AO Smith Electric Water Heater Wiring Diagram

If you’re looking for an electric water heater, you can’t go wrong with AO Smith – one of the top manufacturers of water heaters in the world. Their electric water heaters are known for their efficiency, durability, and ease of installation. In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at the wiring diagram for AO Smith electric water heaters. We’ll go over the different components, how they’re wired together, and some frequently asked questions about electric water heater installation.

The Components of AO Smith Electric Water Heater

Before we dive into the wiring diagram, let’s first take a look at the different components of an AO Smith electric water heater. These components include:

1. Heating Element: This component is responsible for heating the water in the tank. AO Smith electric water heaters typically have two heating elements – one at the top of the tank and one at the bottom.

2. Thermostat: The thermostat is what controls the temperature of the water in the tank. AO Smith electric water heaters typically have two thermostats – one for each heating element.

3. Dip Tube: The dip tube is a plastic tube that runs from the cold water inlet to the bottom of the tank. Its function is to direct cold water to the bottom of the tank where it can be heated by the heating element.

4. Anode Rod: The anode rod is a sacrificial rod made of aluminum or magnesium that is designed to corrode over time. Its function is to protect the tank from corrosion by attracting corrosive elements in the water.

5. Drain Valve: The drain valve is located near the bottom of the tank and is used to drain the tank for maintenance or repairs.

The Wiring Diagram for AO Smith Electric Water Heater

Now that we’ve covered the different components of an AO Smith electric water heater, let’s take a look at how they’re wired together. The wiring diagram for AO Smith electric water heater is shown below:

Component Wire Color Wire Gauge
Upper Thermostat Red 12
Lower Thermostat Black 12
Heating Element Black 10
Ground Green/Yellow 10

The wiring diagram shows that the upper and lower thermostats are wired in series with the heating elements. This means that if either thermostat fails, the corresponding heating element will not work. The ground wire is connected to the metal body of the water heater to prevent electrical shocks.

Wiring Instructions

Here are the step-by-step instructions for wiring an AO Smith electric water heater:

1. Turn off power to the water heater at the circuit breaker.

2. Remove the access panels on the water heater.

3. Connect the wires to the upper thermostat. The red wire goes to the terminal marked “L1” and the black wire goes to the terminal marked “L3”.

4. Connect the wires to the lower thermostat. The black wire goes to the terminal marked “L2” and the red wire goes to the terminal marked “L4”.

5. Connect the wires to the heating elements. The black wire goes to the terminal marked “1” and the red wire goes to the terminal marked “3”.

6. Replace the access panels on the water heater.

7. Turn on power to the water heater at the circuit breaker.

FAQs About Electric Water Heater Installation

Q: Can I install an electric water heater myself?

A: It is possible to install an electric water heater yourself, but it is recommended that you hire a professional plumber to do the job. The installation process involves working with electricity and water, both of which can be dangerous if not handled properly. A professional plumber will have the knowledge and experience to install the water heater safely and correctly.

Q: How long does it take to install an electric water heater?

A: The installation process typically takes between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the installation and the plumber’s experience.

Q: How much does it cost to install an electric water heater?

A: The cost of installation varies depending on the plumber you hire and the complexity of the installation. On average, you can expect to pay between $500 and $1,000 for installation.

Q: How long do electric water heaters last?

A: Electric water heaters typically last between 10 and 15 years. Regular maintenance and flushing of the tank can help extend the life of the water heater.

Q: Can I use a timer with my electric water heater?

A: Yes, you can use a timer with your electric water heater to save energy and reduce your utility bills. However, it’s important to make sure that the timer is compatible with your water heater and that it is installed correctly.

Q: How do I know if my electric water heater needs to be replaced?

A: Some signs that your electric water heater may need to be replaced include: water leaks, rust or corrosion on the tank, loud noises coming from the tank, and a decrease in the amount of hot water produced.

We hope this article has been informative and helpful in understanding the wiring diagram for AO Smith electric water heaters. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working with electricity and water. If you’re not comfortable working with these elements, it’s always best to hire a professional plumber.