Will a Water Heater Work With One Element – [Explained]

It is a commonly asked question, “will a water heater work with one element?” If your water heater only has one element, it will likely still work. However, it will not be as efficient as a water heater with two elements. 

This is because the single element will have to work harder to heat up the water. As a result, your energy bills may be higher and you may have to wait longer for hot water. 

If you have a large family or use a lot of hot water, it may be worth upgrading to a water heater with two elements. Let’s discuss more on water heater elements! But before that, read on to know, what is pilot mode on water heater?

How Does an Electric Heating Element Work?

Will a water heater work with one element? An electric heating element converts electrical energy into heat through resistance. When electricity is passed through the element, it encounters resistance, which causes it to heat up. 

The more resistance the element has, the more heat it produces. Water heater elements are usually made from nickel and chromium. Materials that have a high resistance to corrosion. 

The heating elements are also usually coated with another material, such as silicone to further protect them from corrosion and increase their lifespan.

Single Element Water Heaters vs. Dual Element Water Heaters

There are two types of water heaters: single element and dual element. Single-element water heaters have one heating element while dual-element water heaters have two. So, which is better?

Here are some things to consider:

1. Efficiency: Single-element water heaters are more efficient because they only have one heating element to heat the water. Dual element water heaters have two heating elements and therefore use more energy.

2. Cost: Single-element water heaters cost less because they are more efficient. Dual-element water heaters cost more because they use more energy.

3. Capacity: Single-element water heaters have a lower capacity than dual-element water heaters. This means that you will not be able to store as much hot water in a single-element water heater.

4. Recovery time: Single-element water heaters have a shorter recovery time than dual-element water heaters. This means that it will take less time for the water heater to reheat the water after it has been used.

5. Warranty: Single-element water heaters usually come with a longer warranty than dual-element water heaters. This is because they are more efficient and have fewer parts that can break down.

So, which is better? It really depends on your needs and what you are looking for in a water heater. If you need a lot of hot water, then a dual-element water heater might be better for you. If you are looking for a water heater that is more efficient and has a longer warranty, then a single-element water heater might be the better choice.

Will a Water Heater Work if One Element Fails? 

If one of the elements in your water heater fails, the unit will still operate, but it will not heat the water as effectively. This can cause problems if you rely on hot water for your daily needs. In some cases, you may be able to replace the element that has failed. However, it is also possible that the entire water heater will need to be replaced. If you are having problems with your water heater, it is best to consult with a professional to determine the best course of action.

How To Replace a Broken Water Heater Element 

If your water heater is starting to show signs of wear and tear, it may be time to replace the element. This can be a difficult task, but with a little patience and the right tools, it can be done. To begin, you will need to turn off the power to the water heater. 

Next, remove the access panel to the element. Be careful not to damage the wires when removing the panel. Once you have access to the element, use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold it in place. Carefully pull out the old element and dispose of it properly. 

Now, take the new element and insert it into the opening. Make sure that it is seated correctly and then tighten the nuts back into place. Be sure not to overtighten them, as this could damage the element. 

Finally, replace the access panel and turn the power back on to the water heater. With these simple steps, you can easily replace a broken water heater element.

How To Choose the Right Water Heater Element

Check the wiring of your water heater. The element will not work if the power is not properly wired to it. Make sure that all of the connections are tight and secure. If they are not, turn off the power to the water heater and fix them before proceeding.

Also, check the condition of the element itself. If it is damaged in any way, it will need to be replaced before it can be used again.

Once you have checked the wiring and the condition of the element, you are ready to install it. Follow these steps to do so:

1) Turn off the power to the water heater at the breaker box.

2) Remove the access panel from the back of the water heater.

3) Unscrew the old element from its housing.

4) Screw the new element into the housing.

5) Replace the access panel and turn on the power to the water heater at the breaker box.

Now is a good time to test your new element. Turn on a hot water faucet and let the water run for a few minutes. If the water is not as hot as it should be, adjust the thermostat on the water heater accordingly.

FAQ

Bottom Line

While it is possible to have a water heater with only one element, it is not recommended. This is because the single element would have to work harder to heat the entire tank of water, which could shorten its lifespan. 

Additionally, if the element were to fail, there would be no backup and the entire tank of water would need to be replaced. For these reasons, it is generally advisable to have two or more heating elements in a water heater, so that if one fails, the other can continue to provide heat.