*IF* the elements in that 50 gallon water heater were only 3500 watts, then on a 240 volt circuit you would have 3500 / 240 = 14.6 amps, which is within the 16 amps of the 80% rating of both a #12 AWG copper circuit, rating of 20 amps, and the 20 amp rated breaker.Click to see full answer. Similarly, it is asked, what size breaker do I need for a 50 gallon electric water heater?The standard for water heater circuits is #10, two conductors with ground (10/2) and a 30 amp circuit breaker for a water heater.Also Know, what size breaker do I need for a 40 gallon electric water heater? Your average residential 30 or 40 gallon water heater is 4500 watts and usually goes on a 30 A breaker. Keeping this in view, how many amps does an electric water heater need? 120 amps What size wire do I need for a 4500 watt water heater?A 4500-watt element requires 10/2 wire and a 30 amp (220volt) breaker. The 3800 can be wired with 12/2 wire and a 20 amp breaker.
