I am having a problem with a 66 Gal Rheem Elec WH. I want to know if some of you have had a similar problem. I installed this heater in Feb 2005 and have had two blow upper elements within the last two months. The first element came out in pieces with a hard almost ceramic coating on the outside of the element. The second was blown but not quite as badly covered with this hard coating.I have called the factory rep and he suggested putting in low density elements, but that still does not explain the hard coating of the elements, which I fear is playing a part in all this. The heater is located in a large commercial building and gets frequent usage, also is on a circulating pump, and the domestic water is not treated with a water softner, but otherwise is not exceptionally hard in this area. In appearance the element look like they have overheated and split the outer caseing and then shorted out. No chance of these being dry fired, and very unlikely due to lightning or electrical surge. Building is highly protected against both. Thanks for your help
- posted
18 years ago