It was during a renovation project when I first got my hands on a 50-gallon electric water heater. The homeowner insisted on a balance between efficiency and capacity, so I went hunting for the best options. After testing several units and installing quite a few, I’ve rounded up the top contenders that I believe deliver the best performance for your buck. Here’s my take on the best 50-gallon electric water heaters available today.
Why Go with a 50-Gallon Electric Water Heater?
A 50-gallon tank is the sweet spot for many homes. It’s big enough to handle the needs of a family of 3-5 people without hogging too much energy. Whether you’ve got kids who love long showers or do a lot of laundry, it provides a good buffer of hot water so you’re not left in the cold.
Let’s break down the top models, their pros and cons, and what to look out for.
Top 5 Electric Water Heaters (50 Gallons)
| Model | Efficiency Rating | Recovery Rate | Warranty | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A.O. Smith ENS-50 ProMax | 0.92 UEF | 21 GPH | 6 years | Self-cleaning, low maintenance, budget-friendly |
| Rheem Performance Platinum | 0.93 UEF | 23 GPH | 12 years | Wi-Fi enabled, energy-efficient, quiet |
| Bradford White RE350T6 | 0.95 UEF | 22 GPH | 6 years | HydroJet system, powerful recovery rate |
| Westinghouse 50 Gal Electric | 0.94 UEF | 20 GPH | Lifetime | Stainless steel tank, excellent durability |
| American Standard CE-50-AS | 0.90 UEF | 21 GPH | 6 years | High-efficiency foam insulation |
1. A.O. Smith ENS-50 ProMax
I’ve installed the A.O. Smith ENS-50 ProMax more times than I can count, and it’s always a reliable workhorse for customers on a budget.
Key Highlights:
- Self-Cleaning: This water heater has a self-cleaning system, which helps reduce sediment build-up in the tank. Less sediment means a longer life and better efficiency.
- Affordable: One of the more budget-friendly options that still offers great value for its price.
- Fast Recovery: Provides hot water quickly, with a 21 GPH (gallons per hour) recovery rate, making it great for larger households.
Cons:
- Basic Warranty: The 6-year warranty is decent but shorter than some higher-end models.
- Not the Most Energy Efficient: While its 0.92 UEF (Uniform Energy Factor) is respectable, other models offer slightly better efficiency.
2. Rheem Performance Platinum
The Rheem Performance Platinum is a favorite for its tech-forward features. I remember installing one of these in a smart home, and the homeowner loved that they could control it with an app.
Key Highlights:
- Wi-Fi Enabled: You can monitor and control your water heater remotely with Rheem’s app. You’ll get notifications if there’s an issue, and you can adjust settings from your phone.
- High Efficiency: With a UEF of 0.93, it’s designed to save energy and keep bills low.
- Quiet Operation: It runs quieter than most, so if your water heater is near a living space, this one won’t be a nuisance.
- Extended Warranty: A 12-year warranty gives you peace of mind.
Cons:
- Higher Price: The tech features and premium build push the price up, so it’s not ideal for tight budgets.
- Requires Wi-Fi Setup: If you’re not tech-savvy or don’t have strong Wi-Fi in the area, you might not fully use its features.
3. Bradford White RE350T6
For those who want something heavy-duty, the Bradford White RE350T6 is built like a tank (pun intended). I’ve found that it works wonders in homes where hot water demand is consistently high.
Key Highlights:
- HydroJet System: This unique system reduces sediment build-up and helps the heater maintain efficiency over time. Less sediment means fewer problems down the line.
- Quick Recovery: With a recovery rate of 22 GPH, this unit handles busy mornings with ease.
- Durable Build: This thing is built to last, thanks to its heavy-duty components.
Cons:
- Higher Maintenance Costs: While it’s durable, some parts are expensive to replace.
- Limited Availability: Bradford White models are often sold through distributors, so it can be trickier to find.
4. Westinghouse 50-Gallon Electric
This model is a personal favorite of mine for clients who want a water heater that will outlast most others. Westinghouse goes the extra mile with this stainless-steel tank model, offering fantastic durability.
Key Highlights:
- Stainless Steel Tank: Most water heaters use glass-lined tanks, which can corrode over time. Stainless steel is rust-resistant and lasts much longer.
- Lifetime Warranty: This heater is built to last, and the lifetime warranty is a testament to that.
- Great Efficiency: Its 0.94 UEF means you’re getting excellent energy savings.
Cons:
- Pricey: The stainless-steel build and lifetime warranty come at a premium. It’s one of the more expensive units.
- Not the Fastest Recovery: It offers a solid recovery rate but isn’t the best in that department.
5. American Standard CE-50-AS
The American Standard CE-50-AS is a solid, reliable heater for homes that want decent efficiency without too many bells and whistles.
Key Highlights:
- High-Efficiency Insulation: This model comes with high-efficiency foam insulation that keeps heat in and minimizes standby heat loss, which is great for cutting energy bills.
- Reliable Performance: It’s a dependable option that consistently provides hot water without needing much attention.
- Affordable: Compared to some of the other models with similar features, this one is easier on the wallet.
Cons:
- Shorter Warranty: The 6-year warranty isn’t terrible, but it’s nothing to write home about.
- Fewer Features: Lacks the advanced tech features like Wi-Fi connectivity or self-cleaning systems found in premium models.
How to Choose the Right 50-Gallon Electric Water Heater
Here are a few key factors to consider before making your purchase:
- Energy Efficiency (UEF): The higher the UEF rating, the more efficient the water heater. Aim for something above 0.90 for good efficiency.
- Recovery Rate: This measures how quickly the water heater can reheat after use. A higher GPH (gallons per hour) rate is better for larger households.
- Warranty: A longer warranty typically indicates higher quality. Look for models with at least 6 years of coverage—preferably 10-12 years if your budget allows.
- Additional Features: Consider features like Wi-Fi connectivity, self-cleaning systems, or special insulation to improve efficiency and ease of use.
Final Thoughts:
If I had to pick the best all-around option, I’d go with the Rheem Performance Platinum for its mix of efficiency, tech, and performance. However, if you’re focused on durability and long-term use, the Westinghouse 50-Gallon with its stainless steel tank and lifetime warranty is tough to beat.
Each of these heaters has its own strengths, so you can’t really go wrong—just make sure you’re picking the one that best fits your household’s needs.