Review: Kenmore Water Heaters (Are They Still Good?)

For decades, Kenmore water heaters were a staple in American homes, renowned for their reliability and accessibility through Sears. As a technician with over a decade in the field, I’ve seen countless Kenmore units, from the steadfast workhorses of yesteryear to more recent models. But with the changing retail landscape and brand shifts, many homeowners now wonder: are Kenmore water heaters still a good choice, or are they a relic of the past? Let’s dive into the legacy, current status, and performance of these units to help you make an informed decision.

The Kenmore Legacy: A History of Hot Water

The Kenmore brand has a long and storied history, primarily associated with Sears, a retail giant that once dominated the appliance market. Unlike many brands, Kenmore itself never manufactured water heaters. Instead, it operated as a private label, contracting major Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) like A.O. Smith, Rheem, State Industries, and even Whirlpool and GE, to produce units under the Kenmore name. This model allowed Kenmore to offer a diverse range of water heaters, often featuring competitive pricing and a reputation for solid performance.

Many older Kenmore water heaters earned their stripes for exceptional longevity, with numerous reports of units lasting 12 to 15 years, and some even exceeding 20 years. This often surpassed the average lifespan of 10-12 years for typical water heaters. Their sturdy construction, featuring heavy-gauge steel tanks with glass linings and magnesium anode rods, contributed to their resistance against corrosion and pressure, extending their operational life.
Close-up of an old Kenmore water heater tank, highlighting its sturdy, durable construction.

Are Kenmore Water Heaters Still Being Made? The Current Landscape

The landscape for Kenmore water heaters has significantly changed. Following Sears Holdings’ bankruptcy in 2018, the Kenmore brand was acquired by Transformco in 2019. While the Kenmore brand still exists for various appliances, it is widely believed that Kenmore brand water heaters have been largely discontinued around 2021. You might occasionally find older stock or rebranded units through online retailers, but new production under the Kenmore water heater label is rare.

This shift means that finding brand-new Kenmore water heaters can be challenging. For those looking to replace an old unit, the options are limited. The focus has therefore shifted to maintaining existing Kenmore units and understanding their performance characteristics, as well as navigating the complexities of finding replacement parts and service.

Kenmore Water Heater Reliability: The Good, The Bad, and The Varied

The reliability of Kenmore water heaters is a topic with varied feedback, largely owing to the multiple manufacturers behind the brand. While many users cherish their long-lasting Kenmore units, others have faced challenges.

Historically, many Kenmore water heaters were praised for their robust construction and consistent performance. They often featured design elements aimed at durability, such as sediment-reducing baffles to minimize buildup and thorough testing to ensure component quality. This led to a significant percentage of users reporting that their Kenmore units outlasted other brands, requiring fewer repairs over time.

However, consumer feedback also highlights common performance critiques tied to specific component failures. These issues can include problems with gas control valves, pilot light failures in gas models, or premature failure of heating elements and thermostats in electric units. Sediment accumulation at the tank’s base is another recurring issue, which can lead to reduced efficiency, insufficient hot water, and rumbling noises as trapped water boils. The quality and longevity could vary depending on the specific OEM that manufactured the unit.

“Many older Kenmore units were built like tanks. Their longevity often came down to the quality of the original manufacturer, a key detail often overlooked by consumers.”

Common Issues with Kenmore Water Heaters and Troubleshooting Tips

Even the most reliable water heaters encounter issues over time. For Kenmore owners, understanding common problems and basic troubleshooting can save time and money.

Insufficient Hot Water or No Hot Water

This is a frequent complaint. Before assuming the worst, check your thermostat. It might simply need adjusting to a higher temperature. If the issue persists, sediment buildup in the tank can impede heating efficiency. Flushing the tank regularly can significantly improve performance. For electric models, a faulty heating element or thermostat might be the culprit. You can often test heating elements with a multimeter.

Unusual Noises

Popping, rumbling, or banging sounds often indicate sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. This sediment creates hot spots, causing water to boil and create noise. Flushing the tank thoroughly is usually the solution.

Error Codes

Modern Kenmore water heaters with digital displays might show error codes. Consult your unit’s manual, as these codes pinpoint specific problems. For instance, codes like “E1” typically suggest a heating malfunction due to power issues or a defective thermostat. Often, cycling the power (turning off the circuit breaker for a few minutes) can resolve minor electronic glitches.

Pilot Light Issues (Gas Models)

If the pilot light won’t stay lit, the thermocouple is often the cause. This safety component senses the pilot flame; if it’s faulty, it won’t allow gas to flow to the burner. A dirty or misaligned thermocouple may need cleaning or repositioning, or it might require replacement.

Leaking Water Heater

A leak is a serious issue. Leaks from plumbing connections can sometimes be tightened, but if the tank itself is leaking, it usually signifies terminal corrosion and necessitates a full replacement. Inspect the temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve; if it’s constantly dripping, it could be faulty or indicating excessive pressure/temperature within the tank.

Servicing Your Kenmore Water Heater: Parts, Warranties, and What to Expect

Maintaining an existing Kenmore water heater requires a slightly different approach than servicing a current brand. The main challenge lies in the brand’s private-label nature and the changes in ownership.

Identifying the Original Manufacturer

Since Kenmore didn’t manufacture its own units, identifying the actual OEM (e.g., A.O. Smith, Rheem, Whirlpool) is crucial for sourcing replacement parts or accessing specific technical documentation. You can usually find this information by looking at the model and serial number tag, typically located on the side of the tank. The first few digits of the model number often indicate the OEM.

Warranty and Customer Service

For older units, original warranties might be expired. Even if they are active, obtaining service or parts through Sears can be challenging given its reduced operational footprint and bankruptcy proceedings. Many past customers reported significant difficulties with warranty claims and service appointments. It’s often more practical to seek assistance from independent plumbers or appliance repair services who are experienced with various water heater brands and can diagnose and repair Kenmore units, regardless of their original manufacturer.

Essential Maintenance

Regular maintenance remains key to extending the life of any water heater, including Kenmore.

• Flush the Tank Annually: This removes sediment buildup, improving efficiency and preventing corrosion.
• Inspect the Anode Rod: The sacrificial anode rod protects the tank from corrosion. Inspect it every 3-5 years (or annually if you have hard water) and replace it if it’s significantly corroded.
• Test the T&P Valve: Manually test the T&P valve once a year to ensure it’s functioning correctly as a safety device.
• Check for Leaks: Periodically inspect the tank and connections for any signs of leaks.
  Hands performing routine maintenance on a water heater, such as flushing sediment or inspecting the anode rod.

Is a Kenmore Water Heater Right for You Today?

For most homeowners looking for a new water heater today, Kenmore is likely not a primary consideration due to its discontinuation. The market has moved on, and established brands like Rheem, A.O. Smith, Bradford White, and others offer robust options with active support networks and warranties.

However, if you currently own an older Kenmore water heater that is still performing well, it can absolutely still be a good water heater. Many of these units were built to last, and with proper maintenance, they can continue to provide reliable hot water for years. The key is proactive maintenance and knowing how to identify its original manufacturer should you need replacement parts.

Ultimately, your existing Kenmore water heater might be a testament to durable engineering. But if you’re in the market for a new one, consider the readily available options from current manufacturers that offer strong warranties and dedicated customer support.

Conclusion

Kenmore water heaters hold a unique place in appliance history, embodying a blend of diverse manufacturing and a reputation for durability that, for many, stood the test of time. While the brand’s water heater line is largely a thing of the past in terms of new production, existing units can still be dependable workhorses with diligent care. Understanding your specific unit’s origins and maintaining it properly are crucial for extending its life. Do you regularly maintain your water heater, or do you wait until a problem arises?

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Kenmore water heaters still available for purchase?

New Kenmore brand water heaters are believed to have been discontinued around 2021. You may find older stock or units rebranded by other manufacturers, but the dedicated Kenmore water heater line is no longer actively produced.

Who manufactured Kenmore water heaters?

Kenmore water heaters were manufactured by several major OEMs over the years, including A.O. Smith, Rheem, State Industries, and sometimes Whirlpool or GE. The specific manufacturer depended on the model and year.

How long do Kenmore water heaters typically last?

Many older Kenmore water heaters were known for their longevity, often lasting 12-15 years, and sometimes even longer, with proper maintenance. This often exceeded the typical 10-12 year lifespan of other brands.

Can I still get parts for my Kenmore water heater?

Yes, parts for Kenmore Water Heaters can often still be found, especially if you can identify the original OEM. Many components are generic or cross-compatible with parts from the actual manufacturer. Independent appliance parts suppliers are a good resource.

What are common signs that my Kenmore water heater needs repair?

Common signs include insufficient hot water, unusual noises (popping, rumbling), visible leaks, error codes on digital displays, or a pilot light that won’t stay lit. Addressing these promptly can prevent more extensive damage.