Rheem 22V40F1 Natural Gas Water Heater Review

1. BuilderOnline.org

In this 2007 survey of 3,428 builders and contractors, Rheem ranks highest among 11 brands for water-heater quality.

Review: 2008 Builder Brand Study, Editors of BuilderOnline.org, March 31, 2008

2. J.D. Power and Associates

This survey of nearly 900 contractors and subcontractors ranks Rheem/Ruud second only to Bradford White for overall satisfaction -- based on seven factors: warranty and repair service, ordering process, credit/billing, delivery, price, sales and marketing support, and the water heaters themselves.

Review: HVAC and Water Heater/Boiler Subcontractor Satisfaction Study, Editors of J.D. Power and Associates, September 2006

3. 411Plumb.com

When Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant (FVIR) safety regulations began requiring manufacturers to redesign gas water heaters to seal the pilot light away from exposure to flammable gases outside the water heater, major manufacturers scrambled to come up with viable designs. Although this review by an experienced plumber gives top ranking to the Bradford White design, Rheem's design is ranked a close second.

Review: Bradford White Water Heater Review, Editor of 411plumb.com

4. Bestcovery.com

A household-appliance reviewer gives top ranking to the Rheem FVR 22V40F1 as the best tank-style water heater, based on analysis of features, specifications, price and reviews elsewhere. She praises this model as an excellent value, with brass fittings rather than plastic and good protection against rust and sediment buildup.

Review: Rheem FVR NATGAS 22V40F1 Water Heater, Mariette Mifflin

5. Amazon.com

About a dozen and a half owners review the Rheem 22V40F1 water heater here. All are enthusiastic about the water heater itself (though one is disappointed that it's made in Mexico) but two report serious customer-service issues with a specific retailer.

Review: Rheem 40 Gallon FVR NATGAS Water Heater 6 YR 22V40F1, Contributors to Amazon.com