no hot water!

[ashnats]

hi all,

I want to change the heating element in my immersion heater - I've not yet got the tools to remove the current element, so to save me 2 trips to the hardware store, could someone tell me if the length of element/thermostat is really crucial? i know the rough height of the tank (on the outside) is about 35inches, so would a 27inch one fit in, and would an 11 inch one be too short? are there any complications i need to know about changing it over (aside from the obvious shutting off the electricity)

sorry if its a stupid question, i am a stupid person with no plumbing experience.

i've already checked the fuses and the thermostat and they are fine. i do get water from the hot taps, it's just running cold, so i am assuming the heater is the problem. (?)


cheers,
ash

 

[IanDB]

Yes, in this case, size matters. The water will only heat to the depth of the immersion heater. If you want a completely full tank of hot water then you need the longer version. Sometimes you can get two switched elements, one shorter one for general use and the longer for when you want to have a bath (or two).

Here are a couple of relevant posts that may help you on your way.

//www.diynot.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=8826&highlight=
//www.diynot.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=10880&highlight=

A heating element will normally last for about 5 years or so if used all the time. Sometimes they fail due to the insulation breaking down in which case the fuse blows or the breaker trips, or as may be the case with this one, it goes open circuit.

Good luck.

 

[ashnats]

Thanks!

 

[breezer]

if you can, get a box spanner for the heater,

also a gentle tap with hammer the wrong way may help loosen it, but it did say gentle

 

[COG]

How did you test the stat ?

 

[PEDANTICVINDICTIVEMAN]

Get the multi alloy type as they last longer than the cheaper copper models.