Best 50 Gallon Gas Water Heaters of 2022 – Ultimate Review

| Last Updated: August 23, 2021

Water heaters are a must-have product in everyone’s house. The climate keeps changing and you can’t easily heat the water manually. You should have a heater that can perform this task for you.

Fifty-gallon water heaters are a perfect size and tool for providing hot water to meet your needs. You can use these for different purposes, too.

To make it easier, we are here to provide you with information about the best water heaters present in the market. Let's discuss some of them.

Comparison Chart of the Best 50-Gallon Gas Water Heaters

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • It contains ½” NPT standard water fittings
  • The minimum flow rate for this heater is 0.65 GPM
  • Very safe ignition system that works using electricity
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  • Has a dip tube of Dynaclean II
  • This heater has 2-inch foam insulation
  • Contains a 3-position blower outlet (rotatable)
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  • Best for the money
  • Maximum BTU for this heater is 47,000
  • There is a limited time 6-year warranty for parts and tanks
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  • 2-inch insulation of Non-CFC foam
  • Best Bradford White 50 gallon gas water heater
  • Built-in piezo ignition system and a sight window
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  • Contains premium stage anode rods
  • Best Rheem 50 gallon gas water heater
  • Eco-friendly burner and 12-year warranty
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  • It has a gas burner of 40,000 BTU
  • Best AO Smith 50 gallon gas water heater
  • The recovery rate is 44.7 gallons every hour
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  • The modular blower is very powerful
  • Best Reliance 50 Gallon Gas Water Heater
  • Temperature and pressure relief valve installed by the factory
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What Are The Benefits of a 50-Gallon Gas Water Heater?

These heaters are the most popular products available in the home accessories markets. They provide maximum comfort and ease. They have a lot of advantages you must know about to make it easier to finalize your decision.

Instant Heating

These heaters provide you with hot water in the blink of an eye. You can use hot water for different applications. It saves time spent heating the water manually. You don’t need to wait for a longer period. Using this heater, you can take hot showers at any time of the day. Gas heaters are much better than electric heaters because electric water heaters may struggle to provide enough water for the whole family. 

Low Energy Consumption

Using an electric heater may increase your utility bills. Gas heaters, however, consume less energy and are more affordable. They use gas to heat the water, which means less wastage of energy and money. 

Operates During Blackout

You don’t need to worry at all if you are using a gas heater. These heaters work during even when the electricity goes out. You can ignite them with a pilot light, as well.  

How Do I Choose a 50-Gallon Gas Water Heater?

Buying a 50-gallon gas water heater may seem like a piece of cake. But honestly, it is not that easy. You need to understand the technicalities and specs of a water heater before buying it. Some of the features that deserve your attention before choosing a 50-gallon gas heater are:

Tank or Tankless

The first thing you need to pay attention to is whether the heater contains a storage tank or not. You should buy a gas water heater that has a tank for storing the hot water. This tank helps you in using hot water at any time without waiting for a single second. They contain a continuous supply of hot water. For tankless water heaters, you need to wait for 2 to 3 minutes prior to using hot water. 

Digital Display of Settings

You should opt for a gas water heater that can show you the settings at which it is operating. You should be able to see the temperature and water flow. Water heaters with an LCD display are more preferable. You can adjust the temperature according to your needs. 

Rating

One of the most important factors you need to consider is the first-hour rating of the gas water heater. A 50-gallon gas heater should be capable of delivering at least 70 to 80 gallons of hot water during its first hour. You should calculate your needs first and then select the best possible 50-gallon heater available in the market. 

Review of the Best 50-Gallon Gas Water Heaters

Are you trying to find the best 50-gallon gas heater in the market?

You don’t need to waste your time at all in searching through endless heater options. Here, we have the top 50-gallon heaters along with their specifications and details. This will surely help you in selecting one for yourself.

Best Overall:
Ecotemp FVI12-LP

Eccotemp FVI12-LP Liquid Propane Gas Tankless Water Heaters, White

PROS

  • Produces less noise than other heaters
  • Occupies less space due to its compact and small design
  • Contains a very safe mechanism for igniting it with electricity
  • Has a very easy to read digital temperature display
  • Consumes very little power (3.6 GPM) because the heater operates only during the time the user is using it

CONS

  • It is useful for one faucet only
  • Not suitable for very cold places
  • If you try to mix hot and cold water, the unit will turn off

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers have written in their reviews that this is the best heater so far. They were very glad to use it in their homes. It has an amazing hot water tank. Its price and performance for supplying desirable hot water are worth praising. They love the electric igniting system of this heater.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This outstanding water heater stands out to us because of its results and popularity. It is one of the fastest-selling products in the market. People love using it to heat water for a variety of tasks. It contains ½” NPT water fittings that are quite impressive. The sleek and compact design gains our attention, as well.

Who Will Use This Most

People can use this water heater in their homes for heating water within a few minutes. They can also use it in their offices and small cabins. It is a perfect choice for small residential areas. In other words, it’s useful for all those places where hot water is a must.

Bottom Line

Summing it up, this water heater is worth buying. It can provide you with hot water according to your needs and settings. You can use it for various applications. This product contains spectacular features and designs. It has the latest and simplest method for ignition so you won’t face any difficulty with it.

Runner-up:
 A.O. Smith GPVL-50

A.O. Smith GPVL-50 ProMax Power Vent Gas Water Heater, 50 gal

PROS

  • LED light display helps in showing the current status of the heater
  • Very precise way of controlling the temperature, making it easy to use
  • 3-position blower outlet that is rotatable offers more flexibility to the heater
  • Thick EnviroFoam  insulation helps in minimizing heat loss and increasing energy efficiency
  • Dynaclean II dip tube helps in optimizing the water pressure of inlet so it can reduce the cold water areas present in the tank

CONS

  • It is a bit expensive
  • May cause leakage issues
  • Safety measures are not properly designed

What Recent Buyers Report

This hot water tank is successful in gaining satisfaction and positive response from customers. They were very happy with their results and specifications. It is a quality product and deserves a lot of appreciation from everyone. It provides hot water within a few minutes. This tank is one of the best heaters available in the market.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This heater is a great product because it contains high-quality elements. Its thick insulation helps in decreasing the heat loss as much as possible. It consumes very little power, hence, it is energy efficient. It does not require as much maintenance as other heaters. You must try it out.

Who Will Use This Most

People can use this heater in their homes to take a hot shower whenever they want. They can also use it in apartments, factories, industries, and offices. People who own detergent industries can also use it. They can also use it to wash their pets and cars.

Bottom Line

To conclude, this heater has outstanding features. You can install it anywhere. It is useful for a lot of applications. Customers who are already using these heaters have been very happy and glad. You will never regret buying it. The performance of this heater is worth praising.

Best for the Money:
 A.O. Smith ProMax®Direct Vent

PROS

  • DynaClean dip tube helps in reducing lime and sediment formation
  • Users can know the status of operation and service diagnostics by using the LED present on the heater
  • Contains a female hose that drains the residue without any difficulty during the maintenance process
  • Operates by using a thermopile (self-powering valve) that produces enough power for starting the heater
  • Special venting design helps to draw the air from the house which reduces problems due to the suffocation of indoor air

CONS

  • The LED breaks sometimes
  • Leakage issues can occur in it

What Recent Buyers Report

Customers have written in their reviews that this heater is fantastic and inexpensive, too. It has amazing features and the most positive point is its warranty. People don’t need to worry about the expense later on. It is a great product. They also report that it is useful for taking steam baths.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The compact design and eco-friendly features of this heater are quite impressive. It has one of the latest anode technology. It is highly efficient and is available at a low price. It consumes very little space and offers great safety precautions. It is very simple to use, install, and move, too.

Who Will Use This Most

This heater is perfect for a small family. People can also install it in their garages for washing the car or basement. They can use it to shower themselves and their pets. Small hotels can use this to provide hot water to their visitors so they can relax and release their stress.

Bottom Line

In a nutshell, this inexpensive and high-quality heater is an ideal option for people in search of a water heater. They can use it according to their needs and requirements and it is affordable for everyone. People can install and use it without any tension. The features of this heater are extremely good.

Best Bradford White 50-Gallon Gas Water Heater:
 50-Gallon – 40,000 BTU Defender Safety System High EF Residential Water Heater (Nat Gas)

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PROS

  • Does not require any external electricity supply for operating the Piezo ignitor
  • Sight window provides a clear view of the pilot and burner to check performance
  • Thick insulation of non-CFC foam helps in minimizing the heat loss from the top and sides of the tank
  • Separate thermowell polymer prevents contact between the sensor of electric temperature and tank water
  • Smart diagnostics system in which the green LED indicates the start-up for installation and ten other different codes to help in troubleshooting

CONS

  • The pressure valve leaks at times
  • Safety measures also fail after some time
  • Not long-lasting and fails within a few months

What Recent Buyers Report

This tank provides enough hot water to the user so they can use it for multiple purposes at a single time. Customers have written in their reviews that the performance and look of this heater are great. It is a reliable and strong unit. They further mention that the replacement parts of this unit are easily available in the market.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This heater stands out to us because of the latest technologies and features it contains. The Piezo ignition and sight windows are quite impressive. You won’t need any extra electricity for turning the heater on. It has different safety measures and indication methods. You can easily troubleshoot it.

Who Will Use This Most

This heater is very helpful for small apartments and industries. Salons and spas can also use it to provide a soothing manicure and pedicure to their customers. People can install it in their factories to use hot water in their product formation. It can store a large amount of hot water to fulfill the needs of a large family.

Bottom Line

This water heater contains impressive and astounding features. It will never disappoint you with its results. You can install it anywhere in your house, like basements, galleries, and garages without worrying about the looks. It will help you in getting hot water whenever you want it.

Best Rheem 50-Gallon Gas Water Heater:
 Rheem Performance Platinium 50-Gal

PROS

  • Long-lasting protection due to the premium-grade anode rods 
  • Contains self-powering gas control for easy monitoring and diagnosis
  • Environment-friendly burner minimizes air and noise pollution
  • Tank requires no special maintenance because it does not have any filter for cleaning
  • Does not require any sort of matches; thus, you can ignite the burner without any difficulty

CONS

  • Performance is reported to decrease with time
  • Poor packaging may cause anode rods to break before delivery

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent customers were very glad after using this heater. According to them, it is the best 50-gallon water heater so far. It provides enough hot water for a 15-minute hot shower. Some people have also written that they received faulty parts. Despite that, Rheem is successful in gaining the public’s positive reviews and attention.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This heater is present in our buying list because of its high-quality structure and performance. It satisfies customers with its strength, long life, guarantee, and results. It consumes less power and provides more than enough hot water. It is not at all harmful to the environment.

Who Will Use This Most

This heater is useful for commercial and home purposes. People can also install this in their farmhouse so they can have a soothing and comfortable steam bath after enjoying the picnic. Chefs can use it in their restaurants and cafes to make food in just a short time.

Bottom Line

Summing it up, this heater will solve many of your hot water problems. You can use it for multiple purposes. It does not require any special maintenance, which means you can save on maintenance costs. It contains amazing features like the latest anode rod technology, gas control, and an eco-friendly burner. Thus, you must consider this heater before buying any other one.

Best A.O. Smith 50-Gallon Gas Water Heater:
 ProLine XE Power Vent 50-Gallon Gas Water Heater Model GPVL-50

PROS

  • Has 2-inch, non-CFC foam to boost its efficiency further
  • Energy Star qualified, as it has 0.72 uniform energy factors
  • 3 people can shower at the same time
  • Anode rods have a core of stainless steel to increase its life expectancy
  • Decreased heat loss from heat traps found on both the inlet and outlet

CONS

  • Does not have a good warranty
  • Sometimes water does not set according to the thermostat
  • Corrosion occurs between the water tank and hot water line

What Recent Buyers Report

According to recent buyers, it is one of the best water heaters. A buyer explains how it has made his life easier with three kids and how he never runs out of hot water. It has a quite impressive appearance and packaging. Some buyers have even said it has lowered their energy bills, too.

Why it Stands Out to Us

We have included this product in our list because it continuously supplies hot water and produces less noise. A person can shower for up to 33 minutes easily without the hot water running out. We love this water heater as it can cover three people at the same time. With the three-position rotatable blower, it is easy to install and use.

Who Will Use This Most

This A.O. Smith water heater can be installed at home, in industries, and many other places. It can supply continuous with hot water. It can even be used in detergent industries. People can use it for domestic uses, including washing, cleaning, bathing, and cooking. It can also be used for showering their pets.

Bottom Line

In a nutshell, this product is perfect as a water heater. Its features make it a remarkable product among others in the market. The non-CFC foam ensures its efficiency. The anode rods and heat traps reduce heat loss and increase their lifetime. Last but not least, it has a great first-hour rating of 79.

Best Reliance 50-Gallon Gas Water Heater:
 6 50 UBVIT Power Vent Ultra-Low NOx Natural Gas Water Heater

PROS

  • It is energy efficient
  • There’s a warranty for labor for one year
  • Offers a warranty of tank and parts for six years
  • Foam insulation is non-CFC that is environment-friendly
  • Tank is lined with glass and has anodes to protect from corrosion

CONS

  • The power cord is only 7 feet
  • It can serve a family of five members only

What Recent Buyers Report

According to recent buyer reports, this Reliance water heater is perfect for heating water. Buyers were really satisfied with it because of its features. Moreover, it provides gallons of water that heat up quickly to meet their needs. Its performance is great, and hardly any buyer is disappointed by it.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This water heater utilizes the latest technology and the materials used in it are eco-friendly. In the contemporary world, products need to be environmentally friendly to avoid carbon emissions. These models emit 75% fewer nitrogen oxides than normal standard models. The combustion efficiencies are optimally maintained .

Who Will Use This Most

It is ideal for people in colder areas where the electricity supply is continuous. It is perfect for a medium-sized family of up to five members maximum. People can even use it to take a warm bath. It can also be used in hotels to provide warm water for its guests and visitors to come and relax.

Bottom Line

To conclude, in a few words, this gas heater is protected with an anode rod to protect from corrosion. This will save the product for a longer time and make it energy efficient, too. It is also budget-friendly for saving your money. So choose the right one according to your needs.

Best Kenmore 50-Gallon Gas Water Heater:
 Kenmore 57951 50-Gal

PROS

  • Includes a 9-year warranty for the parts and tank
  • You can set the temperature according to your needs
  • Exterior (glass-lined steel) protects the tank from scratches and dents
  • Highly energy-efficient, which means it will use very little energy for heating the water
  • Includes a self-cleaning inlet tube of cold water that minimizes the lime and mineral formation in the tank

CONS

  • Leakage problems might occur
  • You need to replace the parts frequently
  • The heater stops working after a few years

What Recent Buyers Report

People have been using this heater for a long time. They have written that with this, they can get hot water instantly during any time. Though some of them report leakage issues. However, they are very happy with their results and they also love its appealing exterior.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This water heater by Kenmore is one of the most popular heaters available in the market. Its features and performance are worth praising. The outer look of this water heater is quite impressive. It contains a glass lining that prevents the tank from corroding.

Who Will Use This Most

People can install this heater in their basements, kitchens, and garages. They can use it for washing their clothes and greasy dishes, too. People living in cold countries can also use it for a relaxing and soothing steam shower. They can use it to wash their garages and vehicles.

Bottom Line

So if you are looking for a high-quality water heater that is affordable, attractive, and durable, then you must consider this Kenmore product. You can use it for a house that has five to six family members. It will fulfill all of your demands and requirements.

Aspects to Consider Before Buying

Before purchasing any product, you need to keep some considerations in mind. Similarly, before buying a gas water heater, you must consider a few aspects. These aspects will help you in buying the best water heater. 

Price

The most important thing to keep in mind is the budget. There are a lot of 50-gallon gas water heaters available at different rates. You need to buy a heater that gives 100 percent performance and lies within your range, as well. 

Purpose For Which You Are Buying

You should make a list of purposes for which you are going to use this heater. It will help you in calculating the number of gallons and size you require. You need to decide the uses first before buying any heater. Purchasing the right size for any use matters. 

Warranty

People should make sure the heater they are going to buy offers a maximum warranty. Many heaters come with a 6 to 12 year warranty period. Thus, you should keep in mind that a lot of faults occur in the heaters after installing or using. So you should try to purchase a heater that has a maximum warranty. This will help you in saving the repair or labor costs. 

How to Install a 50-Gallon Gas Water Heater

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install a 50-gallon gas water heater 

  1. Before installing the gas water heater, check the codes of the local building. Make sure to observe the specifications and energy utilization of the heater also.

  2. Now, choose the appropriate place where you will be installing the tank. You need to avoid any situation that might cause flooding. This can be done by connecting a drain pipe.

  3. After choosing the place and drain pipes, you need to fit the discharge pipe to the temperature and pressure relief valve. These valves turn on when the pressure and temperature of the tank are very high. If you don’t have any proper drainage beneath this pipe, then you can place a bucket under it. The pipe should be six inches or less above the bucket.

  4. Buy a flexible hose kit, which must include a gas hose. Apply plumber's tape on the top where you will connect the hose. Now, fix the hose in these inlets.  

  5. Connect the hose and pipe by using the compression knot. For the stronger grip of the heater, you can also connect it by using the seismic straps. 

  6. Now remove any air bubbles from the faucet nearest to the tank. Turn on the hot tap and double check the cold water connections to prevent any sort of leakage. Let the water run from the tap for at least three minutes to release the bubbles from the tank. Complete the venting and gas connections process.

You can also see the video below for the connections. Set the temperature according to your requirements.

Conclusion

To sum it all up, a 50-gallon gas water heater is far better than other water heaters. It can fulfill your basic needs like showering, washing, and cleaning. There is an extensive range of these heaters available in the market. You can buy them according to your budget and requirements.



My name is Bob Wells and I am a retired HVAC tech from Washington state. I am currently retired and no longer do much with HVAC, however, I feel like I have a lot of knowledge in the subject and I wanted to create a website where I could talk about what I've learned and help upcoming HVAC techs. Find more info about me and HVAC Training 101.