#1 Home Improvement Retailer

Internet # 309627202

Model # XE50T12CS55U1

Store SKU # 1004435926

Store SO SKU #1004356724

Gladiator 50 Gal. Tall 12-Year 5500-Watt Double Element Smart Electric Water Heater w/ Leak Detection and Auto Shutoff

$789.00
Buy 3 or more $710.10
Apply Now
Pay $739 after $50 OFF your total qualifying purchase upon opening a new card. 
Apply for a Home Depot Consumer Card
  • Built-in leak detection and auto shutoff protects your home
  • Built-in Wi-Fi enables control and monitoring at home or away
  • Restricted in Demand Response States: See below before purchasing
  • View More Details

Free & Easy Returns In Store or Online

Return this item within 90 days of purchase.

Read Return Policy

Ask about this product

Get an answer now with AI

AI-generated from the text of manufacturer documentation. To verify or get additional information, please contact The Home Depot customer service.

Product Details

About This Product

The Rheem Gladiator 50 Gal. electric water heater provides an ample supply of hot water for households with 3 to 5 people. The Gladiator water heater is unlike any other water heater because it provides the Power to Know, the Power to Control, and the Power to Protect. The Power to Know: detect potential leaks with the 360° LeakSense Leak Detection system. The Power to Control: integrated EcoNet Wi-Fi enables management of water temperature, tracking of energy usage and monitoring from your phone. The Power to Protect: Features the LeakGuard Auto Shutoff Valve, which engages in the unlikely event a leak is detected, to protect your home from water damage. Its self-cleaning feature prolongs tank life and maintains the water heater's efficiency. As a Performance Platinum, the Gladiator has a 12-year limited tank and parts warranty plus a 3-year in home labor warranty. This model comes with 2 5500-Watt stainless steel heating elements.

Highlights

  • Washington, Oregon, and Colorado residents: your home is in a state that requires demand response water heaters, if this water heater does not meet demand response requirements, please select an approved demand response model available on homedepot.com
  • 50 Gal. tank provides ample hot water for households with 3 to 5 people
  • Power to know: built-in LeakSense leak detection system alerts you of any leak large or small, internal or external
  • Power to control: built-in EcoNet Wi-Fi technology allows you to manage hot water, track energy usage, and set modes like vacation mode from your mobile device
  • Power to protect: protect your home from water damage with LeakGuard, the auto shut-off valve that shuts off incoming water and locks water in
  • Delivers 63 Gal. of hot water in the first hour
  • Self-cleaning: fights sediment build-up at the bottom of the tank to prolong tank life and maintain efficiency
  • Hot water availability indicator: know before hot water runs out via EcoNet Wi-Fi app
  • Vacation mode: save money on water heating costs while away by setting your water heater in vacation mode from your mobile device with the EcoNet Wi-Fi app
  • 12-year limited warranty on tank and parts for your convenience
  • 3-year in home labor warranty for peace of mind
  • 0.92 Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) means it's high efficiency, saving money on energy bills with low energy usage
  • Dual 5500-Watt stainless steel heating elements
  • Requires a 240-Volt connection for installation
  • Thick, premium sacrificial anode rod and Rheemglas tank lining combine to protect the tank from corrosive elements in the water
  • As with any WiFi connected device, for best performance use your phone or tablet to check the WiFi signal strength in the area where the water heater will be installed prior to purchase
  • Call 1-855-650-2786 before noon for same-day installation service in most areas or visit our water heater installation page for more information
  • Return Policy
  • California residents
     see Prop 65 WARNINGS

Product Information

Internet # 309627202

Model # XE50T12CS55U1

Store SKU # 1004435926

Store SO SKU #1004356724

Specifications

Dimensions: H 58.375 in, W 22.25 in, D 20.25 in

Dimensions

Kilowatt

5.5

Product Depth (in.)

20.25 in

Product Height (in.)

58.375 in

Product Width (in.)

22.25 in

Water Connection Size (in.)

3/4 in

Water Connection Size (in.)

3/4

Details

Amperage (A)

22.92 A

Application Type

Residential

Efficiency Level

High

First Hour of Delivery (gallons/hr)

63

Household Size

3-5

Indoor/Outdoor

Indoor

Nominal Tank Capacity (gallons)

50 gal

Power Options

Hardwired

Product Weight (lb.)

123 lb

Remote Access

Remote Access

Required Volt Connection

240 volt

Requires Hub?

No Hub Required

Returnable

90-Day

Smart Home

Smart Home Enabled

Smart Home Protocol

Wi-Fi

Tank Warranty

12 Year

Uniform Energy Factor

0.92

Voice Control Hub Required

No Voice Control

Water Heater Features

Overheat Protection, Temperature Pressure Relief Valve

Water Heater Profile

Tall

Water Heater Type

Electric

Wattage (watts)

5500 W

Works With

Google Assistant

Warranty / Certifications

Certifications and Listings

UL Listed

Part Warranty

12 Year

Questions & Answers

How long does it take to provide hot water after initial installation?
ByAug 13, 2026
1 Answer | 
Answer This Question

Hi, Based on the information you provided, from a fresh installation with a completely cold tank, expect hot water in roughly 1.5 hours, and full‑temperature water in up to 2 hours. For additional assistance, please call 866-279-4566 between the hours of 7 A.M. and 7 P.M. CST. Derius

By|Aug 18, 2026


    Is warranty transferable
    ByAug 8, 2026
    1 Answer | 
    Answer This Question

    Hi JoJo, For the Gladiator 50 Gal Smart Electric Water Heater (12‑Year Warranty), the manufacturer’s warranty is not transferable. The warranty stays with the first owner only. Derius

    By|Aug 12, 2026


      IS THIS A QUICK RECOVERING TANK FOR LARGE USE OF HOT WATER?
      ByJul 28, 2026
      1 Answer | 
      Answer This Question

      Hi David, This model does have a relatively quick recovery, but with the important nuance that electric heaters recover slower than gas, even at 5500 W. For additional assistance, please call 866-279-4566 between the hours of 7 A.M. and 7 P.M. CST. Derius

      By|Aug 3, 2026


        What is the model number
        ByJul 28, 2026
        1 Answer | 
        Answer This Question

        Hi, Based on the information provided, the model number shows as: XE50T09EL55U1 For additional assistance, please call 866-279-4566 between the hours of 7 A.M. and 7 P.M. CST. Derius

        By|Aug 3, 2026


          Does this have to be connected to wifi?
          ByJul 8, 2026
          1 Answer | 
          Answer This Question

          Hi Rose, This model does not have to be connected to WiFi to operate. Derius

          By|Jul 14, 2026


            What is the item number for the 55. Galón electric water heater tall
            ByJul 7, 2026
            1 Answer | 
            Answer This Question

            Hi Fernando, To better assist you with this, please contact HomeDepot.com customer service department at 1-800-466-3337 any day between 6 A.M and 2 A.M. EST. Home Depot Customer Service will be able to assist you with this issue or transfer you to your local store for more assistance. Derius

            By|Jul 16, 2026


              Is this model considered energy star certified?
              ByJun 15, 2026
              1 Answer | 
              Answer This Question

              Hello Yolanda, This model is not ENERGY STAR Certified. Isaiah

              By|Aug 18, 2026


                Thermostat adjustment
                ByJun 8, 2026
                1 Answer | 
                Answer This Question

                Hi Fred, Based on the information provided; to adjust the thermostat you would need to power down the unit and remove the element covers for the top and bottom elements on the unit. For assistance with temperature adjustment, please call 866-279-4566 between the hours of 7 A.M. and 7 P.M. CST. Derius

                By|Jun 12, 2026


                  Viewing 1-8 of 353

                  Customer Reviews

                  4 out of 5

                  • 4 out of 2,174 reviews
                  • 59% recommend this product
                  Filter by:
                  Showing 1-10 of 2,174 reviews
                  DONT DO IT!!!!
                  Just bought this and installed on 08/13... THIS IS LIKE PLAYING THE LOTTERY... I was happy that the product did not have any dents. I got it installed and notice small droplets by the electrical components. Since then I have had issues with temperature, had it set to 120 and it was spiking to 160 degrees. Then I notice this morning there was a bigger puddle of water by the electrical components and it had shorted itself... thank god!!! this is a horrible product.......... HORRIBLE!!!
                  by
                    1 found this review helpful
                    3rd hot water heater we purchased, first one the whole bottom was busted, next one was too small this one came in a box , box looked fine, big dent in it, what are they doing to these heaters, we are going to keep it and try it, because its not an easy thing to return( big bulky) let's see if it doesn't leak, fingers crossed, will not buy another one from home depot if this one fails
                    by
                    Response from RheemAug 14, 2026
                    Hi Christina,
                    Thank you for your review. We are sorry to hear about the difficulties you experienced and understand your frustration after receiving multiple water heaters with shipping damage. Receiving a unit with a dent, especially after previous issues, is certainly not the experience we want for our customers.

                    Because product delivery and handling are managed by the retailer and delivery provider, we encourage you to report the damage to Home Depot so they can document and address your concerns. We hope your water heater performs properly and provides reliable service. If you have any questions or need technical assistance with the unit, please contact our Technical Support team at 866-279-4566. Thank you for sharing your feedback.

                    Moneke rheem
                    • Verified Purchase
                    This customer chose to rate the product and not provide text.
                    by
                    Response from RheemJul 22, 2026
                    Hi HomeDepotCustomer,
                    Thank you for your 5-star rating! We appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback. We're glad you chose our product and are pleased to know you had a positive experience. If you ever have any questions or need assistance in the future, please don't hesitate to reach out to 866-279-4566. Thank you for being a valued customer!
                    Moneke rheem
                    What can I tell you?? ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED?? The Gladiator is providing nice warm showers and baths for the whole family. The 55 gallon is largest water heater before you get into serious money. So far so good!!
                    by
                    Response from RheemJul 15, 2026
                    Hi,

                    Thank you for your feedback, James. We’re glad the Gladiator is meeting your family’s needs and providing reliable hot water. We appreciate you highlighting its value and performance.

                    Derius rheem
                    • Verified Purchase
                    Arrived in the delivery truck upright and packaging was in good shape. Checked out right away, no dents, no damage. Very easy to install. I did make sure not one drop of water was anywhere near the unit. Ran a box fan to make sure room was completely dry before installing. Heated up quick, we have very hot water and it did cut down on warm up time in the bathrooms. App seems to work fine as well. Been a few weeks now and no issues.
                    by
                    Response from RheemJun 30, 2026
                    Hi,

                    Thank you for sharing your experience, Scott. It sounds like you handled the installation with real care, checking the packaging, inspecting the tank, keeping the area completely dry, and even running a fan beforehand. That kind of attention to detail sets a water heater up for a smooth start, and it’s great to hear the Gladiator heated quickly, improved hot‑water wait times, and has been running without issues for several weeks.

                    The app working reliably is another good sign that everything is communicating the way it should.

                    We appreciate you choosing Rheem and taking the time to share your experience.

                    Derius rheem
                    • Verified Purchase
                    1 found this review helpful
                    Fire Hazard, this is a known issue!
                    Burned thru 2 control boards within 90 days. Fire Hazard, do not purchase. Seriously, do some research before you find yourself in the same situation!
                    by
                    Response from RheemJun 12, 2026
                    Hi,

                    Thank you for sharing your feedback, Andy. We’re very sorry to hear about the repeated control board issues you experienced, this is not the performance we aim to deliver. We understand how concerning this situation was for you and appreciate you taking the time to let us know about your experience.

                    Derius rheem
                      It has not given me any major problems
                      Installation was easy as long as you know what you are doing. Check with your local and state govt to see if you need to pull out any permits. Yes some places have you pull permits prior to replacing a water heater. Okay now that this nonsense is out of the way, installation was easy I was able to just link everything up to the house pipes. The electric work was easy too. The element the lower one died within about 3 months. What both the customer service rep and I think is that the element was just defective as it did not have any visual signs of damage or corrosion. Getting a replacement was a chore at the beginning. I had to contract a licensed person to basically call them and let them know the element was not working and to send a replacement. I thought this was a waste of time and money. Eventually they realized I knew what I was doing and sent the part. Installing the element was easy. All I had to do was drain the water and close the valve for the water. Once it was drained the element was easy to take off and replace. Since fixing that I have not had any issues with it. I do drain it roughly every 2-3 months. Some of the things to note are that it has a leak detention and auto shutoff function. As for the app, It was easy connecting it to the wifi and I have not had any wifi issues at all. When it comes to the app, you can control temperature and on or off functions from basically anywhere in the USA. One thing that i find frustrating is that this water heater just randomly powers up and draws electricity at the most random times. Yes there is a schedule option but I do not like using it. instead of it being a do not power on from 6pm to 10 pm or any time frame, it only give the option to power up at 4 different times. through the week. I do not like this because I have people over constantly and I am sure they want hot water at random times. Usually where I live they charge more for electricity from 4 pm to 7pm we try not to use electric devices around this time but the water heater kicks in randomly and what could have waited till after 7 or had been done before 4 all of a sudden gets done at the worst time. Other than the issues I mentioned the water heater works great. It is a 50 gal water heater. Lastly it does draw a significant amount of electricity from the grid when it powers on even though i have it at 130F.
                      by
                      Response from RheemJun 12, 2026
                      Hi,

                      Thank you for sharing such a detailed review. We’re glad to hear the installation went smoothly and that the unit has been performing well since the element was replaced. We’re sorry for the difficulty you experienced during the warranty process and understand how frustrating that can be, especially when you’re clearly knowledgeable about the work. We appreciate your feedback on the scheduling features and energy‑use behavior as well. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with Rheem.

                      Derius rheem
                        • Recommended
                        1 found this review helpful
                        Easy to install
                        I bought this back about 2 years ago. So far i have had to change the element one time. The customer service rep and i bought think that the element was just defective. So far since the change of the element this water heater has been working great. If you plan to install this yourself you must be comfortable with electric and plumbing work. If you are not do not even attempt it pay someone that is licensed to install. Also depending on the rules of your local or state government you might need to take out a permit. If you are comfortable and knowledgeable at installing water heaters then this part is for you. This water heater was extremely easy to install I did not have any issues tying into the tubing that was there from the previous water heater. As for the electric part it is self explanatory, ground to ground , hot to hot, neutral to neutral. Overall, it works great! I am able to turn on or off as well as change the temperature using their app. The only thing I cannot do is tell it to turn off from 4pm to 7pm. it does have an option to turn it off 4 times but it is weird and for me it is hard to use. It does come with an automatic shut off valve and water detection (leaks)
                        by
                        Response from RheemJun 12, 2026
                        Hi,

                        Thank you for sharing your experience. We’re glad to hear the installation went smoothly and that the unit has been performing well since the element replacement. We appreciate your feedback on the app features and scheduling options, and we’re happy to know the smart controls and leak‑detection features have been useful for you. Thank you for choosing Rheem.

                        Derius rheem
                          • Recommended
                          I had to buy this water heater in a pinch after discovering an active leak on my old one - thankfully Home Depot had it in stock. It works great and was very easy to install and setup. The WiFi features are useful, primarily for adjusting the water temp and monitoring the available hot water.
                          by
                          Response from RheemJun 12, 2026
                          Hi,

                          Thank you, Danny. We’re glad to hear the unit was easy to install and that it’s working well for you. It’s great to know the WiFi features are helping you monitor and manage your hot water. We appreciate you choosing Rheem.

                          Derius rheem
                          Run fast, do not purchase this.
                          I purchased this water heater in January, and the water heater alarmed within the first two weeks. The tech had us move the sensor, then reset the alarm. Well, here we are in June and a plumber came out to inspect the water heater and found that the water heater was leaking. The terminals are corroded, and the breaker tripped at least once. We had it installed by Home Depot, so the installation shouldn’t have been the problem. This water heater is a LEMON, buyers be warned. We will never use this brand again. We had a GE that worked perfectly for 13 years. Go with GE and skip this brand. Home Depot will only allow an exchange of the same brand after 90 days, so no refund on the product because Home Depot will send you to the manufacturer, who will also refuse a refund. I wish I could give negative stars. Oh, and like other buyers mentioned the smart technology never was able to connect to WiFi.
                          by
                          Response from RheemJun 3, 2026
                          Hi Jay,

                          We’re very sorry to hear about your experience and understand how frustrating it must be to encounter multiple issues so soon after installation.
                          A unit alarming early, followed by reports of leaking, corrosion, and electrical concerns, is understandably concerning. We also recognize your dissatisfaction with the connectivity issues and the difficulties you’ve faced while seeking support. This is not the level of quality or experience we strive to provide.
                          We would appreciate the opportunity to review your situation in detail and work toward a resolution. Please contact our Technical Support team at 866-279-4566 so we can connect you with a live representative and assist further. If there are any warranty options or next steps available, we want to make sure those are fully explored with you.
                          We value your feedback and the opportunity to improve your experience.

                          Moneke rheem
                            1 found this review helpful
                            Showing 1-10 of 2,174 reviews

                            Compare Key Features

                            current item

                            Product Snapshot

                            Ideal for homeowners who want smart control, leak protection, and efficient hot water.
                            Ideal for households with 3-5 people, this 50 Gal. electric water heater offers a 9-year warranty and delivers 62 Gal. of hot water in the first hour.
                            Ideal for large households needing reliable hot water with smart leak detection, Wi-Fi control, and a 12-year warranty.
                            Ideal for eco-conscious homeowners seeking energy savings with smart app control, ensuring lower bills and remote management.

                            Capacity

                            50 gallons
                            50 Gal.
                            55 gal
                            50 gal

                            Recovery Rate

                            63 gallons per hour
                            62 Gal. per hour
                            74 gph

                            Leak Detection

                            Heating Element Type

                            Stainless steel
                            Stainless Steel

                            Smart Controls