Step 4 · Install the New Heating Element
Before installing the new element, use a cloth or rag to wipe the threaded opening on the tank, removing any old gasket material or sediment. Unbox your new heating element and ensure its rubber O-ring or gasket is properly seated in its groove and is free of debris. Carefully thread the new element into the tank opening by hand, turning it clockwise. Hand-tightening first ensures that you don't cross-thread it, which could damage the tank. Once it's hand-tight, use the heating element wrench to give it a final quarter-turn to snug it up. This will compress the gasket and create a watertight seal.