You can’t tell the difference between natural gas and liquid propane. Then, you read that upgrading from an electric model to gas will save you more money. When considering a new water heater, a Whirlpool water heater is one of the dozens of manufacturers to select. But, Whirlpool no longer manufactures water heaters. So, this further forces you to decide if it’s worth buying from a third-party seller. How do you know it’s the right one for your home? And, furthermore, how do you differentiate which heating source is best for your hot water consumption needs?
Comparison Table
|
Product |
Details |
Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
Whirlpool 38-Gallon Lowboy Electric Water Heater |
Diameter24″Capacity38 GallonsWarranty6 Year Manufacturers Warranty |
|
Whirlpool 40-Gallon Short Liquid Propane Water Heater |
Diameter22.00″Capacity40 GallonsWarranty6 Years |
|
Whirlpool 50-Gallon Tall Ultra Low NOx Natural Gas Water Heater |
Diameter21.00″Capacity50 GallonsWarranty6 Years |
|
Rheem Performance Standard 50-Gallon Electric Water Heater |
Diameter–Capacity50 GallonsWarranty– |
|
Kenmore 57641 40-Gallon Tall Natural Gas Water Heater |
Diameter20″Capacity40 gal.Warranty6 year limited |
|
Westinghouse 60-Gallon Ultra-High Efficiency Model #WGR060LP076 |
Diameter–Capacity60 GallonWarranty10 year limited warranty on tanks when registered online (default 7 year warranty); 1 year parts |
If you’re trying to select the right water heater, the decision-making process might seem a little overwhelming. However, understanding the basics of heating sources, consumption, and energy saving will help you make the right decision. Then, homeowners also have to consider the family size to select the appropriate tank size. There are numerous products to choose from, and every manufacturer claims to be the most efficient. This fact makes it even harder for you to narrow down your options. If you’re in a state of confusion when choosing a water heater, you’re not alone. Take a step back to consider the many options available to you. The right water heater is out there. It’s just a matter of understanding your family’s usage and consumption needs. So, let’s focus on the basics, rather than trying to solve complex issues, when choosing a new water heater.
Whirlpool Water Heaters
For homeowners who are considering a Whirlpool water heater, firstly, you’ll want to choose the heat source. If your home has electric connections, the decision’s relatively straightforward. If, however, gas lines are in place, some homeowners are contemplating if natural gas or propane is a superior option. Then, there are those who are considering switching from electric and installing new gas lines.
So, which Whirlpool water heater is the best for homeowners? These are some of the basics. For homeowners considering a Whirlpool water heater, the manufacturer no longer carries products directly on their website. However, they’re available through third-party sites like eBay at discounted prices. It’s important to note these products typically don’t include manufacturer warranties. This fact is especially true if they’re not new water heater models.
Electric Water Heaters
An electric Whirlpool water heater has self-cleaning capabilities. The manufacturer’s product line of electric heaters is also energy efficient. Depending on family size, hot water consumption, and the number of applications in the home, there are numerous tank sizes. Most electric tanks range from below 20 gallons to 105 gallons. There are ENERGY STAR, LCD, and self-cleaning varieties in the electrical tank category.
Natural Gas Heaters
A natural gas Whirlpool water heater is probably the most efficient. Since gas is cheaper than electric, it’s cheaper to operate the water heater in residential settings. Like electric tanks, size, features, capacity, and energy efficiency ratings vary from tank to tank. Self-cleaning and ENERGY STAR certification are a few characteristics homeowners can choose when buying a gas tank. And, the sizes of Whirlpool gas water heaters are between 30 and 60 gallons. Tanks have warranties from 6 years to 12 years, depending on the model.
Propane Water Heaters
Last, Whirlpool water heaters are available in the liquid propane heating variety as well. Like natural gas, they are lower in cost to operate than electric water heaters. Tanks are available in tall and short product categories, from 30 gallons to 60-gallon capacities. The Whirlpool series of liquid propane tanks come with a 6-year warranty. Depending on family size and consumption needs, every household will select a different Whirlpool water heater for their home.
Average Price of a Whirlpool Water Heater
Although Whirlpool water heaters are no longer in production, it’s possible to find them through third-party sites. Places like eBay and other online retailers carry several products for homeowners to purchase. Depending on the size of the tanks and availability, pricing will vary. On eBay, some models are available for $300 to $750.
The Review Process: Our Comparison of Whirlpool Water Heaters
Knowing that Whirlpool water heaters are no longer in production, we considered several factors in our review. First, we included prices of products available through third-party sites, which aren’t new. This information allows homeowners to decide if a Whirlpool heater is the best option, given they don’t include warranties. Our review further focuses on the energy source. Gas and propane are more affordable than electrical tanks. However, the upfront cost is usually higher.
Additionally, in some areas, these connectivity options aren’t available. We also discuss features, tank size, usability, and energy efficiency. Last, we include competitors products, their ratings, and prices. So, every homeowner can choose between a Whirlpool water heater or a competitor’s products.
The Best Whirlpool Water Heaters
Although Whirlpool water heaters aren’t in production, there are still products available online. These are some of the best options available for homeowners to select for their home.
Whirlpool 38-Gallon Lowboy Electric Water Heater
This low-profile electric water heater is perfect for small or tight spaces. The 38-gallon capacity is capable of heating up to 3.5 showers back-to-back in the home. Or, it can produce enough hot water for up to 2.7 showers simultaneously. The water heater has a ceramic interior lining. And, the anode rod helps to protect the tank from corrosion and keeps rust from forming. Temperature and pressure relief valves help prevent danger in the home. The heater has a dual, 4,500-watt copper heating element. This feature helps preserve high temperatures efficiently.
The product is eco-friendly and has a non-CFC polyurethane foam insulation base. The 38-gallon tank is sufficient for a family of three or four users maximum, for optimal efficiency. The water heater does include an ENERGY STAR certification rating as well. So, homeowners know it is efficient and won’t cost much to operate annually in the home.
One reviewer indicates the product isn’t reliable. Although it only has a 6-year warranty, the customer states they anticipated it would last longer.
Average ratings are:
at Whirlpool
Whirlpool 40-Gallon Short Liquid Propane Water Heater
This 40-gallon liquid propane tank can provide hot water for a family up to four people. It is a short water tank, so it fits into tight spaces. It includes a 6-year warranty on the parts and labor (if consumers can find a new model). This water heater is also energy efficient, so it reduces annual operating costs in the home. It is a self-cleaning model, with 36,000 BTU output and low NOx emission ratings.
The tank produces enough hot water for up to 2.7 showers simultaneously or 3.5 back-to-back showers. It also has a ceramic tank lining and anode rods to help prevent corrosion. Risk of accidental fires isn’t a concern with the FLAME LOCK® Safety System. Safe operation is possible because of the factory temperature and pressure relief valves.
In one review, the customer indicated that the water heater only works intermittently. They note it is an excellent Whirlpool water heater. However, it doesn’t function properly at all times.
Average ratings are:
Whirlpool 50-Gallon Tall Ultra Low NOx Natural Gas Water Heater
This 50-gallon natural gas water heater is efficient and produces enough hot water for up to 5 household members. The tall tank comes with a 6-year warranty on parts and labor. Ultra-low NOx output also reduces emissions, making it an eco-friendly water heater.
It produces hot water for up to 2.7 showers simultaneously or 3.5 back-to-back. The ultra-low NOx output meets 10ng/J emissions standards. There’s an LED indicator status screen. This system detects issues, provides reports, and monitors the water heater. It also has the FLAME LOCK® Safety System to reduce accidental fires in the home.
One reviewer indicates the water heater didn’t function after two years. And, they were not able to replace the model easily because the water heaters aren’t in production.
Average ratings are:
How the Competitors Fare: The Best Water Heaters from Leading Competitors
For those who prefer a product that’s in production, there are several manufacturers to select when buying a heater. These are a few to consider when investing in a new water heater for the home.
Rheem Performance Standard 50-Gallon Electric Water Heater
The temperature ranges from 90 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit in this 50-gallon electric tank. There’s an overheat protection and temperature pressure relief valves. The 4,500-watt output and medium tank size make this an efficient model for tight spaces. The residential heater delivers up to 62 gallons of hot water in the first hour. And, it’s best for families with three to five members maximum.
Owners can expect up to four hot showers back-to-back. A 0.95 Energy Factor rating guarantees high levels of efficiency and low operating costs. It includes a 6-year warranty on the tank and parts. A 1-year labor warranty also comes with the heater.
One reviewer notes that less than three years after purchasing, the heater began to leak. They also indicate that rust began to develop around the base of the water heater.
Average ratings are:
Kenmore 57641 40-Gallon Tall Natural Gas Water Heater
The energy efficient natural gas tank, features a cobalt-blue glass lining. It also has an anode rod to help prevent corrosion and rust from forming around the tank. A self-cleaning, cold water inlet tube helps further maximize the lifespan of this water heater. This feature helps prevent mineral and calcium buildup and helps to preserve the interior lining of the water heater.
The tank and parts include a 6-year warranty and 1-year coverage for labor. Temperature and pressure relief valves help prevent the water heater from overheating or leaking in the basement. The heating range is 55 to 155 degrees Fahrenheit. It can deliver up to 65 gallons of hot water in the first hour of use.
One reviewer indicated they had problems with the installation and delivery process with this product. Although the heater works well, they weren’t happy with the service and delivery times.
Average ratings are:
Westinghouse 60-Gallon Ultra-High Efficiency Model #WGR060LP076
This 60-gallon tank is efficient and features an LCD alongside a faux stainless steel finish. The 97 percent thermal efficiency rating helps reduce the operating costs of this unit in households. It can produce up to 140 gallons of hot water within the first hour of operation. The 316L stainless steel finish helps prevent corrosion and rust from forming as well. The 10-year tank warranty also ensures that owners have full coverage if issues arise during this period.
The large tank capacity delivers enough hot water for families with up to five members in the household efficiently. The top-port design makes it easy to install this tank in most houses. There are multiple venting options, and t and p pressure valves help minimize odorless fuel buildup in the home. It is a self-cleaning unit and has an overheat protection. These characteristics, alongside the ultra-low NOx ratings, also make this an eco-friendly heater.
One reviewer indicated the heater is excellent. The only issue they had was the delivery took a very long time to arrive at their home.
Average ratings are:
Should You Buy a Whirlpool Water Heater? The Best Product for Residential Use
Because Whirlpool water heaters aren’t in production, many residential customers will choose a competitor’s product. If, however, you can find a Whirlpool heater, they are affordable and efficient options for water heating needs. The best Whirlpool product is the Whirlpool 40-gallon short liquid propane water heater. The 40-gallon tank size is suitable for a family of up to four members. The propane gas is efficient, and energy certification ensures low operating costs annually. The short model also makes it easy to fit this heater in tight spaces. Safety features like valves and ceramic liners help preserve the water heater as well.
For those who want a product that’s still in production, there are several to select. The Rheem Performance Standard 50-gallon electric water heater is an excellent choice. The large tank capacity is sufficient for families with up to five members. It is also energy efficient, so low operating costs are possible with this water heater. Delivering up to 62 gallons of hot water in the first hour also maximizes efficiency in busy households. The medium size of this tank makes it easy to install in tight spaces. And, it comes with a 6-year warranty. So, owners can rely on the quality and performance of the electric water heater.
Last update on 2023-06-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
