Kenmore, a trusted name in the household appliance industry, has been manufacturing appliances for many years. According to the company, millions of consumers have Kenmore washers, dryers, refrigerators, stoves, and dishwashers in their homes. Kenmore also offers a range of water heaters with varying warranties and capacities to fit different budgets.
When choosing a water heater, it's essential to consider the size based on the number of people living in the house and the type of water usage. If your household uses more water than an average household of similar size, opt for a larger unit. However, even if you have fewer people living in the house, it's not recommended to go below the specifications for your home, as prospective buyers may consider replacing a small water heater a reason not to purchase your house, according to industry experts.
The warranty length also affects the price of the model. If you plan to own the house for only a few years, you can choose a model that accommodates the number of people but with a shorter warranty. However, if you intend to live in the house for an extended period, it's advisable to purchase the water heater with the longest warranty you can afford, as suggested by water heater salespeople and plumbers.
While capacity and price are important factors, the First Hour Rating (FHR) is equally crucial. The FHR indicates the amount of hot water the tank can replenish in an hour. In situations where all household members need to get ready for work or school simultaneously, a water heater with a high FHR ensures everyone gets a hot shower within that first hour in the morning.
Natural gas water heaters are the most common type, and Kenmore offers a range of models to accommodate the majority of households that use this fuel source. The main differences between these models are the storage capacity and warranty length. Gas units often cost more than their electric counterparts but are less expensive to operate over time, according to industry research.
Kenmore's natural gas water heaters come in various sizes and warranties, mostly made with the same parts but varying slightly to accommodate the size and price of the heater.
The price of the 74-gallon tall model runs over $1000 at most retailers, not including installation costs, which can vary by area and contractor. Smaller sized models with shorter warranties cost considerably less, with 50-gallon units priced around $900 and 40-gallon units around $500.
| Model | Price | Capacity | Warranty | FHR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenmore 12-Year 50 Gallon Tall | $899.99 | 50 gallons | 12 years | 84 |
| Kenmore 12-Year 40 Gallon Tall | $839.99 | 40 gallons | 12 years | 80 |
Kenmore offers variable warranties to accommodate different budgets. Many models are compatible with the Smart Water Heater Module, which can alert owners through their smartphones about potential problems, allowing for proactive maintenance. The module also enables remote control of the unit. Gas-powered water heaters can operate during power outages. However, natural gas water heaters tend to be more expensive than other types.
Electric water heaters run solely on electricity and vent through a side wall rather than a chimney. These models have lower upfront costs but are more expensive to operate over the unit's lifetime compared to gas-powered models, according to industry research.
Electric water heaters are generally smaller and less expensive than natural gas models, with prices ranging from $450 to $780, depending on the size. Installation costs are additional.
| Model | Price | Capacity | Warranty | FHR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenmore 6-Year 50 Gallon Tall Electric | $519.99 | 50 gallons | 6 years | 62 |
| Kenmore 6-Year 40 Gallon Tall Electric | $479.99 | 40 gallons | 6 years | 81 |
Electric models are compatible with the Smart Water Heater Module and have lower upfront costs. However, they may cost more in electricity over time and will not provide hot water during power outages.
Liquid propane is an option when natural gas is not available, often used in rural areas with propane tanks located on the property. Propane has a cleaner burn than gas and is more environmentally friendly. Many natural gas models can be converted to propane, but they require more air for combustion.
There are fewer liquid propane models available, so prices may not vary significantly. Liquid propane water heaters use less energy than other fuel sources but may limit model options.
Hybrid water heaters create hot water using less electricity, making them Energy Star compliant. Kenmore offers one hybrid model that absorbs surrounding heat and transfers it to the water using an electric heat pump and compressor technology.
Hybrid models are more expensive than other types but can recoup costs through energy savings. Compared to a similar electric model, the hybrid saves more money over time, is Energy Star compliant, and has a higher FHR. However, the longest warranty is only 10 years, and proper installation is crucial for optimal performance.
California has specific water heater requirements, including energy standards and regulations for new installations, as outlined in the Title 20 Appliance Efficiency Regulations. Kenmore offers two models that comply with these regulations:
When choosing a Kenmore water heater, consider the fuel type available in your home (electric, natural gas, or propane), the size based on the number of family members, and the desired warranty length. If you plan to keep the house or rental property for an extended period, invest in a model with the longest warranty you can afford. Keep in mind that newer models may be larger than older ones with the same capacity due to increased insulation regulations. Consult with a professional water heater installer to help you choose the right model for your family's needs.