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Sometimes a water heater element needs to be replaced. Just because the heating element is no longer working, doesn't mean that you need to purchase a new water heater. The task of replacing a water heater element may seem difficult, but most homeowners can make this repair themselves. If your water heater is slow to heat, runs out of hot water, or doesn't deliver hot water at all, there's a good chance that one or both of your heating elements are not working properly. In this article, we'll show you how to determine if your element needs to be replaced, and how to do the repairs yourself. Replacing a Hot Water Heater ElementIf your water heater is 6 years or older, you may want to consider purchasing a new one. Water heaters typically have a life span of 6 to 10 years, so if your heater is older, you can expect that it'll be experiencing problems sooner than later. Not only will you save money on repair costs, but since new water heaters are more energy efficient, you'll also reduce your monthly energy expenses. Checking Your Water Heater Heating ElementBefore jumping in and changing your water heater heating element, you should check to see if the element is, in fact, the issue. It's not uncommon to change the element, only to find out that the problem wasn't the heating element at all. To do this, first check to see if the circuit breaker has tripped or been accidentally turned off. If the breaker is fine, you'll next need to check the reset button on the temperature cutoff. The reset button on a water heater is located above the thermostat inside the upper acccess panel. It's typically a red button. Once you reset the button and the water heater trips again, the problem is most likely your heating element. If you own a multimeter you can check the element for continuity. It's very simple to do and the best way to know if your water heater's heating element should be replaced. This short video takes you step-by-step through the process. Watch the Video
Preparing to Change Your Water Heater's Heating ElementHeating elements are also called immersion heaters, because they are fully immersed within the water of the tank. It's important to note, that heating elements are only used on electric water heaters. Gas water heaters heat the water using an entirely different method. Heating Element StyleThere are 2 different styles of heating elements: Screw-in: This is the type we will be covering because they are the most common heating elements. They typically are used on all newer water heaters, and the element is screwed into place. Bolt-in: There are several different styles of bolt-in elements, if you have an older water heater it's possible that this type is installed. The element is secured into place by 4 bolts. Universal adapter kit are available if you want to adapt a screw-in element into a bolt-in element. Heating Element LocationElectric water heaters have 2 heating elements. There's an upper element, which is located behind the upper access panel, and a lower element. The lower element is typically the one that needs to be replaced. As the sediment within your tank accumulates, it will settle at the bottom where your lower element is located. The sediment surrounds the element and causes it to lose it's effectiveness. Eventually, it will either break or completely short out. Find a Local Plumber Fix Your Plumbing Emergency Today! Purchasing New Heating ElementsWhen selecting new heating elements, it's recommended to purchase ones with the same voltage, wattage, and style (screw-in or bolt-in) as the element you are replacing. The voltage of the new element should always match the old element. However, you could use lower wattage to extend the life of the element. Keep in mind, the element will also generate less heat. Never purchase more wattage than your previous element. The voltage and wattage is usually stamped onto the element, or it can be found on the water heater's nameplate. If you can't find it, you can always do a simple online search using your water heater's model number (found on the name plate). If all else fails, or you feel more comfortable, you can remove the element and take it to your local hardware store. Types of Water Heater ElementsThere are 3 types of water heater elements. If your water heater is nearing the end of it's service life, you may want to install the least expensive, high watt density element. However, if your heater is newer and you live in an area with hard water, you should consider the other more expensive options. Let's take a closer look at each: High Watt Density Heating ElementHigh Watt Density Elements are the most common water heater elements and can be used in all replacement scenarios, assuming the wattage and voltage match. In most cases, a high watt density element will be the same type that came with your original water heater. High watt density elements are prone to corrosive build-up and have a shorter life span. You can expect these elements to be the least expensive of the three types.
LASCO High Watt Density Element The LASCO 40-1015 High Watt Density 1500-Watt, 120-Volt Electric Water Heater Element has a screw-in base with 1-1/4 inch thread. Low Watt Density Heating ElementLow watt density elements are well suited for areas with hard water. Many are made with a fold-back design to allow for more heating space. Even though these are a lower watt density, there isn't a loss in efficiency. This helps them reduce the lime scale build-up that's common in areas with hard water. Provided you have the same wattage and voltage, you can use a low watt density element to replace a high watt density element. In most cases, these elements will be more expensive than the high watt density elements discussed above.
DERNORD Low Watt Density Element The DERNORD Foldback is a low watt density heating element. It is available in 4500-watts and 5500-watts. Lime Life ElementThese premium elements carry a limited 5-year warranty. Lime life elements are ultra low watt density and have a high quality nickel and stainless steel surface that discourages the build-up of lime scale. These elements are an excellent choice if you live in an area where you experience intermittent water supply levels, as they resist dry firing. Lime life elements are usually the most expensive element, however, once installed, they often will out live the life of the water heater itself.
DERNORD Ultra Low Watt Density Element The DERNORD Ripple is an ultra low watt density heating element. It is available in 4500-watts, 5500-watts, and 6500-watts, and resists limescale deposits. Necessary SuppliesIn order to change an element you'll need the following:
Replacing a Heating ElementReplacing a water heater heating element is a relatively simple task. However, keep in mind that you will be working with both electricity and water - two things that do not safely mix. If you do not feel comfortable, you should contact a qualified plumber. Your priority should always be safety. How to Replace a Heating ElementStep 1: Turn OFF the Power
Step 2: Attach a Hose to the Drain Valve
Step 3: Turn OFF the Water
Step 4: Remove the Access Panel Cover
Step 5: Remove the Heating Element
Step 6: Install the New Heating Element
Step 7: Refill the Tank
Watch the Video
How to Replace a Heating Element Without Draining the TankIt is possible to change your water heater's heating element without draining your tank. Although, keep in mind that it can be a bit more challenging. If you'd like to give it a try, the video below will show you how. Watch the Video
Emergency Plumbing - 24/7 Service Repair - Install - Replace CALL NOW!Get Quotes from Qualified Local Contractors Related Posts Is it worth replacing water heater element?If your water heater is still fairly new (less than six years old) and the tank itself is in good condition, then replacing the heating element is usually the best choice. This is a much smaller job than replacing the tank outright, which makes it far more economical.
Are heating elements Universal for water heater?There are three types: screw in, bolt in and clamp in. They all have different wattage ratings and can work on either 120 or 240 voltage. Check your state and local codes before starting any project.
How do I test my Bradford White heating element?Remove the cover panel(s) from the front of the heater and then disconnect the wires from the heating element terminals. Using a continuity tester, available from electrical supply houses, place one test probe on each of the element terminals. If there is no continuity, the element is defective and must be replaced.
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