This is a continuation of previous steps. If you started here, please refer to previous steps to ensure you've followed all safety precautions.
The information on this web site is supplemental to the printed instructions that came with your water heater. To reduce the risk of property damage, serious injury or death, read and follow all labels on the water heater and the safety instructions in the printed owner's manual.
Since both of the heating elements are good, you will need to replace the lower thermostat.
Make sure the replacement thermostat exactly matches the original thermostat.
Mark the wires with tape so you’ll know how to put them back on.
Disconnect the wires from the bad thermostat.
Remove the thermostat from the metal mounting clip.
CAUTION: Metal edges may be sharp. Wear protective gloves.
Press the metal mounting clip.
Pull the tabs of the metal mounting clip
Install the new thermostat in the metal mounting clip.
Make sure the new thermostat fits tightly against the tank.
You should NOT be able to slip a business card between the thermostat and the tank. If you can, bend the thermostat mounting clip until the thermostat fits tightly against the tank.
Attach the wires following the wiring diagram on the water heater’s label. Make sure all wire connections are tight.
Make sure both thermostats are set no higher than 120°F.
WARNING! Higher temperatures increase the risk of scalding, but even at 120°F, hot water can scald. Install point-of-use Thermostatic Mixing Valves to reduce the risk of scalding.
Replace the plastic protectors.
Replace the insulation.
Replace the heating element covers.
WARNING! Be sure covers are secured to reduce the risk of fire and electric shock.
Turn power to the water heater ON.
It may take up to two hours for the water to heat up.
Check the water temperature after two hours and make sure it is not too hot.
Adjust thermostats if necessary.