Both are heat pump water heaters. The REHP50BM is more efficient (UEF 3.75 vs 3.44). The REHP50BM saves $17/year to operate. All figures from published specs and EIA energy prices.
Performance
| Spec | RE2H50S Bradford White · Heat Pump | REHP50BM Rinnai · Heat Pump |
|---|---|---|
| UEF | 3.44 | 3.75Difference: 0.31 |
| Capacity | 45 gal | 46 galDifference: 1 gal |
| First Hour Rating | 65 gal | 73 galDifference: 8 gal |
| kW Input | 4.50 kWDifference: 0.40 kW | 4.90 kW |
The REHP50BM leads on efficiency. But does it fit? Sizing guide
Physical dimensions
| Dimension | RE2H50S | REHP50BM |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 59.19"Difference: 7.21" | 66.40" |
| Width | 21.75" | 21.70"Difference: 0.05" |
| Depth | 21.75"Difference: 0.25" | 22" |
| Weight | — | 212 lbs |
The REHP50BM is taller. Fit checked. Now the operating cost.
Operating cost
| Cost | RE2H50S | REHP50BM |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Operating Cost | $163/yr | $146/yrDifference: $17/yr |
| 10-Year Operating Cost | $1,630 | $1,460Difference: $170 |
| Annual Energy | 944 kWh | 844 kWhDifference: 100 kWh |
10-year modeled difference is $170. At this scale, local energy rates, usage patterns, and install costs matter more than the efficiency delta.
Costs vary by state. The RE2H50S ranges from $104/yr (ND) to $393/yr (HI). The REHP50BM ranges from $93/yr (ND) to $351/yr (HI).
$17/yr separates them. Install requirements determine the upfront gap. Installation accessories
Installation requirements
| Requirement | RE2H50S | REHP50BM |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 240Videntical | |
| Amperage | 19ADifference: 5A | 24A |
| Breaker | 30Aidentical | |
| Condensate Drain | — | Yes |
Same electrical requirements. Swapping between these units should not require electrical changes.
Warranty
| Coverage | RE2H50S | REHP50BM |
|---|---|---|
| Tank | 10 yridentical | |
| Parts | — | 10 yr |
| Labor | — | 1 yr |
Features
| Feature | RE2H50S | REHP50BM |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi / Smart | — | Yes |
| Refrigerant | R-134aidentical | |
Decision split
Pick this one if...
Bradford White RE2H50S
- Your ceiling or space is under 66.40"
Pick this one if...
Rinnai REHP50BM
- Minimizing energy cost matters (saves $17/yr)
- You want smart home / Wi-Fi control
- Peak efficiency is the priority (UEF 3.75)
- You have high peak demand (73 gal FHR)
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