The American G61-50T40R 401 is a 50-gallon nominal ProLine atmospheric-vent water heater built for propane, with 37,000 BTU/h input. It is the tall, six-year-warranty version. We consider it for an indoor residential replacement where the propane supply, combustion-air arrangement and existing vent can support this exact appliance.
Where this tall model fits
The 21-inch diameter needs more floor space than the 18-inch GB61 40-gallon tall tank. This is a tall G61 model without the optional side-loop connections; it is not the wider G62 or an L-suffix side-loop version. Check the full model number when comparing proposals so a similar family name does not conceal a different configuration.
Rated storage rises from 38 gallons in the GB61 40-gallon model to 48 gallons here, but the published first-hour rating rises only from 78 to 81 gallons. More stored water can help with a larger draw, yet these numbers do not support a claim of dramatically faster recovery. We compare the household’s busiest hour and available space before recommending the larger tank.
G61-50T40R 401 specifications
| Exact model | G61-50T40R 401 |
|---|---|
| Fuel | Propane |
| Nominal capacity / rated storage | 50 gallons / 48 gallons |
| Input | 37,000 BTU/h |
| First-hour rating | 81 gallons, as listed by American |
| UEF | 0.62 |
| Tank diameter | 21 inches |
| Product-page height | 57 inches; see drawing dimensions below |
| Drawing A: with draft hood | 60¾ inches; additional vent and service space required |
| Insulation blanket supplied | No |
| Limited warranty | 6-year tank and 6-year parts; conditions apply |
Fuel, venting and replacement planning
Order the factory propane model G61-50T40R 401. The corresponding natural-gas version uses a different series number and input rating. A matching tank size is not enough to make the fuels interchangeable. We review the propane regulator and supply capacity along with the other connected appliances before confirming the installation.
The atmospheric design relies on an appropriate metal vent and adequate combustion air. During a site visit, we assess the entire vent route, its condition and any appliances sharing it. The existing connector is not automatically reusable just because it reaches the new draft hood. This is also why a model chosen for a power-vent or direct-vent installation requires a separate review.
The thermopile-powered control does not need an external electrical supply. That can be useful where the present heater has no nearby outlet, but it does not settle the other installation requirements. We also check access to the shutoff, the drain arrangement, thermal-expansion provisions and the space needed to service the heater after installation.
Dimensions and manufacturer documentation notes
The product page lists a height of 57 inches. The August 2025 drawing shows B = 57¼ inches to the tank top and A = 60¾ inches including the draft hood. Those figures are not interchangeable when checking an existing vent connection. This guide covers the G61-50T40R without the L suffix; the product page lists Side Loop: No.
The series drawing lists a 3- or 4-inch draft hood for this model family. That entry is not permission to choose a vent diameter from a shopping list: the installer must check the supplied hood, the complete vent system and the applicable installation requirements. Tank dimensions also exclude the space needed for piping, a pan where required and future service.
American lists no supplied insulation blanket for this model. The photograph is the manufacturer’s representative tall-series image; use the exact model specifications, rather than the picture’s proportions, to confirm fit.
Compare the other tall ProLine options
For the same fuel, compare 30-gallon GB61-30T32R 401 and 40-gallon GB61-40T40 401. Capacity, diameter and first-hour performance matter together. If the property uses natural gas, see the separate G61-50T40R 400 natural gas guide.
Browse the American Water Heaters manufacturer page and our water heater model catalog for other configurations. A replacement quote should identify the full model and fuel so you can compare like-for-like equipment.
Service and warranty considerations
We want the replacement to remain accessible after the work is complete. Leave room to reach the drain, inspect the burner area and service the anode. Discuss the maintenance schedule for your water conditions at installation; a self-cleaning dip tube does not remove the need for ongoing care.
The six-year coverage is a manufacturer’s limited tank and parts warranty. It is not a promise of six years of free installation labor. Review the certificate for eligibility, exclusions and claim requirements, and keep the purchase and installation records with the model and serial number.
Frequently asked questions
Does this G61-50T40R have side-loop recirculation connections?
No. The exact model covered here is listed without side loops. American uses an L suffix for the optional side-loop version. If the existing system needs those taps, confirm the correct model before ordering.
Is G61-50T40R 401 natural gas or propane?
G61-50T40R 401 is the factory propane version with 37,000 BTU/h input. Select the correct fuel model; American’s linked warranty excludes attempted conversion from one gas type to another.
How much hot water does this 50-gallon model provide?
American lists 48 gallons of rated storage and a 81-gallon first-hour rating. Actual shower and tub performance depends on incoming water temperature, fixture flow and the timing of demand. We size the replacement around those conditions.
Does it need an electrical outlet or a power-vent blower?
The listed thermopile gas control operates without external electrical power, and this is an atmospheric-vent model. Its vent system and combustion-air supply still need to be suitable for the installation.
What does the six-year warranty cover?
American lists six years of limited tank and parts coverage, subject to the written warranty. Removal and installation labor and related expenses are generally excluded. Keep the installation record and the unit’s model and serial numbers.
Official American product documents
- G61-50T40R 401 product page
- ProLine atmospheric-vent specification sheet, NRGSS00115 (August 2025)
- Residential gas FVIR installation and care manual, 100263114 (January 2015)
- American residential limited warranty, 100287889
Specifications checked October 17, 2026. Confirm the delivered unit’s data plate and supplied instructions when ordering and installing.