1331XN Generic 3600W Bolt-On Water Heater Element, Universal Electric Hot Water System Part

1331XN is a generic 3600W bolt-on element for electric water heaters. A bolt-on element is fixed to the tank with bolts rather than screwed into a threaded opening, so the mounting style matters as much as the wattage when choosing a replacement. It's an aftermarket part, not made by any one heater brand. Check the details on your old element and the heater's rating plate to confirm 1331XN is the right match.

Signs your water heater element has burnt out

Inside an electric storage heater, the element sits in the tank and heats the water whenever the thermostat calls for it. A failed element usually means the water stays cold, or warms only slightly overnight on an off-peak tariff. If the element sheath splits, water can reach the heating coil and trip the safety switch or circuit breaker. Scale build-up in hard water areas makes elements run hot and fail sooner. Resistance and insulation tests, done with the power isolated, will confirm whether the element or the thermostat is at fault.

Part details

• Generic replacement element, part 1331XN
• 3600W rating
• Bolt-on mounting
• For electric water heaters

Fitting a bolt-on element

This is fixed wiring work, so it must be carried out by a licensed electrician. Isolate the heater at the switchboard, shut the cold water isolation valve and drain the tank below the element. Fit a new gasket where one is needed and tighten the bolts evenly so the flange seals without distorting. Refill the tank completely and bleed air from a hot tap before turning the power back on.

Questions about this part

How do I know if I need a bolt-on or screw-in element?

Look at how your old element attaches to the tank. A bolt-on element is held by bolts through a flange, while a screw-in type threads straight into the tank. 1331XN is the bolt-on style, rated at 3600W.