Official Rheem electric water heater parts

Common Rheem electric water heater replacement parts

• Thermostat. The thermostat monitors tank water temperature and turns the heating element on and off to maintain set water temperature.
• Heating element. The heating element heats the water inside the tank.
• Drain valve. The drain valve fits at the bottom of the tank and allows you to drain water from the tank.
• Dip tube. The dip tube is a high-temperature plastic tube that is inserted into the tank through the cold-water inlet port. The dip tube extends far down into the tank to distribute incoming cold water at the bottom of the tank for efficient heating.
• Drain pan. The drain pan sits under the water heater and catches water if the tank cracks or leaks water. Catching the leaking water in the drain pan prevents damage to walls and the floor surrounding the water heater.

What to do when the pressure relief valve drips water in your Rheem electric water heater

Replace the pressure relief valve if it leaks and the water heater isn't overheating.

If the water is overheating, the dripping could be because the overheating tripped the valve. Shut off the circuit breakers and check the thermostats and heating elements. A failed thermostat can cause the element to heat constantly, resulting in overheating. A heating element shorted to the metal tank or cabinet will also heat constantly and cause overheating. Watch this video to find out how to troubleshoot an overheating electric water heater. Replace any failed thermostats and shorted heating elements.

Replace the thermostat in a gas water heater if it's causing overheating.