Rheem is one of the top-selling water heater brands in North America. Here are the most common failures and the parts you need.
No Hot Water (Electric)
### Upper Thermostat or Element Electric water heaters have two elements and two thermostats. If you have no hot water at all, the upper thermostat or element has failed. The upper thermostat is the master — it must work for either element to function. Cost: Thermostat $10-20, Element $10-25.
### Reset Button Tripped The upper thermostat has a red reset button. If it has tripped, there may be a shorted element causing water to overheat. Press reset, but if it trips again, test both elements.
No Hot Water (Gas)
### Thermocouple or Flame Sensor If the pilot will not stay lit, the thermocouple is the most common cause. It is a safety device that shuts off gas if no flame is detected. Cost: $8-20.
### Gas Valve If the thermocouple is good but gas does not flow to the burner, the gas valve assembly may have failed. Cost: $80-150.
Not Enough Hot Water
### Dip Tube The dip tube directs cold incoming water to the bottom of the tank. If it breaks, cold water mixes with hot water at the top, giving you lukewarm output. Cost: $8-15.
### Sediment Buildup Sediment at the bottom of the tank insulates the water from the burner or element, reducing heating efficiency. Flush the tank by connecting a garden hose to the drain valve.
Leaking
### T&P Relief Valve The temperature and pressure relief valve on the side of the tank may leak if it is defective or if water pressure is too high. Cost: $10-25.
### Tank Itself If the tank is leaking from the bottom, the inner liner has corroded through. The tank must be replaced — there is no repair for a leaking tank.
Finding Rheem Parts
Search your Rheem model number on PartHawk to find thermostats, elements, gas valves, and every other part across all major suppliers in one search.