Do I have to drain my water heater to change the elements?

Author: Mrs. Esther Hoppe  |  Last update: Monday, October 6, 2025

Can you change a water heater element without draining the tank? No, you'll need to drain the tank before changing a water heater element, as the water heater element sticks through the side of the tank and uses a gasket to prevent water from pouring out. However, you don't always need to drain it completely.

Can you change a water heater element without draining it?

If this question is pertaining to a electric tank water heater - No. The tank must be fully drained and cooled before you can change the heating element. Normally there are two, a high and a low elements. If you must change one, order both.

Do you have to drain a hot water heater to change the elements?

Let the water heater drain completely if you are replacing the lower element or partially if you are replacing the upper element. Sediment in the bottom of the tank may clog the drain valve and prevent it from draining properly.

What happens if you don't drain your water heater?

If you don't drain or flush your hot water heater, minerals and sediments from the water supply will settle at the bottom of the tank.

How long does it take to replace a hot water heater element?

It's time-consuming: Replacing a water heater element usually takes around 2–3 hours if you try and do it yourself. However, it usually only takes 1–2 hours for a professional. A professional has the right tools and skills to do the job.

Change a hot water heater element without draining or spilling water

Why do I still have no hot water after changing the element?

If the unit is powered with the correct voltage, and still does not produce any hot water, the upper heating element has probably burned out. A water heater must be completely full of water before electric power is applied or the upper heating element will burn out (this is called Dry Fire).

How can you tell if a water heater element is bad?

If the element is malfunctioning, it might pull too much electricity. This could cause your breaker to short circuit, tripping and cutting power to the water heater. So, if your circuit breaker trips every time your water heater kicks on, check the heating element for problems.

Is it better to flush or drain your water heater?

It is recommended that you flush your water heater at least once per year. Doing so will help to prevent the potential problems that sediment can bring over time. Typically, it takes one to two hours to flush a water heater. The size of your tank will impact the amount of time it takes to drain.

How do I know if my hot water heater is full of sediment?

Symptoms of Sediment in Your Hot Water Heater
  1. There is no hot water.
  2. The water temperature fluctuates.
  3. Popping or rumbling noises coming from the tank.
  4. Your hot water looks rusty and smells bad.
  5. There are small leaks near the water heater drain valve.
  6. Water takes a long time to heat up.

Is it ever too late to drain a water heater?

NOTE: If your water heater has been installed more than five years without any maintenance, it may be too late to flush. If the tank will not drain, sediment likely has built and clogged the drain.

Can you replace just heating element in hot water heater?

But, a failed heating element doesn't necessarily mean you need to replace the entire water heater. In this article, we'll outline the steps for installing a new heating element and getting your water heater back up-and-running again.

Can you burn out a water heater element?

As you just found out, even a few seconds of dry firing an electric water heater can burn out your water heater element.

How do I know if my element is gone in my hot water tank?

A burned-out water heater element will often cause your water heater to produce lukewarm or cold water, even when the thermostat is set to a high temperature. You might also notice the hot water runs out faster than usual. In severe cases, you'll have no hot water at all.

How much does it cost to replace an element in a hot water heater?

Heater Element Replacements

Having a water heater element repaired professionally usually costs about $200 to $300.

How long does it take to drain a 50 gallon water heater?

How Long Does It Take to Drain a 50-Gallon Water Heater? Draining a 50-gallon water heater for larger units usually takes 45 to 60 minutes. However, it's worth noting that these are approximations, and the actual time can vary.

Can I replace a heating element myself?

Replacing the oven element is a simple enough job if you consider yourself reasonably handy around the house, have the proper tools, and know where to buy the right part. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of replacing the oven element.

Should I flush a 7 year old water heater?

If neither you nor a professional have flushed your water within the last five years, Water Heaters Now recommends not flushing it yourself.

How do you flush sediment out of a water heater?

Okay, it's time to flush that water heater.
  1. Step 1: Turn off the water heater and water supply. ...
  2. Step 2: Connect a garden hose to the drain valve. ...
  3. Step 3: Run hot water and open the drain valve. ...
  4. Step 4: Turn the water supply back on to flush the tank. ...
  5. Step 5: Close drain valve, fill tank and turn on water heater.

How much does it cost to flush a hot water heater?

Expect a pro to charge you between $75 and $200 to come to your home to flush your water heater, depending on where you live. While this cost deters many homeowners from performing this annual maintenance, it can extend the water heater's lifespan by years, making it worth the additional cost.

What happens if you don't flush your water heater?

Accordingly, when the water heater is not flushed, the built-up sediment hampers the functioning and performance of the heater and also damages the heater and your plumbing system.

How often should I change the anode rod in my water heater?

The frequency of anode rod replacement depends on several factors, such as water quality, usage patterns, and the type of anode rod installed. In most cases, we recommend inspecting and potentially replacing the anode rod every 3 to 5 years.

How do I know if my water heater needs to be drained?

Here are a few warning signs that you need a water heater flush.
  • No Hot Water. When your unit stops producing hot water, there is either a large amount of sediment buildup or a faulty burner. ...
  • Funny Smells. Strange odors from your hot water is a sign of bacteria in your tank. ...
  • Strange Noises. ...
  • Rust Colored Water.

Can you change a hot water element without draining the tank?

Can you change a water heater element without draining the tank? No, you'll need to drain the tank before changing a water heater element, as the water heater element sticks through the side of the tank and uses a gasket to prevent water from pouring out.

What is the average life of a water heater element?

The average tank water heater has a lifespan of about 15 years, while tankless heaters last about 20 years. If your water heater is more than ten years old, you should consider calling an expert to discuss water heater replacement.

What are the symptoms of a bad thermostat on a hot water heater?

Signs Your Water Heater Thermostat Is Faulty
  • You have no hot water.
  • You're running out of hot water quickly.
  • The water is too hot.
  • It takes a long time for your water heater to heat the water.
  • You keep having to reset the high-temperature limit switch.

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