Change Water Heater Element

Shut off electricity to the water heater.

Change water heater element. How to replace a water heater element with full tank of water. Flush the heater to remove sediment from the tank. A stuck element will not turn with a standard wrench or vise grips. It is possible to change your water heater s heating element without draining your tank.

This is great and saves a ton of time. Water heater element wrench. If you d like to give it a try the video below will show you how. Insulate the hot water pipes.

In most cases you will need to use a water heater element removal wrench. Some repair kits come with a socket that fits the heating element. Careful there may be two separate breakers to the water. A water heater element wrench also called an element tool is a specially designed socket that fits over the hex end of the element and has a hole in the other end that will accept the shaft of a screwdriver insert the element tool over the element and turn it counter clockwise.

The most common type is a screw in. This is usually caused by a faulty thermostat or a defective heating element. Elements that have been in place for a long time may be difficult to turn. Excessive heat sediment and rust sometimes adhere the element threads together.

Watch the video. Replacing a hot water heater element is usually a straightforward task. Although keep in mind that it can be a bit more challenging. You ll need a six point socket set with a 1 2 inch drive socket wrench.

I have viewed some videos on the internet about changing a hot water heater element without draining the tank first. Get quotes from qualified local contractors. Check the following when your water is not hot enough. Emergency plumbing 24 7 service.

Replace the heating element or thermostat. I am showing how to replace a water heater element while at the same time not draining the tan. Remove the gasket that seals the heating element to the water heater tank.