AO Smith Water Heaters: A Comprehensive Guide

Regarding water heaters, AO Smith* is a trusted name in the industry. With a range of products designed to meet various needs, AO Smith offers reliable solutions for residential and commercial water heating. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need about AO Smith water heaters, from understanding different models to maintenance and troubleshooting tips.
Types of AO Smith Water Heaters
AO Smith 50-Gallon Electric Water Heater
The AO Smith 50-gallon electric water heater is popular for households needing a reliable and efficient water heating solution. It offers ample hot water for large families.
AO Smith Hybrid Water Heater
The AO Smith hybrid water heater combines the efficiency of a heat pump with traditional heating methods. This model can significantly reduce energy consumption and costs.
AO Smith Signature 100 Water Heater
The AO Smith Signature 100 water heater series provides high-quality performance with various options, including electric and gas models, suitable for household needs.
AO Smith Tankless Water Heater
AO Smith tankless water heaters offer on-demand hot water, ensuring you never run out. These units are compact, energy-efficient, and perfect for homes with limited space. Corro-Protec is not compatible with tankless type water heater.
Key Components and Maintenance
AO Smith Water Heater Anode Rod
The anode rod prevents corrosion in your AO Smith water heater. Regularly checking and replacing the anode rod can extend the life of your unit.
AO Smith Thermocouple
The thermocouple is a safety device that ensures the pilot light stays lit. If it goes out, the thermocouple shuts off the gas supply to prevent leaks.
AO Smith Water Heater Element
The heating element is responsible for heating the water in electric models. Replacing a faulty element can resolve heating issues.
Powered Anode Rods for AO Smith Water Heaters
Powered anode rods provide superior protection against corrosion, extending the lifespan of your water heater. To install, turn off the power and water supply, remove the existing anode rod, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to Drain AO Smith Water Heater
Draining your AO Smith water heater helps remove sediment buildup. Turn off the power and water supply, attach a hose to the drain valve, and open the valve to let the water flow out.
AO Smith Water Heater Reset Button
The reset button on your AO Smith water heater can resolve many issues. If your water heater stops working, press the reset button to restart it.
Troubleshooting AO Smith Water Heaters
AO Smith Water Heater Not Heating
If your AO Smith water heater is not heating, check the thermostat settings, ensure the pilot light is on, and inspect the heating element and thermocouple.
AO Smith Water Heater Pilot Light
If the pilot light goes out, the water heater cannot function. To relight the pilot, follow the instructions in your AO Smith water heater manual.
AO Smith Water Heater Temperature Settings
Adjusting the temperature settings can optimize your water heater’s performance. For guidance, refer to the AO Smith water heater manual.
AO Smith Water Heater Error Codes
Understanding error codes can help diagnose issues with your water heater. Check the AO Smith water heater manual or contact AO Smith customer service for assistance.
AO Smith Water Heater Parts and Accessories
Essential AO Smith Water Heater Parts
Having spare parts like thermocouples, heating elements, and anode rods can be beneficial for quick repairs.
AO Smith Water Heater Warranty
AO Smith offers comprehensive warranties on its water heaters. Register your product and check the warranty terms for coverage details.
AO Smith Water Heater Age and Lifespan
Determining the Age of Your AO Smith Water Heater
You can determine the age of your AO Smith water heater by decoding the serial number. The AO Smith water heater manual provides details on this process.
Extending the Life of Your AO Smith Water Heater
Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank and upgrading to a powered anode rod, can extend the lifespan of your water heater.
FAQ
The anode rod in your AO Smith water heater is located on top of your tank. For most AO Smith water heaters, the anode rod is located in a dedicated anode port and can typically be found under a plastic cap and a foam-insulated layer on the top of the tank. It may be necessary to remove this insulation to gain access to the rod.
Here are some standard locations of the water heater anode rod :

UNCERTAIN ABOUT THE LOCATION OF THE EXISTING ANODE ?
Consult your AO Smith digital or printed water heater owner’s manual for easy guidance.
We recommend using the Corro-Protec powered anode rod for your Ao Smith water heater.
The Corro-Protec powered anode rod has several advantages that make it the best choice for your Ao Smith water heater:
- Effectiveness: The Corro-Protec powered anode rod has been proven to effectively stop corrosion in its tracks. It works by emitting a weak electrical current into the water, counteracting the electrochemical reaction that leads to rust and corrosion.
- Longevity: Unlike sacrificial anode rods that deteriorate over time and need to be replaced, the Corro-Protec powered anode rod does not degrade. This means it will last significantly longer, saving you time and money on replacements.
- Compatibility: The Corro-Protec powered anode rod is fully compatible with all models of Ao Smith water heaters. Whether you have a gas, electric, tankless, or hybrid water heater, the Corro-Protec anode rod will provide the necessary protection.
- Easy Installation: The Corro-Protec powered anode rod is designed for easy installation. You don’t need to be a professional plumber to install it. Simple instructions are provided, making the process straightforward.
- Environmentally Friendly: The Corro-Protec powered anode rod is more environmentally friendly compared to sacrificial anode rods. They do not degrade or dissolve into your water supply, making it a more eco-conscious choice.
By using a Corro-Protec powered anode rod, you are ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your Ao Smith water heater.
To reset your AO Smith water heater, locate the reset button on the thermostat and press it. If the heater does not reset, consult the user manual or contact AO Smith customer service for further assistance.
To drain your AO Smith water heater, turn off the power and water supply, attach a hose to the drain valve, and open the valve to let the water flow out.
Yes, AO Smith water heaters are known for their reliability, efficiency, and long lifespan, making them a popular choice among consumers.
You can determine the age of your AO Smith water heater by decoding the serial number found on the unit. Refer to the AO Smith water heater manual for instructions on reading the date code.
*AO Smith is a registered trademark of A.O. Smith Corporation. Corro-Protec is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by A.O. Smith Corporation.
Blog
Suburban Water Heater Anode Rods
If you own a Suburban water heater, you’ve likely heard about the importance of an anode rod. For the Suburban RV water heater anode rod, […]
Protect Your Whirlpool Water Heater From Corrosion With an Anode Rod
One crucial component often gets overlooked when maintaining your Whirlpool* water heater: the anode rod. This small metal rod plays a significant role in preventing […]
