7 components coveredField manual · Water Heater
Rheem Performance / Performance Platinum electric tank (XE-series): quick sheet
Covers: Rheem Performance Platinum electric tanks sold at big-box stores with model numbers starting XE (e.g. XE50T12ST45U1 with 4500/4500 W elements, XE50T12EC55U1 with 5500/5500 W elements and LCD touch control, XE50T12CS45U0 / CS55U1 'Gladiator' trim with LeakGuard and built-in EcoNet). The '12' in the model is the 12-year warranty tier. Exact production years not confirmed; date the unit from its rating plate.
Rheem's best-selling residential electric tank line. The plain Performance Platinum uses the classic two-element, two-thermostat layout; the EC (LCD touch control) and CS (Gladiator) trims replace the surface thermostats with an electronic control, add leak detection and Wi-Fi options. Identify the trim from the last letters of the model number before ordering controls.
Safety first
- 240 V circuit: lock out the breaker and verify 0 V before touching wiring or elements.
- Never energize an element without water in the tank (dry-fire destroys it).
- Scald risk: hot water and discharge from the T&P valve.
How it works
Two screw-in stainless elements heat the water one at a time (non-simultaneous). On mechanical-thermostat trims the upper thermostat gets priority, then hands power to the lower thermostat; on electronic trims the control board decides which element runs.
The EC trim has an LCD touch control and Rheem's PlusOne water management with leak detection and an audible alarm. Wi-Fi on that trim needs a separately sold EcoNet module (Home Depot lists REWRA631EWH).
The Gladiator trim adds a LeakGuard automatic shut-off valve on the cold inlet that Rheem says limits a tank leak to about 20 oz, plus built-in EcoNet Wi-Fi.
Rated recovery is about 21-25 gal/hr at a 90 °F rise and first-hour delivery about 54-68 gal depending on size and element wattage (Rheem product data).
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OnCall Tech is a reference tool for trained technicians and can make mistakes. Always disconnect power and confirm with the manufacturer's documentation before you work. © 2026 OnCall Tech. Original content; not a reproduction of any manufacturer document.Generic part photos (not of this brand): Large stainless refrigerator set flush between kitchen cabinets by Alex Qian, Pexels License
