How to Remove Water Heater Elements

Co-authored by David Balkan

Last Updated: February 22, 2024

Removing water heater elements can be a very difficult task. In most cases you will need to use a Water Heater Element Removal Wrench.

Steps

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Careful there may be two separate breakers to the water heater.
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(see Tips below)
Usually one or two easily accessible screws hold them on.
It may be fiberglass or a piece of cardboard.
(SEE TIPS BELOW)
(SEE TIPS BELOW)

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Will there be air in the hot water line?

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Yes, but if you run the water for a few minutes, it should release all of the air in the lines.

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Can I set it without draining water?

Community Answer

Yes. It is tricky, but possible. First, make sure you have turned the electricity off and that the water in the cylinder is cold. Stop the water from the main water stop cock, open a hot tap, and leave it open to drain any water left on the pipework and in the expansion vessel. Then, disconnect the hot outlet pipe from the cylinder. Through that hole, you can feed an inspection camera connected to your phone so that you can view it and asses its condition visually. After you are done, reconnect the hot outlet pipe, turn off the hot tap, open the main water stopcock, and then open the hot tap again to get out any trapped air. Now, go back to the cylinder and check for any leaks.

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What size is the nut on the end of the element?

Community Answer

The elements come with a nut and a tool to remove them, so you don't need to know exactly. Take your info on the heater with you and you'll get the "gadget" that comes with the element to remove the element and replace!

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Tips

Sometimes tightening the element (turning it clockwise) a small amount could help loosen it for removal.

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You may want to write down what the pattern is from the old element to the new element. You don't want to mix the wires up.

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If the heater element is stuck, there are three ways to proceed. 1. Heat the element with a propane torch and see if that loosens it. 2. Refill the tank partially so the tank doesn't move when trying to twist the element. 3. If all fails, use hammer to remove terminals and plastic end of element > on the newly exposed surface of the element, drill and tap two 1/4" holes into element > keep holes close to center of element so not to damage the element threads > twist two long 1/4" bolts into holes > use a wrench or vice grips to grab the two bolts and twist to remove element. 4. If you are having trouble removing the element, try repeatedly tapping on the element with a small hammer to break the corrosion loose.

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Warnings

The metal jacket on a hot water heater is deceptively sharp.

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The elements usually come with washers, if you replace them - remember to put the washer on the element.

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Be sure you check the seat in the tank where the element gasket is going to seat. Be sure it is clean and free from any rust pits. Otherwise it will leak.

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If you are unsure how to turn the power off or check if the power is off to the heater, consult a professional.

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