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DURAWATT
®
ELECTRIC WATER HEATER
PV500-6 09/07 9
CLEANING ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
Electric immersion INCOLOY® sheath elements are wound at high wattage ratings and must be completely covered by
water while in operation. Otherwise, they overheat and burn out. Scale from the water will collect on the sheathing of the
element over a period of time and must be removed periodically to extend the life of the element. Water in some areas will
produce the scale buildup more rapidly than other areas. The rapidity of the scale buildup is also determined by the watt
density of the element.
It is good maintenance practice to remove and clean 80 W/in² (18kW) density elements on a monthly basis. The interval
between removal and cleaning can usually be extended to six months when 40 W/in² (9kW) density elements are
installed. Most installations where 20 W/in² (4 1/2kW) density elements are used, require only annual cleaning. Elements
are cleaned by soaking in a scale dissolving solution. A 30” piece of four or six inch PVC pipe with a cap on one end
makes an ideal container for element cleaning. (See figure 5.) Contact a chemical supply house for advice on the proper
cleaning solution for your area.
Element Cleaner
FIGURE 5