10 Best 50-Gallon Electric Water Heaters — Reviewed and Rated

A 50-gallon electric water heater is the workhorse of most American homes. It’s the size that comfortably handles a family of four and fits most standard utility closets.

Electric models have a lot going for them over gas: they’re simpler to install, easier to maintain, and there’s no need for venting. If you’d rather go tankless, our best electric tankless water heater guide covers those options.

We’ve tested and compared 10 of the best 50-gallon electric models to help you find the right one, whether it’s for your home or a commercial setting.

Quick Comparison Chart

1. Bradford White RE350T6 — Best Overall

The Bradford White RE350T6 is a top pick from other heaters that require constant refilling and reheating. If you need a gas-powered option, see our best 30 gallon gas water heaters. As a 240V model, it features a protection system that prevents rusting and guards against scum formation for long-term performance.

Additional models with 120V, 208V, 277V, and 480V are also available in the market. It weighs 150 pounds with product dimensions of 23.0”L x 23.0”W x 61.0”H.

The automated temperature control setup makes sure safety and reduces the risk of dry fire. This is a fully automatic system with all controls for temperature, pressure, and more, with no emissions of chlorofluorocarbons.

2. RHEEM Marathon — Best Durability

The RHEEM Marathon features fiberglass technology in its body, providing maximum strength with multiple filament layers. Its non-metallic construction prevents corrosion, which is the main problem for almost all other heaters.

The outer part is manufactured using polyethylene, which protects it from damage and helps with long-term durability. It saves energy with low electricity consumption and features a brass drain valve that allows maximum water flow.

This model comes with a lifetime limited warranty on the tank and 6 years for parts. It can survive harsh environmental conditions, removes sulfate-caused bad odors, and has a smooth surface finish.

3. Bradford White RE350S6 — Best Short Model

For buyers who need a slightly shorter unit than the RE350T6 from the same brand, this is an excellent choice. The efficient direct heat transfer method keeps quick heating without much waiting time.

It’s easy to handle and install at home, making it suitable for whole-house use for up to a five-member family. The design meets the standard of a residential heater with the ability to deliver more showers than an ordinary heater.

It weighs 150 pounds and is available only in the standard 240V. Surface-mount thermostats provide fast automated temperature control, and the temperature and pressure relief valve manages water flow effectively.

4. RHEEM Pro E50 — Best Residential

This residential water heater weighs 117 pounds and features copper and stainless steel elements in both the upper and lower sections. The LED display shows heat operations and keeps you aware of temperature, water flow, and pressure.

It’s equivalent to ANSI standards and certified by a third party under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The 4500W power consumption is energy efficient, and the automatic temperature control keeps water at desired heating levels.

The EverKleen dip tube and temperature protector work together to control temperature rises and declines. The maximum temperature range is 120 to 160 degrees F, and it comes with a 6-year limited warranty on the tank and parts.

5. 50 Gal Commercial 208V — Best Commercial

Those looking for commercial purposes will appreciate this 208V model with 6000W power consumption. The T&P valve with brass drain system allows quick drain service and controlled water flow.

The maximum temperature range is 110 to 170 degrees F, and it features a long-life tank design and heating elements for longevity. The 3-phase wiring with three circuits makes it significantly more efficient than Phase 1 heaters.

The performance includes a recovery rate at 100F rise of 24 GPH and 120F rise of 20 GPH. It comes with a 3-year warranty for the tank and 1-year warranty for parts replacement.

6. RHEEM Pro+E50T2 — Best Efficiency

This model offers maximum performance with the lowest operating cost in its class. It’s slightly smaller than other Rheem models, making it a good option for tighter installation spaces.

Less conductive heat loss and rapid heating technology make this one of the most efficient residential options. The over-temperature protector cuts off high temperatures to maintain balance and prevent safety threats.

The automatic thermostat keeps water at your desired temperature, and the EverKleen self-cleaning device fights harmful sedimentation. It comes with an 8-year limited warranty on both tank and parts.

7. RHEEM-RUUD ELD52-C — Best Heavy Duty

This is a powerhouse 480V commercial model with 12000W, designed for those needing heavy-duty heating capacity. The 3-phase wiring with three circuits delivers maximum efficiency for commercial settings like retail stores and small offices.

The temperature range spans 110 to 170 degrees F, and the temperature and pressure valve with brass drain system makes sure smooth water flow. The tank design features durable heating elements built for longevity.

It weighs 140 pounds with a maximum pressure of 150 psi. An automatic cooling system operates without manual intervention, and a standard vent allows for free passage of air.

8. RHEEM/RUUD ES50-6-G — Best Industrial

If you need a heavy-duty water heater for industrial applications, this model delivers 98% thermal efficiency with 6000W power. It features three heating elements, a rare configuration that maximizes output.

It supports both Phase 1 and Phase 3 circuit connections, providing flexibility in installation. The temperature range is 90 to 160 degrees F with maximum pressure of 150 psi, and it’s UL certified.

Multiple recovery rates are available, including 50F rise at 50 GPH, 120F rise at 21 GPH, and 90F rise at 28 GPH. The T&P valve and brass drain valve be sure to smooth water flow and pressure control.

9. RHEEM/RUUD ELD52-C 480V — Best Commercial 480V

This commercial model operates at 480V with 4500W and 3-phase wiring for above-average power flow. It’s a smaller version of the ELD52-C 663258, making it suitable for medium-range heating capacity needs.

The stainless steel construction resists burnout and corrosion, and thick foam insulation reduces standby heat loss. A glowing LED display shows temperature range, pressure, and other operational features.

The temperature range is 110 to 170 degrees F with maximum pressure of 150 psi. Recovery rates include 100F rise at 18 GPH and 120F rise at 15 GPH with a top connection location.

10. RHEEM/RUUD ES50-18-G — Best High Power

This is the most powerful option on the list at 18000W with 480V, designed for heavy-duty industrial purposes. Recovery rates include 90F rise at 83 GPH and 50F rise at 149 GPH, making it the fastest heater in this roundup.

It meets ASHRAE and UL sanitation standards and supports both Phase 1 and Phase 3 wiring circuit systems. The temperature and pressure valves with brass drain check that smooth operation.

The maximum pressure is 150 psi with an overall width of 32 inches. It’s one of the few heaters that can handle the most demanding industrial heating requirements.

Benefits of Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters are safe for installing and use in modern homes. They’re insulated with temperature control, heat resistance, minimal heat loss, and tanks that store water for continuous use.

They can store anywhere from 2.5 gallons to 80 gallons and carry a vast amount of water for heating. There’s no fear of explosions like with gas heaters, and they offer quicker heating with a high safety rate.

Electric heaters always carry less risk than gas heaters because there’s no chance of gas leakage. The coils are designed to prevent dry firing and severe damage to the unit.

Gas water heaters require gas line connections, but electric heaters work with standard electricity that every house already has. An electric-powered unit is typically cheaper to install than running new gas connections.

Electric heaters also have fewer parts, and those parts aren’t subjected to direct flame heat. As a result, they tend to last longer than gas water heaters. For larger households, see our guides to 65 gallon water heaters or 75 gallon water heaters. For maximum efficiency, consider a heat pump water heater.