Quck answer
When dealing with a hot water heater, it is common to encounter stuck heating elements. To remove them, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the power: Before starting any work, make sure to turn off the power to the hot water heater. This will prevent any accidents or injuries.
2. Drain the tank: Next, drain the tank to reduce the risk of scalding. Attach a hose to the drain valve and let the water flow into a safe location.
3. Disconnect the wires: Once the tank is drained, disconnect the wires connected to the heating elements. Take note of their positions for reinstallation.
4. Loosen the element: Use a heating element wrench or a large pair of pliers to loosen the stuck element by turning it counterclockwise. Apply steady pressure until it starts to turn.
5. Remove the element: Once the element is loosened, continue turning it counterclockwise until it can be completely removed from the tank.
Remember to exercise caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when working on a hot water heater. If you are unsure or uncomfortable performing these steps, it is best to contact a professional plumber.
Swapping out a hot water heater element is typically a simple task. The most common type is a screw-in. Sometimes, excessive heat, sediment, and rust cause the element threads to stick together. A stuck element cannot be turned with a regular wrench or vise grips. You will need a socket set with a 1/2-inch drive socket wrench. The large socket wrench provides more leverage, and the socket securely fits over the heating element. In some cases, a breaker bar may also be necessary. Breaker bars are hollow steel pipes that fit over the handle of the socket wrench. They provide the extra leverage needed to remove stubborn bolts and stuck heating elements.
Step 1
Move the heating element wires out of the way. Use a rag to cover the thermostat located below the heating element.
Step 2
Create a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water in a small cup. Dip a toothbrush into the solution and brush it along the seam between the heating element and the side of the heating tank. Apply the solution generously, but prevent it from dripping heavily. Allow the solution to sit for 20 minutes.
Step 3
Position the socket over the heating element and try turning it counterclockwise. Use a hammer to tap the handle of the socket wrench in order to initiate movement of the heating element.
Step 4
If the heating element refuses to budge, slide the breaker bar over the handle of the socket wrench. Have a friend hold the top of the socket wrench in place over the heating element while you turn the wrench using the bar.
Step 5
Once the heating element starts turning, remove the bar from the socket wrench handle. Continue turning the heating element using the socket wrench until it is completely removed from the hot water tank.
