Rheem
ActiveOverview
Rheem Manufacturing Company is a privately held manufacturer of residential and commercial heating, cooling, water heating, pool & spa heating, and commercial refrigeration products. It is the largest manufacturer of water heating products in North America and sells under brands including Rheem, Ruud, Raypak, Solahart, and Richmond. The company operates in over 50 countries with a focus on energy-efficient solutions like ENERGY STAR certified heat pump water heaters and low-NOx boilers.1234
History
Rheem was founded in 1925 as a packaging supplier to the petroleum industry. It expanded to water heaters, becoming the largest U.S. manufacturer of automatic water heaters by 1941, and shifted to wartime production during World War II. In 1970, it began producing heat pumps and HVAC units in Fort Smith, Arkansas; in 1983, it introduced the Richmond Water Heaters brand.1
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Water Heaters | Tank and tankless models for home hot water | $500 - $2,500 |
| Commercial Water Heaters | High-capacity units for businesses | $1,500 - $10,000 |
| HVAC Systems | Air conditioners, furnaces, and heat pumps | $2,000 - $8,000 |
| Pool & Spa Heaters | Gas and electric heaters for pools | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| Boilers | Combi and standalone for heating and hot water | $2,500 - $7,000 |
| Smart Thermostats | Wi-Fi enabled controls for HVAC | $150 - $300 |
Manufacturing
Rheem manufactures water heating and HVAC equipment in the United States, including facilities in Fort Smith, Arkansas. It has historical plants in Australia since 1936 and formerly in the Netherlands until 1983. Production supports sales in over 50 countries.12
Notable Products
- Endeavor Line Prestige Series iM Heat Pump - Most efficient residential heat pump water heater, ENERGY STAR certified.
- Maximus Gas Water Heater - Reduces energy use by up to 36% and NOx emissions by up to 75%, ENERGY STAR certified.
- ThermaForce and Combi Boilers - Achieve 96% fuel efficiency and reduce NOx by up to 75%.
- Ruud Brand HVAC Units - Companion brand for residential and commercial heating and cooling.
- Raypak Pool Heaters - Gas-fired heaters for swimming pools and spas.
Reputation
Rheem is recognized by professionals as North America's leading water heater manufacturer with strong emphasis on energy efficiency, evidenced by ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year awards and extensive contractor training programs. Enthusiasts and installers value its reliable HVAC and heating products, though some note higher upfront costs compared to budget brands. The company maintains BBB accreditation with positive business standing.245
Sources (6)
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rheem_Manufacturing_Company
- https://www.bccresearch.com/company-index/profile/rheem-manufacturing-co
- https://www.rheem.com/about/
- https://www.energystar.gov/about/rheemr-manufacturing-company
- https://www.bbb.org/us/ga/atlanta/profile/water-heater-dealers/rheem-manufacturing-company-0443-27003573
- https://www.rheem.com