Marathon Electric Water Heaters: The Smart Choice for Homeowners

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Marathon electric water heaters stand out in the crowded market of residential water heating solutions with their innovative engineering, high-efficiency operation, and long-lasting design.

These heaters are distinct from other electric hot water heaters, thanks to their superior design, durability, and energy efficiency.

Manufactured by Rheem, a leader in the industry, Marathon water heaters are built to provide reliable hot water for both residential and commercial settings without succumbing to the common issues of rusting or corrosion.

Features that set Marathon electric water heaters apart

Tank design

The Marathon water heater's tank is a marvel of modern engineering.

Unlike most contemporary heaters that use metal tanks, Marathon employs seamless blow-molded polybutene. This material choice makes the tank not only lightweight and rust-free but also exceptionally durable.

The tank's concave bottom facilitates complete draining and easy sediment removal, which is a significant advantage over traditional designs.

The non-metallic design also eliminates the need for an anode rod, which is often a source of maintenance, service issues, and the development of unpleasant odors.

Additionally, the tank is encased in a rugged polyethylene jacket that resists damage and prevents rust, enhancing the longevity of the water heater.

Dip tube

The dip tube can withstand higher temperatures compared to standard models. Its unique design promotes turbulent water flow, significantly reducing sediment build-up and ensuring consistent performance over time.

Heating elements

The low-watt density heating elements in Marathon electric water heaters are designed for greater performance and longer life. The thermally fused upper element protects against dry-firing, while the titanium lower element on some models prevents limescale build-up, ensuring efficient operation.

When opting for a Marathon electric water heater, such as the 50-gallon model, buyers can choose from three different models equipped with 3000-, 3800-, and 4500-watt heating elements.

The model with the strongest heating element provides a better recovery rate, though it may require a stronger electrical fuse.

Models and sizes for every need

Marathon offers water heaters in sizes ranging from 15 to 105 gallons, catering to various residential and commercial requirements. The most popular 50-gallon size is available in both tall and short models, all boasting an energy efficiency of over 90%.

Small-capacity models, such as the 15 and 20 gallons, are perfect for point-of-use applications, making them ideal for distant sinks, condos, cottages, and apartments. On the other end of the spectrum, the 85 and 105-gallon models are built for heavy-duty use and come with a 10-year warranty, highlighting their durability and reliability.

For those looking to integrate their water heating system with solar, geothermal, or indirect water heating systems, Marathon's thermal storage tanks, available in sizes from 50 to 105 gallons, offer an ideal solution.

Advantages

The lifetime warranty on the tank is a testament to the confidence in the durability and longevity of Marathon electric water heaters. This warranty underscores the manufacturer's commitment to providing a product that, as advertised, could be the last water heater you'll ever need to buy.

The innovative design, including the bowl-shaped bottom and strategically placed drain valve, allows for complete tank draining – an essential feature for managing sediment and limescale build-up.

Furthermore, the thick foam insulation, measuring 2.5 inches, and minimal heat loss of only 5°F in 24 hours, make Marathon water heaters exceptionally efficient.

Marathon models can serve purely as electric water heaters or as hot water storage solutions when used with heat pumps, solar, and geothermal heating systems, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of applications.

Potential downsides

While Marathon electric water heaters offer numerous advantages in terms of durability, energy efficiency, and reduced maintenance, there are a couple of potential drawbacks that consumers should consider before making a purchase.

These drawbacks primarily concern the initial cost and availability of the heaters.

One of the most significant considerations for potential buyers is the upfront cost of Marathon electric water heaters. These units are generally priced higher than many less durable and less efficient models available on the market. This price difference is attributable to the advanced materials used in their construction and quality features.

Another potential drawback is the availability of Marathon electric water heaters. In some regions, there may be limited availability of certain models, or consumers may encounter longer wait times for installation.

This issue can arise from several factors, including regional distribution policies, popularity of specific models leading to stock shortages, or logistical challenges in transporting the units to certain areas.

For consumers who need a water heater replacement quickly, these availability issues could pose a significant inconvenience, forcing them to consider alternative brands or models that may not offer the same level of quality and efficiency but are readily available.

Installation and operational insights

Marathon electric water heaters offer significant advantages in terms of installation and operation compared to traditional electric water heaters.

Installation advantages

Despite their robust construction, Marathon water heaters are designed for straightforward installation. Their lightweight tank, when empty, makes maneuvering and setting up easier compared to traditional metal tanks.

They are designed with simplified plumbing connections in mind. This makes the installation process quicker and less prone to leaks or other issues that can arise from complex or poorly executed connections.

Operational insights

Energy efficiency: Marathon heaters are designed to retain heat more effectively, resulting in less energy consumption to maintain water temperature.

Traditional heaters, with their thinner insulation and metal tanks, lose heat more quickly, requiring more frequent and longer heating cycles to maintain the desired water temperature.

No need for anode rod: Traditional electric water heaters typically require an anode rod to prevent tank corrosion. The anode rod needs regular inspection and replacement, which adds to the maintenance burden.

Marathon's innovative tank material eliminates the need for an anode rod, thereby reducing maintenance requirements and the risk of unpleasant odors that can arise from anode degradation.

Sediment build-up: The concave bottom design of Marathon tanks, coupled with the high-temperature resistant dip tube that promotes turbulent water flow, greatly reduces sediment build-up.

In traditional heaters, sediment can accumulate at the bottom of the tank, insulating the water from the heating elements and reducing efficiency over time. The design of Marathon heaters ensures that sediment is less likely to settle, maintaining efficiency and prolonging the unit's lifespan.

Conclusion

Marathon electric water heaters offer an unbeatable combination of durability, efficiency, and innovative design.

Whether you're looking for a reliable residential water heating solution or a high-capacity model for commercial use, Marathon provides a range of options to meet your needs, all while promising energy savings and a reduced environmental impact.

With a Marathon electric water heater, you're investing in a product designed for longevity, efficiency, and superior performance, ensuring that your hot water needs are met for years to come.