Lochinvar water heaters are known for their efficiency, durability, and advanced technology, making them a reliable choice for both residential and commercial use.
When choosing a water heater, brand reliability is crucial. Lochinvar has been a prominent name in water heating for decades, but is it the right choice for your home? This in-depth review examines Lochinvar’s performance, durability, and value compared to competitors like Rheem and Bradford White.
Lochinvar Water Heater Overview
Lochinvar is an American company with nearly 80 years of experience manufacturing high-efficiency water heating solutions. Their product line includes:
- Residential and commercial water heaters
- Boilers
- Pool heaters
- Cogeneration systems
The company emphasizes innovation, with recent developments like their Veritus™ Air Source Heat Pump Water Heater earning industry awards. For residential applications, Lochinvar offers standard tank-style gas water heaters in common sizes like 40 and 50 gallons.
Key Features
- 95% AFUE rating on combi boilers
- 10:1 turndown ratio for efficient operation
- Made in USA construction
- 6-year limited warranty on residential models
Lochinvar vs. Bradford White: The Surprising Connection
Industry professionals reveal an important fact: Lochinvar’s residential tank water heaters are actually manufactured by Bradford White. This explains why their designs appear similar. However, user experiences suggest potential quality differences:
| Factor | Lochinvar | Bradford White |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Made by Bradford White | Bradford White |
| Reported Failure Rate | Higher incidence of early failures | More reliable long-term |
| Burner Performance | Some report uneven ignition | More consistent ignition |
As noted on Terry Love’s plumbing forum, some contractors report higher warranty claims with Lochinvar-branded units compared to identical Bradford White models.
Performance and Reliability Concerns
User experiences highlight several potential issues with Lochinvar water heaters:
Early Tank Failures
Multiple plumbing professionals report Lochinvar residential water heaters failing after just 2-4 years of service. This contrasts with competitors like Rheem and State that often last significantly longer.
Ignition Problems
Some users describe uneven burner ignition that creates noticeable “poof” sounds and gas odors during startup. This may concern homeowners sensitive to noise and smells.
Technical Support Challenges
Contractors on heatinghelp.com describe Lochinvar’s technical support as inconsistent, with some requests going unanswered for extended periods.
Where Lochinvar Excels
Despite residential concerns, Lochinvar has strengths in specific applications:
Commercial Systems
Lochinvar’s commercial boilers and large water heaters receive better reviews than their residential products. The company offers innovative solutions like their new LECTRUS Commercial Electric Boiler.
High-Efficiency Models
Lochinvar’s premium products like the Noble combi boiler achieve 95% AFUE ratings and excellent turndown ratios. For homeowners considering built-in gas heating solutions, these high-end models may warrant consideration.
Innovative Designs
The company invests in R&D, developing advanced products like air source heat pump water heaters that outperform conventional electric models.
Professional Recommendations
Most plumbing professionals suggest considering alternatives for standard residential water heaters:
- Rheem – Consistently reliable with good support
- Bradford White – Same manufacturer as Lochinvar but reportedly better quality control
- State – Another professional-grade option with strong track records
As one contractor noted, “We have used State heaters successfully. I prefer State as of this writing.” For those needing precise temperature control, some competitors offer more advanced thermostat systems.
Final Verdict
Lochinvar presents a mixed picture. While their commercial and high-efficiency products show innovation, their residential water heaters (made by Bradford White) appear to have more quality variability than the Bradford White-branded equivalents. For standard residential applications, most professionals recommend sticking with Rheem, Bradford White, or State for better long-term reliability.
