Both are heat pump water heaters. The PROPH40 T2 RH400-30 is more efficient (UEF 3.83 vs 3.68). The PROPH40 T2 RH400-30 saves $4/year to operate. All figures from published specs and EIA energy prices.
Performance
| Spec | HPTA-50-2 A. O. Smith · Heat Pump | PROPH40 T2 RH400-30 Rheem · Heat Pump |
|---|---|---|
| UEF | 3.68 | 3.83Difference: 0.15 |
| Capacity | 46 galDifference: 10 gal | 36 gal |
| First Hour Rating | 65 galDifference: 5 gal | 60 gal |
| kW Input | 4.50 kWidentical | |
The PROPH40 T2 RH400-30 leads on efficiency. But does it fit? Sizing guide
Physical dimensions
| Dimension | HPTA-50-2 | PROPH40 T2 RH400-30 |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 63" | 62.30"Difference: 0.70" |
| Width | 15"Difference: 5.30" | 20.30" |
| Weight | 196 lbs | — |
Fit checked. Now the operating cost.
Operating cost
| Cost | HPTA-50-2 | PROPH40 T2 RH400-30 |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Operating Cost | $152/yr | $148/yrDifference: $4/yr |
| 10-Year Operating Cost | $1,520 | $1,480Difference: $40 |
| Annual Energy | 883 kWh | 859 kWhDifference: 24 kWh |
10-year modeled difference is $40. At this scale, local energy rates, usage patterns, and install costs matter more than the efficiency delta.
Costs vary by state. The HPTA-50-2 ranges from $97/yr (ND) to $368/yr (HI). The PROPH40 T2 RH400-30 ranges from $95/yr (ND) to $358/yr (HI).
$4/yr separates them. Install requirements determine the upfront gap. Installation accessories
Installation requirements
| Requirement | HPTA-50-2 | PROPH40 T2 RH400-30 |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 240Videntical | |
| Amperage | 22A | 21ADifference: 1A |
| Breaker | 30Aidentical | |
Same electrical requirements. Swapping between these units should not require electrical changes.
Warranty
| Coverage | HPTA-50-2 | PROPH40 T2 RH400-30 |
|---|---|---|
| Tank | 10 yridentical | |
| Parts | — | 10 yr |
Features
| Feature | HPTA-50-2 | PROPH40 T2 RH400-30 |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerant | R-134aidentical | |
Decision split
Pick this one if...
A. O. Smith HPTA-50-2
- You have high peak demand (65 gal FHR)
Pick this one if...
Rheem PROPH40 T2 RH400-30
- Peak efficiency is the priority (UEF 3.83)
Neither if...
- Your home only has 120V service and you cannot upgrade the panel
- Your install space is under 700 sq ft of open air
Common accessories for this type of installation.
Common install considerations for heat pump units
What is required depends on your existing installation, local code, and installer preference.
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Related
Sources. ENERGY STAR, manufacturer spec sheets, EIA average energy prices.Methodology