Are you wondering how to change heating element in water heater? Follow the steps to turn the power off, attach the drain valve to a hose, turn the water off again, eliminate the panel cover and the heating element, install a new heating component, and refill a tank.
Just remember that the water heating element is to be replaced, but sometimes, only because it is not working does not mean purchasing a new one is essential.
The reserve can become difficult that homeowners would repair by themselves. Moreover, a water heater that slowly heats and runs out of hot water might be due to a dysfunctional heating element. Let’s begin to read this article!
Steps To Change The Heating Element In Water Heater
Below are the steps to consider when changing the heating element in a water heater.
Step #1. Checking the heating element
See if the problem is in the element before changing the heating element. At times, you discover the problem is not precisely the heating element. So, see if the circuit breaker has accidentally turned off or tripped. See if the reset button in a temperature cutoff if a breaker is okay. The water heater reset button is right above a thermostat in the upper access panel, often in the red button. After the switch is reset but the device trips again, it’s when the issue is the heating element.
Step #2. Preparing it by hanging the water heater heating element
Heating an element is completely immersed inside the water tank. So, note that the heating element is only helpful on an electric water heater. The gas water heater heats the water with a different method. Two available styles in the heating of components include bolt-in and screw-in.
Step #3. Buying a new heating element
Purchase one with the same wattage, voltage, and style as the element you want to replace. The new element’s voltage must complement an old feature but opt for lower wattage, extending the element’s life. The element emits less heat, so never buy more wattage than the previous piece. The wattage and voltage are stamped onto an element or found on the nameplate of a water heater. So, it’s better to conduct a simple search online if you cannot search it and use the model number in a water heater. If things still fail, or you find yourself comfortable, get the element removed and bring it to the nearest local hardware store.
Step #4. Replacing the heating element
It is easy replacing the heating element in a water heater, so bear in mind that you will work with water and electricity. These two things do not safely mix. But if you are not comfortable with it, it’s better to call a professional plumber. Safety must always be your priority.
Step #5. Turning the power off
Please go through the circuit breaker and turn it off in the electrical panel. Utilize voltage test when checking if the power does not reach the device. Be ready since you will work with water and electricity likewise essential to turn off the water heater.
Step #6. Attaching the drain valve to a hose
Avoid draining the tank but ensure not to clog the drain valve when doing this. But with a clogged tank, address the problem first and don’t drain the tank. You may also be interested to know about the water heater leaking from drain valve.
Step #7. Turning off the water
Turn the water supply off in a water heater as you close the inlet valve in the cold water. Next is to release the pressure in hot water with air allowed inside the tank. Perform this as you open a faucet nearby, so spread the tap for hot water and not the cold and leave a tap open.
Step #8. Removing the cover in an access panel
Remove the access panel cover with a screwdriver that the upper panel is next to an upper element in a water heater. The lower panel usually houses a lower part, with insulation between the thermostat and panel door. Next is to place the insulation in a dry place. Cover the thermostat with plastic material and take the cover away. Moreover, check the heater’ wires using a voltmeter so no power should be there. Get the wiring inspected to be sure no cables are further damaged. See if melted parts are there and damaged wires with sediment and an element to overheat.
Step #9. Removing the water heater’s heating element
When removing the components, utilize a wrench while its tank has enough water; loosen its feature following a counter-clockwise motion. Next is to drain its tank as you open the drain valve after the heating element loosens up. Get the aspect removed that an “O” ring or rubber gasket seals the tank, so remove it alongside the part.
Step #10. Installing the heating element to replace
Wipe the threads down, including the gasket section of a new element, ensuring they’re free from debris and dirt. Get the “O” ring attached to a new part and never use the previous “O” ring again. Push the component inside the tank and use the element wrench to tighten it. Attach the two wires in the part while you secure them properly with screws. Recheck the cables to be secure and not slip, which now completes how to change heating element in water heater.
Step #11. Refilling the tank
Close the drain valve in a water heater and turn on the water heater. Fill the tank first with water before turning the power on, or it might further damage the heating sections. Check the element installed for possible leakage. Turn the cold water supply off if you see any further leakage, and tighten its feature. Get the aspect removed as the “O” ring is repositioned. Next is replacing the access panel and insulation cover, including the plastic thermostat cover. Fill the tank with water and turn the power ON in a water heater as you flip the circuit breaker ON.
It’s A Wrap!
Now you learn how to change heating element in water heater with the steps mentioned. It takes up eleven steps to ultimately carry out the task at hand. But the good thing is that you finally have replaced the heating element with no worries anymore! You may also want to read about how long does water heater last and how to clean water heater.