4500 vs 5500 Watt Water Heater

If the appliances require a large amount of hot water every day, getting a 5500 watt should be the better idea. However, if it is for small home appliances, getting a 4500-watt water heater is more economical and practical. 

4500 Watt vs 5500 Watt Water Heater – The Differences

Both types of water heaters have their pros and drawbacks. In this section, the difference between 4500 and 5500 watt water heater, should you get 4500 or 5500 watt water heater, everything explained.

Heat Transfer Rate

The single main difference between a 4500 watt and 5500-watt water heater is the time it takes to heat the water. The powerful 5500-watt element provides 20 times faster heating. Normally, a 5500-watt water heater heats between 25 to 35 gallons per hour. Whereas, a 4500-watt water heater takes one hour to heat between 18 to 25 gallons. 

As you can see, the 5500-watt water heater heats 4 to 7 more gallons of water per hour. However, a higher wattage water heater does not necessarily mean that it will heat the water faster. The difference lies in how long it takes to heat the storage tank once it has been depleted of all the hot water. 

Energy Loss

The higher wattage, the higher is the temperature. Heat is disastrous for any electrical component. For a water heater, it is all the more so. Excessive heat will cause the breakers to wear and tear. Busbar, transformer, etc. also suffer severe damage. Thus, from a perspective of energy conservation, a 4500-watt water heater is better than a 5500 watt. 

Breaker Size

A residential 240-volt water heater requires a 10 gauge wire with a 30 amp breaker. As a purely resistive load of 5500 watts at 240 volts, the breaker size is 30 amp. Thus, a 30 amp breaker and 10 gauge wire will safely support the 5500-watt elements. However, for a 4500-watt element, the required breaker capacity is 20 amp and 10 AWG wiring is used. 

Price

As a 5500-watt water heater uses more energy to heat water faster, they are more expensive than the 4500 ones. The 5500-watt water heaters cost between $479-$1350. On the other, the 4500-watt water heaters cost typically between $329-$829. The annual operational costs for the 5500-watt water heater is higher as well. 

Risk

A 5500-watt water heater heats faster and puts more strain on the tank. This often leads to the warranty to cover such issues. However, that is not intended. Moreover, installing a 5500-watt water heater element in a tank with 12 gauge internal wiring will lead to electrical problems. The 4500-watt element is also not suitable for a tank that has internal wiring of 12 gauge. 

When to Use: 4500 vs 5500 Watt Water Heater

Whether you choose to buy a 4500 watt or 55000-watt water heater, its worth depends on your preference and price range. If your family uses hot water multiple times a day such as in showers, dishwashing, and other activities, that means you need a faster water heating rate. A 5500-watt water heater will do exactly that for you. 

But if it’s the other way around, then you will be better off with a 4500-watt water heater. The heating may be slower, but the electrical elements will not overheat and last longer. Either way, you’ll know when to use what kind of element. 

Rheem Water Heater: 4500 vs 5500 Watt Water Heater

Rheem is a brand name of trust and reliance when it comes to water heaters. Their 4500 and 5500- both wattages of water heaters are made exceptionally well. The 4500-watt water heater from Rheem uses unique technology to conserve energy. 

They are effective at preserving energy and generate lesser heat than a 5500-watt water heater. As a result, the electrical components stay safe and secure. The 4500 watt requires a breaker of 20 amp and 10 gauge wire.

Rheem’s 5500-watt water heater heats water faster than any other variant. It is suitable for large appliances where a quicker and larger water supply is needed. Moreover, the larger element used will allow it to use more electricity to generate more heat and provide much faster. Rheem has made this variant quite well by using technology that does not allow overheating and related issues.

Eastman Water Heater 4500 vs 5500

Eastman 5500 watt water heater heats water, unlike the conventional 5500 ones. Its heating rate is much faster and suitable for varieties of appliances. It features a screw mount gasket that is coated with a copper sheath. This allows protection against corrosion. 

Similar to the general concept, Eastman’s 5500-watt water heater heats 6 gallons more than 4500 per hour. The 4500-watt water heater from Eastland is decent as well. It is good for the preservation of energy and efficiency as well. 

The water heater has low overheating issues. It is perfect for appliances where frequent use of a water heater is not needed. The products come in an affordable price range and they are easy to use as well. 

Can I replace my 4500 watts with a 5500-watt water heater? 

Ans: If the breaker is 30 amp, you can certainly replace the 4500-watt water heater with a 5500. As for the wire, 10 gauge should be enough. 

Frequently Asked Questions

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Conclusion

As you can see, there is no clear winner among these two. Whatever wattage you choose, it depends on the type of application and preferences. But you have to make sure the elements are of good quality and from a good brand like Rheem, AO Smith, Eastman, etc.

The choice between a 4500 and 5500-watt electric water heater is dictated by an amalgamation of various factors including your household energy needs, local cooler temperature, and power consumption budget. A 5500-watt heater offers faster heating times, but it also demands more from the power company transformer, potentially leading to higher energy costs. In contrast, a 4500-watt unit may take slightly longer to heat your water, but it could bring about significant savings in your power bills.

When evaluating both types of heaters, it’s also essential to consider other alternatives like gas water heaters. Some water heater manufacturers also offer systems with larger storage tanks that may help balance power consumption and the time the storage tank takes to heat up. Ultimately, your selection should center on your household’s specific requirements, local climate, and the efficiency of your home’s insulation.

Regardless of the wattage you choose, energy-efficient practices should be your guiding principle. This can mean investing in a water heater with a higher Energy Factor (EF) rating, properly insulating the unit and the hot water pipes, or simply adjusting the thermostat to a lower but comfortable temperature. By optimizing for energy efficiency, you not only reduce the strain on your wallet but also contribute positively to the environment.