Rheem
Insufficient Hot Water Capacity / Single Element or Burner Operation
Rheem water heater has hot water for a few minutes, then quickly turns lukewarm or cold
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Failed lower heating element (electric), Broken dip tube, Thermostat miswiring, Sediment reducing effective capacity
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Turn OFF power (electric) or set gas control to PILOT/OFF (gas) before servicing.
- Electric models: Test both upper and lower elements and thermostats. If the lower element is open, replace it. Ensure wiring between thermostats is correct per Rheem diagram.
- Check dip tube: Turn off water, relieve pressure, and remove the cold inlet nipple. Inspect the plastic dip tube; if broken or missing, replace with a Rheem-compatible dip tube.
- Flush sediment: Drain several gallons from the tank until water runs clear. Heavy sediment can reduce usable hot water volume.
- Adjust temperature: Set thermostats to 120°F–125°F and ensure both are set to the same temperature.
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Repair Difficulty
Medium
3/5
Required Part
Lower Heating Element
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