Ruud is Rheem\'s contractor-channel brand. State is AO Smith\'s Lowe\'s retail brand. Different manufacturers, different channels.
Comparison
| Ruud Professional Ultra 50-gal | State ProLine 50-gal | |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Rheem | AO Smith |
| Tank warranty | 12 years (Ultra) | 6 years (ProLine base) / 8 years (ProLine XE) |
| Channel | Contractor wholesale | Lowe\'s retail + wholesale |
| Heat pump line | Professional Hybrid (4.0+ UEF) | Premier Hybrid (3.45 UEF) |
| Tankless | Ultra Series (RU130-RU199) | None (AO Smith uses Takagi) |
When Ruud wins
- Contractor relationship
- 12-year warranty preference (Ultra) vs State ProLine 6-year
- Higher-UEF heat pump (Professional Hybrid 4.0 vs Premier Hybrid 3.45)
- Tankless preference
When State wins
- Lowe\'s retail shopper
- Premier Hybrid heat pump at lower price than Professional Hybrid (despite lower UEF)
- State is the brand your installer carries
Bottom line
Different manufacturers + different channels. Ruud is the contractor-channel pick with broader product range (including tankless). State is the Lowe\'s retail value pick with simpler product lineup.