[brokenhammer]

So, I have drained out the tank and am ready to swap out the lower element. The problem is that some water has gotten inbetween the outer shell of the tank and the tank itself, in and by the area where I access the element part. Is there any major danger of turning the tank back on if there's moisture in this part? Also, can someone tell me how I can accelerate the drying process in this part, if there are any tricks?
The tank is a whirlpool, and is less than 3 years new!

thanks so much for any insights.

 

[Bob Mariani]

Use a fan and/or a dehumidifier near the area to dry it out. But drying it is not required.

 

[DangerMouse]

be sure to open hot water faucets before/while refilling or you'll be out buying another element......

DM

 

[COLDIRON]

drying time

Try a portable hair blow dryer the kind the chicks use OH ! Excuse me guys to sometimes.

 

[al's sewer]

be sure to open hot water faucets before/while refilling or you'll be out buying another element......

DM

do not turn electric back on until the tank is full of water or you will blow the elements again. just push away any of the wet insulation away from the element so none of it touches the electrical wires.

 

[AllanJ]

Water should be gushing from a faucet where only the hot is turned on, before you turn on the water heater. (Preferably you should also feel vibration from the hot outlet pipe at the water heater proving that water has filled the tank and is running through.)

You can leave the hatch cover off the heater to speed up drying of the insulation between the tank and the outer shell.

 

[DangerMouse]

sorry, i should have said BEFORE turning the power back on...... i'm sure the OP would understand, but maybe not.....

thanks al(s)

DM