Richmond 5v40-7 Water Heater Specs May 2026
Richmond 5V40-7 (and its propane variant, the ) is a 40-gallon gas water heater widely recognized for its high recovery rates and efficiency in residential or manufactured housing environments. Manufactured by
, it serves as a reliable, budget-friendly option for small-to-medium households. Core Specifications 40 Gallons BTU Rating Typically 30,000 to 36,000 BTU Recovery Rate Approx. 36.4 gallons per hour at a 90° rise 5-year or 6-year limited tank and parts warranty Max Pressure Dimensions
Approx. 63.5 cm width x 154.9 cm height (varies by "Tall" or "Short" model) Key Highlights & Performance Fast Recovery: According to technical data from the Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association , propane models like the
can recover up to 2.5 times faster than standard electric units, ensuring you rarely run out of hot water during back-to-back use Corrosion Protection:
The unit features a porcelain-lined or glass-lined steel tank designed to extend the life of the unit by resisting sediment and hard water buildup. Ease of Installation: Many users and experts from JustAnswer richmond 5v40-7 water heater specs
note that the tall profile and standard 3/4" NPT water connections make it a straightforward replacement for older units in tight spaces. Quiet Operation:
It utilizes a precision-aligned steel burner that reduces noise when the heating cycle kicks in. User Pros & Cons
Often praised as a cost-effective solution for mobile homes and residential properties. High Thermal Efficiency:
Newer iterations focus on "Low NOx" emissions to meet environmental standards while keeping operating costs low. Pilot Issues: Richmond 5V40-7 (and its propane variant, the )
Some users have reported that the pilot light can be finicky or go out due to thermocouple or ventilation issues. Parts Longevity: While the tank is durable, some reviewers at Home Depot
have noted that plastic components like the drain valve or igniter may require earlier-than-expected replacement.
Here’s an interesting and useful guide to the Richmond 5V40-7 water heater, focusing on its specs, what makes it unique, and how to interpret the model number.
Performance & Recovery Rate
The 5V40-7 is considered a standard efficiency unit. It does not feature the high-efficiency condensing technology found in more expensive models. Recovery Rate (90°F rise): 41
- Recovery Rate (90°F rise): 41.2 Gallons Per Hour (GPH)
- What this means: If you run the tank dry, it will take roughly one hour to reheat the entire tank.
- First Hour Rating (FHR): 67 Gallons
- What this means: You can take two back-to-back showers (assuming standard 2.5 GPM showerheads) before the water turns cold.
1. Tank Construction & Durability
The tank is constructed from heavy-gauge steel and coated with porcelain-like glass lining. This glass lining protects the steel from direct contact with water, preventing rust. However, because glass can develop microscopic cracks over time, the unit includes a sacrificial magnesium anode rod. The anode rod corrodes in place of the tank, and periodic inspection/replacement is critical for longevity.
Key detail: The 5V40-7 uses a single anode rod integrated into the hot water outlet nipple.
2. BTU-to-Gallon Ratio
40,000 BTUs on a 40-gallon tank gives a solid recovery rate — about 41 GPH at a 90°F rise. That means after a shower, it replenishes hot water relatively quickly (around 20-25 minutes to reheat the whole tank).
Physical Dimensions (Fit is Critical)
Before hauling this into your basement, measure your space. Here are the exact physical specs:
- Height (including draft diverter): Approx. 60 inches (152.4 cm)
- Diameter: 20 inches (50.8 cm)
- Water Connections: 3/4-inch NPT (top connect)
- Gas Connection: 1/2-inch NPT
- Vent Size: 3 inches
- Weight (Empty): Approx. 118 lbs