O Smith

A. O. Smith Corporation is an American company founded in 1874 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Initially a small machine shop, it became a significant manufacturer of pressed steel automobile frames by the early 20th century. The company developed the world’s first pressed steel vehicle frame and supplied major automakers, establishing itself as a leader in automotive manufacturing. Over the years, A. O. Smith diversified its offerings, patenting the glass-lining process for water heater tanks in 1936 and entering the residential water heating market. The company focuses on water heating solutions, providing a range of residential and commercial water heaters, including gas, electric, and tankless models. It also offers water treatment systems, including filtration and purification products, and has expanded its presence in this market through the acquisition of Aquasana Inc. in 2016. As of 2023, A. O. Smith reported net sales of approximately $3.9 billion, solidifying its position as a global leader in water technology.