Experience Unmatched Reliability with Bradford White's 50 Gal. 50,000 BTU Defender Safety System Atmos. Vent Energy Saver Residential Water Heater RG250S6N
Welcome to the Ultimate Solution in Home Water Heating
Bradford White introduces the epitome of comfort and efficiency in water heating technology – our 50 gallon gas water heater. Designed with the modern household in mind, this premier water heating solution delivers consistent, reliable hot water with the durability and performance you expect from Bradford White.
Why Choose Bradford White's 50 Gallon Gas Water Heater?
Innovative Technology: Featuring our patented Hydrojet® Total Performance System, this water heater ensures efficient operation and long-lasting performance by reducing sediment buildup inside the water tank. This innovative system guarantees a smoother flow of water, minimizing the wear and tear on your water heater over time.
Exceptional Efficiency: With an advanced thermopile sensor, our 50-gallon gas water heater operates with remarkable energy efficiency, reducing your monthly utility bills without compromising on hot water availability. It meets all current ENERGY STAR® requirements, making it an eco-friendly choice for your home.
Unparalleled Safety Features: Safety is paramount at Bradford White. Our water heater comes equipped with a sophisticated flame arrestor design and a resettable thermal switch, preventing ignition of flammable vapors outside the unit and ensuring the safety of your household.
Easy Installation and Maintenance: Engineered for convenience, this water heater boasts features that make installation and maintenance straightforward and hassle-free. With detailed instructions and accessible components, you'll experience minimal downtime and easy access for any necessary adjustments or repairs.
Dedicated Support: Bradford White stands behind every product we sell with a comprehensive warranty and a team of customer support specialists. We're here to ensure your complete satisfaction with our products and services.
Transform Your Home with Bradford White
Embrace the comfort of having access to hot water whenever you need it, without the worry of high energy bills or frequent maintenance. The Bradford White 50 gallon gas water heater represents a blend of cutting-edge technology, exceptional efficiency, and steadfast durability. It's more than just a water heater; it's a commitment to quality and reliability.
Upgrade your home with Bradford White's 50 gallon gas water heater today and experience the difference in comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind.
Product Highlights
–
Natural Gas
Atmospheric
6 Year Limited Tank/ 6 Year Limited on Component Parts Warranty
50 Gallons
60.5" Height
No
Description
–
Note: This is a high altitude model.
This Bradford White water heater utilizes a draft diverter and is atmospherically vented. It is perfect for many standard water heating applications.
Features:
- Bradford White ICON System - Intelligent gas control with proven millivolt powered technology and built-in piezo igniter. A standard, off the shelf thermopile converts heat energy from the pilot flame into electrical energy to operate the gas valve and microprocessor. No need for external electricity.
- Enhanced Performance - Proprietary algorithms provide enhanced First Hour Delivery ratings and tighter temperature differentials.
- Advanced Temperature Control System - Microprocessor constantly monitors and controls burner operation to maintain consistent and accurate water temperature levels.
- Intelligent Diagnostics - An exclusive green LED light prompts the installer during start-up and provides ten different diagnostic codes to assist in troubleshooting.
- Pilot On Indication - Flashing green LED provides positive indication that pilot is on.
- Separate Immersed Thermowell - High strength advanced polymer composite thermowell provides isolation between electric temperature sensor and surrounding water. No need to drain the tank when removing gas valve.
- Advanced ScreenLok® Technology Flame Arrestor Design - Flame arrestor is designed to prevent ignition of flammable vapor outside of the water heater.
- Resettable Thermal Switch - Proven and reliable bimetallic switch prevents burner and pilot operation in case of ongoing flammable vapor burn inside of the combustion chamber or restricted air flow.
- Maintenance Free - No regular cleaning of air inlet openings or flame arrestor is required under normal conditions.
- Sight Window - Offers a view into the combustion chamber to observe the operation of the pilot and burner.
- Factory Installed Hydrojet® Total Performance System - Cold water inlet sediment reducing device helps prevent sediment build up in tank. Increases first hour delivery of hot water while minimizing temperature build up in tank.
- Vitraglas® Lining - Bradford White tanks are lined with a exclusively engineered enamel formula that provides superior protection from the highly corrosive effects of hot water. This formula (Vitraglas®) is fused to the steel surface by firing at a temperature of over 1600ºF.
- 2" Non-CFC Foam Insulation - Covers the sides and top of tank, reducing the amount of heat loss. This results in less energy consumption, improved operation efficiencies and jacket rigidity.
- Pedestal Base.
- Water Connections -3/4" NPT factory installed true dielectric fittings.
- Factory Installed Heat Traps.
- Protective Magnesium Anode Rod.
- 3x4 "Snap Lock" Draft Diverter - Allows either 3" or 4" vent connections with inputs of 40,000 BTU/Hr or less. Over 40,000 BTU/Hr. has the 4" "Snap Lock" Draft Diverter.
- T&P Relief Valve - Included.
- Brass Drain Valve - Tamper proof design
Specs
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| Intended Household: |
3-4 Person |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: |
Natural Gas |
| Gas Connection: |
1/2" |
| Capacity (Gallons): |
50 |
| Water Connection: |
3/4" |
| BTU Input: |
50000 |
| Recovery Efficiency: |
79% |
| 1st Hour Delivery (Gallons): |
93 |
| Warranty: |
6 Year Limited Tank/ 6 Year Limited on Component Parts |
| Vent Size: |
4" |
| Vent Type: |
Atmospheric |
| Application: |
Plumbing |
| Height (Inches): |
60.5" |
| Diameter (Inches): |
22" |
| Weight (lbs): |
163 lbs |
| Energy Factor: |
0.60 |
| Energy Star Rated: |
No |
| Max Altitude (Feet): |
7000 |
What Sets the 50-Gallon Model Apart from the 40-Gallon
Why 50,000 BTU Matters for Larger Households
Compared to the 40-gallon standard model's 36,000 BTU input, this unit's 50,000 BTU burner delivers meaningfully faster recovery — reflected directly in its 93-gallon First Hour Delivery rating, well above the 40-gallon model's 76 gallons. For a household matching its 3-4 person sizing guidance, this translates to noticeably less waiting between back-to-back hot water draws (showers, laundry, dishes) during busy mornings.
Understanding the Recovery Efficiency Trade-Off
Interestingly, this model's 79% recovery efficiency is slightly lower than the 40-gallon standard model's 80% — a reminder that larger BTU input and faster recovery don't automatically mean higher efficiency. The larger burner heats water faster, but the efficiency of converting that fuel into usable heat is a separate metric. For households prioritizing capacity and recovery speed over marginal efficiency differences, this trade-off is generally a reasonable one.
1/2" Gas Connection: A Practical Installation Detail
Unlike some larger water heaters that require a 3/4" gas connection, this model's 1/2" gas connection can simplify retrofit installations in homes with existing 1/2" gas lines, potentially avoiding the added cost of upsizing gas piping — though our technicians will always verify your specific gas supply can adequately support the 50,000 BTU demand regardless of connection size.
4" Vent Requirement: A Sizing Detail Worth Noting
Unlike the 40-gallon models (which use a 3x4" "Snap Lock" diverter accommodating either 3" or 4" venting for inputs under 40,000 BTU), this 50,000 BTU unit's higher input requires the dedicated 4" diverter and vent size — since it exceeds the 40,000 BTU threshold where the smaller 3" option is no longer permitted. This is worth confirming against your existing venting if you're replacing a smaller-capacity unit, since a 3" vent from an old 40-gallon installation won't be code-compliant for this 50-gallon model.
40 vs. 50 Gallon: Quick Comparison
| 40-Gallon Standard | 50-Gallon Standard (this model) | |
|---|---|---|
| BTU Input | 36,000 | 50,000 |
| First Hour Delivery | 76 gal | 93 gal |
| Recovery Efficiency | 80% | 79% |
| Vent Size | 3x4" (flexible) | 4" (required) |
| Gas Connection | 3/4" | 1/2" |
| Household Sizing | 2-3 person | 3-4 person |
| Diameter | 20" | 22" |
If your household regularly runs short on hot water with a 40-gallon tank, or you're sizing for a larger family, this 50-gallon model's higher recovery capacity is worth the modest increase in footprint (22" vs. 20" diameter).
Professional Installation Matters
Given the required 4" venting and 50,000 BTU gas demand, professional installation ensures your existing gas line and vent system can properly support this unit — particularly important if you're upgrading from a smaller-capacity water heater. Our licensed plumbers will:
- Verify gas line and vent sizing meet this unit's specific requirements
- Confirm the correct model (standard vs. high-altitude) for your elevation
- Complete water, gas, and vent connections per code
- Test the ICON diagnostic system and pilot operation
- Walk through the resettable thermal switch and maintenance-free features
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my existing 3" vent from a 40-gallon water heater?
No — this 50,000 BTU model requires the 4" vent size since it exceeds the 40,000 BTU threshold for the smaller flexible diverter option; venting will need to be upsized if your existing system is 3".
Is the "high altitude" designation relevant for installations in the Chicago area?
Typically not — high-altitude models are generally intended for installations at meaningfully elevated locations; our technicians can confirm whether the standard or high-altitude variant is the correct fit for your specific address.
Is 50 gallons the right size for a family of 4?
For most 3-4 person households with typical usage, yes — but families with higher simultaneous demand (large tubs, back-to-back showers) may want to discuss the 75-gallon model with our technicians instead.
High-Capacity American Performance: Abundant Hot Water for Larger Homes & Busy Families
When your household requires a higher volume of hot water for multiple bathrooms, simultaneous showers, and heavy daily appliance usage, the Bradford White 50 Gallon Standard Gas Water Heater delivers elite, commercial-grade residential reliability. Engineered specifically for standard atmospheric chimney venting, this high-capacity unit provides exceptional recovery rates and steady hot water performance ideal for 3 to 6 person households. Built in the USA with Bradford White's exclusive Vitraglas® enamel tank lining, an optimized Hydrojet® Total Performance System to prevent sediment accumulation, and the Defender Safety System® with ScreenLok® technology, it offers unmatched resistance to corrosion and thermal stress. Managed by the intelligent ICON System® gas control valve with advanced LED diagnostics, it ensures worry-free operation every single day. Call our certified plumbing specialists at (224) 754-1984 for expert 24/7 emergency installation, tank replacement, or professional maintenance:
Exclusive Vitraglas® Tank Lining: High-purity porcelain enamel coating fused directly to the heavy-gauge steel tank to provide superior protection against aggressive water corrosion.
Hydrojet® Sediment Reduction System: Cold water inlet pipe generates turbulent jet action to prevent mineral scale accumulation, increasing heating efficiency and tank lifespan.
Defender Safety System® with ScreenLok®: Advanced Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant (FVIR) technology that prevents accidental vapor ignition outside the combustion chamber.
ICON System® Intelligent Gas Control: Microprocessor-based gas control valve delivers precise temperature management, rapid recovery, and easy LED diagnostic troubleshooting.
Heavy-Duty Protective Anode Rod: High-capacity magnesium anode rod provides maximum cathodic protection to further extend internal tank durability.
Bradford White 50 Gallon Standard Gas Water Heater Technical Specifications
Engineered for professional installation in residential basements, utility rooms, or mechanical closets:
Technical Parameter Feature & Specification Details Operational Advantage Manufacturer & Model Bradford White Atmospheric Vent (RG250T6N / Equivalent) Premier trade-exclusive residential natural gas water heater. Storage Capacity 50 Gallons Ideal high-capacity storage for 3 to 6 person larger homes. Heating Input Rate 50,000 BTU/h (Natural Gas / Propane models available) High burner input ensures rapid water reheating during heavy usage. First Hour Delivery (FHD) Up to 90+ Gallons Supplies abundant hot water during peak morning shower demand. Safety System Defender Safety System® with ScreenLok® Maintenance-free FVIR safety design complying with strict modern codes. Venting Configuration Standard Atmospheric Venting (3" or 4" B-Vent chimney) Direct replacement for standard existing metal chimney flue connections.
Key Benefits of Upgrading to a Bradford White 50 Gallon Gas Water Heater
Integrating a pro-grade 50-gallon Bradford White gas water heater into your home infrastructure delivers immediate practical comfort rewards:
Never Run Out of Hot Water: Provides significantly higher First Hour Delivery ratings than 40-gallon units, easily supporting back-to-back showers, laundry, and dishwasher cycles.
Trade-Quality Heavy-Duty Build: Unlike consumer-grade retail tanks with plastic drain components, Bradford White utilizes robust brass drain valves and commercial-grade steel construction.
Lower Energy & Maintenance Costs: The Hydrojet® system prevents scale buildup on the tank bottom, ensuring thermal conductivity remains high throughout the unit's lifespan.
Proven Long-Term Durability: Engineered to withstand harsh water chemistry and heavy daily usage, lasting 8 to 12+ years with proper professional maintenance.
Our Step-by-Step Bradford White 50 Gallon Installation Process
Site Inspection & Gas Safety Assessment: Evaluating existing gas supply lines, chimney draft pressure, thermal expansion tank status, and floor drain accessibility.
Old Water Heater Draining & Removal: Safely shutting off gas lines, draining the legacy tank, disconnecting plumbing, and hauling away the old unit.
Tank Placement & Leveling: Positioning the new Bradford White 50-gallon tank on a level surface, installing an appropriately sized drain pan, and securing isolation valves.
Gas, Water & Chimney Vent Hookup: Connecting copper/PEX water supply lines, code-compliant gas piping with sediment traps, and metal chimney exhaust venting.
Commissioning & Safety Testing: Filling the tank, lighting the pilot via the spark igniter, checking for gas leaks and carbon monoxide draft, and setting safe water temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions: Bradford White 50 Gallon Gas Water Heater
Q: How do I know if I need a 40-gallon or a 50-gallon water heater for my home?
A: A 50-gallon water heater is generally recommended for homes with 3 or more bathrooms or households with 4 to 6 residents. If your family frequently experiences lukewarm water during peak morning hours, upgrading to a 50-gallon model provides the necessary capacity buffer.
Q: Why are Bradford White water heaters sold exclusively through licensed plumbers?
A: Bradford White requires professional trade installation to ensure correct gas line sizing, venting safety, and compliance with local plumbing codes, guaranteeing superior manufacturing reliability.
Q: What is the average lifespan of a Bradford White 50-gallon gas water heater?
A: With professional installation, proper chimney draft venting, and routine annual maintenance (such as flushing sediment and inspecting the anode rod), a Bradford White water heater typically lasts 8 to 12+ years.
Q: What should I do if my water heater starts leaking from the tank body?
A: A leak directly from the steel tank body indicates internal corrosion failure. Shut off the cold water supply valve, turn the gas control knob to "OFF", and call our 24/7 emergency plumbing service immediately for professional tank replacement.
Bradford White Corporation, headquartered in Ambler, Pennsylvania, is an American-owned and employee owned, full-line manufacturer of residential and commercial and industrial products for water heating, space heating, combination heating and storage applications. The corporation's manufacturing facilities are in Middleville, Michigan and Niles, MI, and Rochester, NH. The water heaters were patented by Gerald E White from the years 1933–1938. The company is among the largest American manufacturers of water heaters, competing with companies such as Rheem and A. O. Smith. Bradford White Corporation is made up of Bradford White Water Heaters, Bradford White – Canada, Laars Heating Systems, and Niles Steel Tank
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