Kenmore 153.31242 - Manual (Page 17)

The water passing out of the drain valve may be extremely hot.
To avoid being scalded, make sure all connections are tight and
that the water flow is directed away from any person.
4. Remove the screw securing the access panel, then remove
the panel.
5. Fold the insulation back to expose the thermostat.
FIGURE 34.
Lift out the tab as shown to unclip the terminal cover from the
thermostat. The terminal cover can now be removed from
the thermostat.
7. Disconnect the two wires on the element and unscrew the
old element from the tank.
8
.
9.
FIGURE 36.
Clean the area around the element opening. Remove any
sediment from or around the element opening, inside the
tank.
If you are cleaning the element you have removed, do so by
scraping or soaking in vinegar or a de-liming solution.
A WARNING
«
Fire Hazard and
Electric Shock Hazard
• Do not use replacement elements with
any voltage other than shown on the
model rating plate.
• Failure to use the correct voltage shown
on the model rating plate could result in
death, serious bodily injury, or property
damage.
Replacement elements must (1) be the same voltage and (2)
no greater wattage than listed on the model rating plate affixed
to the water heater.
10
.
A new gasket should be used in all cases to prevent a
possible water leak. (See Element Gasket in the Repair Parts
List Chart). Place the new element gasket on the thread side
of the cleaned or new element and screw into tank, securing
tightly using an element wrench.
FIGURE 37.
11. Close the water heater drain valve by turning the handle to
the right (clockwise). The drain valve is on the lower front of
the water heater.
12. Open the cold water supply valve to the water heater.
NOTE: The cold water supply valve must be left open when the
water heater is in use.
13. To insure complete filling of the tank, allow air to exit by
opening the nearest hot water faucet. Allow water to run until
a constant flow is obtained. This will let air out of the water
heater and the piping.
CAUTION
Improper installation and use may result
in property damage.
Fill tank with water before operation.
17