Do Rheem water heaters have two thermostats?

Most electric water heaters above 20 gallons have two thermostats that sense the temperature of the water in both the top and bottom of the tank. The upper thermostat is the boss and always tells the lower thermostat what to do.

What does the A and B and C mean on the water heater?

Now, some water heater temperature controls come with settings that read “A-B-C” as opposed to numbers. Generally, A means 120 degrees, B means 130 degrees, and C means 140 degrees.

How many thermostats does a Rheem water heater have?

two thermostats
The temperature of the water in the heater is regulated by the adjustable surface mounted thermostat(s) located behind the jacket access panel(s). Dual element heaters have two thermostats. To comply with safety regulations the thermostat(s) were set at 120°F before the water heater was shipped from the factory.

How do you change a gas thermostat on a Rheem water heater?

Gas Water Heaters

1. Shut off the gas supply to the water heater.
2. Disconnect the gas line and thermocouple from the front of the water heater at the thermostat using a pipe wrench.
3. Install the new thermostat on the water heater and tighten it with the pipe wrench, making sure to line it up with the burner fittings.

Are hot water heater thermostats universal?

No, all water heater thermostats are not universal. There are some variances in thermostats between single-element water heaters and dual-element water heaters. Also, there is a difference in the upper and lower thermostats in dual-element water heaters.

What is the red knob on the water heater?

You can shut off this valve if you have a leak in a hot water pipe somewhere in the house since this valve effectively controls all hot water in the home. Often, this valve is coded with a red handle to indicate it controls hot water.

Should both thermostats on an electric water heater be set the same?

If your water heater has two thermostats, adjust both the same amount. The top thermostat should be a few degrees higher than the bottom.

Which element comes on first on a hot water heater?

When a hot water faucet is turned on, hot water will be drawn off the top of the tank. The thermostat for the lower element is activated by this cold water near the bottom of the tank. The lower element will start to heat the water.

Why are there two temperature controls on water heater?

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.

Can you replace the thermostat on a gas water heater?

You can do both by replacing your hot water heater’s thermostat yourself! Luckily, it’s a simple fix! So, if you need to replace your water heater thermostat, follow our handy how-to guide for water heater repair. As always, please remember to use caution around electrical wires.

Where is the thermostat on a Rheem gas water heater?

Locate the gas control valve on the lower front of the water heater. The gas control valve has a red button on top and three lines connecting at the bottom. The thermostat dial is on the face of the gas control valve.

Can you use any thermostat for a water heater?

Replace your electric water heater thermostat using the step by step guide below. Almost all residential water heater thermostats are interchangeable. However, a single element water heater thermostats will not work on a double element water heater.