Looking for a water heater that fits seamlessly into compact spaces, yet still delivers reliable performance? Meet Ruud – the contractor-grade variant of the popular Rheem water heaters. These efficient units offer a solution for homeowners dealing with spatial constraints.
Understanding Ruud Water Heaters
Founded in the late 19th century, Ruud has a long-standing reputation for delivering innovative and quality water heaters. While Ruud and Rheem share many similarities, Ruud holds a unique position in the market, particularly when it comes to meeting specific installation needs.
The Connection: Ruud, Rheem, and Richmond
In the water heater industry, Ruud, Rheem, and Richmond are essentially three peas in a pod. They share similar designs and identical components, despite being sold under different brand names.
However, it’s important to note that from 2020 to 2021, we observed a significant issue with these three brands. Roughly one in three gas valves on Ruud, Rheem, and Richmond water heaters experienced failures, leading to increased maintenance costs. Support from Ruud during this period was minimal, and we sometimes had to supply our own gas valves.
Despite these challenges, Ruud remains our go-to choice when a smaller tank is required to fit in a tight space. The reduced insulation on Ruud gas tanks makes them slightly smaller than competitors like Bradford White, allowing them to squeeze into more compact areas.
Where to Buy Ruud Water Heaters
Different water heater brands are sold through various channels. Rheem water heaters are typically available at Home Depot, while Richmond units are sold at Menards. Ruud water heaters, on the other hand, are primarily available through plumbing supply houses.
One popular model from Ruud that we frequently install is the PROG 50-38n. This unit has a slightly smaller burner than competing models, which typically boast a 38,000 BTU rating. As a result, the PROG 50-38n has a slightly longer recovery time, but it fits into places where other models cannot.
For those in need of Ruud water heater parts, Olathe Winnelson is a reliable source. They maintain a comprehensive inventory of Ruud components, ensuring you can get what you need when you need it.
In conclusion, if you’re dealing with a compact space and need a reliable, efficient water heater, Ruud could be just the brand for you. Despite some challenges, they remain a viable choice for specific installation situations.
For more information about Ruud water heaters or help with installation, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re always here to assist you with your water heating needs.