American Water Heater water heaters are available through standard residential plumbing channels — major retailers, plumbing-supply houses, and online. Because American Water Heater is mid-tier residential brand manufactured by A.O. Smith Corporation (American Water Heater Company is a subsidiary brand), the actual purchase channel sometimes routes through the parent manufacturer's distribution.
Where to buy American Water Heater water heaters
Major retailers
Home Depot and Lowe's stock American Water Heater residential tank models in most markets. In-store availability varies by store; special-order is available for less-common configurations.
Plumbing-supply houses
Ferguson Enterprises, HD Supply, Hajoca, and local independents all carry American Water Heater residential tanks. Contractor pricing is typically 15–25% lower than retail for licensed-plumber accounts.
Online retailers
SupplyHouse.com, BuildSite, and American Water Heater brand websites carry full lineups. Freight shipping required for tanks (typically $100–250 depending on distance).
Authorized installer network
American Water Heater maintains an installer-locator service for buyers who want professional install included. Authorized installers receive factory training and can extend the labor warranty beyond year 1.
Pricing expectations
American Water Heater residential water heaters typically run $450–$900 residential, higher for commercial. Higher-tier models (12-year warranty, premium features) command 30–60% premium over the 6-year baseline tier.
What to verify before purchase
- Manufacture date (the warranty starts from purchase, but tank warranty rated from manufacture — older units lose warranty time)
- Correct rough-in measurements for your install
- Required electrical or gas connection compatibility
- Local code requirements (expansion tank, drip pan, etc.)
- Whether install is included in the quoted price
Common purchase mistakes
- Buying the 6-year tier without recognizing the long-term cost: the 12-year tier typically costs 30% more upfront but doubles warranty coverage — best value tier
- Forgetting the expansion tank ($35–60 add-on but required by most US municipal code)
- Not verifying installer is authorized — some warranty clauses require professional installation by an authorized American Water Heater or A.O. Smith (parent company) dealer