LG APHWC502D 50-Gallon is a heat pump (hybrid electric) water heater from LG with a 53 gallon rated tank and a 81 gallon first-hour rating at a 4.2 UEF — 1181 kWh/yr certified use, 47.6 in tall.
Our take
The stronger of LG's two 50-gallon trims: 4.20 UEF at the 89th percentile, an 81-gallon first-hour rating — the highest in the entire 50-gallon class — and the same 23 °F compressor floor that distinguishes LG's integrated design. Certified High-draw at 1,181 kWh (about $201 a year), it delivers more hot water in test than the Medium-draw units posting lower dollar figures. Height is a standard 47.6 inches; the circuit is 240 V / 24 A on a 30 A breaker. R-134a, 440% recovery, no connectivity. LG badge only.
Best for: Class-leading first-hour delivery plus real cold-room capability.
Trade-off: No demand-response or app support despite the flagship spec.
Efficiency
Uniform Energy Factor (UEF)
4.2
Annual electricity use
1181 kWh/yr
Recovery efficiency
440 %
General
Fuel
Electric
Capacity
First-hour rating
81 gal
Rated storage volume
53 gal
Draw pattern
High
Heat pump
Heat pump type
240 Volt Integrated HPWH
Refrigerant (GWP)
R-134a (GWP:1430)
Compressor low-temp cutoff
23 °F
Installation
Input voltage
240
Max current draw
24 A
Smart features
Smart / connected capable
No
Dimensions
Height
47.6 in
Diameter
19.7 in
Certification
ENERGY STAR certified
Yes
Who is the LG APHWC502D 50-Gallon for?
Its 81 gallon first-hour rating suits a
household of 5+ people under DOE sizing guidance.
Estimated running cost: about $201/year at the national
average electricity rate (1181 kWh/yr certified use).
Needs a 240 V circuit; at 24 A max draw plan for a 30 A breaker (NEC 125% continuous-load rule).
The heat pump compressor operates down to 23 °F ambient — below that, backup
elements take over.
Is the LG APHWC502D 50-Gallon ENERGY STAR certified?
Yes, the LG APHWC502D 50-Gallon holds a current ENERGY STAR certification for water heating efficiency (UEF 4.2).
How much does the LG APHWC502D 50-Gallon cost to run per year?
About $201 per year at national average energy rates, based on its certified annual energy use under the DOE test draw pattern. Your rate and usage change this figure.
What electrical circuit does the LG APHWC502D 50-Gallon need?
The LG APHWC502D 50-Gallon runs on a 240 V circuit drawing up to 24 A; per the NEC 125% continuous-load rule plan for at least a 30 A breaker (check the installation manual for the required circuit).
Is the LG APHWC502D 50-Gallon a smart water heater?
No, the LG APHWC502D 50-Gallon is not connected-capable — it has no app connectivity or demand-response support.
