U.S. Craftmaster GCF-50 1**

It holds 48 gallons in the test, 2 gallons less than its 50-gallon sold size. Starting full, it gives 84 gallons of hot water in its first hour of use. That is 36 gallons more than its tank holds, since it reheats during the hour. Among 763 gas storage models, 209 have a higher first-hour rating. Among gas storage models, the median first-hour rating is 78 gallons.

On Oct 26, 2026, this heater was not listed as ENERGY STAR certified. In tests, 69% of the energy went to hot water, so its UEF is 0.69. Its test ran at the high level of daily hot water use. Of 434 gas storage models with the same draw pattern, 151 have a higher UEF and 249 a lower one. For its type and draw pattern, the median UEF is 0.66. The water took in 80% of the energy used to reheat it (its recovery efficiency).

There are 6 more basic models with the same test figures. They are listed under 6 other brands, one each. For the full group, see the A. O. Smith GCF-50 1** page.

It may qualify for 2 rebate programs in 2 states.