Should both water heater elements be set the same?

The proper way is to have both of them the same. Normally the lower one is going to control the tank’s temperature until the lower element burns out and then the upper one will be in charge until you repair the heater.

Which element in a hot water heater comes on first?

Lower Element Comes on First When a hot water faucet is turned on, hot water will be drawn off the top of the tank and cold water introduced at the bottom. This cold water near the bottom of the tank will activate the thermostat for the lower element. The lower element will turn on and heat the incoming cool water.

How does a dual element electric hot water heater work?

A dual-element water heater uses two heating elements controlled by two separate thermostats. The upper element heats the upper portion of the water column. When it reaches a specified temperature, Rheem notes that it shuts off, and the lower heating element takes over, heating the rest of the water.

How do you know if a 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 much does a heating element for a water heater cost?

Heater Element Replacement Cost The typical professional charge to repair your heating elements is $200 to $300. There are two of these in each unit, one at the top and one at the bottom.

What is the labor cost to replace a hot water heater?

The labor cost to install or replace a water heater is $97.50 per hour. With a range between $45 and $150 per hour.

How long should it take to install a water heater?

two to three hours

How much is a 40 gal water heater?

Water Heater Costs by Gallon