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The electric water heater element is responsible for generating heat in the water heater. There are two main types of water heater elements: the screw-in type and the flanged type.
Screw-in water heater element:
The most common type of electric water heater element is the screw-in type. It is found in tank-type water heaters. A protective metal sleeve called the conservation control housing surrounds the element, which is typically made of copper or stainless steel. The housing prevents heat loss and ensures that the heat is evenly distributed throughout the tank. The screw-in water heater element works by directly immersing in the water, allowing for quick and efficient heating. This design takes advantage of the entire surface area of the element for heat transfer, which results in faster heating times.
Flanged water heater element:
The flanged water heater element is primarily used in commercial and industrial electric water heaters. It has a flat, flanged configuration that allows it to be bolted onto the side of the water heater tank. Flanged elements are usually made of copper or stainless steel and can come with multiple circuits for higher watt density. Because of their design, flanged water heater elements can provide higher wattages and heat larger volumes of water. This makes them suitable for high-demand situations where quick recovery times are essential. Some flanged water heater elements also come with built-in thermostats that can help regulate the temperature of the water being heated.
Voltage:
Water heater elements are available in various voltages. The voltage rating must mach the voltage supply of the hot water tank. Common water heater element voltage includes 240V and 480V.
Wattage:
The wattage of the water heater element determines how quickly it heats water. Higher wattage produces more heat, resulting in faster water heating. It is recommended to select the wattage based on specific hot water demand and tank size.
Length and Diameter:
Water heater elements fit into the flange of the hot water tank. The length and diameter can create a snug fit that effectively heats the water. Generally, the standard length is 10 inches to 15 inches, and the diameter is 3-5 inches.
Threads:
Many water heater elements have threads so that they can fit into corresponding tanks. Threaded water heater elements come in many sizes, including ¾ - 14 NPT and ½ - 14 NPT. Water heater replacement is easy if buyers know the size of the threads.
Flange:
The flange water heater elements are flat pieces of metal bonded to the tank by four bolts. This kind of water heater element has no threads. The high wattage helps heat water quickly. The flange size has to match the holes in the tank. It is essential to check the condition of the gasket and replace it if it is old or cracked.
Check for leaks:
Turn on the pressure relief valve on the top of the tank. Some water may come out, which is normal. If water comes out continuously, it is necessary to replace the valve. Always check around the element holes and drain valve to ensure there are no leaks. Tighten any connections gently if leaks occur.
Flush the tank:
If there is no cold-water intake, flush the tank. Find the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and attach a hose. Open the drain valve and let the water flow out. It may be helpful to flush the tank yearly or more often in areas with hard mineral water.
Test the anode rod:
Check the anode rod in the tank. The rod prevents corrosion of the tank by oxide and needs to be replaced every 3-5 years. Use a socket wrench to remove the anode and check for significant depletion. If it is mostly gone, buy a new one and install it.
Check the thermostat:
The thermostats control water temperature. Check if the thermostat is functioning properly and setting is generally at 120°F-140°F. Also, ensure the insulation surrounding the upper element and tank is intact. If insulation is damaged, it may be necessary to replace it to improve energy efficiency.
Check the sacrificial anode:
The rod prevents corrosion by attracting minerals. If the tank is near the sea or has hard water, it is better to replace the anode every year. This prolongs the lifespan of the tank.
Check the thermostat:
It is important to check the thermostat is functioning. Water heater thermostats typically have two settings: High and Low. The high setting is about 140-160 degrees, while the low is about 120-130 degrees. It's better to set the thermostat to a lower temperature when the heater is not being used frequently, for instance, during winter. This will save energy costs. The thermostats can be checked manually. If the thermostat is not functioning properly, it needs to be replaced.
Electric water heater elements are used in various applications that require hot water. Here are some of the usage scenarios of electric water heater elements.
Residential water heaters
Residential electric water heater elements are commonly used to provide hot water for residential water heaters. They heat the water in the storage tank so that family members can take showers, wash dishes, do laundry, and perform other tasks that require hot water.
Commercial water heaters
Commercial water heaters, such as electric storage tanks, electric instant water heaters, and electric flow water heaters, often use electric water heater elements as heat sources. Electric water heater elements can provide large amounts of hot water to meet the needs of commercial establishments, such as hotels, restaurants, gyms, and office buildings.
Industrial hot water systems
Some industrial hot water systems or processes require constant or large amounts of hot water. Electric water heater elements can be used as a heating source for these industrial applications, such as manufacturing, food processing, chemical production, and textile dyeing.
Underfloor heating systems
Some underfloor heating systems use electric water heater elements as a heat source. It provides the necessary heat to keep the floor warm and maintain indoor temperature and comfort.
Swimming pools and hot tubs
Swimming pools and hot tubs require a continuous supply of hot water. Electric water heater elements provide the necessary heat to maintain water temperature and ensure users enjoy a comfortable experience.
Sanitary ware and cleaning equipment
Some sanitary facilities and cleaning equipamentos require hot water to operate, such as industrial washing machines, dishwashers, and sterilization equipment. Electric water heater elements provide hot water for these devices to ensure proper cleaning and sterilization.
Renewable energy integration
Some renewable energy systems, such as solar photovoltaics and wind turbines, can be combined with electric water heater elements to provide a sustainable hot water solution. For example, solar power can be used to directly power an electric water heater element to heat water.
Electric water heater elements are not all the same. When restocking, customers can get more value by having a shortlist of factors to consider. The size of the water heater tank is the most crucial factor. In storage water heaters, two heating elements are commonly used - one at the top and the other at the bottom. The top one heats the water first, so the user gets hot water quickly. In bigger tanks, the bottom heater activates whenever there's a demand for hot water. These units typically have a larger capacity of 4-5 gallons per hour. Using both elements simultaneously can deliver about 6-12 gallons of hot water per hour.
The second factor is the power rating, usually measured in watts. High-power rated water heater elements heat water more quickly. However, such devices often consume more electricity. The dominant voltage in the water heater elements market is 240 volts. It guarantees faster heating. Users don't have to worry about the water heater element heating up the entire tank. Smartly positioned thermostats turn on the element when it heats only the section of the tank it occupies.
Another important factor to consider is the materials used in manufacturing the electric water heater elements. Copper is an excellent conductor of electricity. It heats up fast, delivering hot water within a short period. Copper has great heat conductivity properties, allowing it to transfer heat into the water very quickly. Therefore, copper heater elements reduce water heating time.
Stainless steel water heater elements are more resistant to corrosion compared to traditional metal elements. They are suitable for water with average salt content. Using water with high salt content can damage the metal parts, resulting in lower life expectancy. In such conditions, stainless steel elements are ideal.
Key Takeaway
Wholesalers should demand products that have all the features listed above. Suppliers who offer products with these qualities are more likely to have more customers.
Q1: How long does an electric water heater element last?
A: Typically, the average lifespan of a water heater heating element is 6 to 12 months, depending on some factors such as usage frequency, water temperature, water quality, and the heater element's material.
Q2: Can a customer change the water heater element?
A: Yes, the water heater element can be changed by the customer. However, the user's manual should be read carefully before changing the electric heater element to ensure that it complies with the manufacturer's requirements. If possible, the user can consult a professional plumber for assistance.
Q3: Do the water heater elements work in the same way?
A: Although water heater elements generally work the same way, their size, shape, and voltage may vary depending on the water heater model. Therefore, they are not perfectly interchangeable. The manufacturer-recommended element should always be sought when replacing it.
Q4: Can a customer change just one water heater element?
A: Yes, in some cases, a customer can change just one water heater element, especially if one of the elements is damaged. However, it's usually a good idea to change the two elements simultaneously to ensure they work efficiently and evenly simultaneously. This avoids potential temperature imbalances in the water. Also, since both elements wear out over time, they may be close to failing at the same time.
