How to Replace the Heating Element of an Electric Hot Water Heater
Over time, the heat element of your electric hot water heater can wear out, or it may become coated with a build-up of calcium and other minerals that are present in your water. When this occurs, your hot water heater will no longer be able to provide sufficient temperatures to heat your water. Using a few basic tools, you can replace the elements of your hot water heater easily, and save yourself the time and hassle of dealing with a plumber. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Turn the breaker that provides electricity to the water heater off. Use the electrical current tester to ensure that no power is being provided to the water heater by attaching its receptors to the electrical wiring that is connected to the water heater.
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2
Turn off the cold water valve that is running into the water heater. If your water heater doesn't have a separate cold water shut-off valve, you will need to close the valve on your main water line.
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3
Break the vacuum in the water tank by opening the pressure release valve located at the top of the water heater.
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4
Connect a hose to the valve located at the bottom of the water heater. Turn the valve on to drain the tank.
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5
Remove the access panels that are located on both the top and bottom of the water heater. This is where the heating elements are located.
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6
Remove both the ground and electrical wires that are connected to the water heating elements. Remove the screws holding the elements in place, using the Phillips screwdriver. Pull the elements out of the water heater.
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7
Insert the replacement elements into the water heater. Connect the ground and electrical wires before securing the elements with the mounting screws.
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8
Close the valve used to drain the tank. Disconnect the hose.
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9
Turn the water supply to your hot water heater on. Let the tank fill completely.
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10
Turn the power to the water heater back on after the tank is full. Allow at least two hours before testing the temperature of your water.
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Tips & Warnings
Take the old elements with you to the home repair store to buy replacements. This will help ensure that you are getting the correct element.
Use a standard garden hose to drain your hot water heater. No special hose is required.
Do not turn the power to the water heater on when the tank is empty. This will cause the elements to overheat and burn out, leaving them unusable.
Do not force the new heating element into the water heater. The correct replacement element should insert easily.
