
For replacing a faulty thermostat in a residential water heating unit, locate the upper access panel on the right side beneath the insulation. Remove screws with a #2 Phillips driver–six in total, spaced 1.25 inches apart. Lift the panel slowly to avoid damaging the attached wires; they’re color-coded: red to the reset button, yellow to the high-limit switch, and black to ground. Label each connection before disconnecting to ensure exact reassembly.








