I have been installing Bradford White water heaters for over 18 years. They’re by far the best tank type water heater for your money. I’ve also installed all the other top brands like reem and AO Smith. They’re decent as well but Bradford’s in my opinion are the best. Most Bradford whites that I replace are near 20 years old and being replaced as a cautionary reason rather than leaking. I’m no Bradford rep but I see some negative reviews and felt I needed to speak up on their exceptionally higher quality product. As far as someone saying “their pilot kept going out”. That’s most likely and air flow issue or condition of the surroundings. Because I’ve had AO Smith and reems do that same thing from lack of combustible air. Keep in mind your newer heater has more safety features that may require more air flow than your older, not as safe heater. That’s why “you’ve never had that problem with the old heater”. Take it from a pro. Bradford is the best tank type water heater on the market.

I am asking everyone that has a problem with Bradford White products to call the distributor where you purchased it from and let them know that you are unsatisfied with the product and customer service. The first water heater first leaked within three years and needed to be replaced and the second needs a new gas control valve and is just out of warranty. After many hours of complaining to Bradford White about their inferior products, they just hid behind the warranty and denied my claim. Amy told me that they gave great customer service because the first CRAPPY water heater replacement was free. But that free water heater cost me $900 to install and the new one will be over $600 to repair. They have obviously dealt with many warranty issues and complaints before and if they actually honored their warranties THEY WOULD BE OUT OF BUSINESS. So Sad!!!

Six years ago, I purchased and had installed a 50 gallon Bradford White electric hot water heater. After 2 1/2 years it shorted out and caught fire. BW replaced it under warranty. This weekend 3 1/2 years later the tank on the replacement gave out (replacements are not covered by warranties). My instructions to our plumber was to get me a new new one as long as it wasnt a Bradford White.

We had the Bradford White gas 40 gallon hot water heater B/Wmitw40s6fbn installed 3.5 years ago after being surprised that the prior Bradford White unit lasted over 13 years. I thought we would have the same luck, but it started leaking from the side somewhere and leaking down the unit after 3.5 years. The pilot light seemed to also be going on and off a lot. Luckily my wife, Melinda discovered it leaking and cleaned up the puddle before it went into our finished half of the basement and into my office. My 3 sons, 13, 15 and 18 as well as Mindy and I had to do without hot water for a few days as it happened during February vacation and we were going skiing. We returned on the weekend so had to take showers at the country club for a few days. The plumber said that Bradford White would charge $140 for the new tank for shipping and the fact that it was a newer and better model. It looked exactly the same as the other unit. Plus it cost me $300 in labor to replace it. I will keep a close eye on this one after reading all the negative reviews. It seems as though Bradford White have done a 180 since we bought the last one 17 years ago when it was with our newly purchased home. It is made in the U.S. so I cant blame it for being made in China! There is obviously a defect with this 40 gallon tank.

I am a Bradford White customer (personal home and 2 rentals) and a plumbing heating and cooling contractor that installs Bradford White in New Mexico. Your build up of black debris sounds like what happens when a water heater that is set up for natural gas is put on a propane system. I have seen the same thing happen on gas burning equipment around here when an unqualified contractor installs equipment meant for natural gas systems is installed on a propane system without converting it.

Had a Bradford White natural gas water heater installed in June,1993 and have never had a problem with it. Now 21 years later it has small leaks on the bottom so will need to be replaced. All in all Im satisfied with this product.

I purchased a Bradford white hot water heater 2 years & 3 months ago. The relief valve failed. Plumber stated valve should last several years. I am dissatisfied with the quality of this very expensive product.

ZERO Stars. Like so many others, I have also experienced multiple failures of multiple tanks in a span of just a few years. Might be covered by warranty but youre still stuck without hot water and stuck with large labour invoices for parts and/or entire tank replacements. I can’t see how any of their competitors could be any worse so it can not hurt to take the advice of so many people and avoid Bradford White.

For the consumer named Evelyn who posted on July 1, 2014 please contact me regarding your water heater. Back in 2011 a Bradford White Natural Gas water heater was installed in my home - Model # M2XR504T6FBN. One week after install my unit also began malfunctioning. Bradford White failed to honor my 10-year warranty. One year after it was installed, my entire family was poisoned with carbon monoxide and my dog died. I have an attorney who is currently working on my case. I am 100% certain the water heater is defective because my attorney spent thousands of dollars getting mines tested. PLEASE contact me ASAP!!

I have BW water heater installed in my house and every 4 years it always leaks, they have very poor warranty and I ended up spending double plus I have to pay for the plumber, they have very poor customer service too. I will never buy this brand of water heater again. This BW I had broke in 2009, 2013 and now its 2017, just within 4 years time this BW leaked and it flooded all over my basement. The same exact problem that I had way back 2013. So to other customers who are planning to buy a new hot water heater I advised you guys not to buy this brand because its just a waste of money, its a crappy product. Thank you all for reading this review and this is an honest review from a concerned person. Thank you to all again.

I have owned this Bradford White water heater for 3yrs at a cost of $1700. Installed. And every year since it needed repair, the (vapour sensor) at a cost of $170. Twice so far. And every year I have contacted Bradford White for warranty by emails with no results. So would I recommend one of these. Definitely Not.

My house came with a Bradford White gas water heater with an electric blower that has a 6 yr warranty. Yesterday the water heater broke and water went all over the basement floor and needs to be replaced. The water heater is 6 yr and 11 months old. This puts it conveniently outside the 6 year warranty. When I called the company I was told sorry, it is out of warranty they (Bradford White Corp) will not do anything. They said water heaters are designed to last 10 years+, industry standard is only 6 yr warranty, and they would do nothing about their products failure. Additionally I was told Since its out of warranty they (Bradford White Corp) wont do anything, but we will sell me a new water heater AT FULL PRICE. I called the plumber who was going to install the new one and told them I did not want a Bradford water heater put back in, and was told b/c of size and space issue with my house Im stuck with getting a Bradford. This post and others Im leaving is to warn any other soon to be water heater buyers NOT to get a Bradford White Water heater b/c they do not stand by their product, have poor customer service, and have products that conveniently break when the warranty is up. If anyone wants to contact me to discuss, you can email me at **. Beware of Bradford White products!

I am going on my fifth water heater! First one installed Model # MI5036EN10 on December 23, 1999. Second water heater installed on December 16, 2003 Model #MI5036FBN, third installed on December 17, 2008, Model #MI5036FBN, fourth water heater installed on November 7, 2012, Model # MI5036FBN and now today May 16, 2016 yet another water heater bad. The same plumber has been replacing these water heaters (under warranty) but I have to pay the installation charges! Really Bradford White something for sure is very wrong here and not listening to us consumers with these issues is terrible consumer relations!! The warranties have gone from 10 year down to a 6 year warranty! Clearly they must see a problem and not fixing the problems!!

My BW water heater stopped working after 18 month, 6 month after the end of the warranty. Now I need to pay for the parts and labor, God knows how much. What else can I say? I have no hot water and Im very upset.

Bradford White Hot Water Heater Model Number M440T6FBN, Serial Number JM17492394 with Honeywell Smart Valve, Installed March, 2013. Bradford White, its executives, its procurement decision makers chose to change to the Honeywell Smart gas control valve (from White Rodgers gas control valve) a technology flawed part which fails shortly after tank installation systemic problem affection 1000s 10,000s owners of Bradford White gas hot water heaters. Bradford White has trained and instructed employees to keep silent to owner inquiries seeking explanation of equipment problem relating to lack of hot water in gas hot water heater which includes warranty representatives, technical support, regional sales offices, local plumbing vendors.By the companys representatives and its regional sales office, preferred vendor plumbers silence, owners are at the mercy of plumbers who take advantage of a known technology parts problem over charging owners who are not able to operate their household without hot water. There is not one action on the part of the company and its representatives supporting the customer/owner of a company known flawed part affecting the hot water heaters performance. The like part to like part replacement solution where by the part must be presented to the distribution center first, in order to obtain a replacement part and then charge the owner for travel time, is not an acceptable process or fix. It puts extra money into the hands of the license plumbing company for what is a delivery driver work and the part will fail again.The company, regional sales office and Hawthorne Plumbing need to look closely at the favorable statements made on their respective website for accuracy. Hawthorne Plumbing neither provides nor posts any written explanation of their Tier charge structure. It can and likely is applied discriminatory. It cannot or will not be explained by their employees when asked.

We have the 40 gallon Gas Water heater model M44 and it has operated flawlessly for 9 years. Now 3 years past the manufacturers stated warranty of 6 years and we are hearing popping when the heater is on, so we know the time is near to a tank failure. I was surprised to learn that the warranty starts at time of manufacture and not from time of purchase. I find this not to be in my best interest and not a good consumer policy. For that reason alone I will not purchase another B-W water heater.

The Bradford White Gas Power Vent water heater failed without warning overnight causing extensive flooding and water damage to a finished basement. Water heater was almost 10 years old. Should be built with a safety water cut off valve that ceases water supply to water heater if incoming water rate is greater than exiting flow.

Had my local Plumber install a Bradford White hot water heater knowing it was American Made and assumed it was of higher quality. 17 Months later it was rusted out and leaking due to an internal leak. Naturally Bradford White authorized a new replacement. But the cost of replacement labor was not covered. As far as Im concerned there is no excuse for an internal leak in a unit this new. Clearly a manufacturing or material defect. I bought what I thought was a top of the line product only to find out that the quality was the same or less than other manufacturers and the company doesnt stand behind its product. Very disappointed.

Had to replace a Bradford White water heater in 4 year old house - replaced with a Bradford white. Now 3 yrs later motor has died. Paid $363 to have plumber out to replace parts not covered by warranty. He has to source new motor which we hope is covered by warranty - then another plumber visit cost! Have owned 7 or 8 homes in past - have never had these issues with any other water heater - not reliable and very expensive to replace and install.

Our plumber installed a new Bradford White water heater in our new house. Two months later, it started making a very loud buzzing/rattling noise. And then it started spilling water into the tray below, eventually flooding our laundry room. BW replaced the faulty heater, but they refused to pay for the reinstallation. So I ended up paying ~$600 to install the same water heater twice in about 3 months. My understanding is that their competitors have better warranties for when things go wrong. Would *not* recommend buying a BW heater.

I purchased my first Bradford White Gas Hot water heater in 2008, 4 years later (2012) the tank rusted out. It was replaced under warranty and I had to pay 369.00 in labor. Now, in 2016 the warranty tank has rusted out! Both tanks lasted 4 years!! There is no warranty for the second rusted out tank because they back date the warranty to the initial purchase. I will never buy a Bradford White tank again!! My garage has been flooded twice and both tanks lasted only 4 years!!!

New 40gal Defender water heater installed May 2020 as a warranty replacement for other defective one. Warranty goes from original install and has now expired. Ive had issues with water temp and had to have defective thermostat replaced ($400) and now pressure relief valve has a pretty fast constant drip and needs to be replaced. Shouldnt have these problems with 7 mth old water heater.

I purchased a new home not to deal with a broken hot water heater. I called Mike ** at Bradford and was told he was in a meeting (surprising). And we all know that he called me back, NOT. My house is two years old and my hot water heater broke. I needed to call for service and the service man called Bradford. My hot water heater wouldnt light. Bradford told the service man to replace the GAS VALUE and the PILOT ASSEMBLY. REALLY I think that Bradford White should reimburse me the $450.00 it costed me to repair the crap.Hard to believe that a house that only has two people living in it, could possible use the Hot Water Heater that much to break the gas assembly and pilot in two years. In all honest I cant ever remember my water heater breaking any gas parts. Just remember the parts might be under warranty but the labor is expensive. DONT BUY THIS PRODUCT. EVEN THE COMPANY DOESNT CARE ENOUGH TO RETURN A PHONE CALL.

This unit was just in service for over 3 years when the gas controller failed. About 6 months later, the tank developed a leak where the flame was impinging on the bottom. Because of new government energy regulations, this unit is supposed not available anymore and Im going to have to pay $50-100 more for the equivalent replacement. While under warranty, failures like this before the unit is even 4 years old is unacceptable. Not to mention that I have to pay a plumber to fix them.

$1500.00 unit leaking in tank seams 2 months after warranty over, NO HELP offered by company. Purchased for $1500.00 Bradford White Defender 50 gal tank 8/28/2009 Model # M1TW50S6FSX Serial # FG12138580 from Wayne J Pisanchyn Plumbing & Heating Clarks Summit, PA. Unit is leaking 12/2015. Warranty was over 2 MONTHS ago. Warranty dept mgr Amy @ Bradford White corp. offered nothing. She was very robotic and unsympathetic. Amy was very glib and informed me that she was the TEAM LEADER for the warranty dept and no else could help me. The unit was maintained and is leaking in the SEAMS of the tank. It is obviously defective. Both plumber & manufacturer offered nothing substantial. I will have to pay another $1500.00 for another unit. NO DISCOUNT or EXCEPTION in warranty. My previous basic hot water heater lasted 15 yrs +. I will be sharing my Bradford White corp. experience online for any potential consumers to be advised that $1500.00 every 6 yrs is unreasonable for a water heater. Bradford White corp is not interested in happy customers and manufacturing QUALITY products, they are only interested in their bottom line and following their warranty rules to the letter.

I purchased a new home in 2009 which has a Bradford White water heater Model No:M440356FBN S/N FK12499826. The problem is the sensor on the pilot light keeps failing so the boiler goes out and cannot be re-lit. You can hold the pilot button as long as you want but the second you leave go the pilot light goes straight out. This seems to be an annual problem so is becoming expensive as you cannot buy just the sensor - you have to purchase the entire gas control assembly, which I find ridiculous, then you have the expense of getting someone to install it. This is obviously a manufacturing fault and Bradford White need to step up to the plate and resolve this issue. In the meantime, I am again without hot water and again have to purchase a control module just to replace a $10 sensor. I have neighbors around me having the same problems and are having the entire hot water tank replaced. Not a Happy Customer! Make It Right Bradford White and feel free to call me!!!

40 gallon gas water heater, model# RG240T6N. Unknown to me, comes with a 90 day warranty. Thats it. So now 18 months later, control not working. Pilot wont stay light because led light wont function. I used to buy Home Depot wh - they lasted 4 years. A so called top water heater - Bradford White only lasted 18 months. Looks like Im going back to Home Depot. I do not recommend.

I am a plumber from Phoenix AZ and I have had a 50% fail rate with all of the Bradford White Gas Water Heaters I have installed in the last 7 years. Most of the failures are due to the Honeywell Gas Controllers. Both Honeywell and Bradford White should be ashamed of themselves for building such a pile of crap. I have also had quite a few leakers within the first year of installation too. I have switched to RUUD Water Heaters and so far I have had zero warranty issues. The Ruud Residential Gas Water Heater has White Rodgers Gas Controllers and that seems to be a bulletproof control valve. These water heaters make me look bad. I am a native of Michigan and Bradford White Resides in Michigan. It makes me glad I moved to Arizona so Im not in the same state with such an incredibly poor manufacturing company.

Licensed plumber installed BW Eco-Magnum Series w/Hydro jet 75 gal water heater on August 2016. Failed this week April 2020. Two pinhole leaks on lower sidewall approximately 6 from bottom, near the vent holes left of the Honeywell temperature regulator. The leaks were right at the weld areas. The insulation was completely soaked. Did not last 5 years even after routine flushes. Either tank defect or possible issues with the Honeywell regulator that may have overheated the unit. There was an attempted class action lawsuit regarding the Honeywell regulator. Water pressure valve and water pressure checks out. Plumber coming to replace on Monday April 6, 2020.

When the original water heater started leaking after about 4.5 years I contacted Bradford and they agreed to swap the faulty unit per their warranty for free. Although, I had to pay the labor to a local plumber $250.00. Nice warranty, isnt it? The new unit lasted about 2 years and now is leaking just as the original one was. Stay away from this manufacturer at all costs. They put together a piece of junk that will not even last for their own warranty period.

Have only had this gas Bradford White gas water heater since March 1, 2016, and it is already out. No hot water for 2 days now with a household of 6 people. Lee Company who installed it is trying to work me in today to check to see what is wrong & if it is under warranty.

I bought a new B. White tank, and gas flow valve, which were defective within 1 month of purchase. B White is trying to charge me $450.00 repairs to replace gas valve.

Installed new, failed after 2 1/2 years. Do not use if you have a salt water softener or high calcium chloride in your water, BW would not honor the warranty. Not one penny. No help at all. The tank was almost solid inside and extremely heavy when it was removed. Our contractor will no longer use their products. Expensive mistake. Horrible people to deal with.

I called a plumbing company to look at my Bradford White water heater which is only a little less than 3 years old. He told me to call and have the replacement part sent to me under the warranty. I called the company/warranty department and was told that as the home owner I am not allowed to order the part, only the contractor who worked on the unit! Ridiculous!! Why wouldnt the homeowner be able to order the control unit as the contractor requested I do so??? I am so upset as I havent had hot water for days.

I purchased a hot water heater and it was installed June 14, 2014. Two months later It lost the heat. The pilot light was difficult to work. The plumber who sold it to me came... got it started and in about 3 or 4 months it stopped again, in November at Thanksgiving time it quit again. The plumber started it again then in Dec at Christmas time it quit again. The plumber replaced the starting equipment and it lasted until February 19, 2015 then stopped again. I bought and paid for a hot water heater. I am not at all satisfied with this and would like to hear from you just how I get out of this mess.

After only 3 1/2 years in a newly built home, the heating elements had to be replaced. The cost of the elements were covered under the warranty. However, the $225 in labor was not covered and we had to pay for it ourselves. I called the warranty dept and they could not reimburse for labor. They advised me to call the Corp. office, which I did and left a message asking for reimbursement. I have not heard back from anyone at Bradford White HQs. Bradford White does a great job marketing their product, but they appear not to live up to the hype as being the best in the business and all the other garbage they present themselves as being. All that I am asking for is some kind of reimbursement for the labor cost. I could have purchased a much better brand new heater for a bit more money. Im not one to complain about things, but this I felt strongly enough about to do so. Stand behind your products Bradford White!

My heater was installed right around 10 years. Water sometimes hot, sometimes cold for a while. Now its leaking at the top. Called the rep, she asked for warranty card. But I only have receipt and installed label for 10 warranty info that prove I paid for it. She said thats the policy, could not do anything.

I went to a supplier today to replace a part from my Bradford White Hydrojet water heater, (gas control valve) and noticed that the new part which cost $185.00 is made of metal and that my part is made of plastic which is very important, because my part melted where the hot water flows. This is a clear indication to me that Bradford White and Honeywell are well aware that the old previous version of the hot water gas control valve, is and was a default product, and for those reasons, it should not matter if a persons warranty is out or not, because the fact of the matter is, they sold a faulty product and should be held accountable and responsible and should stand by their product.

Our plumber installed a Bradford White Water Heater in our condo in 2013. It has to be replaced today (5 years). Labor is not covered, there is a $125 surcharge because of a federal standard that made newer water heaters more efficient but cost more, so I have to pick up the difference. I called BW and they basically told me too bad, I have no choice. The average water heater lasts 12.5 years, BW certainly lowers that average. Choose anything else.

This water heater lasted a lot longer than most I have read about 7 years but it cracked and cannot be repaired. We have never had to replace a water heater in such a short time. Not a good brand. Will buy a different.

3 years and 360 days, we had installed a 40 gallon gas water heater and it started leaking from the bottom. Called company who installed it. They came out and told me it is a total tank failure. The water heater is still under warranty but the cost of installation is again on me. I do not want nor will I have another Bradford White in my house. I refuse. Bradford-White will not give me another warranty on their own product and I am afraid to put another in my home. I thought living in Michigan Id buy a Michigan made product. Bad choice and Bradford-White was not my first choice but I could not find a company that carried my first choice. So the kicker is the company that did the install no longer carries Bradford-White, and for a good reason, but they now carry the brand I originally wanted. Ironic. Never again a Bradford-White product.

We own a mobile home park and rent homes. One of the homes had a Bradford White 30 gallon water heater. Our plumbing company, Horizon Enterprises, determined that the water heater was defective. Bradford White diagnosed the problem over the phone and slowly sent some parts. These did not repair the water heater. When the plumbing company reported this Bradford White refused to further honor their warranty. We will never purchase their product again.

My plumber installed a Bradford White water heater, Model No. URG240T6N, on January 29, 2020. It immediately leaked because the factory-installed nipples didnt work. He told me that he had to remove them on every Bradford White water heater he has installed, that it is a problem with the product. I called my plumber when I saw that the water heater was leaking (thank goodness its in the garage) and he came out and removed the factory-installed nipples and the water heater stopped leaking. But, then, the water never came out hot. At the factory recommended setting of Hot, a bath would only be at 88 degrees. I called and said there was something wrong with the water heater. The plumber came and changed out the thermostat. Still no hot water. I called the company, Ferguson in Santa Barbara that he purchased it from. They said there was nothing that they could do. I needed to call Bradford White.I called Bradford White Warranty Dept. and told them that I had a defective water heater. They immediately began arguing with me, telling me that it wasnt the water heater and that I must have faulty plumbing. I told them that the plumbing had been fine in my house, for 12 years, until the new water heater was installed. Then, they told me that it was my plumber. I told them that I had been using my plumber for 25 years and never had a problem with him. I also told them that he had already changed out the thermostat and it still wasnt working right. I also said he had come to my home three times to try to fix it. They told me that I wasnt getting the full story from my plumber and Fergusons. I told them that I had spoken with both of them and that Fergusons had directed me to the warranty dept.I told Bradford White that it was defective and I wanted a new water heater. The woman continued to argue with me. It was THE RUDEST call I have ever had with a company. And, then, she said shed send a factory rep. to check it. I told her that I had taken cool baths/showers for over a week and I wanted it fixed immediately. I asked her for the name of the President of the company because I was going to write a letter. She said she didnt know the name of the President of the Company. I asked her, again, You dont know the name of the President of the company for which you work? and she hung up on me. I know she hung up because she had my number, which I had confirmed at the beginning of the call, and she never called back. Plus, she NEVER sent the rep.I ended up talking with a rep from Bradford White. He told me that he realized I had lost faith in the company and he was going to give me a refund so I could get a new water heater and a different brand. This was over a week ago. Two days after our call, I called him after no word and he back-pedaled on his offer and that they were going to send a factory rep. I told him they had promised me that over a week ago and no one had arrived. To this date, no factory service rep has ever called or arrived.So, now, it is February 19, nearly three weeks, and I am still fighting my water heater issue. I ending up having to call an attorney. I am also filing a complaint with the Consumer Fraud division of the State of California and am going to call our local television station which has a service that tracks down companies who arent upholding business standards. I WILL NEVER DO BUSINESS WITH BRADFORD WHITE COMPANY EVER AGAIN. This is definitely a Buyer Beware Situation and the appropriate state/federal business regulating company should be after the company.

We had the Bradford White gas 50-gallon water heater installed 3.5 years ago. The previous one lasted for almost 11 years. It started leaking over the past weekend. I contacted the plumber and they found that the problem causing the leaks was due to the faulty temperature control vault. I always have to make many adjustment on the vault in order to get the correct water temperature each time after we returned from vacations. Its either too hot or not hot enough. Gave it a slight touch and it changes the temperature unpredictably. The tank was still under the 6-year warranty but the labor warranty was over in 3 years. I contacted the company and ask them to cover the labor cost because the problem was caused by a faulty device that it was first installed. They refused to take any responsibilities and stated that the labor cost was the responsibility of the customer.

Had 2 - 40 gals twin water heaters in attic on 2 story house. Both eventually started leaking from the thermostats. Took both of the thermostats out of tanks and found that the plastic covering both probes had split and it is where the water came back thru the thermostat housing and leaked thru my ceiling down to the first floor. Obviously a defective water heater assembly and thermostat from Honeywell.

I bought a Bradford White Defender water heater earlier this week to replace another Bradford White unit that was in the house when we bought the house several years ago. The age on the original unit was 15 years and for the 7 years we owned the house we didn't have any issues. The only time we thought of it was when we'd go on vacation and needed to turn it down. We made updates to the kitchen and added a bathroom so needed more hot water which led to buying a bigger water heater.

In October 2010, I had the small 5 gallon electric water heater under my kitchen sink replaced with a new Bradford White water heater. The work was done by professional plumbers, who have an excellent reputation. Over the next few months, I noticed that my electric bills were higher than normal and couldnt find the cause - now I suspect it was the water heater, since the bills went back down in May.I went on a trip to Oregon to visit family in mid-March and was supposed to come back home to Montana, the end of May. Less than a month after I left, my water heater exploded! It was discovered April 19 and water to the house was immediately turned off, but not before flooding my kitchen with 76,800 gallons of water. Nobody touched anything, except to have the water to the house turned off and the breaker to the water heater/kitchen turned off to avoid fire and electrocution danger. I also had pictures taken. After a week or so of trying to get advice from attorneys and insurance, I contacted the plumbers, who came out immediately to assess the situation. I was instructed to touch nothing till the water heater people inspected. The water heater people (either Bradford White or distributor, Western States Sales) didn’t send someone till mid-June. Again, I was told to touch nothing till they finished their investigation. I argued with them, telling them that mold was growing and would continue to get worse if it wasn’t cleaned up immediately. Due to kitchen damage, mold, no water etc., I was unable to return home the end of May as planned. My house was, and remains, unliveable. In June, Western States Sales sent me a Bradford White water heater claim form to fill out. In mid-July, Bradford White finally sent a shipping label to the plumbers, instructing them to pick up the water heater from my house and send to them for inspection. Bradford White finally finished their inspection of the water heater in mid-August and determined that it was a water pressure issue due to a surge in the water system. This is a lie. I have a letter from the town stating that there was no surge in the system. My other much older and larger water heater had no problems, the neighbors had no problems and the school that is a block away and monitors their pressure constantly showed no surge.I had repeatedly tried to explain to everyone that I want to go home and that the mold continues to get worse every day. I kept telling them that the worse it gets, the longer it will take to clean up and the more it will cost. I have repeatedly explained how much of an inconvenience this has been and that I really want to return to my own home. For the most part, my emails and phone calls were ignored by Western States Sales. They have stalled and caused this to drag on unnecessarily. I don’t know if it was just them or if it was Bradford White telling them to stall it. I do know that there was something defective that caused the water heater to explode and that is definitely on Bradford White. This should have been handled/investigated back in May (should have taken no more than 2 weeks), and clean-up and repairs should have been completed for me to return home by the end of June, at the very latest.I am a disabled widow on social security and as it stands now, I have a house that I am still making mortgage payments on, but cannot live in. It is a total loss, due to mold and structural problems from the water sitting in the crawlspace. I cannot sell the house; it will have to be torn down. I still have no place to live and can’t afford to rent a place, while I am still making mortgage and utility payments. If I quit making mortgage payments, it will ruin my credit and I won’t be able to find a decent place to rent.Since it seemed clear to me that it was a defective product and still under warranty, I didn’t contact my homeowners insurance. I trusted/expected that it would be dealt with in a timely, professional manner. After all, Bradford White is a reputable company, right? Yeah, sure. In the end, when the investigation was finally finished, I contacted my homeowners insurance, only to be told that they won’t cover anything, because it wasn’t cleaned up immediately and that’s why the mold and structural damage occurred. I have kept a detailed log/journal of everything that happened, complete with letters, emails and notes from all phone calls, but it hasn’t done me a bit of good. The lawyers don’t seem to be interested, because there was no personal injury.In my opinion, the fault for the whole thing lies first with Bradford White for the defective water heater, which exploded, did major damage to my kitchen and caused the water to enter my house. Secondly, with Western States Sales for dragging this out, their delays caused mold and structural problems. Lastly, in the end, Bradford White lied about the unit being defective. Back in May, the cost of repair and clean up would have been between $5,000 and $10,000. Here I am, nearly a year later, the house is a total loss, I cannot afford to fix it, have no insurance coverage to fix it, I am homeless and bouncing from one family member’s house to another’s, sleeping on the couch, no privacy or comfort and no life of my own. The upset and stress has affected my health and nearly ruined family relationships. The big companies have no concern for the problems they cause people, just to save a few bucks. I wish they could be held accountable for a change. They all acted like a water heater exploding was totally unheard of, it had never happened before that they knew, but yet there was a specific claim form for it - go figure. If I could give a negative 5 rating, I would!

My Bradford-White Defender gas water heater blew 6 yrs. and 3 months after installation. They have a 6 yr. warranty - and wouldnt offer me a dime toward replacement costs!

The top part of the tank leaked and corroded the whole thing. The insulation on the inside was shot with moisture! A very high price for only seven years old! Not happy, we have to buy another one so darn soon!

Our Bradford White water heater Model MI5036FBN failed and began leaking. We awakened to water dripping from the ceiling in our dining room. Fortunately we caught it early. Our unit was manufactured in 2011. Ironically, our home warranty does not cover items that are still covered under manufacturers warranty, and Bradford White does not apparently cover installation, so our cost is $1,100.

We have two units and this morning our 5th water heater is once again leaking badly. This product is a joke. Do not buy this from Bradford White. And they have been difficult to deal with, not offering to pay for labor even after so many problems. We will be filing a suit against them.

Late Sunday evening I notice that we did not have hot water. We check the hot water tank to find our basement was wet and water continued from the hot water tank. I looked on Google for 24 hours and found PK Wadsworth. I called and was told that the Tech would return my call. The Tech, Roberto, returned the call within ten minutes. I discuss my busted hot water heater and we decided that he would come out on Monday morning 8:30 am. Roberto was prompt and pleasant. He discussed the issue we agree replaced the hot water tank. Roberto left and returned with a new hot water tank and Brad. Together they promptly removed the tank. Roberto placed a tarp on the floor and stairs so that this area would not get wet or damaged. We were very pleased with the job and the excellent customer service demonstrated Brad.

Purchased a Bradford White Gas Water Heater 6 years, 9 months ago. The top of the tank is now leaking and we do not have hot water. Plumber told us we need to replace it. The Warranty on the water heater is only good for 6 years. Called Bradford White customer service and person was very rude and did not care about our concerns. I am very uncomfortable with buying another Bradford White Water Heater.

The AO Smith water heater that came with the house lasted 18 years before it needed to be replaced. I got a Bradford White that failed in just 18 months and had it replaced under warranty. After only a year we had to put in a new anode in the warranty replacement water heater. 12 months later that water heater ruptured. No warranty for a water heater replaced under warranty. I guarantee that I wont be getting a third Bradford White.

We had A B-W 50 gal. water heater installed when we built our home in 2001. It started leaking and was replaced in July 2013 by another B-W 50 gal. water heater. In Sep 2017, the replacement started leaking. A call to B-W requesting the heater be replaced under warranty was a joke. They wanted me to buy another B-W heater and when they had a chance to inspect mine they would issue a refund. So they will only warrant the heater if you buy another one from them. Why would anyone buy one of their water heaters, when they only last four years? I submitted an email to B-W and they promised to get back to me in 48 hours. Its been over a week now, I dont think its going to happen. Their warranty and their word are worthless. I urge you to avoid their products as I will in the future.

We switched from an older, gas powered water heater when we did a renovation. The water heater wasnt malfunctioning, we just wanted something more efficient. We got a Bradford White direct vent water heater. In the space of one year we have had to replace a sensor twice and replace an entire module as well (the control box on the front). Our old water heater was set it and forget it - this one is set it and pray...

There are only 2 adults at this location. No problems until we would go more than 2 days with no use of hot water. Had strong sulfur smell. Neighbor suggested pouring bleach down well head. Cleaned smell after 2 days. Worked a couple of times. Now, after 7 years stinks all the time. Read that the problem is the anode. Why should this happen? Makes no sense to me. Out of warranty 1 yr ago. A 50-gallon tank for 2 people should last more than 7 years w/o repair. Not happy. Would not recommend.

I paid top dollar for the best 50 gal. water heater they sold. 1 year later and the pilot light goes out everyday. I called about the 6 year warranty. What a joke. They will replaced the part for free BUT I have to hire an Authorized plumber that charges $300.00 per hour! Wish I had checked the reviews first. I will never buy their products ever again. Should have gone to Home Depot or Lowe’s.

Glad to have found this thread. We had a 40 gallon hot water heater installed 4 years ago, and it completely failed over the Thanksgiving Weekend, leaking all over the basement. Found someone to replace it on Friday, but they used Rudd, which is probably better. Trying to get a refund since it was still under warranty and I just reached out to the consumer affairs office at Rudd. I will post an update with their response, but I hope they will issue a refund for their defective product. Not to mention the water damage in the basement.

I purchased a 40 gallon Bradford White water heater and it was defective. Within a week, had a replacement installed and within a year it too needed to be replaced. Bradford White “customer service” told me that unless I replaced with another Bradford White water heater, there was no warranty. Terrible! My plumber called them scams. Is there any recourse with Consumer Affairs? At this point I don’t want to incur attorney costs so pursuing small claims for money back.

Our Bradford White gas water heater was installed in 2002 when we had the house re-piped. Our house is a 50s-vintage mid-century modern style. The water sits in the garage (semi-attached) and serves the dish washer, clothes washer, and sink. There is another heater for the other end of the house that serves the two bathrooms. The garage unit started leaking yesterday and will have to be replaced ASAP. But from 2002 to yesterday, no problems, leaks, or anything. Good stuff.

My home is only 2 yrs old and Im having to replace my 40 gallons gas water heater, REALLY? From reading the reviews it seems like we all have something in common. We purchased a piece of garbage! Apparently it has been leaking for some time now but by the grace of God the drip pan has contained the water and theres no water damage (unfortunately the unit is upstairs). Its still under warranty but I really would like to install a better brand. Ive contacted the Plumbers that installed the water heater though the Builders and theyre going to replace it but Ill have to foot out the labor which is $350. Buyer beware! Complaints have been made since the early 2000s and this company has yet to better the quality of their product.

My RG240T6N 40 gallon gas water heater was installed only 3 months ago and Ive been far from satisfied with it. It has a Honeywell electronic-type gas control valve. The manual says the LOW setting runs approximately 55 degrees fahrenheit. Well, not mine. Not by a long shot! When my water heater is set on the lowest setting, the hot water coming out of my faucet is appearingly scorching hot. I called Bradfords tech support and he was far from sympathetic. He told me there was nothing else I could do to adjust the gas valve and he was there to support licensed contractors and not homeowner me. He said I had to hire a licensed plumber to look at it before Bradford White would even consider doing anything for me. He never even asked me which model I have and said hes never had anyone complain of this issue. I then volunteered my model number and he answered extremely dismissively. He was extremely standoffish and I told him this experience is driving me to never purchase Bradford White again. He said if that was my decision, so be it. My previous Reliance water heater was still working after 18 years of perfect service. I was wrong to think a new Bradford White would serve me well. I was just as wrong to think I could get any satisfaction from calling them.

I cant believe how many other reviews there are stating the same exact problem I am having with my Bradford White water heater Model M15036FBN. I had it professionally installed in June of 2010 for $1600.00. When it blew I contacted the installer who came out to declare it dead and then proceeded to tell me it would be $900.00 plus $300.00 for a new expansion tank. ON A 4-YEAR OLD WATER HEATER!! OMG! My last water heater from Home Depot cost 1/3 as much, was professionally installed and lasted 15 years! I would never again buy from Bradford White and will tell everyone I know about this nightmare! Their warranty (my unit is under warranty for another full year) is useless and requires that I send parts to them before they will decide what (if anything) is covered! (I also think the contractor took that part when he evaluated the broken heater tonight! ) Even if it is covered I still get to pay over $1000.00 for installation of another piece of junk Bradford White water heater. NO WAY! I will pay the same to someone else for something that lasts more than 4 years! Worst experience I have had with plumbers and manufacturers in quite sometime. Someone should do a class action lawsuit to stop them. Any lawyers reading this???

We installed a commercial grade expensive water heater when the restaurant was built four years ago, the heater started leaking past week. We called two different plumbers and they both are saying that the tank is rotten from inside and therefore leaking, there is no way to fix it and needs to be replaced. They are estimating the cost to be between $4500-$8500. When you buy such an expensive high quality water heater, you expect it last at least 10-15 years. I would like to request a new replacement water heater at no cost, I will pay for the labor which could be anywhere from 1000-1500 dollars. Thanks.

The gas hot water tank was installed on 01/04/13 and quit working on 08/29/19. It was installed by a reputable local plumbing company. Bradford Whites response...If the plumbing company installs another Bradford tank we can extend the warranty at no extra charge. Seriously? I dont want another Bradford tank. I got twice the life out of a tank installed by one of the big box stores and they are known for garbage units. Stay away from Bradford White!

Purchased and installed a Bradford White water heater on 12/3/2020 and found out on 1/11/2021 (had to call a plumber) that we had a bad part (T&P valve), the plumber purchased a new valve and installed it for $350. When I contacted the Bradford White warranty department I found out (like other reviews stated) they will not deal with the actual consumer who paid all original costs plus repair cost, they will only deal with the contracted plumber through the supplier (Ferguson, as an example). So I am out $350 for something that should have been covered by Bradford White, this is not right!

A little less than five years ago we purchased and had installed a Bradford White Hydrojet Water Heater. Yesterday the element in the heater apparently short circuited and caught fire. We were very lucky not to have had a major house fire. In any event, we were told that product was still under warranty and would be replaced. However, once the company found out that the heater wasnt leaking and in fact had caught on fire, they said that they would no longer honor the warranty. Apparently the warranty only applies to water heaters that leak, and not those which spontaneously burst into flames! This is a terrible and dangerous product with an equally terrible warranty. Stay far away from Bradford White!

Less than 3 year old Bradford Whites Defender water heater already leaks. Previous water heater lasted 15 years. The water heater is covered under warranty for a replacement; however different upgraded model = more money (out of my pocket) due to Federal Regulatory changes and the cost of labor is coming out of my pocket as well. Extremely poor customer service and products. Made in America... Its no wonder so many buy foreign these days. They should be ashamed.

We purchased a home in 2018 that had a 40 gallon Bradford White Hydrojet heater. Installation was done in 2015. The heater is leaking and needs to be replaced. As others have noted, the heater has a 6 year warranty that does not include labor costs. Based on other reviewers experience with multiple failures, we have decided to replace the unit with a different make. After you pay for labor twice within a few years, you are close to the cost of installing a much more dependable brand. We strongly advise avoiding Bradford White water heaters.

Thermal Coupler is bad after 4 years. I contacted Bradford White after having plumber from Mike Diamond let me know the unit is under warranty. After contacting BW, I was told to contact Ferguson Plumbing Supply. After waiting for about an hour to let a new employee figure out how to handle a swap of a warrantied product, I was told I owed $25 for a handling fee. What the heck was he talking about? BW told me it would be a swap at no charge to me. I contacted BW and they told me it was up to their supplier. I told BW I will NEVER buy another BW product and he didnt seem to care. What a ripoff! I could go to Home Depot or Lowes and pay about $6 for a thermal coupler and install it myself with any other water heater, but NO... not with BW. I guess were going to get rid of this unit and get a tankless water heater. Thank you, BW, for helping us speed up the process to purchase another mfgs tankless water heater!!!

50 gal propane water heater - This unit is five years old. Every year the pilot light goes out at least four times. Sometimes I can blame it on the wind, but not this year. In this last week, it goes off every other day. I might get a good hot shower in before it shuts off, if I take it right after I have relighted the pilot light! This isnt convenient at all - must I relight it every time I need hot water? Its still suppose to be closer to brand new. My first one of a different brand lasted 15 years! What am I suppose to do, rebuild the damn thing! Yes, I am disappointed!!!

I had to replace my water heater @ 4 years ago (that one had served me well for 14 years, never an issue) and the company I was dealing with only used Bradford White which I had never heard of before. Well it failed after only 4 years in September of this year. I was shocked and disgusted. I had paid extra for a 12 year warranty and with them based in Michigan I was lulled into thinking I was purchasing a quality product. The original company replaced the water heater which I grudgingly consented to because they said the only way the warranty would be honored would be to get another Bradford White. However I had to pay the labor cost of $330 plus the cleanup I endured is priceless in my hours and effort. Timing was atrocious as well (was to leave on a trip that week so that was a negative shadow) so all in all an awful experience and huge disappointment! The installer found no cause except that the Bradford White water heater of only 4 years was defective! I thought innocently that when Bradford White was aware of this they would compensate me for the labor costs. I called in October and got a front line employee who told me, “Well it does not work that way, meaning I should be happy that it was replaced. I said, “well what about this concept, that you produce a quality product that will last longer than 4 years. I would have been happier with that. Now my warranty does not revert back to 12 years, it is only 8 with the deduction of the 4 years. I kept going up the chain and ended up speaking with Dustin Bowerman who is the CEO. Initially he seemed nice and concerned and had me send photos, personal info, model/serial #s but then responded back that they do not want to set a precedent. The water heater failing was bad enough but to waste my time with the false hope that they would offer some compensation was I thought especially cruel. He stated that they are an Employee Owned Business which based on my personal experience they are #1 certainly not the Customer so stay away. Go with a cheaper product and if there is failure you are not as committed financially! Here was my response to Mr. Bowerman but never got one word back which was not surprising.I have no confidence in your product after my one and it remains to be seen negative experience. I went out of my way to give you and your company the opportunity to turn the awful and unexpected experience into a fading memory which would not dictate my future purchasing choices but you have failed terribly. I would have appreciated you not wasting anymore of my time truly when we spoke Dustin if you planned on using the dont want to set a precedent rule. I sent you a lot of personal information so very form to say the least. No wonder I am in the minority and price is the primary focus because there is no loyalty in either direction so thank you Dustin for creating my present and future cynicism on how employee run businesses do business! The employees are first and foremost number one and the customer is expendable as well as the quality controls to produce a reliable and sound product.. Shameful but I cannot dictate your conscience, only you can. Thank you for stepping upon my kindness so now you are in the minority.”Never heard back from Mr. Dustin Bowerman and it has been a month so if I had to do all over again I would have Run from Bradford White! Unfortunately this USA company does not inspire or contribute to confidence in their product nor customer service.

I had a Bradford White water heater model #M45036FBN, S/N DM10005845, D/N -394 installed on January 25, 2008. On Friday evening, November 9, 2012, I noticed no hot water at the faucets. I checked the water heater, found the tank leaking and the pilot light out. I shut off both gas and water supply. I called the installation plumber. I could not get someone to come till Tuesday, November 13, because Monday, November 12, is Veterans Day. This plumber, Perfection Plumbing of Temecula, CA, advertised to be 24/7 service. I called another plumber, VIP Plumbing, and someone came on Saturday at 8 am. I had to pay for labor because this is not the installation plumber. VIP Plumbing said they will take care of the warranty issue with Bradford White. I called Bradford White and was told that warranty does not cover labor at all, even for defective product. When asked whether pro-rated labor cost will be reimbursed, I was told that warranty does not cover labor, like talking to a machine. Defective, yet the consumer has to pay for re-install; quite a scam. Unfortunately, the replacement water heater had to be the same model Bradford White too. I’m waiting for the other shoe to drop in less than 6 years. If and when that happens, no Bradford White for me or anyone else I can persuade and talk to about water heaters.

I purchased my home in 3/9/18. It is a new construction home. My builder installed two Bradford White Defender Safety System water heaters. On 7/9/2020 I found that my water was no longer getting hot. I first contacted the plumber the builder used to install the water heater and was told I had to contact an outside plumber. I then found a plumber who stated he could not get out until 7/12/020. Yesterday evening, 7/11/2020 I heard water noise coming from my media room and upon further inspection I noticed water coming from the ceiling. My carpet, walls, furniture, media equipment were wet. I then went into the attic only to find my water heater had leaked. I was confused as to why a water heater that was 2 years old would not function as it was new. I have had to call out a company to control the water damage and prevent any further damage. In addition, I and my children and dog have to find a hotel to stay. I am disappointed to say the least that this has happened. I dont understand why the builder chose to use a company that would not give its customers quality products.

Good news! Bradford White replaced my water heater. Luckily the six-year warranty still had three months left. I still believe it should have lasted longer, but at least, I didnt have to pay the $2,400 Roto-Rooter wanted. My total out of pocket amount was $454.

We purchased our Bradford White electric water heater in 2015. In 2019, its motherboard burnt and luckily it was still under warranty. We spent $700 to get new water heater installed. Fast forward, 2 years later, our water heater is leaking an immense amount of water from the bottom. Our plumber does not believe that the company will replace another. DO NOT buy this water heater!!! 2 water heaters in 6 years is just ridiculous. They should be ashamed of themselves...

I bought this 40 gal water heater in Feb 2017. Running out of water after 10 minutes shower. Requested a verification with their technician. After verification they say its normal. I had one cascade before. Never missed water in my life. Never buy product from them. Its garbage!

We recently had our 2nd Bradford White water heater installed. The old one lasted 20+ years and was still working. We decided it should be replaced before something else happened so it made sense to get another one when the contractor, Service First in Newtown, PA, recommended it. Love that they're American made.

Bradford White hot water heater model #mi403s6fbn - This is the second brand new BW gas hot water heater installed in less than one month......... first one only produced lukewarm water. Called service man and he found the thermostat was defective, installed new one. Had hot water for half of the next day, called service back. They checked everything, moved water temp to very hot... nothing changed. BW accepted the tank back and presented us with another new one... installed last week and once again we had hot water for a day maybe two and now it is back to lukewarm again even though I pushed the temp up as far as it will go......... Service person says I need to call a plumber now which is going to mean more money... Shouldnt the gas company that installed it stand behind it?

Only 3.5 years and the unit cracked. Now, Im out the full cost of removal and replacement. They only cover the tank AND they dont reset the warranty period. It only lasts the duration of the original. Makes sense as this junk isnt likely to last any longer. AND you are (practically speaking) stuck with the original installer who recommended this shoddy, poorly made product. ASHAMED it is made in the USA. THEY SHOULD BE ASHAMED TOO! I spoke with the customer service supervisor, Mr. Mike ** and he was no help. Just reiterated the warranty and refused to consider that 3.5 years is UNACCEPTABLE water heater life. GARBAGE!

My plumber has had to install 4/ 30 gal water heaters in the last 5 yrs in my home. They all leaked within 1-3 yrs. The last one was installed in March of 2018, and because it was over a yr when it started to leak again they would not replace it free of charge because the other 2 were under the warranty. My plumber was not even able to get his work reimbursed by installing it again. I would never buy another one or anything made by this company.

Bradford White water heater installed into purchased Pulte home/tank develops leak in 5 yrs from purchase date. Customer relations denies the warranty. Tank was leaking from the insert nipples at the top for over a year and rusted out a hole at the top. Tank was slowly leaking but could not be detected because of the outer jacket. Customer relations was not concerned/not interested in my problem, showed no support, were indifferent, rude and said I was wasting his time. Non sympathetic to homeowners, could not communicate properly... poor choice of words. Only interested in companys liability and made no effort to help. Customer Relations is a joke!!! Bradford White is a joke. Do not buy water heaters from them. Much better alternatives. Pulte stood behind the warranty and offered compensation. Bradford White are only interested in profits according to the poorly articulated customer relations manager. He needs some speech therapy for his position. I am also writing a letter to the company to review the recorded message and evaluate this IDIOT!!

Bradford White has to be the worst water heater in existence. A terrible product! Ive had 3 Bradford White electric water heaters in 10 years. It seems like its the only water heater that plumbers carry and I think its because they know they wont last and can make money constantly replacing them. Anyways I had a 15 year old Rheem replaced with a Bradford White. Within two years it started leaking. The water heater was under warranty, but installation costs werent, so I had to pay to have it replaced. This one lasted about 2 years before it started to leak too. Same story - under warranty, but had to pay to have it installed.Next water heater lasted 6 years before water started pouring out of the bottom heating element door. This water heater is no longer under warranty and I cant find any plumber who doesnt carry anything besides Bradford White. Why would a plumbing company carry such an inferior product unless they plan to make money on service calls? Avoid these water heaters at all cost!!!!

I just Googled Bradford White to see what models are available as my husband and I are almost finished building our vacation home and want to install a Bradford White unit. Im shocked to see the reviews posted by others because they couldnt be further from our experiences. Our first home had a Bradford White unit that was brand new and outlasted its 10 year warranty by 2 years. We bought another Bradford White when it came time for replacement. Our next home had a Whirlpool water heater that was 9 years old with a 12 year warranty and it leaked within 4 months of us moving in. So, we replaced it with a Bradford White. Weve had nothing but great experiences with Bradford White, but there is something to be said about who does the installation of your water heater. We frequently refer family and friends to get Bradford White and weve yet to hear anything negative at all. Which is why Im so shocked to see the reviews posted here.

We have lived in our home for 18 years and we are now getting ready to install our FOURTH Bradford White Hot Water Heater. For some reason, these particular water heaters do not last very long. Our unit has been installed three times by a professional plumber and the same one is getting ready to install the fourth one. It is a High Efficiency Model and if I had to do all over I would never use this particular brand again. We are in a pickle as we are in the process of trying to sell our home and we definitely need to have a Hot Water Heater!!!!! I believe that these models should last longer than they have. All I can say is Buyer beware if you choose this particular model to use. Right now, I am in the process of cleaning water up in my basement so that the water doesnt get into my finished family room wall and I am very frustrated. Look at other models before buying this one.

I have had a great experience with Bradford White. Weve had two Bradford White water heaters in our home and have been very satisfied with them. The first one lasted almost 16 years before it went and the current one is 19 years going on 20 years old with zero issues! Great quality products from an American company!

We had the first heater installed in Aug of 2011...it leaked 8 mo. later and was replaced free of charge. The second heater did better...it lasted 12 mo. then leaked. The third heater did even better by lasting 21 mo. before leaking and flooding my basement. That will be 4 water heaters in 42 mo. I dont know If they will replace this one under warranty but if I need to buy one you can bet your a__ it wont be Bradford White.

Im a contractor and have found Bradford White water heaters failing at an alarming rate over the past six months (believe to have had four with the fifth coming today). Most of my problems seem to be with the Honeywell control either leaking or not working right (overheating). I have one customer that I replaced Honeywell control because it was overheating, 2 months having same problem and now out of warranty. Todays customer has a water heater that I installed 1/19/16 and has a leak. Bradford White is no longer my water heater of choice.

Had a top of the line Bradford White high efficiency propane water heater installed in our new construction home in 2006. Model M1TW505S6FSX. Within 2 years we had a huge water leak, our installer came and replaced it and said it had an internal crack. Today, now 2014, water heater is spraying water out from the top. Warranty starts from original install, even though it was a faulty product. No assistance offered from company. Spent too much $$ on this water heater for these problems.

Hot water tank failed at 1 year and 8 months. It cost $425 to replace it under warranty. Water started coming out of top side seam. The plumber stated that he had no idea why this would happen. The plumber also stated that this was a top brand; it doesnt look like it according to this site.

I am really surprised by all the bad experiences with the Bradford White water heaters I am reading here. We have a 40 gal electric model #m240s6ds2, if I read it right. Its a beautiful model and was installed in 2005 by the owners before us. We purchased this house (built in 1978) in 2006. We have never had a problem with it at all but because the year it was installed, and everyone says most last for 10-12 years, I am thinking at getting a new water heater before this one starts going bad or falls apart (even though it still looks brand new). I certainly dont want to have a big mess on my hands. I am now afraid to get another Bradford White because of what I have been reading here. Was the company sold since 2005… or are the contractors not as good/experienced as they were before. I mean something had to change for these newer units to be so messed up! Or are these complaints only from folks that got gas water heaters? I dont know a friend told me to just get a Rheem from a local Home Depot and forget about it. I have to say I am going to miss this beauty though, its been great for us.

I wish everyone would do their homework and read these reviews before buying a Bradford White (BW). These things have been junk since AT LEAST 1982. My first new house in 1982 came with a 6 yr BW which failed after 6 yrs and a couple of months. My second new house in 1997 came with a 6 yr BW which failed just before 6 yrs use. Both were replaced with Rheem water heaters - great product and great warranty that includes labor in the early years. The BW replacement for my 1997 house was a 9 yr Rheem that lasted me 15 years and was still working when I chose to replace it in 2017 due to signs of age. I bought a 12 yr Rheem that covers parts & tank for 12 years, and all labor for the first 3 years, $558 (now $618 a year later).Unfortunately you dont get a choice of water heater brand with new homes, and BW has a system working against you with plumbers. If you read the Please Note at the bottom of the BW warranty page (https://www.bradfordwhite.com/warranty) youll note that BW only distributes and sells through plumbers. If you are able to buy one elsewhere (dare Amazon) and install it yourself, you have immediately voided your warranty (call them & check for yourself). Rheem does not care if you self-install providing you do it correctly - which means dont fire it up without water in it which their electronic control module would record. The Rheem module provides error codes you can call into Rheem to skip the cost and hassle of diagnosis calls with a BW.I am a happy Rheem customer, I do NOT work for Rheem, or Home Depot who sells them. Im really saddened by how many people get burned by BW buying a replacement unit year after year. A local plumbing company constantly advertises a new 6 yr 40/50 gallon electric unit, installed with an expansion tank (typically only $40 retail) and removal of the old unit for $1,395!!! Oh that hurts to think people buy this.

These are garbage. Ours leaked flooding our basement and they will not replace under warranty. Stay away from this companys products, the tank was not even 4 yrs. old.

Eight years ago we put in our home a Bradford White energy saver 50 gallon hot water heater and it started leaking last month. Shouldnt hot water heaters last longer than 8 years?

16 years working and still going.... I am looking to replace my current 40 gallon hot water tank Model #MI40T6EN12 to prove the age, because of a possible dip tube deterioration issue, and this only started after a plumber put in a new copper pipe from the tank to our kitchen in 2015. So nothing has been confirmed yet by a plumber but they tell me once the dip tube breaks away it’s only a matter of time. Yet we still have hot water. I wish I knew where this product is sold in the Cleveland, Ohio are because I would definitely purchase another.

My tank quit producing hot water. I called a plumber who replaced the valve. Two weeks later, the tank has no hot water. Plumber returned and replaced the valve again. Third time around, the plumber assured me he replaced Bradford White tanks and that they would authorize it; they were an excellent tank. This is not true. They refused. I contacted Bradford White personally and Amy ** at BW sent out a BW-certified plumber who told me my problem was a little plastic piece that had been broken - wrong. Three days later, I have no water. BW was contacted again; plumber returned to inform me that he missed that my tank was installed incorrectly and that my tank is ruined and I will need a new one. Apparently (although the warranty book DOES NOT SHOW ANY SUCH THING), I should have an expansion tank converter placed on it. Bradford White says this is a plumber problem and I am out of luck. I will not be replacing this tank with a BW and have turned the matter over to my attorney.

Purchased an 80 gallon hot water heater for an apartment building. It continuously overheated to dangerous temperatures. The distributor sent out to inspect and repair. No luck. Still overheated. They then sent out a consultant who sent us on a wild goose chase to install an expansion tank at my expense. No luck. They then sent out a company rep. He blamed it on a non-existent waterline leak. Now a month has gone by and no hot water. I asked for a replacement. They said no. I finally ordered another brand at my expense. ALL OK. They picked up the defective unit. I never heard from them again. Stay away from this company. They are masters of stonewalling the customer with no support.

My mom had a pos bw water heater installed 5 yrs 6 months ago-- Woke up this morning to find drain pan full and could not find leak. After pulling anode covers found some moisture in top cover but bottom cover was soaking wet and anode was rusted beyond belief. Its a miracle this pos didnt short out and burn the house down. NEVER EVER have I seen a water heater with such a short life span as this. WOULD NEVER RECOMMEND THIS PRODUCT OR ANY OTHER MADE BY THIS COMPANY.

Our Defender series heater stopped working recently. It is less than two years old. A technician diagnosed the entire pilot assembly as bad and replaced it. The heater still didnt. The technician also determines the gas control valve to also be broken. How does a relatively new product fail on multiple fronts? Bradford offered no consolation.