When 50 Gallons Just Isn’t Cutting It Anymore
Maybe you’ve started noticing it lately—someone always gets stuck with the cold shower. Your dishwasher grumbles when you run it after laundry. Or maybe you just added another person to the household. Either way, your 50-gallon water heater might not be keeping up.
The question is: Should you upgrade to a 60-gallon tank? Is it worth the added cost, installation time, and potential space it takes up? In this guide, we’ll break it all down for you with no fluff—just real-world pros, cons, and costs.
Why Upgrade from 50 to 60 Gallons?
1. More Hot Water, Fewer Fights
A 60-gallon tank offers about 20% more capacity than a 50-gallon unit, which can make a big difference in larger households. That extra 10 gallons is often enough to support another shower or a full load of dishes without running cold.
2. Growing Families or New Appliances
Have you recently added a high-efficiency washer, hot tub, or bathroom to your home? These can all increase demand. A larger tank can help future-proof your home as needs evolve.
3. Better First-Hour Rating
A 60-gallon tank often comes with a higher first-hour rating (FHR), meaning it can deliver more hot water in the first hour of heavy use—a key stat if you’ve got back-to-back morning showers. You can learn more about FHR and sizing from Energy.gov’s guide to water heaters.
Cost Breakdown: Is It Worth It?
Initial Equipment Costs
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50-Gallon Electric Water Heater: $400–$800
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60-Gallon Electric Water Heater: $600–$1,200
Installation Costs
Labor usually runs about the same for both, though slight adjustments may be needed for space or plumbing. Expect to pay $500–$1,000, depending on complexity.
⚠️ Pro tip: Some municipalities charge different permit or inspection fees for higher-capacity tanks. Always check with your local code office first.
Operating Costs
Surprisingly, the energy difference between a 50- and 60-gallon model is usually minimal if both are Energy Star certified. Look for models with good insulation and EF (Energy Factor) ratings.
When a 50-Gallon Still Makes Sense
Not every home needs the extra volume. Here are a few reasons you might not want to upgrade:
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Limited Space: A 60-gallon unit has a larger footprint and may not fit in tight closets or utility rooms.
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Small Households: If you live alone or with one other person, 50 gallons is usually plenty.
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Budget Constraints: Upgrading may cost more upfront than your budget allows right now.
If you're unsure, consult a local plumber or use a BTU and gallon sizing calculator like Rheem’s water heater sizing tool.
Alternatives to Consider Before Upgrading
Before committing to a new 60-gallon tank, you might want to explore:
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Installing a Tank Booster: This device mixes cold water with extra-hot tank water, giving the feel of a larger tank. See how it works on Ferguson.
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Adding a Second Water Heater: Especially useful for multi-story homes where one heater struggles to serve both floors.
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Switching to Tankless: Not ideal for every home, but some tankless models can offer unlimited hot water for the right usage level. Learn more via Consumer Reports’ tankless vs. tank comparison.
Installation Considerations for a 60-Gallon Water Heater
Upgrading isn’t always as simple as pulling one tank and dropping in another. Here’s what might be involved:
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Space Clearance: Measure carefully—especially ceiling height and floor footprint.
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Electrical Circuit Requirements: Your 60-gallon unit may require a higher amperage circuit. Check with a licensed electrician.
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Drain Pan & Expansion Tank Updates: Many newer codes now require these for safety, especially on larger tanks.
Final Word: Should You Make the Switch?
If you're tired of cold showers, have more people under one roof, or simply want a more comfortable and convenient hot water supply, upgrading to a 60-gallon electric water heater might be exactly what your home needs.
But remember: every situation is different. Before making the call, talk with a professional or compare product specs and costs at trusted suppliers like The Furnace Outlet. They offer a range of 50–60 gallon electric water heaters and expert support to help you make the right choice for your home.
Curious about the reset button on your water heater? Visit my guide: What the Reset Button Really Does on Your 50–60 Gallon Water Heater (And Why It Keeps Tripping).
Until next time,
- Mike, your cool HVAC neighbor
