Electrical Circuit Considerations For Water Heaters

';	I am replacing an electric water heater. The original is 240 volts. Can I install a 120 volts… © By: Dave Rongey

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Dedicated Circuit Requirements for Electric Water Heaters
Background: Lonnie, a Homeowner from Oxnard, CA
[ad#block]Question: I am replacing an electric water heater. The original is 240 volts. Can I install a 120 volts? What changes do I need to do? All help is appreciated.

Lonnie

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Lonnie.
Lonnie,Â due to the amount of wattage that a water heater requires a dedicated circuit would need to be installed sized according to the specifications of the water heater manufacturer. This circuit will be either 120 or 240 volts. If there is an existing dedicated circuit with the correct size wire for the new water heater then the circuit can be converted either way by identifying the circuit wiring at both the electrical panel and the water heater location, color coding the wires appropriately and connecting the wiring to the required circuit breaker which is sized correctly to protect the wiring. Terminations to the circuit breaker and the neutral terminal will need to be adjusted for the specified required voltage configuration. Be aware that a 120 volt water heater is less energy efficient than a 240 volt water heater.

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Please Note:
Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects:

Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor.

Electrical Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.

Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area.

Precaution:
Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.

Important:
Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.