What does the Defender Safety System actually do?

It's Bradford White's built-in feature designed to reduce the risk of the water heater igniting flammable vapors that might be present near the unit — a safety consideration specific to how atmospheric gas water heaters are installed. It doesn't change the tank's capacity or efficiency; it's a safety-focused design element.

What size RG2 do I need?

The line runs from 30 to 50 gallons. The 50-gallon model shown here has an 81-gallon first-hour rating, generally enough for a household of 3 to 5. We'll size it to your household's actual hot water use — number of bathrooms, appliances, and typical simultaneous demand — rather than defaulting to whatever size is being replaced.

How is 'first-hour rating' different from tank capacity?

Tank capacity is how much water the tank holds; first-hour rating is how much hot water the unit can deliver in the first hour of heavy use, accounting for both the stored water and the burner's recovery rate. The RG2's 50-gallon tank has an 81-gallon first-hour rating because the burner recovers hot water while you're using it.

What warranty comes with the RG2?

Bradford White backs the tank and parts with a 6-year limited warranty as standard, with a 10-year warranty available depending on the specific model.

Does a gas tank water heater like this qualify for a rebate?

No. Ontario's current electrification rebate programs are built around heat pump water heaters like the GE GeoSpring, not standard gas tank models. If a rebate is a priority, ask us whether a hybrid heat-pump water heater fits your home.

Bradford White · Water Heater

Bradford White RG2 (Atmospheric)

Name: Bradford White RG2 (Atmospheric)
Brand: Bradford White

The Bradford White RG2 is an atmospheric-vent gas water heater built around Bradford White's Defender Safety System and Vitraglas tank lining — a contractor-favourite for its durability in everyday installations. The 50-gallon model shown here delivers an 81-gallon first-hour rating, and it's available from 30 to 50 gallons depending on household size. Imperial Heating installs the RG2 across York Region, Durham and the GTA.

50Gallons

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Bradford White atmospheric-vent gas water heater

Why Homeowners Choose the Bradford White RG2 (Atmospheric)

The Defender Safety System is designed to reduce the risk of flammable-vapor ignition around the water heater

Vitraglas tank lining with Microban antimicrobial protection is built to resist corrosion and bacterial growth over the tank's life

81-gallon first-hour rating on the 50-gallon model — enough for back-to-back showers in most households

Backed by a 6-year tank and parts warranty, with a 10-year warranty available

A Good Fit If

Households replacing a leaking or failing gas tank water heater who want a well-proven, contractor-favourite unit

Homes with 3–5 people that need the 50-gallon tank's 81-gallon first-hour capacity

Anyone concerned about flammable-vapor ignition safety — the Defender Safety System is built specifically to address that

Homeowners who prefer a standard atmospheric-vent tank over a tankless or hybrid system

Manufacturer Specifications

Model: RG250T6N
Type: Natural gas, atmospheric vent
Capacity: 50 gal (189 L) · 30–50 gal available
Input: 40,000 BTU/h (Low-NOx)
First-hour rating: 81 gal (307 L)
Recovery: 43 gal/hr @ 90°F rise
Efficiency: 0.63 UEF
Key tech: Defender Safety System®, ICON®, Vitraglas®+Microban®, Hydrojet®
Warranty: 6-year tank & parts (10-year available)

Get a free quote on the Bradford White RG2 (Atmospheric)(647) 852-2359

Specifications published by Bradford White. View manufacturer spec sheet