How to Replace Water Heater Element: A Complete DIY Guide

Knowing how to replace water heater element parts can save money and restore consistent hot water to your home. Water heater elements are essential for heating water in electric heaters, but they can wear out over time, leading to lukewarm water or quick hot water loss. In this guide, we'll cover each replacement process step, from identifying signs of a faulty element to safely installing a new one. Whether looking for DIY instructions or deciding if it's time to call a professional, this guide will provide the answers you need.

When the water in your home isn't getting as hot as it used to, or you notice other issues with your hot water supply, it's a good idea to check if your water heater element needs replacing. If the issue persists, you might consider selecting a new water heater to meet your needs better. Here are some common signs that the element might be failing:

• Lukewarm or Cold Water: If your water isn't heating as much as before, it could mean one or both heating elements aren't working.
• Hot Water Runs Out Quickly: A broken element may cause the water heater to use only one element instead of two, reducing the amount of hot water available.
• Frequent Tripping of Circuit Breaker: This can happen if the element draws too much electricity due to a fault.
• Visible Rust or Corrosion Around the Element: Corrosion around the element may lead to leaks and inefficiency, indicating a need for replacement.

Safety is the top priority when working with water heaters, as you'll be dealing with electrical components and possibly hot water. Here's what you need to do before starting the replacement process:

Water heaters use high-voltage electricity. Turn off the circuit breaker connected to your water heater to avoid electrical shocks. Use a non-contact circuit tester to ensure the power is completely off before touching anything.

To replace the water heater element, have the following tools ready:

• A multimeter or non-contact circuit tester (for checking power)
• Water heater element wrench
• Garden hose (for draining the tank if needed)
• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Rags or towels (to clean up any water)

Some water heaters require draining before replacing the element. Attach a garden hose to the tank's drain valve, and run the other end outside or to a floor drain. Open the drain valve to release the water and ensure no additional water enters the tank.

Before replacing the water heater element, it's essential to check if it's truly the source of the problem. Testing the element will confirm if it's faulty and needs replacement. Here's a simple way to test the element:

• Turn Off the Power: Confirm that the power to the water heater is completely off by switching off the circuit breaker and using a non-contact circuit tester to verify no electricity is flowing to the heater.
• Remove the Access Panel: Most water heaters have access panels that cover the heating elements. Use a screwdriver to remove the panel and fold back any insulation inside to reveal the element's terminal screws.
• Use a Multimeter to Test the Element: Set a multimeter to the “OHMs” (continuity) setting, then place one lead on each terminal screw of the element.

If your water heater element does need replacement, you may need to drain the tank partially or completely, depending on which element is affected. Here's how to drain the water heater safely:

Locate the cold water intake valve, usually at the top of the water heater, and turn it off. This prevents more water from entering the tank as you drain it.

Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank, placing the other end in a safe drainage area, like a floor drain or outside.

Open a nearby hot water faucet to release pressure in the tank and allow air to enter. This helps the water drain faster and more smoothly.

Turn the drain valve on to allow water to flow through the hose. To replace the upper element, you may only need to drain part of the tank, but for the lower element, drain it fully.

Once the tank is sufficiently drained, close the drain valve and remove the hose. You're now ready to remove the old heating element.

With the tank drained, removing the faulty water heater element is time. This step requires careful handling to avoid damaging the heater or causing leaks.

• Loosen the Element with a Wrench: Use a water heater element wrench to loosen the element. Turn it counterclockwise until it's free. Be cautious to avoid damaging the surrounding area or overtightening.
• Remove the Gasket: Carefully remove the gasket around the element's base. The gasket may need replacing to ensure a secure, leak-free seal for the new element.
• Clean the Area Around the Opening: Use a rag or a wire brush to clean any rust, debris, or old gasket material around the opening. This helps ensure the new element seals properly and prevents leaks.

When replacing a water heater element, choosing the correct replacement is crucial. Here are some key points to help you select the right water heater element for your needs:

Check the voltage and wattage ratings of your current element, which you'll find on the side of the water heater or the element itself. Ensure the replacement has the same specifications to avoid issues with compatibility or performance.

Water heater elements come in different types, including screw-in and flange-mounted elements. Most residential water heaters use screw-in elements but verify which type your heater requires before buying.

In dual-element water heaters, it's wise to replace both elements at once if one has failed, as the other may soon follow. Some replacement kits include both elements, along with gaskets and thermostats.

With the right replacement element, you're ready to install it into the water heater. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a proper fit and seal:

• Position the Gasket: Place the new gasket around the element's base to create a secure, leak-free seal. Gaskets typically slide over the metallic shaft of the element and rest between the element and the tank.
• Insert the Element and Tighten: Carefully insert the new element into the opening in the tank. Use a wrench to turn the element clockwise until snug for screw-in types. For flange-mounted types, secure the element with the provided screws, tightening in a crisscross pattern for an even fit.
• Avoid Over-Tightening: Tightening too much can damage the element or make future removal challenging. Aim for a firm but not excessive fit to prevent leaks.

After installing the new water heater element, you must refill the tank and check for potential airlocks. Here's how to do it:

• Close the Drain Valve: Ensure the drain valve at the bottom of the tank is fully closed to prevent leaks.
• Open the Cold Water Supply Valve: Turn on the cold water intake at the top of the tank to begin refilling. Keep a nearby hot water faucet open to release air from the system as the tank fills.
• Watch for a Steady Flow of Water: Allow water to flow from the open hot water faucet. This process will purge any air pockets in the tank, preventing airlocks and ensuring the tank fills smoothly.
• Check for leaks around the new element: Once the tank is filled, inspect the area around the new element to ensure no leaks. If you spot any, tighten the element slightly to improve the seal.

Now that the water heater tank is filled and checked for leaks, it's time to reconnect the wires to the new water heater element. Follow these steps to complete the setup safely:

• Identify the Wires and Terminals: Locate the circuit wires you disconnected earlier. Ensure they're clean and undamaged before reattaching them to the new element.
• Secure the Wires to the Terminals: Wrap each wire around its corresponding screw terminal in a clockwise direction. It doesn't matter which wire goes to which terminal, as long as each is firmly secured. Tighten each screw until the wire is snug and does not move.
• Double-Check All Connections: Give each wire a gentle tug to ensure it's properly attached. This is essential for safety and prevents loose connections that could cause later problems.

After securing the wires, ensure everything is ready before turning on the power. Here's how to complete the process:

• Inspect for Leaks One Last Time: Ensure there's no water leaking around the element or connections. Any leaks should be fixed immediately by slightly tightening the element or gasket.
• Restore Power to the Water Heater: Turn the circuit breaker back on to restore power to the water heater. Be careful not to touch any components inside the panel when power is on.
• Wait for the Water to Heat Up: It can take up to two hours to heat up fully. Check a nearby hot water faucet to confirm that the hot water is flowing properly.

Replacing a water heater element yourself can be cost-effective, but weighing the differences between doing it yourself and hiring a professional is important. Below is a comparison to help you understand the considerations for each option.

Knowing how to replace water heater element parts can save time and money, but only some feel comfortable with DIY repairs. If you’d prefer expert help, Cactus Plumbing And Air offers reliable water heater element replacement services. Their skilled technicians ensure safe and efficient repairs, restoring hot water quickly and professionally.

Water heater elements generally last 6-10 years with regular maintenance. The lifespan may vary depending on water quality and usage.

You may not need to drain the entire tank for the upper element, but full drainage is often recommended to prevent water leakage and ensure a smooth replacement process.

Turning on the power before the element is fully submerged can cause it to burn out. Always ensure the tank is full before restoring power.

No, they can fail independently, but the other might soon follow if one fails. Replacing both can save time and effort in dual-element heaters.

Use a multimeter to test each element. A reading of zero or infinity indicates a faulty element that should be replaced.

If you’re unsure about replacing your water heater element or need a professional’s touch, Cactus Plumbing And Air can help. Call (480) 418-9912 to connect with skilled technicians who ensure safe, effective water heater repairs, so you can enjoy reliable hot water again without worry.