Water Heater Element Replacement: Cost, DIY Difficulty, and When to Hire Out
An electric water heater relies on heating elements (usually two) to warm water. When an element fails, you lose hot water. Replacement costs $20–$80 for the part DIY, or $150–$350 with a plumber. The job is moderately difficult; it involves electrical work and proper safety procedures. Understanding the risks helps you decide whether to DIY or call a pro.
Quick Answer
Heating element failure causes no hot water or reduced supply. DIY replacement costs $20–$80 parts + 1–2 hours labor. Professional replacement costs $150–$350 total. DIY is feasible if you’re comfortable with electrical work and water draining.
Safety risks:
- Electrical shock
- Improper sealing (leaks)
- Incorrect diagnosis (problem might be thermostat, not element)
If unsure, hire a plumber.
Heating Element Basics
Electric water heaters have two heating elements:
- Upper element: Controls initial heating when the thermostat detects cold water
- Lower element: Continues heating and maintains temperature
When one fails, the other may still work, leaving some hot water (but reduced supply).
Element lifespan: 5–10 years, depending on water quality and usage.
Failure Symptoms
- No hot water at all (both elements are dead or electrical issue)
- Lukewarm water only (one element failing)
- Hot water runs out quickly (insufficient heating time)
- Tripped circuit breaker (electrical short in the element)
DIY Element Replacement
Difficulty level: Moderate (requires electrical comfort)
Tools needed
- Element wrench (special socket, ~$10–$20)
- Multimeter (verify power is off)
- Drain pan
- New heating element ($20–$80)
Steps
- Turn off the power at the breaker; verify off with a multimeter
- Drain tank halfway (drain valve at the bottom)
- Locate upper and lower element access holes (usually on tank sides)
- Unbolt the failed element with a wrench
- Install new element (hand-tight, then wrench-tight)
- Refill tank
- Restore power
- Wait 30 minutes for the element to heat
Risks
- Electrical shock (always verify power is off)
- Cross-threading the new element (causes leaks)
- Misdiagnosis (thermostat vs element)
- Incorrect element type (must match amperage)
Professional Element Replacement
Cost: $150–$350
What’s included:
- Diagnosis (element vs thermostat)
- Correct element selection
- Safe installation with leak verification
- Post-install testing
When DIY Makes Sense
DIY if:
- You’re comfortable with electrical work
- You’ve drained a tank before
- The element has clearly failed
- You have the right tools
When to Call a Plumber
Call a pro if:
- You’re uncomfortable with electrical work
- You don’t own or trust a multimeter
- Water draining makes you nervous
- You want a warranty
- Diagnosis is unclear
Cost Comparison (10-Year Ownership)
| Scenario | Upfront | If Element Fails Again | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY (2x failures) | $160 | $160 | $320 |
| Professional (2x failures) | $700 | $700 | $1,400 |
| Mixed (DIY then pro) | $80 + $250 | — | $330 |
DIY can save $1,000+ over time, but one mistake can outweigh the savings.
Pre-Replacement Checklist
- Confirm power is off (multimeter test)
- Tank has cooled (ideally 24 hours)
- Element type matches your tank
- You have the correct element wrench
- The circuit breaker is clearly labeled
- Someone knows you’re working (safety precaution)
Find Local Help
If unsure, professional installation removes safety risks and includes a warranty.
- Salt Lake City: Water Heater Repair in Salt Lake City
- Browse all Utah cities: Find Water Heater Services Near You
FAQ
Can both elements fail at once?
Rarely. Usually one fails first. If both fail, check thermostat or electrical issues.
How do I know which element failed?
- No hot water: likely lower element
- Slow heating: likely upper element
A plumber can test both.
Is it OK to run with one failed element?
Temporarily, yes. Expect reduced hot water. Replace within a few days.
What if I cross-thread the new element?
You’ll see leaks around the element. Turn off power, drain, and reinstall properly.
Sources and Update Policy
This article reflects 2026 element costs and safety standards.
- Angi.com — Water Heater Repair Costs
- HomeGuide.com — Element Replacement Guide
- Carter’s My Plumber — Repair Cost Guide
- New Flow Plumbing — Element DIY Guide