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)
ScenarioUpfrontIf Element Fails AgainTotalDIY (2x failures)$160$160$320Professional (2x failures)$700$700$1,400Mixed (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
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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