What are the steps involved in changing the element in my hot water heater?

 

A. Turn off power at breaker panel.
B. Turn off cold water supply to heater.
C. Drain tank by attaching hose to spigot at bottom of tank (open a hot water faucet somewhere to allow air into system, so that it will drain faster).
D. Disconnect wires from element, and unscrew element or element bolts (whichever type that you have).
E. Take element to store and get an exact duplicate one.
F. Install new element, attach wires, close spigot, open cold water supply valve until water has refilled tank and all air is purged through the hot water faucet that you opened earlier.
G. When you're getting a normal full flow out of the faucet, close faucet, and turn your breaker back on. Viola!
Good Luck!