A. O. SMITH GPVNT-50 1** vs GSW WATER HEATERS GPVT-50 2**: which uses less energy?
At the high draw pattern the A. O. SMITH GPVNT-50 1** and the GSW WATER HEATERS GPVT-50 2** use the same energy, 235 therms a year each, on the same federal test. Both are filed as a gas tank, so the comparison holds; what separates them is below. Enter your ZIP to price either one on your own rate.
Side by side
Compared within one class only: models filed as a gas tank at the high draw pattern.
| Figure | A. O. SMITH GPVNT-50 1** | GSW WATER HEATERS GPVT-50 2** |
|---|---|---|
| UEF (Uniform Energy Factor) | 0.72 | 0.72 |
| Energy use per year (therms) | 235 | 235 |
| First hour rating (gal) | 85 | 97 |
| Rated storage volume (gal) | 48 | 48 |
| Installed cost range | $2,258–$4,333 | $2,258–$4,333 |
| ENERGY STAR certified | not matched | not matched |
What it costs to run
Reliability
Not published: Reliability, failure rates and each model’s actual warranty term.
The registries these figures come from certify energy performance under a federal test; none of them records how long a unit lasts or how often it fails, so this page does not rank the two on reliability.
What is here instead:
- The filed efficiency, capacity and tank size of both models, side by side below.
- The actual warranty term is printed in each model’s documentation, not in any registry.
Which should you pick?
- Pick the A. O. SMITH GPVNT-50 1** if its price or availability suits you — on energy the two are level.
- Pick the GSW WATER HEATERS GPVT-50 2** if you need more hot water in your busiest hour: it lists a first hour rating of 97 gallons against 85.
- Neither if your household's busiest hour needs more than 97 gallons of hot water — neither lists more. Check whether a 50-gallon heater is enough.
Each model on its own
-
A. O. SMITH GPVNT-50 1**
Its filed figures, class position and running cost on your ZIP.
-
GSW WATER HEATERS GPVT-50 2**
Its filed figures, class position and running cost on your ZIP.