Uploaded September 2020 | Updated September 2026, 5 hours ago
My workshop (garage) is primarily heated with solar hot water pumped through a radiant floor. But sometimes I need a little boost. This past winter we experienced some back-to-back snow storms which covered the solar panels. When the garage got cold I went to the back-up system, the electric water heater. But it wasn't working.
Next I diagnosed the top element was burned out and share with you replacing the hot water heater tank upper element. I used a 4500 watt element, 240v, which is what the tank came with originally.
After replacing the element I added a gallon of anti-freeze (glycol) because it has corrosion inhibitors. Hopefully this will help the system last longer. I'm not sure this is the best stuff, but I don't think it can hurt. homedepot.com/p/Cryo-Tek-1-Gal-Antifreeze-35253/100152490
I'm not a professional plumber, and I probably made some mistakes. I like to DIY (do it yourself) and am always learning. Please share any tricks and tips you know in the comments below.
Garage Build Playlist: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVe7nJBrjHReWHB2-Bv1jd4qUM-EJ0_1Q
If you would like to help support this channel please check out this link: patreon.com/DavidPoz
Amazon Affiliate Links:
Element Wrench: amzn.to/2F5IjNz
4500w Element: amzn.to/3jMhDR0
“As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.”
Disclaimer:
My videos are in no way intended to be instructional "how-to" lessons. I am simply documenting my project for informational purposes. Property damage, personal injury, or death may result, even when following manufacturer's instructions. I cannot be held liable for such damage or injury. It is YOUR OBLIGATION to ensure that you are complying with any local and federal laws as well as code and permit requirements.
My workshop (garage) is primarily heated with solar hot water pumped through a radiant floor. But sometimes I need a little boost. This past winter we experienced some back-to-back snow storms which covered the solar panels. When the garage got cold I went to the back-up system, the electric water heater. But it wasn't working.
Next I diagnosed the top element was burned out and share with you replacing the hot water heater tank upper element. I used a 4500 watt element, 240v, which is what the tank came with originally.
After replacing the element I added a gallon of anti-freeze (glycol) because it has corrosion inhibitors. Hopefully this will help the system last longer. I'm not sure this is the best stuff, but I don't think it can hurt. homedepot.com/p/Cryo-Tek-1-Gal-Antifreeze-35253/100152490
I'm not a professional plumber, and I probably made some mistakes. I like to DIY (do it yourself) and am always learning. Please share any tricks and tips you know in the comments below.
Garage Build Playlist: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVe7nJBrjHReWHB2-Bv1jd4qUM-EJ0_1Q
If you would like to help support this channel please check out this link: patreon.com/DavidPoz
Amazon Affiliate Links:
Element Wrench: amzn.to/2F5IjNz
4500w Element: amzn.to/3jMhDR0
“As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.”
Disclaimer:
My videos are in no way intended to be instructional "how-to" lessons. I am simply documenting my project for informational purposes. Property damage, personal injury, or death may result, even when following manufacturer's instructions. I cannot be held liable for such damage or injury. It is YOUR OBLIGATION to ensure that you are complying with any local and federal laws as well as code and permit requirements.
