How do you replace heating elements on electric hot water heater?

Answer 1

most water heaters rust out from the bottom or at he top where the pipes lead into them. the amount of time and effort to try and fabricate a fix would not serve the owner unless he had no choice. replacing the unit is the standard way to fix these.
sometimes the gas regulator can go bad and these can be replaced.

Answer 2

Turn off the water to the tank. Turn off the power to it. Drain the tank. There should be two elements in the tank, they are both on the front in line with the control one at the top and one just above the control. It is usually the top on that goes, but it can be either. Disconnect the wires going to the element and unscrew it. You should be able to buy a socket that fits the element where you get the new one. Take out the old one, put some pipe dope or Teflon tape on the threads of the new one and screw it in. Hook up the wire, refill the tank and turn on the power. You just saved yourself $100 plus.

Answer 3

You first turn OFF the power to tank, then attach a hose pipe to the bottom fitting, lead it outside or to any drain, turn on the valve by it, turn OFF your inlet valve and open the relief valve so air can enter the H/W tank.Let the whole tank empty -takes about 30 -40 minutes. Now cut both pipes at a suitable distance from the tank, I usually cut them about a foot away. Check electrical with a meter to make SURE it's off, then disconnect wires. Now you can remove this tank and fit the new one in place. Unscrew the old inlet fittings and fit them on the new tank. Join them to the pipes you've cut with brass unions or Sharkbites. I usually orient the tank so all older parts can be used if they are good. If not then replace them. When all pipes are joined and sealed then turn on water to check for leaks. Only after the leak check do you re-connect the electricity. DO NOT turn it on until a meter check for grounds and until water is full.

If any of this is unfamiliar to you, PLEASE call a plumber or competent handyman to do it.