What size element do I need for my hot water heater?
How do I determine which type of water heater element I need?
- Examine your existing element.
- You will need to find out the voltage and the wattage.
- Compare and match your results of volts and watts to the volts and watts columns below.
- Choose the volts that match your voltage 120 or 240.
Are electric water heater heating elements Universal?
There are three types: screw in, bolt in and clamp in. They all have different wattage ratings and can work on either 120 or 240 voltage. Check your state and local codes before starting any project.
Are there different size water heater elements?
Electric water heater elements can be different in size, but the most common is 12″ (300 mm).
Is it worth replacing water heater element?
If the storage tank heater has reached the eight-year or older mark, it’s worth looking at a replacement. New tank heaters are more energy-efficient, while an older storage tank is at risk of leaking.
Does the shape of a water heater element matter?
No, not as long as you have the proper voltage, watts and style. Shorter elements have a larger diameter therefore the same surface area. I can here the element sizzling in my water heater when it is heating.
Can you replace a 5500 watt element with a 4500 watt element?
Can I replace 4500 watt elements with 5500 watt? You can definitely replace 4500 watt with 5500 watt and get 4-7 gallons more hot water from a tank.
Are water heater elements brand specific?
A flange type is not as common in newer water heaters. If you can’t find one, look for an adapter kit. With this kit you can replace the old flange style with a newer screw type. In most cases you do not have to buy brand specific elements.
How long do water heater elements last?
Age of the Hot Water Heater. A typical gas-powered or electric-powered hot water heater will last 8 to 12 years before needing to be replaced. Tankless and solar hot water heaters can last up to 20 if properly maintained.
What size socket do I need to remove a water heater element?
Nearly all hot water heater element wrenches have a 1-1/2 inch hex to fit the standard 1-1/2 inch residential heating element head. In addition, they’re generally at least 5-inches long with cross holes drilled into the opposite end of the pipe so a screwdriver can be inserted for added torque.
How do I know if my water heater element is burnt out?
Symptoms of a bad heater element include:
- Lukewarm water.
- Small amount of hot water.
- No hot water.
- Hot water runs out faster than usual.
- Water heater’s circuit breaker constantly trips.
How much does a hot water heater element cost?
A water heater element can cost between $10 and $60 and can be found at most home improvement stores. If you’re comfortable with light electrical work, replacing a water heating element is a DIY task.
What type of water heater element is best?
Our Top Water Heater Elements For Hard Water
- Dernord 240V – 6500W Ultra Low Density Water Heater Element (Our Top Pick)
- IKKY HEAT 240V – 9000W Ultra Low Density Water Heater Element (Best High-End)
- Dernord 208V – 5500W Low Watt Density Water Heater Element (Best Budget)