How do you know what is truly the best water heater? For most consumers, if you type in the word “best” into a Google search for any product or service, you’re not going to get what you’re looking for. For example, if you type into Google, “the best water heater,” you’ll get a list of websites that offer water heater reviews. Those websites get built to drive PAID traffic to retailers like Home Depot, Amazon, and other big-box stores. The average consumer thinks that they are getting information on the best water heaters in the industry, but they are not.
Websites like www.bobvilla.com, www.waterheaterhub.com, www.thespruce.com, and www.toptenreviews.com get built to monetize their traffic. They do that by providing lots of quality articles and do-it-yourself information, creating credibility. Then when the consumer needs a good referral on an appliance, they provide them a link to retailers that are buying their traffic. It’s similar to ten truths and one lie.
If You Want The Best Water for Your Home, Don’t Type in “Best Water Heater” In Your Google Search
There are usually 15 websites listed on Google for that search phrase, five of which are paid ads. Google is very good at showing consumers who their paid advertisers are. The companies that are paying for their advertisement have “Ad” next to the search. The paid ads are always at the top and the bottom of each page. After the paid ads, there are organic search advertisers. These companies invest in their website through search engine optimization (SEO). Finding the best water heater will not come through typing in, “best water heaters.” One thing to note is you’ll usually see well-written text and excellent websites at the top of organic searches. If you click over to any of those websites, you won’t find the best water heaters. While you may find some information on water heaters, you won’t find exactly what you’re looking for.
Don’t Wait Until Your Heater Breaks Down
The biggest question is, “How do I find a high-quality water heater?” Number one, try not to wait until your water heater breaks down altogether. If your water heater is old and showing signs that it’s on the way out, then start your search. First, decide what type of water heater you want, storage tank heaters, or tankless on-demand heater. Next, what will be powering your heater, gas or electric? Finally, remember your water heater could be providing your family with hot water for the next 10-15 years, so it’s best not to have buyer’s remorse.
The Brand Your Plumbing Company Carries Has A History Of Long Term Reliability
Like everything else, some of the latest heaters have advanced technologies that are 34% more energy-efficient than heaters produced ten years ago. It’s important to do your homework. Set your budget and be slightly flexible. Plumbing companies usually support and stock a particular brand. Most plumbing companies will have them in stock. For example, at Big B’s Plumbing, we stock Bradford White storage tank water heaters because they have a reputation for quality and for backing their product. We also stock Navien tankless on-demand heaters for the same reason. When you consider whether to purchase through a plumbing company or a home center, remember your plumbing company will only install products because they have a history of long-term reliability.
Start Your reSearch With Friends Or Family Because Everyone Has A Water Heater
You can start your search by asking friends, family, and neighbors about their heater. Every home has a water heater; below is a list of questions you’ll want to ask:
- What’s the brand of your water heater?
- How old is it?
- Has it ever broke down?
- Are you happy with its performance?
- How much did you pay for it?
- Who installed it?
- Where did you buy it?
Be Very Targeted When You Complete A Google Search
Once you decide on a brand, then do a specific search to get more details. For example, search “Bradford White water heater reviews” or “AO Smith natural gas water heater reviews.” Again, be very specific with what you’re looking for on the internet. For example, Bradford White, AO Smith, and Rheem all make quality water heaters. You can also further educate yourself by performing detailed searches such as “What is the latest Bradford White water heater technologies?” Of course, this holds true for tankless heaters as well, “What are the latest Navian water heater technologies?”
Consumer Reports Is A Good Source
Consumer Reports continues to be a trusted source because they provide thorough, independent research on water heaters and other appliances. Their reporting fosters a marketplace based on credible information, openness, and fairness through science and data. They empower consumers to make good purchasing decisions. Furthermore, they inspire manufacturers to improve the products and services they deliver.
Consumer Affairs Is Another Good Sorce
Consumer Affairs is another company that will provide unbiased information on companies. The company researches organizations, reviews, and develops tools to make the decision-making process as smooth as possible. They assist brands in collecting reviews, responding to customers, and deriving insights from their feedback. Then, when you’re ready to make a purchase, they’ll propose an Authorized Partner(s) who best fits your specific needs. The company earns money if you use their website to interact with one of their Authorized Partner.
