need to change immersion element

[goateater]

hi all
had central heating off last week, and found that the immersion element does not work, so need to change it
the trouble is, its been in for 30 yrs, so i'm worried that locked in there
i dont want to find that by trying to take it out, i break the tank and have to replace it all just as cold weather starts
any tips to take out the element or should i leave it till next year

 

[kevplumb]

get a decent wrench

heat the boss first

dont be afraid to apply some percussive force

 

[Nige F]

Leave the cylinder/whole sytem full of water for initial loosening- you`ll only get a dribble of water out round immer. - then drain and unscrew - use ptfe round the threads when you re fit .