Cut the Power, Drain the Tank

• Before doing any work on the element the tank must be turned off. This is usually done at the circuit breaker. Turn off the power first, then turn the water supply valve off. This is located in the feed line tube bringing water to the tank. Turn clockwise to close. Once that is done, there is a water spigot at the bottom of the tank like the one outside of a home. Attach a water hose directed to a drain or outside and turn the spigot valve counterclockwise. Wait until the tank is empty, then shut off the drain valve.
  
  

Removing the Old Element

• On the side of the tank is a panel held by two screws. Remove the panel and there will be an element screw head. This is a large six-sided piece of metal 2 inches in diameter. You will need a heating element socket to remove the element. These are readily available at any plumbing supply store. Remove the two wires connected to the element. Place the socket on the screw head and turn counterclockwise. A hole is drilled through the socket so a screwdriver can be inserted to use as a handle for the socket. Turn until the element is all the way out.
  
  

Installing the New Element

• Installation is exactly the same as removal only in reverse: screw in the element using the sockets and tighten it down. Remember--it must be watertight. Connect the two power supply wires to the element and replace the cover.
  
  The next step is extremely important: turn the water on first. If the power is turned on before the water then the element will immediately heat up inside the waterless tank and will burn up immediately. This is because the element warms the water but the water acts as a coolant to prevent the element from overheating. So reach up and turn the water feed valve counterclockwise to open the water line. Wait at least 20 minutes for the tank to fill completely. Once filled, turn the circuit breaker to "on" and wait for the element to heat the water to the desired temperature.