A.O. Smith Signature 500 50-Gallon Short5500-Watt Double Element Smart Electric Water Heater with Leak Detection & Automatic Shut-Off - Item #3806367 | Model #EE12-50R55DVF
A. O. Smith's Signature 500 Series 50-Gallon Electric Water Heater is designed to provide efficient and reliable hot water while offering you more peace of mind with brand-new features. With iCOMM™ Smart Connectivity included, you can use your smartphone to receive notifications and manage your water heater. It's Leak Watch® Smart technology immediately alerts you of a leak, giving you enough time to react. Plus, its electronic user interface allows you to easily set temperature, operating mode and child safety lock features. This 50-gallon electric water heater includes a Leak Shield® shut-off valve, which automatically turns off the water supply when a leak is detected (accessory included). When sized appropriately, this A. O. Smith hot water heater model is suitable for households with 3 to 4 people. The 50-gallon tank contains dual stainless steel heating elements with Tank Guard advanced protection to extend its life. Built-in dry fire protection prevents the electric water heater from being turned on unless the tank is full of water, eliminating accidentally burning out the upper element. It has a 0.92 Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) rating, which reduces energy consumption to save on electric bills.
Features
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iCOMM Smart Connectivity lets you use your smartphone to receive notifications and control your smart water heater
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Leak Watch smart technology immediately alerts you of a leak for your peace of mind
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Leak Shield shut-off valve automatically shuts off water supply when a leak is detected (accessory included)
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Tank Guard gives you advanced tank protection that extends the life of your electric water heater
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An electronic user interface on the hot water heater lets you easily set temperature, operating mode and child safety lock feature
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Premium 5500 Watt Stainless Steel Heating Elements are more efficient and longer lasting than conventional elements, with higher recovery
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Electronic thermostat provides operational reliability and ease of use
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Built in dry fire protection will not allow the water heater to be turned on unless the tank is full of water, eliminating accidentally burning out the upper element
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Provides peace of mind with a 12-year limited tank and parts guarantee and a 3-year limited labor warranty
Specifications
Diameter (Inches) |
23 |
Nominal Capacity (Gallons) |
50 |
Family Size |
4 |
Rated Storage Capacity |
46-Gallon |
Height (Inches) |
49.25 |
Water Connection Size |
3/4-in |
Insulation Thickness (Inches) |
3 |
Weight (lbs.) |
117 |
What our Experts Think
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Smart connectivity & control: Built‑in iCOMM™ Smart Connectivity lets you interact with the heater through your smartphone—manage settings, check status, and access alerts without walking to the unit.
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Advanced leak protection: Leak Watch® Smart technology detects moisture early, while the included Leak Shield® automatic shut‑off valve can cut water supply if a leak occurs, helping prevent damage.
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Robust heating performance: Dual 5500 W stainless steel elements provide fast heat recovery, efficient everyday hot water delivery for households of 3–4 people.
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Durable, long‑lasting design: Tank Guard® advanced tank protection and a built‑in dry fire safety system extend life and protect heating elements by preventing operation when dry.
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Easy user interface: The electronic control panel makes adjusting temperature, selecting modes, and using features like child lock simple and intuitive.
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Energy‑efficient operation: With a 0.92 Uniform Energy Factor (UEF), this model helps reduce energy use and operating costs vs older electric heaters.
Q&A
Q: What household size is this 50‑gallon water heater suitable for?
A: Ideal for households of 3–4 people, providing reliable hot water for showers, laundry, and daily use.
Q: How powerful are the heating elements?
A: Features two 5,500-watt elements for fast heating and consistent hot water delivery.
Q: What makes this water heater “smart”?
A: Includes leak detection and automatic shut-off, helping prevent water damage and providing peace of mind.
Q: Is it energy efficient?
A: Yes. Designed with a high Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) to reduce standby heat loss and lower energy costs.
Q: What are the dimensions of the short design?
A: Measures approximately 49.75 inches high and 22.25 inches in diameter, making it suitable for tight spaces like closets or basements.
Q: What safety features are included?
A: Comes with temperature and pressure relief valve, tamper-resistant drain valve, leak detection, and automatic shut-off for secure operation.
Q: How is the tank protected from corrosion?
A: Equipped with a fused ceramic tank shield, protective anode rod, and premium heating elements to extend tank life.
Q: What are the installation requirements?
A: Requires 240-volt power, top water connections, and indoor residential installation
Maintenance Tips
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Flush the tank annually: Drain and flush every 6–12 months to remove sediment that can reduce efficiency and damage heating elements.
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Inspect the anode rod: Check yearly and replace if heavily corroded to prevent internal tank rust.
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Monitor heating elements and thermostat: Ensure upper and lower 5500‑W elements are functioning properly for consistent hot water.
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Test T&P relief valve: Operate the temperature & pressure relief valve yearly to ensure proper safety function.
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Check for leaks and smart alerts: Use the built-in Leak Detection and Automatic Shut-Off features and regularly inspect fittings and connections.
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Maintain a clean, dry area: Keep the surrounding space unobstructed and ventilated for safe operation and easy maintenance.
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Fill tank before powering on: Always ensure the tank is full before restoring power to prevent dry-firing and element damage.
Damage 
Loss 
Theft 
