Your Bradford White water heater has stopped delivering hot water. It’s a frustrating situation, but often, the culprit is a failed heating element. The good news? Replacing a heating element is a common DIY repair that can save you a significant service call fee. With the right tools, safety precautions, and a methodical approach, you can restore your hot water supply in a few hours.
Before you grab a screwdriver, it’s critical to understand what you’re getting into. This is an electrical and plumbing project. Safety is non-negotiable. For this project, having a reliable replacement part is key. Many professionals and seasoned DIYers recommend using the DROMIX Water Heater element for its durability and compatibility with many models. It’s a solid choice to ensure a long-lasting fix.
Safety First: The Non-Negotiable Rules
Electric water heaters involve high voltage (240V) and high-temperature water under pressure. Skipping safety steps is dangerous. You must follow these procedures in order.
Turn off power at the main circuit breaker panel. Do not rely on the thermostat switch. Find the double-pole breaker labeled for the water heater and flip it to OFF. Use a voltage tester or multimeter at the access panels to confirm power is off. This is your most important step.
Next, turn off the cold water supply valve at the top of the tank. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom. Run the hose to a floor drain or outside. Open a hot water faucet in your house (like a sink) to relieve vacuum pressure. Then, open the tank’s drain valve. Drain the tank completely. Sediment will come out, so be prepared.
Warning: The water will be scalding hot at first. Let it cool for several hours before proceeding. You can speed this up by draining some hot water and refilling with cold, but this takes time.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Gathering everything beforehand makes the job smoother. Heres your checklist:
- Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
- Element wrench or a large 1-1/2″ socket and breaker bar (this is essential for loosening the old element)
- Multimeter for testing continuity and voltage
- New heating element (matching voltage and wattage)
- New rubber gasket (often included with the element)
- Garden hose
- Bucket and rags
- Wire brush (for cleaning sediment from the tank opening)
- Teflon tape or pipe thread sealant (for the drain valve)
Finding the correct Bradford White water heater element part number is crucial. Check the model number on the tank’s rating plate (often starting with M240, RE350, etc.). Use Bradford White’s official parts lookup or a reputable supplier to match the element’s wattage (typically 4500W or 5500W) and voltage (240V). Using the wrong one can damage the thermostat or be ineffective.
Identifying the Faulty Element
Most residential electric water heaters have two elements: an upper and a lower. Common symptoms of a bad heating element include lukewarm water, no hot water, or water that runs out very quickly. If you have a small amount of hot water, the upper element is likely the issue. If you have no hot water at all, either both are bad or the lower one has failed. Knowing how to test a Bradford White heating element with a multimeter before you start can confirm the diagnosis and save you from replacing the wrong part.
Step-by-Step Replacement Guide
With the power off, water supply off, and tank drained, you’re ready to begin.
Step 1: Access and Remove the Old Element
Remove the access panel(s) on the side of the tank. You’ll see insulation behind them. Carefully pull back the insulation to reveal the thermostat and element. Take a picture of the wiring diagram on the tank and the existing wiring terminals. This is your reference for reconnection.
Disconnect the wires from the old element. Label them if needed (e.g., “Upper Left,” “Upper Right”). Use your element wrench to turn the element counter-clockwise. It will be tight. Apply steady pressure to break it free. Once loose, unscrew it by hand and carefully pull it out of the tank.
Step 2: Clean and Install the New Element
Inspect the opening in the tank. Use a wire brush to clean away any sediment or old gasket material. This ensures a clean seal for the new gasket. Never reuse an old gasket.
Place the new rubber gasket on the threads of the new heating element. Hand-thread the new element into the tank opening. Be careful not to cross-thread it. Once hand-tight, use the element wrench to snug it up. Do not overtighten, as you can damage the tank’s threads. A firm, snug fit is all that’s needed to compress the gasket.
Step 3: Reconnect the Wiring
Refer to your photo of the wiring diagram and terminals. Reconnect the wires exactly as they were. Ensure the connections are tight and secure. Tuck the wiring neatly back into place. Replace the insulation and screw the access panel back on.
Testing and Troubleshooting After Installation
Do not turn the power back on yet. First, close the tank’s drain valve and remove the hose. Turn the cold water supply valve back on. Allow the tank to fill completely. You’ll know it’s full when water flows steadily from the hot water faucet you opened earlier. Close that faucet.
Now, check for leaks around the new element. If it’s dry, you can restore power at the circuit breaker. The thermostat should now activate the element. You can use your multimeter to test for continuity at the element terminals (with power off again) to verify the new element is functional.
Allow the tank 60-90 minutes to heat a full tank of water. Test a hot water faucet. If you still have issueslike the water heater not heatingdouble-check your wiring and consider testing the thermostat. The upper thermostat controls power to both elements, so a failure there will also cause no heat.
When Things Get Complex
If you encounter heavy corrosion, broken bolts, or a leaking tank, stop. These are signs you may need professional help. Also, always ensure the T&P valve (temperature and pressure relief valve) is operational. It’s a critical safety device.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While this guide covers a standard replacement, some situations demand an expert. Call a professional if:
- You are uncomfortable working with high-voltage electricity or plumbing.
- The tank itself is leaking (not from a connection). This often means the tank is failing.
- You discover significant corrosion or damaged wiring.
- The problem persists after a correct element replacement, indicating a faulty thermostat or other electrical issue.
- You cannot identify your model or find the correct part.
The cost to replace Bradford White heating element professionally varies by region, but it typically includes the service call, labor, and the part. Getting a quote can help you decide if DIY is right for you. For more detailed troubleshooting steps, a great external resource is Repair Clinic’s Bradford White water heater troubleshooting guide.
Choosing a reliable water heater from the start minimizes repairs. If you’re comparing brands, our analysis of how good Bradford White water heaters are details their build quality and common features. For a direct comparison, see our breakdown of Bradford White vs Rheem water heater models.
Final Thoughts
Replacing a Bradford White heating element is a manageable project. The keys are safety, preparation, and patience. Always double-check the power is off. Take photos before disconnecting wires. Use the correct replacement part. By following these steps, you can solve the problem of a water heater not heating and regain your hot water. Remember, when in doubt, there’s no shame in calling a pro. Your safety and a correctly functioning appliance are what matter most.
