Heating Element
Replacement
WARNING
Electrical Shock Hazard
Disconnect power before servicing.
Replace all parts and panels before operating.
Failure to do so can result in death or electrical shock.
Replacement heating elements must be of the same style and voltage/wattage rating as the ones presently in the water heater. This information can be found on the flange or terminal block of the element or on the water heater data plate.
1.Shut off the electric power to the water heater.
2.Drain the water heater as directed under "Draining and Flushing".
3.Remove the access door(s), insulation and element cover(s).
4.Disconnect the electric wires from the heating element (Figure 9). Remove the
Figure 9
Element Wiring
Connection
| Wires |
Ground |
|
Wire (green) | Element |
|
Screws
5.Clean the area where the gasket fits to the tank. If you are replacing the bottom element, remove the accumulated sediment on the bottom of the tank.
Refer to “Draining and Flushing.”
6.Make sure the replacement element has the correct voltage and wattage rating. Position the new gasket on the element and insert it into the water heater tank (Figure 10). Tighten the element by turning it clockwise until secure.
Figure 10 | Temperature Sensor |
Element and Temperature |
|
Sensor |
|
| Sensor |
| Bracket |
| |
Element | Spud |
|
Gasket
7.Close the drain valve. Open the nearest hot water faucet and allow the tank to fill completely with water. To purge the lines of any excess air and sediment, keep the hot water faucet open for 3 minutes after a constant flow of water is obtained.
8.Check for leaks around the element(s).
9.Connect the electric wires to the heater element. Make sure all wires are secure.
10.Replace the insulation and access door(s).
Important: Operation of this water heater without access doors or insulation could result in much higher temperatures than the desired set point, increasing the risk of scald injury. Do not operate water heater with the access doors or insulation removed.
11.Make certain the tank is filled with water.
12.Restore the electric power supply to the water heater.
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