E&L Material Wholesale is a Philadelphia based HVAC and appliance supplier serving contractors, property managers, and homeowners throughout the region.
We carry a full range of residential and commercial water heaters at wholesale prices, with units available for same day pickup at our Philadelphia location.
Our inventory includes gas water heaters, electric water heaters, and commercial-grade models from Rheem and AO Smith. They are two of the most trusted names in the industry.
Whether you are replacing one unit or stocking up for many jobs, you can shop with us directly. You can do so without the markupCall us or browse our water heater inventory to find what you need.
Water Heaters In Stock
We carry 30, 40, 50, and 75 gallon units in gas and electric. Commercial grade models are available.
Our Most Popular 30 Gallon Gas Water Heater
A 30 gallon gas water heater is the right fit for smaller households, studio apartments, and rental units with lower hot water demand. The Rheem Professional ProG29 (PROG29-32N-RH63) is a reliable, compact option that is commonly used in tight utility spaces.
The 40 gallon size is the most common choice for standard residential installations. It handles the needs of most two to three person households without oversizing. We stock the Rheem Performance XE40 (XE40M06ST45U1), the AO Smith ProLine GPVL-40-200, and the AO Smith Signature100 G9-T4040NVR.
A 50 gallon water heater is well suited for larger families, multi-bathroom homes, and light commercial applications. This is our most popular size. Available models include the Rheem Professional ProG50-38N, the Rheem Professional ProE50-T2, the AO Smith ProLine ENT-50-130, and the AO Smith ProLine Commercial Grade GCG-50-400.
For high demand residential properties, multi-unit buildings, and commercial facilities, a 75 gallon unit provides the capacity needed to keep up. We carry the Rheem Professional ProG75-76N and the AO Smith BT-80-400.
Rheem is one of the largest water heater manufacturers in the United States. Their Professional and Performance series cover a wide range of residential and light commercial applications. We carry Rheem gas and electric models in 30, 40, 50, and 75 gallon sizes, including the ProG50, ProE50-T2, ProG75, and ProG29. Select Rheem models carry ENERGY STAR certification, meaning they meet federal efficiency requirements for reduced energy use.
AO Smith Water Heaters
AO Smith’s ProLine lineup is a strong choice for both residential and commercial applications. We stock the ENT-50-130, GCG-50-400, GPVL-40-200, and BT-80-400, among others. The commercial grade models are rated for higher first hour delivery and longer service life compared to standard residential units. AO Smith participates in the ENERGY STAR program, and several of their models qualify for energy efficiency recognition.
What Sets E&L Apart
When you need a water heater, waiting is not an option. At E&L Material Wholesale, we keep inventory on hand so you are not placing an order and waiting weeks for a unit to ship. We stock gas, electric, and commercial grade water heaters at our Philadelphia location, and most orders are available for same day pickup.
We sell at wholesale prices to contractors and homeowners alike. There is no separate contractor tier or minimum order requirement to access our pricing. What you see is what you pay.
Our staff knows the inventory and can help you identify the right unit for your job, whether you are replacing a 40 gallon residential unit or sourcing a commercial grade 75 gallon for a multi-family property. We are not a call center. You are talking to someone who works with this equipment every day.
We serve customers throughout Philadelphia, Delaware County, Montgomery County, and the surrounding Pennsylvania region. Local pickup is available at our Philadelphia address, and delivery options are available depending on your location and order size.
Have a question about which unit is right for your job? Contact us or stop in.
How to Pick the Right Water Heater
Not sure which unit fits your project? Here is what matters most.
Gas vs. Electric
Gas water heaters generally heat water faster and cost less to operate in homes where natural gas is already available.
They do require proper venting, so installation is more involved. Rheem also offers propane compatible models for homes without natural gas service.
Electric water heaters are simpler to install and do not require venting, which makes them a practical choice in many apartments and older homes.
Heat pump water heaters, also called hybrid electric units, use significantly less electricity than standard electric models. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat pump water heaters can be two to three times more energy efficient than conventional electric resistance water heaters.
Matching the Tank Size to the Household
Sizing matters. An undersized unit runs out of hot water. An oversized unit wastes energy heating water you are not using. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends sizing based on household size and peak hour demand.
As a general guide: a 30 gallon unit works for one to two people in a small space, a 40 gallon unit covers two to three people in a standard home, a 50 gallon unit is appropriate for three to five people or a home with multiple bathrooms, and a 75 gallon unit is designed for high demand use in larger households or commercial settings.
Residential vs. Commercial Units
Commercial grade water heaters are built differently than residential models. They are rated for higher first hour delivery and are designed to handle more frequent draw cycles over a longer service life. For most single family homes and small rentals, a residential unit is sufficient.
For apartment buildings, restaurants, or any facility with continuous hot water demand, a commercial grade model is the right call.
Commercial water heater installations in Pennsylvania require permits. The City of Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections handles permit processing for Philadelphia properties. Contact their office directly to confirm requirements for your specific project.
What Installation Will Cost You
The cost of the unit is only part of the picture. Installation must be factored in. Under Pennsylvania law, water heater replacement in most residential and commercial settings must be performed by a licensed plumber.
The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry oversees plumbing licensure requirements across the state. Unit costs vary depending on size, fuel type, and brand. Contact us for current pricing on specific models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you sell to homeowners, or only contractors?
We sell to both. Contractors, property managers, and homeowners are all welcome to purchase directly from our Philadelphia location. No contractor license is required to buy from us.
Can I pick up a water heater the same day?
In most cases, yes. We are open 8-4 Monday-Friday We carry 30, 40, 50, and 75 gallon units in stock. Call ahead to confirm availability on specific models before making the trip.
What is the difference between the Rheem Professional and Performance series?
The Professional series is built for longer service life and higher recovery rates, making it a strong choice for demanding applications. The Performance series is a more budget friendly option for standard residential use. Both series are available at E&L.
Do I need a permit to replace a water heater in Philadelphia?
Commercial grade units such as the AO Smith ProLine Commercial series are designed for higher demand, more frequent draw cycles, and longer operational life than standard residential models. They are commonly used in apartment buildings, hotels, restaurants, and light commercial facilities.
Do you carry heat pump water heaters?
We carry select electric models. Contact us to check current inventory on heat pump and hybrid electric water heaters.
Do you deliver water heaters?
Yes. Delivery is available across the Philadelphia region. Call us to discuss delivery options and lead times based on your location.
Ready to Order? We Are Here.
E&L Material Wholesale is Philadelphia’s source for wholesale water heaters. Whether you are a contractor looking to stock up for the season or a homeowner replacing a unit, we have what you need in stock and ready to go.
Visit us at our Philadelphia location or browse our full water heater inventory online. You can also explore our complete HVAC catalog for condensers, air handlers, PTACs, and more.
