Can you run a 240v water heater on 208v?
Moderator. Essentially you have a dual wattage unit. If you want the unit to operate at 208 the same as 240, you need to up your watts which will probably mean upping your volts, if that makes sense.
How do I know which element is in my water heater?
When selecting element, buy same wattage or less wattage… keep volts the same. It is ok to install higher watt up to 5500 on 4500 watt heater if breaker is 30 amp and wire is 10 gauge. It is ok to install lower watt: replace 4500 with 3500 as long as voltage is same.
What voltage should a water heater element be?
Most residential electric water heaters use 240 volts. Their are single element water heaters that operate on 120 volts and single element water heaters that operate on 240 volts. Check the label on your water heater for the voltage rating. Breakers are usually labeled, however, they can be labeled wrong.
What size is a standard water heater element?
1-1/2 inch
Nearly all hot water heater element wrenches have a 1-1/2 inch hex to fit the standard 1-1/2 inch residential heating element head. In addition, they’re generally at least 5-inches long with cross holes drilled into the opposite end of the pipe so a screwdriver can be inserted for added torque.
Is 208V and 240V the same?
208V is *not* the same as 240V. 208V is the voltage between phases of a 3-phase “Y” circuit that is 120V from neutral to any hot. 480V is the voltage between phases of a 3-phase “Y” circuit that’s 277V from hot to neutral.
Will a 220 water heater run on 208?
The quick answer is NO, it will draw excessive amperage and burn out the heating elements. However, by use of a buck-boost transformer you CAN lower the input voltage from the initial 240 volts to 208 volts.
Are water heater elements brand specific?
A flange type is not as common in newer water heaters. If you can’t find one, look for an adapter kit. With this kit you can replace the old flange style with a newer screw type. In most cases you do not have to buy brand specific elements.
Are water heating elements Universal?
There are three types: screw in, bolt in and clamp in. They all have different wattage ratings and can work on either 120 or 240 voltage. Check your state and local codes before starting any project.