What does “recovery” mean for my water heater?

Recovery is the amount of gallons a water heater can typically heat in an hour. So it is measured in gallons per hour (GPH). Recovery is a direct result of energy input and temperature rise. It varies among models depending on the tank capacity, heat source, and the size of the burner or element. Plumbing pros can use that among other factors to help determine the right water heater for a specific homeowner’s needs.