How to Replace the Thermostat on a Gas Hot Water Heater

With the rising costs that service companies charge these days, We all need to find ways to cut our on costs. Besides sometimes people like to have a hands on approach to repairing things in their home

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• new thermostat
• pipe wrench
• adjustable wrench
• gas leak detector

1. 
   gas shut off

   First things first, Safety is always the most important. Find the gas shut off leading to the appliance. This valve will usually be located right next to the water heater just above the thermostat. Right below this valve is a union.

2. 
   black iron union

   After you have the gas off, You will now loosen the union to remove the pipe that attaches to the thermostat. use 2 pipe wrenches to complete this task

3. After you remove the union, remove the pipes and the aluminum fittings that lead to the main burner. Be careful these are soft metal and can get marred up if you don't use the right wrench. Drain all water from the tank

4. 
   gas thermostat

   Remove the thermostat by putting the pipe wrench on the nut. After you have removed the old thermostat, coat the new one with pipe dope and install it into the heater.

5. Install all the pipes and fittings you removed. Fill the tank up with water, Turn the gas valve on, Test for gas leaks using gas leak detector or a soapy solution. Now light the water heater using the instructions provided on the name plate of the water heater