Choosing a water heater is a decision that affects your daily comfort and energy bills for years. If you’re searching for reliable brands, two names will keep coming up: State Water Heater and AO Smith. Both have a long history in the industry and a reputation for dependable products. But which is better for your home or business? This comparison dives deep into every angle—features, performance, reliability, price, and real user experience—so you can choose with confidence.
Brand Background And Reputation
Understanding a company’s history helps you see what kind of quality and support you can expect.
State Water Heater
State Water Heater was founded in 1946 in Tennessee. From the start, it focused on innovation and high manufacturing standards. Over decades, State built a strong name in the US, especially among professional installers who trust the brand for residential and commercial use. State joined the AO Smith Corporation in 2001, but it still operates as a separate brand with its own product lines.
Ao Smith
AO Smith began much earlier, in 1874, as a small hardware business in Milwaukee. Today, AO Smith is a global leader in water heating and water treatment. The company invests heavily in research and development, focusing on energy efficiency and advanced technology. AO Smith’s products are found in homes, businesses, and even large industrial settings around the world.
Insight: Many people don’t realize State is now owned by AO Smith. This means the brands share some technology and manufacturing, but each still keeps unique features and models.
Product Range And Variety
Both brands offer a wide selection, but there are differences in focus and options.
State Water Heater’s Lineup
State’s range covers everything from tank-style to tankless, gas, electric, heat pump, and even solar water heaters. Their models include:
- ProLine® (good for families and small businesses)
- Premier® (higher efficiency, advanced features)
- Commercial lines for heavy-duty needs
State often tailors models for installation flexibility and ease of maintenance. They’re known for options that fit unusual spaces or retrofit jobs.
Ao Smith’s Lineup
AO Smith covers a similar breadth but with added emphasis on advanced technology. Their main lines include:
- Signature™ Series (sold at retailers like Lowe’s)
- ProLine® (nearly identical to State’s ProLine, but sometimes with extra smart controls)
- Voltex® Hybrid Electric (highly efficient heat pump models)
- Tankless models with smart home integration
AO Smith also leads in commercial and industrial water heaters, offering custom solutions for hotels, hospitals, and factories.
Non-obvious insight: AO Smith’s Signature line is designed for DIY buyers, while State products are often available only through professional installers. This affects your buying and warranty experience.
Key Features Compared
Both brands have strong reputations, but their models have unique strengths. Let’s compare the main features.
Energy Efficiency
AO Smith is widely recognized for innovation in high-efficiency water heating. Their Voltex® heat pump models reach efficiency ratings (Uniform Energy Factor, or UEF) as high as 3.45, meaning they produce over three times more hot water energy than they consume in electricity.
State offers similar high-efficiency options, especially in the Premier® line, but their most efficient models sometimes trail AO Smith by a small margin.
Durability And Build Quality
Both brands use advanced materials like glass-lined steel tanks and protective anode rods to prevent rust and corrosion. However, installers often report that State models have slightly heavier gauges of steel and extra insulation in some models, making them a bit more robust in tough conditions.
Technology And Smart Features
AO Smith leads with Wi-Fi enabled models, mobile app controls, and advanced diagnostics. Their higher-end tankless units can integrate with smart home systems, offering remote monitoring and alerts.
State includes some smart features, but usually in their top-tier products. Most of their line focuses on reliability and straightforward operation.
Noise Level
Heat pump water heaters can be noisy. AO Smith’s models are often quieter thanks to better compressor isolation and improved fan design. State’s models are not loud, but users sometimes notice more operational noise in smaller spaces.
Warranty
Most State Water Heater models come with a 6 to 10-year warranty for residential use. AO Smith matches these warranties, but sometimes offers longer coverage (up to 12 years) on certain Signature models.
Pro tip: Always check warranty details. Some models require professional installation to validate the warranty. DIY installs may shorten coverage.
Performance And Real-world Experience
Numbers matter, but how do these brands perform day to day?
Recovery Rate
Recovery rate is how quickly a water heater can reheat water after use. AO Smith’s gas models are often slightly faster, heating 40 gallons from cold in about 40 minutes, compared to State’s 45-50 minutes for similar units. For electric heaters, both perform closely.
First Hour Rating
This measures how much hot water you get in the first hour. Both brands publish similar numbers, but AO Smith sometimes delivers a slight edge—especially in high-demand homes.
Tankless Performance
AO Smith’s tankless models are known for steady temperature and good flow rates, even when multiple taps run at once. State’s tankless units are reliable but sometimes show a slight drop in water temperature if demand spikes.
Customer Satisfaction
Online reviews show both brands scoring 4+ stars on major retailer sites. AO Smith gets praise for easy-to-understand controls and fast heating. State wins points for quiet operation and long life, especially in hard water areas.
Non-obvious insight: The installer’s skill can impact performance more than the brand. A poorly installed top model can underperform a basic one installed correctly.
Price And Value
Both brands offer models across a wide price range, but there are patterns.
State Water Heater Pricing
State water heaters are often sold through plumbing suppliers and installers. Prices are not always visible online, but for a 50-gallon gas model, expect $800 to $1,200 installed. State’s commercial models cost more, but the brand’s reputation for long life can mean lower total cost over time.
Ao Smith Pricing
AO Smith’s Signature line is sold at big-box stores, with 50-gallon electric models starting as low as $500 (DIY). Their heat pump models can run $1,200 to $2,500. Professional AO Smith models, similar to State, cost $900 to $1,300 installed.
Value For Money
AO Smith’s direct-to-consumer models are a good deal for DIY users, but pro-installed State models may last longer with heavy use. Both brands offer energy savings on their top models, which can pay back the higher upfront price in 3-5 years.
Availability And Installation
State Water Heater
You’ll usually find State models through licensed installers or plumbing supply stores. The brand is a favorite among contractors because of the support and ease of warranty service. Homeowners who want a stress-free experience often choose State for this reason.
Ao Smith
AO Smith is available at major retailers like Lowe’s, making it easy for homeowners to buy and install themselves. This is great for DIYers but has a downside: warranties may be shorter for self-installed units, and some advanced models still require a pro.
Insight: If you want a hands-off experience, State’s installer-only approach might suit you. If you like DIY or want to shop around, AO Smith offers more options.
Commercial And Specialty Models
Not all water heaters are for homes. Hotels, restaurants, and apartment buildings need special units.
State Commercial
State’s commercial line includes large-capacity tanks (up to 119 gallons), high-BTU gas models, and even solar water heaters. Their products are trusted in schools, hospitals, and factories for consistent hot water.
Ao Smith Commercial
AO Smith is a leader in commercial water heating, offering tankless rack systems, boilers, and advanced controls. Their models are found in major hotels and stadiums. AO Smith invests more in custom solutions, including water treatment systems, making them a common choice for large-scale projects.
Specialty And Green Technology
Both brands offer heat pump, solar, and condensing models. AO Smith leads in hybrid electric and ultra-high-efficiency models, while State focuses on robust, easy-to-service designs for special needs.
Maintenance And Service
State Water Heater
State’s products are designed for easy maintenance. Many have simple access panels, universal parts, and clear labeling. Installers report that State models are easier to flush and service, which can lower long-term costs.
Ao Smith
AO Smith models often include diagnostic lights and error codes that help with troubleshooting. Some high-end models send error alerts to your phone, making it easier to catch problems early.
Extra tip: Both brands recommend annual maintenance, especially in hard water areas, to maximize lifespan. Flushing the tank and checking the anode rod are simple but often skipped steps.
Environmental Impact
Energy Star Ratings
Both State and AO Smith offer many Energy Star certified models. These use up to 50% less energy than standard units, reducing your carbon footprint and utility bills.
Recycling And Materials
AO Smith leads in eco-friendly manufacturing, using recycled steel and lower-emission factories. State, as part of AO Smith, follows similar practices but focuses more on durability—less frequent replacement means less waste over time.
Smart Controls
AO Smith’s smart controls can help you monitor and reduce energy use, which is not only good for the planet but also for your wallet.
Warranty And Support
State Water Heater
State offers strong support through a network of local installers. Warranties are clear, but you need proof of professional installation to get full coverage. State is known for honoring claims quickly, which matters if you rely on hot water daily.
Ao Smith
AO Smith’s support is good, especially if you buy from a major retailer. They offer phone, email, and web support. Some users report slower warranty processing for DIY-installed units, so keep your receipts and documentation.
Comparing Warranty Coverage
Here’s a summary of typical warranties for both brands:
| Brand | Standard Warranty (Residential) | Extended Warranty | Commercial Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Water Heater | 6-10 years | Up to 12 years (select models) | Up to 8 years |
| AO Smith | 6-12 years | Up to 15 years (select models) | Up to 8 years |
Insight: Extended warranties often require registration and sometimes extra payment. Always ask your installer to register the product for you.
Credit: cinemaximiliaan.org
Comparing Best-selling Models
Let’s look at some popular models to see how they stack up.
| Model | Type | Energy Efficiency (UEF) | Warranty | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| State ProLine® XE | Gas Tank | 0.70 | 8 years | $950 |
| AO Smith Signature Premier | Gas Tank | 0.72 | 12 years | $950 |
| State Premier® Hybrid | Heat Pump | 3.42 | 10 years | $1,900 |
| AO Smith Voltex® Hybrid | Heat Pump | 3.45 | 10 years | $2,000 |
| AO Smith Signature Tankless | Tankless Gas | 0.93 | 5 years | $1,200 |
| State Premier® Tankless | Tankless Gas | 0.92 | 5 years | $1,150 |
Note: Prices vary by region, installation, and features. Always get an onsite estimate.
Pros And Cons: State Water Heater
Pros
- Trusted by professionals for quality and longevity
- Many models built for tough conditions
- Strong installer support network
- Good value for long-term use
Cons
- Fewer smart features on standard models
- Harder for DIY buyers to access
- Slightly higher upfront price for some models
Pros And Cons: Ao Smith
Pros
- Wide availability at retail stores
- Advanced smart controls and high-efficiency options
- Leading heat pump and tankless technology
- Longer warranties on some models
Cons
- DIY installation can limit warranty support
- Some entry-level models use lighter materials
- Service network less focused than State’s
Choosing The Right Water Heater For Your Home
When comparing State Water Heater vs AO Smith, the right choice depends on your needs.
- If you want installer support and a proven, rugged design, State is a strong choice.
- If you value DIY installation, smart features, or want to shop at retailers, AO Smith has the edge.
- For energy savings, both brands offer excellent high-efficiency models.
- If you need commercial or special solutions, AO Smith provides more options, but State is very competitive for standard business needs.
Beginner tip: Don’t just pick by brand. Think about your home size, hot water needs, energy costs, and if you want to install yourself or hire a pro.
Credit: miach.co
Common Mistakes When Choosing
- Ignoring installation needs: Not all homes can fit every type of water heater. Check gas lines, venting, and space.
- Skipping maintenance: Both brands recommend annual checkups.
- Overlooking total cost: A cheaper model may cost more in repairs or energy over time.
- Not reading warranty rules: DIY installs can reduce warranty coverage.
- Choosing the wrong size: Too small means cold showers; too big wastes energy.
Expert Recommendations
- For families wanting simple reliability, a State ProLine® or AO Smith Signature Premier is often the best bet.
- For high energy savings, look for a heat pump model from either brand.
- If you want remote control and smart alerts, AO Smith is the leader.
- For businesses or large homes, consult a professional installer for sizing and best model.
Real User Experiences
In forums and reviews, users often mention:
- State heaters last 10-15 years with little trouble, even in hard water.
- AO Smith users appreciate the easy setup and smart features.
- Both brands get positive marks for customer service, but local installer reputation matters most.
- Some users note small differences in recovery rate, but most are happy with either brand if installed correctly.
Ao Smith And State: The Overlap
Because AO Smith owns State, you’ll find some models that are nearly identical except for branding. Installers may recommend one over the other based on supply, local support, or their own experience. Don’t be surprised if your installer offers you a choice—ask for details about warranty, service, and parts.
Credit: cinemaximiliaan.org
When To Upgrade
- If your water heater is over 10 years old, efficiency drops and repairs become more likely.
- Look for leaks, rust, or strange noises—these are signs it’s time to replace.
- New models can cut energy bills by 30% or more, paying for themselves in 3-5 years.
How To Compare Quotes
- Always get at least two quotes.
- Ask for the exact model number and warranty terms.
- Check if the quote includes installation, permits, and removal of your old heater.
- Ask about annual service and what’s included.
Extra Resources
For more details on water heater ratings and energy savings, check the official Energy Star website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Main Difference Between State Water Heater And Ao Smith?
The main difference is distribution and branding. State is sold mainly through pro installers, while AO Smith is available at retailers and online. Both share technology and quality, but AO Smith often offers more smart features and DIY-friendly models.
Which Brand Lasts Longer On Average?
Both brands have similar lifespans—usually 10 to 15 years for tank models, and up to 20 years for tankless or heat pump units if maintained well. Longevity depends more on water quality and regular maintenance than on the brand.
Are Ao Smith And State Water Heater The Same Company?
Yes, AO Smith owns State Water Heater. They share manufacturing and technology, but keep separate product lines and branding. Some models are nearly identical except for the name.
Can I Install These Water Heaters Myself?
AO Smith’s Signature line is designed for DIY installation, but check local codes and warranty rules. State heaters are usually installed by pros. DIY installation may reduce warranty coverage on either brand.
Which Is Better For Energy Savings?
Both brands offer high-efficiency models. AO Smith leads in hybrid and smart heat pump technology, but State also offers Energy Star models. Check the Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) rating—the higher, the better for energy savings.
Choosing between State Water Heater and AO Smith doesn’t have to be confusing. Focus on your needs, ask the right questions, and work with a trusted installer. Either brand can give you reliable hot water for years if you choose the right model and maintain it well.