State is AO Smith\'s subsidiary brand sold primarily through Lowe\'s. AO Smith\'s plumbing wholesale network (Ferguson, Hajoca, Winsupply) also distributes State.
1. Lowe\'s (primary retail)
State is Lowe\'s headline water heater brand. Full ProLine lineup, Premier Hybrid heat pump, Sandblaster commercial all in-stock at most stores. Home Services install network available.
2. Plumbing wholesalers (AO Smith distribution)
Ferguson, Hajoca, Winsupply stock the full State catalog. Plumber-channel pricing typically beats Lowe\'s by 5-10%. Requires contractor account or walk-in retail at participating locations.
3. Amazon
State ProLine and Premier Hybrid available from Amazon via Authorized State sellers. Smaller selection than Lowe\'s but competitive pricing.
4. Home Depot — limited
Home Depot doesn\'t stock State (Rheem dominates HD water heater retail). If you\'re a Lowe\'s shopper looking for State, that\'s the right channel.
5. State-authorized installers
State maintains an authorized installer network through AO Smith corporate. These installers:
- Have AO Smith distribution parts access
- Can submit warranty claims directly
- For Premier Hybrid heat pump installs that qualify for IRA + HEEHRA rebates, may be participating contractors
Find through statewaterheaters.com / dealer locator.
Channel comparison
| Channel | Price | Warranty | Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lowe\'s (with install) | Middle | Full | All |
| Lowe\'s (unit only, DIY install) | Middle | Full if registered | All |
| Plumbing wholesaler | Lower (with contractor account) | Full | All including commercial Sandblaster |
| Amazon (Authorized seller) | Lower-Middle | Full if registered | ProLine + Premier Hybrid |
| State authorized installer | Highest (with install service) | Full + extended labor on some installs | All |
Bottom line
For most homeowners: Lowe\'s. For contractors and DIY-experienced homeowners: plumbing wholesale or Amazon. For Premier Hybrid heat pump qualified for IRA + HEEHRA stacking: participating contractor (may be Lowe\'s Home Services or local State-authorized installer).