed immediately beneath the Bradford White facility’s address.

Do Bradford White Water Heaters Use Anode Rods?

High-quality magnesium anode rods are installed at the hot water outlet of the tank in Bradford White water heaters to provide the hot water. The hot water outlet must be removed in order to access these, which is not an easy task.

What are the Features That Make a Bradford White Hot Water Heater Unique

  • ICON System – exclusive gas control technology providing many time and energy saving benefits.
  • Defender Safety System – flame arrestor system using patented ScreenLok Technology.
  • Hydrojet – cold-water inlet tube designed to mix incoming water with stored water more thoroughly, thereby reducing costly sediment buildup.
  • Vitraglas – an exclusive enamel lining to protect the tank from the corrosive effects of hot water.
  • Brass Valve Drain – allows installers to drain the tank faster, resulting in a service time reduction.

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