Banish rust from your water heater element: a step-by-step removal guide
What To Know
- To do this, attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater and open the valve.
- Use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the wires in place, and then pull the wires off of the terminals.
- Use a wrench to loosen the nut that holds the element in place, and then pull the element out of the tank.
If your water heater isn‘t providing you with the hot water you need, the culprit could be a rusted heating element. Rust can build up over time, reducing the element’s efficiency and eventually leading to its failure. Replacing a rusted water heater element is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get the job done:
1. Safety First
Before you begin working on your water heater, it’s important to take some safety precautions. Turn off the water supply to the water heater and disconnect the power supply. Allow the water heater to cool down completely before starting any work.
2. Drain the Water Heater
Once the water heater has cooled down, you need to drain the water from it. To do this, attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater and open the valve. Allow the water to drain into a bucket or drain pan.
3. Remove the Access Panel
Most water heaters have an access panel on the front or side of the unit. Remove the screws that hold the panel in place and lift the panel off.
4. Locate the Heating Element
Once the access panel is removed, you will see the heating element. It is usually located at the bottom of the water heater tank.
5. Disconnect the Wires
Before you can remove the heating element, you need to disconnect the wires that are connected to it. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the wires in place, and then pull the wires off of the terminals.
6. Remove the Heating Element
Once the wires are disconnected, you can remove the heating element. Use a wrench to loosen the nut that holds the element in place, and then pull the element out of the tank.
7. Clean the Tank
Before you install the new heating element, it’s a good idea to clean the tank. Use a brush or a vacuum cleaner to remove any sediment or debris that may have accumulated in the tank.
8. Install the New Heating Element
Insert the new heating element into the tank and tighten the nut that holds it in place. Connect the wires to the terminals and tighten the nuts.
9. Refill the Water Heater
Once the new heating element is installed, you can refill the water heater. Turn on the water supply and allow the tank to fill up.
10. Turn on the Power
Once the water heater is full, you can turn on the power. The water heater will start to heat up the water.
Troubleshooting
If you are having trouble removing a rusted water heater element, there are a few things you can try:
- Use a penetrating oil. If the nut that holds the heating element in place is rusted, you can try using a penetrating oil to loosen it. Apply the oil to the nut and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to loosen it.
- Use a cheater bar. If you are having trouble loosening the nut with a wrench, you can try using a cheater bar. A cheater bar is a long metal bar that you can attach to the wrench to give you more leverage.
- Call a plumber. If you are unable to remove the rusted water heater element yourself, you can call a plumber for help.
Conclusion
Replacing a rusted water heater element is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following the steps in this guide, you can save yourself the cost of hiring a plumber.
FAQ
Q: How often should I replace my water heater element?
A: The frequency with which you should replace your water heater element depends on the quality of your water. If you have hard water, you may need to replace the element more often. However, most water heater elements last for 5-10 years.
Q: What are the signs of a bad water heater element?
A: There are a few signs that may indicate that your water heater element is bad. These include:
- Reduced hot water output
- Water that is not hot enough
- A burning smell coming from the water heater
- Leaking water
Q: Can I replace a water heater element myself?
A: Yes, replacing a water heater element is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. However, if you are not comfortable working on electrical appliances, it is best to call a plumber for help.