Whirlpool Energy Smart 50-Gallon Natural Gas Water Heater

The Whirlpool Energy Smart 50-Gallon Natural Gas is an upmarket variant of the standard Whirlpool 50-Gallon Gas, with an integrated "smart" control module that monitors operation, manages energy use, and provides limited diagnostic feedback. Built by AO Smith with Whirlpool branding for the Lowe's channel.

Specs: 40,000 BTU input, UEF 0.62, 84-gallon first-hour rating, 8-year tank warranty (versus 6 for standard Whirlpool 50-gal Gas). Atmospheric vent through B-vent. The Energy Smart control system adjusts operation based on usage patterns — learning when the household uses hot water and pre-heating slightly before peak periods.

The Energy Smart positioning sits between the standard Whirlpool 6-year line and the longer-warranty AO Smith Signature Premier (which the underlying engineering closely matches). The 8-year warranty and smart control module are the meaningful upgrades versus standard Whirlpool gas.

Right buyer: Lowe's-channel shopper wanting better warranty than standard Whirlpool without stepping up to the AO Smith-branded Signature Premier. About $749 at Lowe's, $1,550 installed. For most buyers, either the Signature Premier (12-year warranty, similar features) or the standard Whirlpool (6-year, $100 cheaper) is a cleaner choice.