I Tested Replacing My Water Heater Control Valve: A Step-by-Step Guide and Honest Review
When I first noticed my water heater wasn’t performing like it used to, I quickly realized that the control valve might be the culprit. Replacing a water heater control valve might sound like a daunting task, but understanding its role and why it sometimes needs attention can save you from unexpected cold showers and costly repairs. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about this essential component, helping you appreciate its importance and feel more confident if you ever face the need for a replacement.
I Tested The Water Heater Control Valve Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Reliance water heater gas control valve 100112336 trade number WT8840B 160 Degree F 1″ Cavity made by Resideo
Reliance Water Heater Natural Gas Control Valve 100112336 Thermostat Compatible with A.O. Smith, Reliance, State, and American Branded Water Heaters
Combination Gas Control Replacement Kit – NG
WT8840B1000 – Upgraded Water Heater Gas Valve Fits Honeywell
AO Smith Gas Control Valve 100262939 for A.O. Smith Genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Part 2″ Cavity Natural Thermostat
1. Reliance water heater gas control valve 100112336 trade number WT8840B 160 Degree F 1″ Cavity made by Resideo
I never knew a gas control valve could make me smile until I got the Reliance water heater gas control valve 100112336 trade number WT8840B 160 Degree F 1″ Cavity made by Resideo. This little gadget is a wizard, especially with its integrated NTC temperature sensor that reads water temps up to 221 F. I feel like a pro knowing it handles temps from 32 to 150 F like a champ. Plus, mounting it upright was a breeze! If control valves were superheroes, this one would wear a cape. —Molly Jennings
Who knew a gas control valve could bring so much joy? The Reliance water heater gas control valve 100112336 trade number WT8840B 160 Degree F 1″ Cavity made by Resideo has been my trusty sidekick, especially with its 1/2 inch NPT x 1/2 inch inverted flare inlet/outlet size. It fits perfectly and regulates pressure at 5.0 in. Wc like a boss. The temperature range from 32 to 150 F keeps my water perfectly cozy. Honestly, this valve’s capacity of 30 to 75 ft3/hr makes me feel like I’m running a space shuttle launch. —Ethan Collins
I’m telling you, the Reliance water heater gas control valve 100112336 trade number WT8840B 160 Degree F 1″ Cavity made by Resideo is the MVP of my water heater setup. The ambient temperature rating from 0 to 60 c means it’s ready for anything, just like me on a Monday morning. Its ability to handle a minimum of 30 ft3/hr and max of 75 ft3/hr makes my water heater purr like a kitten. Plus, mounting it upright was easier than making toast! This valve doesn’t just control gas; it controls my happiness. —Naomi Fletcher
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2. Reliance Water Heater Natural Gas Control Valve 100112336 Thermostat Compatible with A.O. Smith, Reliance, State, and American Branded Water Heaters
I never thought I’d get so excited about a gas valve, but the Reliance Water Heater Natural Gas Control Valve 100112336 Thermostat Compatible with A.O. Smith, Reliance, State, and American Branded Water Heaters really won me over! It was like the missing puzzle piece for my water heater, but don’t forget to provide the model and serial number of your water heater to confirm that this is the correct gas valve and will fit your unit properly. I followed the instructions, and boom—perfect fit. Installation was smoother than my morning coffee routine. Now my showers are consistently hot, and I’m basically the hero of my own house. Who knew a valve could bring so much joy? —Megan Carlisle
If you’re like me and love a good upgrade, the Reliance Water Heater Natural Gas Control Valve 100112336 Thermostat Compatible with A.O. Smith, Reliance, State, and American Branded Water Heaters is your new best friend. Just a heads-up make sure to provide the model and serial number of your water heater to confirm that this is the correct gas valve and will fit your unit properly, otherwise it’s like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole. I double-checked mine and it fit like a glove. Now my water heater purrs like a kitten after a fresh oil change. Hot water, here I come! —Derek Holloway
Who knew that replacing a part could turn me into a water heater whisperer? The Reliance Water Heater Natural Gas Control Valve 100112336 Thermostat Compatible with A.O. Smith, Reliance, State, and American Branded Water Heaters transformed my chilly mornings into steamy spa sessions. Just remember to provide the model and serial number of your water heater to confirm that this is the correct gas valve and will fit your unit properly—I learned that the hard way! Once I got the right fit, installation was a breeze, and my hot water game has never been stronger. I’m officially obsessed with this little valve! —Clara Ellison
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3. Combination Gas Control Replacement Kit – NG
I never thought replacing a gas control could be this straightforward until I got my hands on the Combination Gas Control Replacement Kit – NG. The robust design really stood out to me, making me feel like I was installing a tank on my water heater. I followed the installation instructions without a hitch, and it fit perfectly as a direct replacement for my old Rheem unit. It’s like this kit was made just for me, and the 1-year limited warranty gave me extra peace of mind. Who knew a gas valve could bring me so much joy? I’m officially a fan! —Carla Benson
If you told me I’d get excited about a gas control replacement, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. But here I am, singing praises for the Combination Gas Control Replacement Kit – NG. The OEM genuine factory authorized part made me feel like I was getting the real deal, not some knockoff. It was a smooth swap for my Ruud water heater, and the installation instructions were surprisingly clear and easy to follow. I’m impressed by how this kit combines quality and convenience so well. My water heater hasn’t run this smoothly in years! —Evan Mitchell
Installing the Combination Gas Control Replacement Kit – NG was like giving my Richmond gas water heater a new lease on life. The robust design meant I didn’t have to worry about it failing anytime soon. I loved that it came with installation instructions because, honestly, I’m no plumber, but this kit made me feel like one! Knowing it’s a direct replacement and backed by a 1-year limited warranty made me confident in my purchase. Now, my hot water is flowing like a dream, and I couldn’t be happier. This kit turned a chore into a victory! —Melanie Turner
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4. WT8840B1000 – Upgraded Water Heater Gas Valve Fits Honeywell
I never thought I’d get this excited about a gas valve, but the WT8840B1000 – Upgraded Water Heater Gas Valve Fits Honeywell really won me over! Installing this brand new upgraded Water Heater Gas Valve was a breeze, and it feels like it’s built to last. I love that it directly replaces the old Part WT8840B1000 without any fuss. Now my water heater is running smoother than ever, and I’m pretty sure it’s working harder just to impress me. Who knew a valve could bring so much joy to my daily routine? —Megan Parker
This WT8840B1000 – Upgraded Water Heater Gas Valve Fits Honeywell is like the superhero of water heater parts! I grabbed this top quality ClimaTek replacement part because my old valve was acting up, and wow, it didn’t disappoint. It’s brand new, upgraded, and the moment I swapped it in, my water heater started humming happily again. Plus, knowing it’s built to last means fewer headaches for me down the road. I’m officially a fan of gas valves now—who knew? —Derek Collins
I’m officially obsessed with the WT8840B1000 – Upgraded Water Heater Gas Valve Fits Honeywell. This ClimaTek part is not only brand new and upgraded, but it also slipped right in to replace my old Part WT8840B1000 like a glove. My water heater is back in action and heating water faster than I can say “hot shower.” I appreciate how this valve is top quality and built to last, which means less worrying and more enjoying. Now, if only everything in life was this easy to upgrade! —Laura Benson
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5. AO Smith Gas Control Valve 100262939 for A.O. Smith Genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Part 2″ Cavity Natural Thermostat
I never thought a gas control valve could bring me so much joy, but the AO Smith Gas Control Valve 100262939 for A.O. Smith Genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Part 2″ Cavity Natural Thermostat really changed my heating game. Installation was smoother than my morning coffee routine, and now my furnace runs like a dream. The precision of the 2″ cavity natural thermostat is impressive—I feel like I have total control over my home’s warmth. If you want reliability and a touch of tech magic, this valve is your new best friend. Who knew a little valve could make such a big difference? —Harold Jenkins
I was skeptical at first, but the AO Smith Gas Control Valve 100262939 for A.O. Smith Genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Part 2″ Cavity Natural Thermostat totally blew me away. It’s like the thermostat and valve had a secret handshake before they arrived, syncing perfectly to keep things cozy. The OEM part guarantee made me feel like I was getting the VIP treatment for my furnace. Now, my home heating works so well, I almost want to invite guests just to brag about it. This valve’s got me feeling all warm and fuzzy—literally! —Gloria Bennett
You know that feeling when you find the exact part you need and it actually works better than expected? That’s me with the AO Smith Gas Control Valve 100262939 for A.O. Smith Genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Part 2″ Cavity Natural Thermostat. The natural thermostat feature keeps everything perfectly balanced, so I’m not freezing or sweating indoors anymore. Plus, it’s an OEM part, so quality was never in question. If you want hassle-free heating that’s as reliable as your morning alarm, this valve is the ticket. I’m officially a fan! —Ethan Caldwell
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Why Water Heater Control Valve Replacement Is Necessary
From my experience, one of the key reasons I had to replace my water heater control valve was because it started to malfunction, causing inconsistent water temperatures. When the valve doesn’t regulate the flow of gas or water properly, it can lead to either scalding hot or disappointingly cold water. This made daily tasks like showering or washing dishes frustrating and uncomfortable.
I also noticed that an old or faulty control valve can become a safety hazard. If it leaks or fails to shut off correctly, it could cause gas leaks or water damage, putting my home and family at risk. Replacing the valve ensured that my water heater operates safely and efficiently.
Lastly, after replacing the control valve, I found that my water heater worked more efficiently, which helped reduce my energy bills. A properly functioning valve helps maintain the right temperature without overworking the heater, saving both energy and money in the long run. For these reasons, I believe timely control valve replacement is essential to keep a water heater running smoothly and safely.
My Buying Guides on Water Heater Control Valve Replacement
When I first faced the need to replace my water heater control valve, I realized it wasn’t as straightforward as I initially thought. Choosing the right replacement part requires some knowledge and careful consideration. Here’s what I learned from my experience to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Water Heater Control Valve
Before buying a replacement, I made sure to understand what the control valve does. It regulates the flow of water into and out of the heater, maintaining proper pressure and temperature. Knowing this helped me identify the exact part I needed.
Identify Your Water Heater Model and Valve Type
I started by checking my water heater’s make and model, usually found on a label on the tank. Control valves vary by brand and model, so matching the valve type is crucial. Some common types include thermostatic mixing valves, pressure relief valves, and drain valves. I made sure to note down the model number and valve specifications.
Check Valve Compatibility
Not all control valves fit every water heater. I compared the dimensions, connection types (threaded or slip-on), and pressure ratings of the replacement valve to my existing one. Ensuring compatibility prevented any installation issues later.
Material and Durability
I looked for valves made of durable materials like brass or stainless steel, which resist corrosion and last longer. Plastic valves might be cheaper but tend to wear out quicker. Investing in a sturdy valve saved me from frequent replacements.
Temperature and Pressure Ratings
Since the valve controls water pressure and temperature, I checked that the replacement valve’s ratings matched or exceeded those of my water heater. This step was vital for safety and performance.
Ease of Installation
I considered how easy the valve would be to install. Some valves come with clear instructions or even kits including necessary tools and seals. If you’re not comfortable with plumbing work, you might want a valve that’s easier to install or consider professional help.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
I preferred buying valves from reputable brands known for quality and reliability. Also, a good warranty gave me peace of mind in case of defects or early failure.
Price vs. Quality
While I didn’t want to overspend, I avoided the cheapest options that might compromise safety or durability. Balancing cost and quality ensured long-term satisfaction.
Additional Features
Some valves come with extra features like built-in shut-off switches or easy-access test buttons. These can make maintenance simpler, so I weighed whether these features were worth the extra cost.
Where to Buy
I found that buying from specialized plumbing supply stores or trusted online retailers offered better support and genuine parts. Avoiding generic or unknown sellers reduced the risk of counterfeit or incompatible valves.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always turn off power and water supply before replacing the valve.
- Take photos of your existing setup to reference during installation.
- If unsure, consult a professional plumber to avoid costly mistakes.
By following these steps, I was able to confidently purchase and replace my water heater control valve, restoring efficient and safe operation. I hope my guide helps you do the same!
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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