Water Heater · Rheem
Rheem replacement elements
Rheem, Ruud and Richmond tanks are built on shared platforms, so an element that fits one frequently fits the others in the same capacity and wattage.
Rheem element specifications
Typical ranges across the Rheem lines we see most. Always confirm against your own rating plate.
Where to find the data tag on a Rheem
On the side of the tank jacket, usually a vertical silver label near the top. The element wattage is also stamped into the flange of the element itself, visible once the access panel and insulation come off.
Model series we supply
- Professional Classic
- Performance
- Performance Platinum
- Marathon
What is specific about Rheem
Rheem, Ruud and Richmond tanks are built on shared platforms, so an element that fits one frequently fits the others in the same capacity and wattage. Confirm by wattage and mount rather than by brand name alone. Marathon models are the exception, their non-metallic tank uses a specific element and gasket arrangement that is not interchangeable with steel-tank Rheem units.
Also sold as Ruud, Richmond
These brands share manufacturing platforms with Rheem, and elements frequently cross over between them when wattage, voltage and mount match. We verify against your specific model rather than assuming — sharing varies by generation and product line.
How Rheem elements typically fail
- Sediment burial on the lower element in hard-water areas, causing repeat lower-element failures while the upper stays fine
- Dry-fire damage during tank refill after service, which destroys a copper element in seconds
- Thermostat drift causing the element to cycle far more than designed
Confirm before you order
Test the element before replacing it. A meaningful share of "dead element" calls turn out to be a thermostat, sequencer or limit switch, and the test takes ten minutes with a multimeter. Our resistance test tool tells you what your reading means.
What to send us for a Rheem quote
- Model and serial from the rating plate
- Voltage and wattage, if legible
- A photo of the old element, especially the terminal end
- What the equipment is doing — or failing to do
If the plate has faded past reading, our model number guide covers the other places manufacturers record it.
Rheem element questions
Will a Ruud or Richmond element fit my Rheem tank?
Usually yes. The three brands share manufacturing platforms, so elements matched by wattage, voltage and mount style commonly cross over. We confirm against your specific model rather than assuming, because capacity and tier still change the fit.
My Rheem Marathon needs an element. Is it the same part?
No. The Marathon uses a polybutene tank rather than glass-lined steel, and its element and gasket arrangement is specific to that line. Tell us it is a Marathon and we will match the correct part.
Where do I find the model number on a Rheem water heater?
Look for the vertical rating label on the side of the tank jacket toward the top. It carries the model and serial together. If the label has faded, the element wattage is stamped on the element flange itself behind the access panel.
Get a quote
Get a Rheem element quote
Send the model and serial, or a photo of the rating plate. We confirm the exact fit in writing before anything ships.