Step 2 · Identify the Brand and Serial Number
Once you've located the data plate, identify the Brand Name (e.g., Rheem, A.O. Smith) and the Serial Number. The serial number is often labeled as 'Serial No.', 'S/N', or simply 'Serial'. It's a long string of letters and numbers. Use your smartphone's camera to take a clear, well-focused picture of the entire data plate. This is highly recommended as it creates a permanent, easy-to-read record. If you don't have a camera, carefully write down the full brand name and the exact serial number on a piece of paper with a pen.