Water Heaters - Help with choosing the right Electric WH

Hey there!

I need to replace my old Whirpool 50 gal electric water heater and looking for some help in choosing one.

Basically, my choices came down to two: GE 9 or 12-year Smart Water and Whirpool 9 or 12-year Energy Smart Self-Cleaning unit. They are priced about the same with the same warranties and probably same amount of insulation. I do prefer Whirlpool for its Energy Smart controls on top of the tank that, according to sales person, can reduce your standby energy costs and stuff. Although, I have some doubts about this system working properly vs. more conventional GE unit.

I also did look at Kennmore Power Miser tanks, but they seems to be considerably taller units thus wouldn't be my first choice, unless somebody advises me against the first two.

Thanks in advance for your help. I'm planing on buying one tomorrow, so prompt answer is much appreciated.

With every bell and whistle comes the potential for failure. The controls are cute, and have their purpose if you use them. How many times have you gone and looked at your water heater? Never, probably. That is probably how many times you will use the controls on top. The simpler, the better.