AO Smith Water Heater Parts

AO Smith Water Heater Parts & Repair Parts

AO Smith is America's #1 water heater brand, and when yours stops delivering hot water, the fix is usually straightforward. Whether your gas pilot won't stay lit or your electric unit has gone cold, the right OEM part gets you back to hot showers fast. Thermocouples, heating elements, and gas valve assemblies are the most common repairs — all available here with exact model matching.

A broken dip tube, failed thermostat, or worn anode rod doesn't mean replacing the whole tank. Many AO Smith water heaters last 20+ years with just these part replacements. Find your model number on the rating plate (usually on the lower left side of the tank) and browse our full catalog of OEM AO Smith parts below.

• Thermocouples & Thermopiles: Pilot won't stay lit or keeps going out; $10 to $20 fix
• Gas Valve & Thermostat Assemblies: No heat or pilot lights but water won't warm
• Heating Elements: Electric model producing no hot water or running out too fast
• Thermostats & Sensors: Water temperature incorrect or too hot
• Anode Rods, Dip Tubes & Relief Valves: Maintenance & longevity parts

Browse AO Smith Water Heater Parts by model number for the exact part your unit needs. Enter your model number above to see compatible parts and diagrams.

AO Smith Water Heater FAQs

Why won't my AO Smith water heater pilot light stay lit?

The thermocouple is the #1 cause. This small safety sensor proves the pilot flame is burning — when it fails or weakens, the gas valve closes automatically as a safety measure. It's a $10 to $20 part that takes 15 minutes to replace. Before you buy, make sure the pilot flame is blue and steady; a yellow or lazy flame means the thermocouple may be dirty (clean with fine steel wool) or the gas valve itself needs replacement.

My electric AO Smith water heater has no hot water. What's wrong?

Check which element failed: the upper heating element heats first, so if you have *some* hot water but it runs out fast, the lower element is likely bad. If you have *no* hot water at all, start with the upper element. Both can fail independently. You'll need the exact wattage (typically 4500W) and voltage (240V) — find these on your model's rating plate. A failed element usually shows a visible burn spot or break in the coil when you remove it.

What's a dip tube and why do I need it?

The dip tube is a long plastic tube inside the tank that feeds incoming cold water to the bottom, where it's heated. When the dip tube breaks off (common after 10 to 15 years), cold water mixes directly into the hot water at the top of the tank — you'll notice hot water running out much faster than normal. Replacing it costs $5 to $15 and restores full capacity. Check your model number to confirm the correct tube length.

Should I replace the anode rod in my AO Smith tank?

Yes — every 3 to 5 years. The anode rod is a sacrificial metal rod (aluminum or magnesium) that corrodes instead of the tank. Once it's gone, the tank itself corrodes and leaks. Replacing it is cheap maintenance that adds years to your water heater's life. Your model number determines the correct anode material and length.

Order AO Smith Water Heater Parts Online

Browse our full inventory of genuine AO Smith Water Heater parts online, ensuring quick and reliable repairs. Whether you're a homeowner tackling a DIY project or a professional technician seeking quality parts, our catalog offers all you need to maintain your hot water heater's performance. Enjoy the convenience of same-day shipping, making it easier than ever to get your water heater parts fast. Use our model number/part number lookup for an effortless search, and benefit from our No-Hassle 365-Day Returns and Price Match Guarantee. Keep your AO Smith water heater running smoothly with genuine OEM replacement parts that ensure compatibility and reliability. Don't forget to check out our AO Smith Plate Parts section for additional part options. For more insights on troubleshooting and repairs, visit our Water Heater Repair Help page today.

AO Smith Water Heater Model Number: Where to Look

AO Smith typically prints the model number on the rating plate along the lower left side of the tank, often near the energy guide label. Look for a combination of letters and numbers labeled "Model," "Model No.," or something similar. Enter that number in the model number search to narrow the complete AO Smith water heater parts catalog to parts that fit your entire unit, including controls, heating elements, valves, and maintenance parts. Check the characters carefully, since a misplaced letter or number can bring up a different model. With the correct model number, you can confirm compatibility before ordering and avoid sorting through parts that were made for another water heater.