What Is a Water Heater Element and How Many Types Exist?

A water heater element changes electrical energy into heat, warming water for showers, cleaning, or cooking. Homeowners often want a water heating element that lasts. Many heating element for water heater models work well for about 10 years, though some reach 15 years.

• Most water heater heating element units last 6–12 years.
  Choosing the right heating element for water can help save money and avoid cold surprises.

Key Takeaways

• A water heater element heats water for various uses, like showers and cleaning. Choosing the right type can save money and ensure hot water is always available.
• There are four main types of water heater elements: electric, gas, solar, and immersion. Each type has unique benefits, such as energy efficiency or fast heating.
• Regular maintenance, like flushing the tank and checking for issues, can extend the life of your water heater element and prevent unexpected cold showers.

How a Water Heater Element Works

Basic Operation

A water heater element sits inside the tank and acts like the heart of the system. When someone turns on the hot water tap, the thermostat checks the water temperature. If the water feels too cold, the thermostat sends a signal to the element to start working. The element then heats up, much like the coil in a toaster. This process happens quickly and safely.

Here’s a simple look at how the operation works:

1. The thermostat senses the water temperature.
2. If the water is cool, it tells the element to turn on.
3. The element heats up and warms the water around it.
4. Once the water reaches the right temperature, the thermostat turns the element off.

Tip: Always turn off the power before working on a water heater element to stay safe.

Role in Heating Water

The water heater element plays a key role in making sure hot water is always ready. It uses electric resistance to turn energy into heat. The element sits right in the water, so it can heat the water directly and efficiently. This design helps the system deliver hot water fast, whether for a shower or washing dishes.

Most water heater elements work in cycles. When the water cools down, the element turns on again. When the water gets hot enough, the element shuts off. This cycle keeps the water at a steady temperature and saves energy.

Types of Water Heater Elements

Electric Water Heater Element

Electric water heater elements are the most popular choice for homes today. They use electric resistance coils to heat water inside the tank. Many families pick these units because they are easy to install and work well with most household setups. Electric models are especially common in residential areas, thanks to their affordability and versatility.

Did you know? Storage water heaters hold nearly half the global market share in 2024, and electric water heaters lead the way in homes.

People like electric water heater elements for several reasons:

• Energy efficiency: Some models, like the Rheem Performance, can save up to $475 a year.
• Long warranties: Many brands offer up to 10 years of coverage.
• Smart controls: Features like WiFi and leak detection make life easier.
• Durability: Stainless steel designs help prevent limescale buildup.

Electric water heater elements come in different shapes and styles. Here’s a quick look:

Electric water heater elements usually cost less to install than other types. The price ranges from $920 to $1,177. They also tend to be more energy-efficient, but electricity costs can be higher than gas.

Common problems with electric water heater elements include:

• No hot water or only cold water
• Water gets warm but runs out quickly
• Water is too hot or even steamy
• Electrical issues like open circuits or shorts

Regular maintenance helps keep electric water heater elements working well. Flushing the tank and checking the anode rod can prevent problems and extend the life of the unit.

Gas Water Heater Element

Gas water heater elements use natural gas or propane to heat water. A burner sits at the bottom of the tank and heats the water quickly. Many families choose gas models for their fast heating and ability to work during power outages.

Gas water heaters stand out in several ways:

• They heat water faster than electric models.
• They work even if the power goes out.
• They suit homes with high hot water demand.

However, gas water heater elements need proper venting and more maintenance. They also cost more to install, with prices averaging around $2,607.

Here’s a chart showing installation costs for different water heater types:

Gas water heaters have higher recovery rates, heating 30-40 gallons per hour, while electric models heat 20-22 gallons per hour. Gas units lose some heat through exhaust gases and tank walls, making them less efficient than electric water heater elements.

Solar Water Heater Element

Solar water heater elements use the sun’s energy to heat water. These systems are great for families who want to save money and help the environment. Solar-powered water heaters can cut water heating bills by 50% to 80%, saving $280 to $600 each year.

Tip: Solar water heaters work best in sunny regions and can last up to 20 years with proper care.

Here’s a table showing the top advantages of solar water heater elements:

Solar water heater elements help lower greenhouse gas emissions during operation. They avoid CO2 from fuel combustion, making them carbon neutral while running. However, the life cycle carbon footprint can be higher than traditional systems.

Families who switch to solar water heater elements often see big savings. The average family spends $400-600 a year on water heating, but solar systems can cut these costs in half or more.

Immersion Water Heater Element

Immersion water heater elements are portable devices that heat water directly. People use them for small jobs, like warming water in a bucket or a small tank. These heaters are easy to use and cost less than other types.

Immersion water heater elements heat liquids quickly because they touch the water directly. This design gives them an edge in speed and efficiency.

Here are some key points about immersion water heater elements:

1. They are portable and perfect for small-scale heating.
2. They cost less and are simple to operate.
3. They use more energy than advanced systems.

Safety matters when using immersion water heater elements:

• Always read the instructions before use.
• Check for damage to the cord or element.
• Avoid overheating the water.
• Keep the heater away from flammable items.
• Use a timer to prevent leaving it on too long.

Note: Immersion water heater elements work fast, but users should follow safety tips to avoid accidents.

Water Heater Element Materials and Construction

Common Materials Used

Manufacturers use several materials to build water heater elements. Each material brings its own strengths and weaknesses. Stainless steel stands out for its durability and resistance to rust. Copper heats water quickly and offers good efficiency, but water chemistry can affect its lifespan. Incoloy and ceramic materials provide excellent protection against scale and mineral deposits. Nichrome keeps heat steady and works well for energy efficiency.

Here’s a quick look at how these materials handle corrosion and scale:

Stainless steel and copper cost more at first, but they last longer and work better over time.

Impact of Construction on Performance

The way a water heater element is built affects how well it works. New designs and technologies help save energy and make heating water more efficient. Hybrid systems use heat exchangers to transfer energy faster. Plate and frame or shell and tube heat exchangers boost performance by moving heat quickly.

Manufacturers also focus on sustainable construction methods. These changes help families save money and use less energy. Here are some important factors that affect efficiency:

• Stratification of temperature inside the tank can change how well the system heats water.
• Heat loss happens when hot water travels from the tank to the tap.
• Predicting these losses helps builders design better systems.

Many water heater elements meet safety standards like NSF-61 and ETL Listed Mark. These certifications show that the products are safe for homes and meet North American rules.

A water heater element heats water for daily use. Electric, gas, solar, and immersion types each offer unique benefits. Picking the right element matters. Homeowners should check these factors:

Regular inspections and flushing help prevent sediment buildup, which often leads to replacement. Aging parts and lack of hot water also signal it’s time for a new element.

FAQ

How often should someone replace a water heater element?

Most people replace the element every 6–12 years. Regular checks help spot problems early. If hot water runs out fast, it might be time for a new one.

Can a homeowner install a water heater element by themselves?

Yes, many homeowners do this. They should always turn off the power first. Reading the manual helps. If unsure, calling a pro makes sense.

What signs show a water heater element needs replacing?

• Water stays cold or lukewarm
• Hot water runs out quickly
• Strange noises come from the tank

Tip: A pro can test the element with a multimeter.

Jin Wei

Senior Product Engineer

With 10 years of experience in R&D of electric heating devices, we have been deeply involved in the field of heating elements and have profound technical accumulation and innovation capabilities.

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