How long does it take to replace a hot water tank element?

Replacement of a water heater tank heating element should take around 30 minutes and is considered a job that can be done by most homeowners. Replacement elements can be purchased at hardware and home improvement stores, such as Ace Hardware and The Home Depot.

Step-by-step instructions with pictures and videos for changing a water heater element are available on various websites, including DiyNetwork.com and Water-Heater-Repair-Guide.com. Suggested tools that are need for this repair are a multimeter to check power, a garden hose to drain the hot water tank and a screwdriver. For screw-type elements, a water heater element wrench. All of the tools required should also be available at most hardware or home improvement stores.