When I first came across Sure Comfort water heaters, I was looking for something dependable yet affordable. Let’s be honest—some of the big-name brands can make you rethink your budget. Sure Comfort, produced by Rheem, promised quality without the hefty price tag. After living with this unit for over a year, here’s my detailed review of Sure Comfort water heaters—both the good and the not-so-good.
Why I Chose Sure Comfort
I initially chose the Sure Comfort water heater because it was affordable but came with Rheem’s reputation for quality. It’s essentially a budget-friendly line of Rheem water heaters, so I figured it would meet my needs without breaking the bank.
I was looking for a 50-gallon gas water heater, and the Sure Comfort model was around 30% cheaper than the premium Rheem equivalent. It seemed like a no-brainer for a straightforward replacement without bells and whistles.
Key Features of Sure Comfort Water Heaters
Here are some of the core features that made this water heater stand out to me:
1. Affordability
The biggest selling point of Sure Comfort is its cost-effectiveness. You can get a basic 40- or 50-gallon gas water heater for around $400-$600, depending on the size and model. Electric versions are even cheaper. For homeowners on a budget, this price point is hard to beat.
2. Basic but Reliable Performance
Sure Comfort heaters don’t come with a ton of fancy features, but they get the job done. The recovery rate (how quickly it can heat more water) is decent, and I never ran into issues with running out of hot water, even with a family of four. It heats water efficiently, especially the gas models.
3. Easy Installation
I had my unit installed by a professional, but the installer mentioned that Sure Comfort models are designed with ease of installation in mind. For DIY enthusiasts with plumbing experience, these units are relatively straightforward to set up.
4. Variety of Sizes
Sure Comfort offers a range of sizes, from 30-gallon units for smaller homes to 50-gallon models for families. This versatility makes it easy to find a model that fits your specific needs.
5. Warranty
Sure Comfort comes with a 6-year limited warranty on the tank and parts, which is fairly standard in this price range. While not as long as premium brands (some offer 10-12 years), it still gives peace of mind for the price you’re paying.
My Experience: Pros and Cons
After more than a year of using my Sure Comfort 50-gallon gas water heater, I’ve had enough time to see where this unit excels and where it might fall short.
Pros
- Affordable Price One of the biggest pros is definitely the price. I saved several hundred dollars compared to other brands, and for the everyday hot water needs of my family, it works perfectly. If you’re on a budget, Sure Comfort is a solid option without sacrificing basic performance.
- Quick Heating Despite being a budget-friendly model, I was impressed with the quick recovery rate. I rarely run out of hot water, even when we’re doing laundry, running the dishwasher, and taking back-to-back showers.
- Compact Design The compact size of the unit made it easy to fit into the utility closet. It’s not bulky, and the gas version I installed had easy-to-access connections for the gas line and water inlets.
- Reliable Day-to-Day Use In the year that I’ve had it, the Sure Comfort water heater has been incredibly reliable. No leaks, no shutdowns, and no unexpected issues. For a no-frills water heater, this one gets the job done, day in and day out.
Cons
- Basic Features Sure Comfort is a bare-bones water heater. There are no smart features, like Wi-Fi connectivity, self-diagnostic systems, or enhanced energy-saving modes that you find in higher-end models. If you’re someone who likes techy, feature-packed appliances, this may feel a little basic.
- Lower Energy Efficiency While the Sure Comfort gas water heater is reliable, it’s not the most energy-efficient model out there. The Energy Factor (EF) rating is decent, but some premium models offer much higher efficiency ratings, which could save more in the long term.
- Gas Models: Typically around 0.62-0.65 EF (which is standard but not the best).
- Electric Models: Electric versions tend to be a little more efficient with 0.90 EF, but still fall behind more advanced heat pump or hybrid options.
- Shorter Warranty The 6-year warranty is serviceable, but some competitors offer longer warranties (up to 12 years), which can be reassuring if you plan to stay in your home long-term. You can buy an extended warranty, but that pushes the cost up, reducing some of the initial price advantage.
- Noisy Operation One thing I noticed after a few months is that the gas model tends to make gurgling or popping noises. It’s not overly loud, but noticeable. This is likely due to sediment buildup in the tank, which happens with any water heater over time, but it was surprising how soon it started.
Sure Comfort vs. Competitors
Let’s compare how Sure Comfort stacks up against some of the other brands I considered:
| Feature | Sure Comfort | Rheem (Standard) | A.O. Smith |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $400 – $600 | $600 – $1,000 | $500 – $1,200 |
| Energy Efficiency | EF: 0.62 – 0.65 (Gas) | EF: 0.67 – 0.70 (Gas) | EF: 0.64 – 0.70 (Gas) |
| Warranty | 6 years | 6-12 years | 6-10 years |
| Noise Level | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Features | Basic | Advanced (Wi-Fi, diagnostics) | Basic to Mid-Range |
| Ease of Installation | Easy | Easy | Easy |
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Installation
While I had my unit professionally installed, Sure Comfort models are generally designed for easy installation, whether you’re upgrading from a similar unit or replacing a tank. Just be mindful of local codes regarding gas or electric connections. If you’re comfortable working with plumbing and wiring, a DIY install is doable, but I always recommend professional installation to ensure safety—especially with gas lines.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity of any water heater, including Sure Comfort models. Here’s what I recommend:
- Annual Flushing: Sediment buildup can occur quickly, especially with hard water. Flush the tank at least once a year to remove sediment and prevent popping noises.
- Check the Anode Rod: The anode rod helps prevent rust inside the tank. After the first year, inspect it and replace it if necessary. This simple maintenance step can extend the life of the water heater.
- Inspect for Leaks: Regularly check the water connections and pressure relief valve to make sure there are no leaks.
Final Verdict: Is the Sure Comfort Water Heater Worth It?
If you’re in the market for a no-frills, budget-friendly water heater, the Sure Comfort is an excellent choice. It delivers reliable performance at a fraction of the cost of premium models. For most homeowners, especially those who don’t need smart features or super-high energy efficiency, it’s a solid option.
The downsides—like its basic feature set and slightly lower energy efficiency—are balanced out by the affordable price. If you’re looking to replace a water heater without spending a fortune but still want a dependable system, Sure Comfort gets the job done.
Would I buy it again? For sure—but I’d keep an eye on that sediment buildup!