A smart 55-gallon electric replacement option
The A.O. Smith HETFA-55 100 ProLine Master is a residential electric storage water heater with electronic controls, iCOMM Wi-Fi connectivity, a leak sensor and an automatic cold-water shut-off valve. It is an option for homeowners who want a conventional electric tank with monitoring and control features. Water Heating Experts reviews the existing installation and your hot-water routine before recommending it for a Palm Beach County home.
This guide covers the HETFA-55 100 listed on the manufacturer’s product page, item 100363068. A.O. Smith’s web listing and family specification sheet differ on height and electrical configuration. Those details are separated below so a proposal can identify the actual equipment being supplied.
Published capacity and performance
| Nominal capacity / rated storage | 55 / 55 U.S. gallons |
|---|---|
| First-hour rating | 75 U.S. gallons |
| Uniform Energy Factor | 0.94 UEF |
| Heater type / installation | Electric-resistance storage tank; indoor residential use |
| Diameter | 24 inches |
| Height in specification ARESS00123 | 56½ inches, dimension A; see height note below |
| Height on linked product page | 60½ inches; confirm the supplied unit |
| Water connections | ¾-inch top connections, 8 inches on center |
| Linked item electrical listing | 208V; 4,500W maximum wattage; two elements |
| Family sheet’s standard 240V configuration | Two 5,500W elements; 25 GPH recovery at a 90°F rise |
| Limited warranty | Eight years on tank and parts, subject to written terms |
The first-hour figure combines stored hot water and heating during a standardized test. It does not mean the tank stores 75 gallons or supplies that amount continuously. Peak demand, incoming water temperature and the selected electrical configuration affect practical performance. UEF helps compare efficiency under test conditions; it is not a prediction of your monthly bill.
Confirm height and electrical configuration before ordering
The HETFA-55 row in ARESS00123 shows a 56½-inch dimension A to the tank top. The linked model page lists 60½ inches without explaining the difference. Both show a 24-inch diameter. WHE confirms the current unit’s dimensions and the required installation space before committing to a replacement; neither published height should be treated as the complete service envelope.
The same distinction matters electrically. The web page’s technical table lists 208V and 4,500W, while its feature text describes dual 5,500W elements. The family sheet specifies standard 5,500W elements at 240V and states that 208V versions are available only with 4,500W elements. These are configurations to verify, not interchangeable ratings. The quoted unit’s data plate must match the available supply and installation design.
Leak detection, shut-off and connected controls
The leak sensor can sound an alarm when it detects water, and the automatic valve closes the incoming cold-water supply. This can help limit additional water entering a leaking heater. It does not remove water already in the tank or replace a suitable drain pan and drainage arrangement. Sensor placement, valve access and the response to an alert belong in the installation walkthrough.
iCOMM connectivity supports temperature changes, operating-mode selection and scheduling through the A.O. Smith app. Plan for a usable Wi-Fi connection at the heater and homeowner access to the account. For a seasonal home, discuss the intended schedule and vacation settings during setup. Our A.O. Smith iCOMM guide explains the broader app features and compatibility questions.
The CTA-2045 port serves a separate purpose: communication with compatible utility demand-response equipment. Participation requires an appropriate module and a supported utility program. Ask the utility about availability, enrollment and operating conditions. The presence of the port does not establish that a particular rebate or bill reduction applies to your home.
Compare the installation with other 55-gallon options
WHE also lists the ENT-55 100 conventional electric model and the EETU-55 100 grid-capable model. The HETFA adds a connected-control and leak-protection package worth evaluating alongside tank size, electrical requirements and warranty. Tell us which features you expect to use so the estimate reflects your priorities.
A 24-inch tank needs more room than its diameter alone suggests. We check the removal path, plumbing above the heater, electrical connection, control access and room for future service. Photos should show nearby walls, shelving and the full installation area. Mention a large bathtub, consecutive showers or a heater that regularly runs short; those details help us assess whether 55 gallons is appropriate.
Explore the A.O. Smith installation page, our electric water heater guide and the model catalog for other options. A hybrid heat pump is a different equipment category with additional airflow and condensate requirements.
Warranty and ongoing care
The written residential warranty lists eight-year tank and parts coverage for the H warranty code, subject to eligibility and exclusions. Its single-family terms apply to the original owner and original installation; commercial or multiple-dwelling use has reduced coverage. Labor, removal and installation expenses are generally separate. A.O. Smith advertises an available four-year extension; confirm its terms and inclusion rather than assuming twelve-year coverage.
Keep installation records and follow the supplied maintenance instructions for flushing, anode inspection and relief-valve care. Electronic controls and a leak sensor do not eliminate tank maintenance. If an alert appears, record the displayed code and describe what you observed when requesting service.
HETFA-55 100 questions
Is this a heat pump water heater?
No. The HETFA-55 100 heats stored water with electric resistance elements. Its smart controls and utility connection do not make it a hybrid heat pump.
Does it have 55 gallons of rated storage?
Yes. Both the product page and family sheet list 55 gallons nominal and rated storage. The separate first-hour rating is 75 gallons.
Does this model include leak protection?
A.O. Smith lists a leak sensor with an audible alarm and an automatic cold-water shut-off valve. Proper installation and drainage remain necessary.
Does Wi-Fi require a utility program?
Wi-Fi app controls and CTA-2045 utility participation are different functions. A utility program is not needed for the app features; grid participation needs compatible equipment and program support.
Which voltage and height should I use for an estimate?
Include HETFA-55 100 and the linked item number, 100363068. Send your current electrical label and available-space measurements. WHE will confirm the exact supplied configuration because the manufacturer’s published sources differ.
Request a local installation estimate
Water Heating Experts is family owned and master plumber owned, serving Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter and nearby communities. Text photos to 561-602-9062 or request a free installation estimate. We review equipment availability, access, piping, drainage and electrical requirements to prepare the proposed scope.
Manufacturer references: HETFA-55 100 product listing, ARESS00123 specification sheet, installation and use-and-care manual and the warranty linked above. Confirm the supplied unit’s nameplate and instructions before installation.