Operating Cost & Efficiency: What to Expect Yearly with the State ProLine 74-Gallon Gas Water Heater
(Real-world energy use, savings tips, and how to keep costs under control)
When you invest in a State ProLine High Capacity 74-Gallon Gas Water Heater (GS6-75-XRRS), you’re buying both performance and reliability. But if you’re like most homeowners, the next question after “Will it keep up?” is “What will it cost me each year?”
Let’s break down how much energy this heater uses, how it compares to other models, and what you can do to make sure it runs as efficiently — and affordably — as possible.
⚙️ 1. Understanding How Gas Water Heater Efficiency Works
Every gas water heater converts natural gas into heat energy, but not all models do it with the same precision. The State ProLine 74-gallon unit is an atmospheric vent model with a 75,100 BTU input — a workhorse design that prioritizes capacity and recovery rate over ultra-high efficiency.
The Energy Factor (EF) and UEF Ratings
Efficiency in water heaters is measured using Uniform Energy Factor (UEF), which replaced the older Energy Factor (EF) rating. The higher the number, the more efficient the heater.
The U.S. Department of Energy explains that standard gas models like this one typically achieve a UEF between 0.58 and 0.64, meaning about 60% of the fuel energy ends up as usable hot water. The rest is lost through vent exhaust and standby heat.
That might sound low compared to electric or condensing models, but gas water heaters make up for it with lower fuel costs and faster recovery times.
🔥 2. How Much Gas the 74-Gallon Model Uses
Since this is a 75,100 BTU/hour heater, it consumes roughly 0.75 therms of natural gas per hour of burner operation(1 therm = 100,000 BTUs).
According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average U.S. natural gas cost in 2025 is around $1.15 per therm, though this varies regionally.
Here’s what that translates to in real-world usage:
| Usage Scenario | Daily Operation (hrs) | Therms/Day | Cost/Day | Yearly Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light (1-2 people) | 0.8 hrs | 0.6 | $0.70 | ~$255 |
| Medium (3-4 people) | 1.3 hrs | 1.0 | $1.15 | ~$420 |
| Heavy (5+ people) | 2.0 hrs | 1.5 | $1.70 | ~$620 |
These numbers assume average U.S. gas prices and moderate incoming water temperature (around 55°F). Homes in colder regions or with high hot water demand may use more.
🌡️ 3. Recovery Rate and Its Impact on Cost
The recovery rate tells you how quickly a heater can replace hot water after use — a big factor in both performance and energy use.
The State ProLine GS6-75-XRRS delivers roughly 80 gallons per hour at a 90°F temperature rise, meaning it can replenish a full tank in less than an hour.
That recovery power is why it’s great for large families or homes with simultaneous showers, laundry, and dishwashing. But it also means higher fuel draw during those recovery cycles.
The DOE’s Energy Saver program recommends setting your water heater thermostat to 120°F to balance performance and cost. Each 10°F reduction saves about 3–5% on energy bills annually without sacrificing comfort.
🔋 4. Comparing Annual Costs to Other Systems
Here’s how the ProLine 74-gallon stacks up against other common water heating types in annual operating cost, based on DOE and Energy Star data:
| System Type | Average Efficiency (UEF) | Fuel Type | Annual Cost (4-person household) |
|---|---|---|---|
| State ProLine 74-gal Gas (Standard Vent) | 0.60 | Natural Gas | $400–$500 |
| Electric Tank Water Heater | 0.93 | Electricity | $600–$800 |
| Gas Condensing Water Heater | 0.85 | Natural Gas | $300–$400 |
| Heat Pump Water Heater | 3.0+ | Electricity | $250–$350 |
Even though the ProLine isn’t the most efficient on paper, gas prices remain far cheaper than electricity in most states, which keeps real-world costs competitive.
And since it doesn’t rely on a fan or control board, it avoids the repair costs that sometimes come with higher-tech models.
🧱 5. Design Features That Improve Efficiency
Several small design details in the State ProLine 74-gallon model help keep energy use in check — even though it’s a traditional vent system.
🧩 Foam Insulation
The tank is wrapped in non-CFC foam insulation, minimizing standby heat loss through the steel walls. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), modern foam insulation can reduce standby losses by 20–30%compared to older fiberglass-lined models.
🔥 Low-NOx Burner
Its low-NOx burner technology, certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), burns cleaner and more efficiently by optimizing the air-to-fuel ratio. This not only cuts emissions but improves combustion efficiency.
🌬️ Flue Baffles
Inside the flue, turbulators or baffles slow down exhaust gases, transferring more heat to the surrounding water before exiting. This can raise overall efficiency by 2–5% without adding complexity.
💧 6. How Installation Affects Efficiency
Proper installation has a huge impact on real-world performance. The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) stresses that venting, combustion air, and pipe insulation play critical roles in how efficiently your water heater operates.
Here’s what makes the difference:
-
Vent sizing: A too-large vent cools flue gases and reduces draft.
-
Combustion air: Inadequate air leads to incomplete combustion and wasted fuel.
-
Pipe insulation: Wrapping the first 6 feet of hot and cold pipes can save 8–10% of energy loss, according to the DOE’s Energy Saver guide.
These installation details often separate a water heater that performs “okay” from one that truly runs efficiently.
🧽 7. Maintenance Habits That Lower Annual Costs
Even the best water heater can lose efficiency if it’s neglected. Regular maintenance keeps recovery time fast and energy bills steady.
The EPA’s Energy Efficiency recommendations list three key steps:
-
Flush sediment from the tank annually to prevent buildup that insulates the burner from the water.
-
Inspect and replace the anode rod every 3–5 years to prevent corrosion.
-
Test the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve annually for safety.
Sediment buildup can increase energy consumption by up to 25%, especially in areas with hard water. Installing a whole-house filter or softener can drastically extend efficiency and lifespan.
🌎 8. Environmental Footprint
Gas water heaters like the ProLine produce fewer lifecycle emissions than electric resistance models, especially in regions that still rely on coal for electricity generation.
The EPA’s Clean Energy Program estimates that switching from an older 40,000 BTU gas model to a high-capacity low-NOx system can cut NOx emissions by up to 75%, improving indoor and outdoor air quality.
When paired with a smart thermostat or recirculation system, you can further minimize fuel use while maintaining instant hot water comfort.
🧠 9. Jake’s Take: What to Expect in Real Life
The State ProLine 74-Gallon isn’t a “set it and forget it” kind of product — it’s a durable, high-output system that rewards good installation and maintenance.
If you size it correctly, keep it flushed yearly, and don’t crank the thermostat too high, you can expect around $400–$500 in annual operating cost and 15–20 years of dependable service.
Jake’s bottom line?
“This model isn’t chasing the highest efficiency rating — it’s built to deliver hot water without fail. Keep it tuned up, and it’ll run cheaper than you think.”
In the next Blog we will learn more about Maintenance & Troubleshooting for the State ProLine 74-Gallon Gas Water Heater
