AO Smith maintains a network of certified residential and commercial water heater dealers across the US. For non-trivial installs (Voltex hybrid heat pump, ProLine Tankless, Cyclone Xi commercial), an AO Smith-network installer is usually the better choice than a generic big-box install contractor.
How to find an AO Smith dealer
- AO Smith online dealer locator: hotwater.com → Find a Pro → enter ZIP
- Call AO Smith customer service: 1-800-527-1953 — they recommend nearby Pro Partner installers
- Local plumber referrals: ask if AO Smith-network certified
- HVAC company referrals: larger HVAC companies often have water-heater install teams
Certification tiers
- Pro Partner: top tier — direct distributor relationship, factory training, expedited warranty service. Best for Voltex, ProLine Tankless, and complex installs.
- Certified Installer: mid-tier — sources through AO Smith distributors, basic certification. Fine for standard tank installs.
- Authorized Dealer: retail-only — can sell parts and units but may not be the right installer
What to expect from an AO Smith-network install
- Quote includes unit + labor + permit + code-required upgrades
- Typical turnkey: $1,400-$2,400 for tank swap; $2,500-$4,500 for tankless conversion; $2,200-$3,800 for Voltex
- Warranty registration handled by installer
- Permit + inspection included
- Disposal included
- Labor warranty 1-2 years
Questions to ask
- Are you AO Smith Pro Partner certified?
- How many [model type] installs in the last year?
- Does quote include permit fees?
- Will you handle warranty registration?
- What's your labor warranty?
- References from recent customers?
Red flags
- Cash-only pricing (usually no permit, no warranty)
- Refuses to show license
- Doesn't pull a permit
- Skips code-required upgrades (expansion tank, T&P discharge)
Bottom line
For tankless / Voltex / Cyclone, find an AO Smith Pro Partner. Use the AO Smith dealer locator to start. For service after install see our customer service hub.