Question: what is the difference between 4500 and 5500 watt water heater?
Answer: 5500 watt elements will heat water faster than 4500 watt. This means faster 'recovery' and higher 'first hour delivery. ... 4500 watt elements = 31 gallon recovery = 59 gallons first hour delivery. 5500 watt elements = 34 gallon recovery = 66 gallons first hour.