Bradford White 50 Gallon Water Heater Specs – Unlock Performance,

Ever found yourself staring at a water heater label, feeling overwhelmed by all the numbers and acronyms? You’re not alone! For many homeowners, the thought of understanding something as crucial as their hot water system can feel daunting. But here at HVACRLY, we believe that understanding your home’s systems is the first step to truly mastering them.

You rely on your water heater every single day for showers, dishes, and laundry. When it comes to something as fundamental as hot water, you want reliability, efficiency, and peace of mind. That’s where knowing your Bradford White 50 gallon water heater specs comes in. Bradford White is a name synonymous with quality in the HVACR world, and their 50-gallon units are a popular choice for many households.

We promise to cut through the jargon and provide you with a clear, practical guide to understanding these vital specifications. By the end of this article, you’ll not only know how to read those labels like a pro but also how to choose, maintain, and even troubleshoot your Bradford White 50-gallon unit, ensuring you get the most out of your investment. Let’s dive in and empower you with the knowledge you need!

Decoding Bradford White 50 Gallon Water Heater Specs: Why They Matter

Understanding the specifications of your water heater isn’t just for technicians; it’s empowering knowledge for every homeowner. Knowing your Bradford White 50 gallon water heater specs helps you make informed decisions, whether you’re buying a new unit, performing maintenance, or diagnosing a potential issue. Think of it as your water heater’s DNA — it tells you everything about its capabilities and requirements. This guide will walk you through the essential information.

Understanding Model Types: Gas vs. Electric

Bradford White offers 50-gallon water heaters in both gas and electric variations, each with its own set of specifications and operational characteristics. Your home’s existing infrastructure often dictates which type you’ll need.

Gas Water Heaters: These units typically heat water faster, thanks to a powerful burner. They require a gas line connection and a venting system to exhaust combustion gases safely. Specs here will include BTU input, ignition type (pilot light or electronic), and venting diameter.
Electric Water Heaters: These units use electric heating elements to warm the water. They require a dedicated 240V electrical circuit. Key specs include wattage of the elements, amperage draw, and often a higher Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) rating due to no standby heat loss from a flue.

The choice between gas and electric heavily impacts installation, energy costs, and the specific specs you’ll be looking at. Always consider your current setup and long-term energy goals.

The Power of the Label: What Do All Those Numbers Mean?

Every Bradford White water heater comes with a prominent energy guide label and a data plate. These aren’t just for show! They contain critical information about your unit. We’ll focus on the universal specs you’ll find:

Model Number: Identifies the specific unit, crucial for ordering parts or getting technical support.
Serial Number: Unique to your unit, indicates manufacturing date and location.
Capacity: Clearly states the 50-gallon nominal capacity.
Energy Factor (EF) or Uniform Energy Factor (UEF): A measure of energy efficiency. Higher numbers mean greater efficiency.
First Hour Rating (FHR): The amount of hot water the heater can deliver in an hour, starting with a full tank.
BTU Input (Gas): For gas models, this is the heating power of the burner.
Wattage (Electric): For electric models, this is the power consumption of the heating elements.
Recovery Rate: How quickly the unit can heat a new batch of water.
Dimensions: Height, diameter, and weight.

Don’t be intimidated by these terms. We’ll break down the most important ones next so you can easily interpret your own unit’s label.

Essential Bradford White 50 Gallon Water Heater Specs: What to Look For

When you’re comparing models or simply trying to understand your current unit, certain Bradford White 50 gallon water heater specs stand out as particularly important. Let’s explore these in detail to help you make the best decisions for your home.

Capacity & First Hour Rating (FHR)

While a 50-gallon tank holds 50 gallons of water, the First Hour Rating (FHR) is often a more practical measure of performance. The FHR tells you how much hot water your unit can deliver during a peak hour of usage, considering both the stored hot water and the amount it can heat in that hour.

For a 50-gallon unit, FHR can range from around 80 gallons to over 100 gallons, depending on the model and its recovery rate.
A higher FHR is crucial for larger families or homes with high hot water demand, ensuring you don’t run out during morning showers.

Always match the FHR to your household’s peak hot water needs. If your family frequently uses multiple hot water appliances simultaneously, a higher FHR is your friend!

Energy Efficiency: EF, UEF, and ENERGY STAR

Energy efficiency is paramount for long-term savings. Bradford White, like all manufacturers, provides ratings to help you understand how much energy your water heater will consume.

Energy Factor (EF) / Uniform Energy Factor (UEF): UEF is the newer, more comprehensive standard. It measures a water heater’s overall efficiency, taking into account how well it heats water and how much heat it loses. Higher UEF values (e.g., 0.65 to 0.95+ for conventional tanks) indicate better efficiency.
ENERGY STAR Certification: This label means the water heater meets strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA. An ENERGY STAR certified 50-gallon Bradford White unit will generally have a higher UEF, leading to lower operating costs.

Choosing an energy-efficient model not only saves you money on utility bills but also contributes to an eco-friendly household. It’s a win-win!

Dimensions and Installation Footprint

You might think all 50-gallon tanks are the same size, but there can be subtle differences in height and diameter that become critical during installation. Always check the exact dimensions on the spec sheet.

Height: From the bottom to the top of the hot/cold water connections.
Diameter: The width of the tank.
Weight: Both empty and full (a 50-gallon tank full of water weighs over 400 lbs!), important for floor load capacity and transport.

Before purchasing, measure your installation space carefully, including doorways and stairwells the unit might need to pass through. There’s nothing worse than buying a unit only to find it won’t fit!

Recovery Rate: Getting Your Hot Water Back Fast

The recovery rate indicates how many gallons of water the heater can raise by 100°F in one hour. For gas models, this is often expressed in BTU per hour. For electric models, it depends on the wattage of the heating elements.

A higher recovery rate means your tank will replenish its hot water supply faster after heavy use.
For a 50-gallon gas unit, recovery rates can be 40-50 gallons per hour or more. Electric units typically have slightly lower recovery rates, though high-wattage elements can compensate.

This spec directly impacts how quickly you can get back to hot showers after someone else has used a lot of hot water.

Venting Requirements (for Gas Models)

If you’re looking at a gas Bradford White 50-gallon water heater, understanding its venting requirements is non-negotiable for safety. Gas heaters produce combustion byproducts that must be safely vented outside your home.

Atmospheric Venting: Uses a natural draft chimney or flue. Requires specific clearances and proper sizing.
Power Venting: Uses an electric blower to force exhaust gases outside. Offers more flexibility in venting routes but requires an electrical outlet near the unit.
Direct Venting: Draws combustion air from outside and exhausts gases directly outside through a sealed system. Highly efficient and safe.

Mismatched venting can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions and local codes for proper venting. This is often where a licensed professional’s expertise is invaluable.

Choosing the Right Bradford White 50-Gallon Unit for Your Home

Selecting the perfect water heater goes beyond just tank size. To truly benefit from your investment, you need to align the Bradford White 50 gallon water heater specs with your household’s unique needs and priorities. This section provides tips on how to make an informed choice.

Sizing for Your Family’s Needs

While 50 gallons is a common size, it’s essential to confirm it’s truly right for you. Consider your family size and hot water habits:

Small to Medium Families (2-4 people): A 50-gallon tank is often ideal, especially with a good FHR.
High Demand: Do you have multiple showers, a large tub, or run a dishwasher and laundry simultaneously? Look for a unit with a higher FHR and recovery rate.
Future Planning: Are you planning to grow your family or add hot water-consuming appliances? Factor this into your decision.

Undersizing leads to cold showers; oversizing wastes energy. Getting the right fit is crucial for comfort and efficiency.

Comparing Gas vs. Electric Models

Your existing utility connections will heavily influence this choice, but there are other factors:

Operating Costs: The cost of natural gas vs. electricity in your area will impact monthly bills. Gas is often cheaper to operate than electric in many regions.
Installation: Gas units require gas lines and venting; electric units need a dedicated 240V circuit. New installations can be costly if infrastructure isn’t present.
Environmental Impact: Modern electric units (especially heat pump water heaters, though typically larger than 50 gallons) can be very eco-friendly if your electricity comes from renewable sources.
Recovery Speed: Gas units generally recover faster than electric, which can be a significant benefit during peak demand.

Weigh these factors carefully. Sometimes, the initial cost of installing new utility lines for a different fuel type can outweigh the long-term savings.

Advanced Features: Smart Controls & Self-Cleaning

Modern Bradford White 50-gallon water heaters offer features that enhance convenience, efficiency, and longevity:

Smart Controls: Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to monitor and adjust settings from your phone, schedule heating cycles, and receive alerts. This can lead to significant energy savings and greater control.
Self-Cleaning Systems: Bradford White’s Hydrojet® Total Performance System is designed to reduce sediment buildup in the tank, improving efficiency and extending the life of the unit. This is a huge benefit of Bradford White 50 gallon water heater specs that often goes overlooked!
Enhanced Anode Rods: Some models come with powered anode rods or multiple anode rods for superior tank protection against corrosion.

These features, while adding to the initial cost, can offer substantial long-term benefits in terms of efficiency, reliability, and reduced maintenance.

Installation Best Practices and Safety First

Proper installation is paramount for the safe and efficient operation of any water heater. While some DIYers are capable, understanding when to call a professional is a key aspect of Bradford White 50 gallon water heater specs best practices.

When to DIY (and When to Call a Pro)

Replacing a water heater involves working with gas, high-voltage electricity, and pressurized water. It’s not a beginner-friendly project.

DIY if: You are replacing an identical electric unit in a very accessible location, are highly experienced with electrical wiring and plumbing, and are confident in following all local codes and manufacturer instructions precisely.
Call a Pro if: You are installing a gas unit, changing fuel types (e.g., electric to gas), relocating the unit, dealing with venting, or if you have any doubts about your ability to safely and correctly perform the installation.

Improper installation can lead to leaks, gas leaks, electrical hazards, or even explosions. Don’t risk it! A licensed HVACR technician will ensure the job is done safely and correctly, protecting your home and family.

Key Installation Considerations

Whether you’re DIYing or hiring a pro, these points are critical:

Location: Choose a location that provides adequate clearance for maintenance and is protected from freezing.
Drain Pan: Install a drain pan underneath the unit, plumbed to a suitable drain, to catch any potential leaks.
Pressure Relief Valve (T&P Valve): This safety device is mandatory and must be properly installed and discharged to a safe location.
Expansion Tank: Often required by code, an expansion tank absorbs excess pressure in a closed-loop plumbing system, protecting your water heater and plumbing fixtures.
Sediment Trap (Gas): For gas models, a sediment trap on the gas line helps prevent debris from entering the gas valve.
Ventilation (Gas): Ensure proper venting for gas models to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. This includes correct sizing and pitch of the flue pipe.

Always consult your local plumbing and electrical codes. These vary by region and dictate many aspects of a safe installation.

Maximizing Longevity: Bradford White 50 Gallon Water Heater Care Guide

Your water heater is a workhorse, but like any appliance, it thrives on regular attention. Following a simple Bradford White 50 gallon water heater specs care guide can significantly extend its lifespan, maintain efficiency, and prevent costly breakdowns. Think of it as preventative medicine for your hot water!

Routine Maintenance Schedule

A few simple checks throughout the year can make a big difference:

Annually: Inspect the T&P valve, check for leaks around connections, and test the anode rod (if comfortable doing so).
Every 6 Months: Visually inspect the unit for any signs of corrosion or damage.
Monthly: Listen for unusual noises.

These small actions can catch minor issues before they become major problems. For comprehensive checks, consider an annual professional inspection.

Water Heater Flushing: A Critical Step

Sediment buildup is the enemy of water heater efficiency and longevity. Minerals in your water settle at the bottom of the tank, creating a barrier that forces your heater to work harder and can cause premature failure.

Here’s how to Bradford White 50 gallon water heater specs related to flushing:

Turn off Power/Gas: Crucial safety step. Turn off the circuit breaker for electric units or the gas supply valve for gas units.
Turn off Cold Water Supply: Close the valve on the cold water inlet pipe.
Open a Hot Water Faucet: Open a hot water faucet somewhere in your house to relieve pressure and allow air into the tank.
Attach a Hose: Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater.
Drain the Tank: Direct the hose to a floor drain or outside. Open the drain valve on the water heater. Be careful, the water will be hot!
Flush Until Clear: Once the tank is empty, briefly open the cold water supply valve to stir up and flush out more sediment. Repeat until the water running from the hose is clear.
Refill & Restart: Close the drain valve, disconnect the hose, and open the cold water supply valve. Let the tank fill completely before closing the hot water faucet and restoring power/gas.

Flushing your tank annually (or even more frequently in areas with hard water) is one of the best ways to keep your unit running efficiently and extend its life, making it a truly sustainable Bradford White 50 gallon water heater specs practice.

Anode Rod Inspection and Replacement

The anode rod is your water heater’s unsung hero. Made of magnesium, aluminum, or zinc, it sacrifices itself to attract corrosive elements in the water, protecting the steel tank lining.

Inspection: Every 2-5 years (depending on water quality), the anode rod should be inspected. If it’s heavily corroded or almost completely gone, it needs replacement.
Replacement: This can be a DIY task if you’re comfortable with basic plumbing, but it often requires a specialized socket. Replacing a depleted anode rod is vital for preventing tank corrosion and leaks.

This simple replacement can add years to your water heater’s life. Don’t overlook it!

Temperature Settings for Efficiency and Safety

The ideal temperature setting for your water heater is a balance between comfort, energy efficiency, and safety.

Recommended Setting: Most experts recommend setting your water heater to 120°F (49°C). This is hot enough for most household needs, helps prevent scalding, and reduces standby heat loss, making your unit more eco-friendly.
Higher Settings: Temperatures above 120°F increase the risk of scalding and significantly raise energy consumption.
Lower Settings: Temperatures below 120°F can encourage bacterial growth (like Legionella) in the tank, especially if you have an older or rarely used unit.

Adjusting your thermostat is a quick way to impact both your energy bill and your family’s safety.

Troubleshooting Common Problems with Your Bradford White 50 Gallon Water Heater

Even with the best care, sometimes things go awry. Knowing how to approach common problems with Bradford White 50 gallon water heater specs can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration. Remember, safety first: if you’re ever unsure, call a licensed professional.

No Hot Water or Not Enough Hot Water

This is arguably the most frustrating water heater problem. Here’s what to check:

Electric Units:
- Circuit Breaker: Check your electrical panel for a tripped breaker. Reset it if found.
- Heating Elements: Over time, heating elements can burn out. This usually requires a professional to diagnose and replace.
- Thermostat: Each heating element has its own thermostat. They can fail or be set too low.
Gas Units:
- Pilot Light: Has the pilot light gone out? Consult your manual for relighting instructions.
- Gas Supply: Is the gas valve to the water heater open? Are other gas appliances working?
- Thermocouple: This safety device senses the pilot light. If it’s faulty, it will shut off the gas supply.
- Ventilation: Blocked vents can trigger safety shutdowns.
Both Types:
- Thermostat Setting: Is the thermostat set high enough?
- Sediment Buildup: A heavily sediment-laden tank heats inefficiently. Flushing might help.
- Sizing: Is the unit simply too small for your current demand?

If simple checks don’t resolve the issue, it’s time to call a professional HVACR technician.

Leaks Around the Tank

Leaks are serious and require immediate attention.

Top Connections: Check hot and cold water inlet/outlet pipes and the T&P valve discharge pipe. Leaks here are often fixable by tightening connections or replacing a faulty T&P valve.
Drain Valve: The drain valve at the bottom can sometimes leak. Try gently tightening it; if it persists, it may need to be replaced.
Bottom of the Tank: If water is coming from the bottom of the tank itself, or from the relief pan, this usually indicates an internal tank leak. This is a critical failure, and the tank will need replacement.

A leaking tank means a new water heater is likely in your future. Turn off the water supply and power/gas to the unit immediately to prevent further damage.

Strange Noises (Rumbling, Popping)

Your water heater shouldn’t sound like a monster in the basement.

Rumbling/Popping: This is almost always due to sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. As the heating elements (or burner) heat the sediment, trapped water pockets boil and burst, creating noise. Flushing the tank (as described above) is the solution.
Hissing: Could be a small leak or condensation.
Whining/Humming (Electric): Can indicate a faulty heating element.

Don’t ignore persistent noises. While rumbling often points to sediment (a fixable issue), other noises could signal more serious problems.

Pilot Light Issues (Gas Models)

If your gas water heater’s pilot light keeps going out, or won’t light at all, here are common culprits:

Drafts: A strong draft can extinguish the pilot.
Thermocouple: A faulty thermocouple is a very common reason for a pilot light not staying lit. It’s a safety device that senses heat from the pilot; if it doesn’t, it shuts off the gas.
Dirty Pilot Assembly: Soot or debris can block the pilot orifice.
Gas Supply: Ensure the gas supply valve to the unit is fully open.

Always follow your water heater’s specific instructions for relighting the pilot. If it continues to go out, call a gas appliance technician.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bradford White 50 Gallon Water Heater Specs

What is the typical lifespan of a Bradford White 50-gallon water heater?

With proper installation and regular maintenance, a Bradford White 50-gallon water heater can typically last between 10 to 15 years. Factors like water quality, usage, and adherence to maintenance (especially flushing and anode rod replacement) can significantly impact its longevity.

How do I find the model and serial number on my Bradford White unit?

The model and serial numbers are usually located on a data plate or sticker on the side of the water heater tank. This plate also lists other important Bradford White 50 gallon water heater specs, such as capacity, energy factor, and BTU input (for gas models).

Can I convert my electric 50-gallon Bradford White water heater to gas, or vice-versa?

While technically possible, converting from electric to gas or gas to electric is a major undertaking. It requires significant plumbing, electrical, and potentially venting modifications. It’s almost always more cost-effective and practical to replace the entire unit with one that matches your desired fuel type and existing utility connections. Always consult a professional for such conversions.

Is a 50-gallon water heater big enough for a family of five?

For a family of five, a 50-gallon water heater can be adequate, especially if it has a high First Hour Rating (FHR) and a good recovery rate. However, if your family has very high hot water demand (e.g., multiple teenagers taking long showers, frequent use of a large soaking tub), you might find yourselves occasionally running short. In such cases, considering a 60-gallon unit or a tankless water heater might be a better option.

What does “Hydrojet® Total Performance System” mean in Bradford White specs?

The Hydrojet® Total Performance System is a Bradford White exclusive feature designed to reduce sediment buildup in the tank. It uses a specialized cold water inlet tube that creates a turbulent water action, helping to keep sediment suspended and prevent it from settling at the bottom of the tank. This improves efficiency and extends the life of the water heater, reducing the need for manual flushing as frequently.

Understanding your Bradford White 50 gallon water heater specs is more than just reading numbers—it’s about ensuring your home has a reliable, efficient, and safe hot water supply for years to come. We hope this comprehensive guide has empowered you with the knowledge to make informed decisions, perform essential maintenance, and tackle common issues with confidence.

Remember, while many checks and maintenance tasks can be handled by a capable DIYer, don’t hesitate to call a licensed HVACR professional for complex installations, gas work, or any situation where you feel unsure. Your safety and comfort are always our top priority.

Stay informed, stay proactive, and enjoy that perfectly warm water!

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David Clark

Founder & Lead HVAC Specialist at HVACRLY

David Clark is the founder of HVACrly and a certified HVAC specialist with 10+ years working on residential and light-commercial systems. He turns complex heating, cooling, ventilation, and refrigeration topics into clear, actionable guides focused on safety and energy efficiency. When he’s not on a service call, he’s testing tools and writing step-by-step tutorials.