and 1-7/8 in. Hex .
What size is a screw in water heater element?
It is 1′′ NPS . As stated by others, NPT or National Pipe Thread is tapered. NPS is National Pipe Straight, or in other words, not tapered. If we are talking about 1′′, both have 11.5 threads per inch, and can work together in some cases.
How do I loosen a stuck water heater element?
Mix a solution of half vinegar and half water in a small cup . Dip a toothbrush into the solution and brush it between the seam of the heating element and the side of the heating tank. Apply the solution liberally, but do not allow it to drip heavily. Allow the solution to sit for 20 minutes.
What size is the anode rod nut?
3 Locate the anode rod on the water heater; if necessary, unscrew and lift off the cover from the top of the heater. 4 Use a ratchet wrench and 1 1/16-inch deep socket to unscrew the anode rod from the heater.
Are all water heater elements the same size?
Does the length of a water heater heating element make a difference? No, not as long as you have the proper voltage, watts and style. Shorter elements have a larger diameter therefore the same surface area .
Are all water heater elements the same thread?
water heater elements are standard 1′′ IPS threads . A 1′′ screw plug will fit in.
How tight should a water heater element be?
If it's a screw-in type heating element, use a wrench to twist the element clockwise until it's tight . Unless the new element tells you to, you don't have to use Teflon tape on the threads. Make sure the element is secured snugly against the tank opening, or the tank will leak from the opening.
How do I know if my water heater element is bad?
Touch a probe on the multitester to each screw on the element . If you get no reading, or a maximum reading, the element is bad. Elements do have some resistance, so a reading of 10-16 ohms is normal, with higher ohm readings for 3,500 watt elements and lower readings for 5,500 watt elements.
How do I know if my anode rod is bad?
A bad anode rod can cause discolored water , a rotten egg smell, air in the lines and intermittent hot water. The anode rod protects the tank of electric water heaters & signs it should be replaced are a rotten egg smell, no heat & strange sounds.
How do I know what size anode rod to buy?
As a rule you want the anode to be “tip to toe” running the full height or length of the tank . If you cant see your brand on the chart then just measure the length of the tank and pick the closest length of anode. If the anode is too long they can be simply cut to length with a hack saw.
Should you remove the anode rod in water heater?
Not only is it important to put an aluminum/zinc anode into the heater; it's also important to remove all previous anodes or the hot water will still smell.
Will a water heater work with one element?
Yes , a water heater can still run if the bottom element quits. ... In most water heaters, the top heating element controls the thermostat and will still work even if the bottom element fails. So provided the top heating element is working, it can still produce some hot water even if the bottom heating element fails.
Does it matter what wire goes where on water heater element?
No, it does not matter which wire goes to which heating element terminal in this case – electricity can flow in either direction. ... Remember to replace the plastic cover that protects the wires and terminals before pushing the insulation back in place and then replacing the water heater element cover.
Can I replace a 3500 Watt water heater with a 4500 Watt?
It is ok to install lower watt : replace 4500 with 3500 as long as voltage is same. Lower watt means less heat, so element can last longer.
What is a Npsm thread?
National Pipe Straight Mechanical (NPSM) has a straight thread , unlike NPT, which is tapered. NPSM is sometimes used for fluid power systems and male NPTF pipes will seal with an NPSM female pipe. However, a male NPT pipe will not fit in a female NPSM pipe.
