On Fri, 30 Nov 2007 07:19:41 -0800, allisonjohnson wrote:

The lower element on my sears water heater is not working -- it looks as
if one of the wires has melted. I'd like to replace it but im wondering
how difficult it is to do. Can anyone let me know?

Also, i have a upper element part but not a lower. Are these
interchangable or do i need to buy a lower element.

thanks for any help.

If a typical electric hot water heater,

turn off power at the fuse box
turn off water to the unit
open hot water faucet in basement or kitchen
connect hose to drain spigot on tank and then put hose in floor drain
drain tank to level below element
remove element wires
remove element: some require a special wrench, easily obtained at store
caulk thread of new element with pipe dope suitable for high temps
remount element
reconnect wires
close drain valve
turn water back on
when water comes out of faucet, turn off faucet
check for leaks
turn power back on

There should be a label on the unit indicating size/wattage of element.
Stick with those recommendations/limits. If you are in doubt, take old
element when you buy new one.

It's this simple: 1-2 hours depending on your skills and problems along
the way.