1. Produttu Finituview
The Reliance 9001954-045 is an upper electric thermostat designed for use with 2-element electric water heaters. This component includes an Energy Cut Off (ECO) feature, which acts as a high-limit safety control to prevent overheating. It is a 240V, double-pole (DP) thermostat, ensuring reliable temperature regulation for your water heating system.
This thermostat is specifically for the upper position in a two-element water heater configuration. In typical operation, the upper thermostat controls the upper heating element until the set water temperature is reached in the upper portion of the tank. Once this temperature is achieved, power is then transferred to the lower thermostat and its corresponding element to heat the remaining water in the tank.

Image 1.1: Reliance 9001954-045 Upper Electric Thermostat with ECO. This image displays the black thermostat unit with its wiring terminals and temperature adjustment dial.
2. Informazioni di sicurezza
ATTENZIONE: Installation and servicing of this thermostat involve working with high voltage electricity (240 Volts) and hot water. Improper installation or maintenance can result in electric shock, burns, fire, or other serious injury or property damage. Always follow these safety precautions:
- Disconnect Power: ALWAYS turn off the electrical power to the water heater at the main circuit breaker or fuse box before attempting any inspection, installation, or service. Verify power is off using a voltagè testatore.
- Hot Water Hazard: Be aware that water inside the tank can be extremely hot. Allow the water to cool or drain the tank if necessary before working on components.
- Personale qualificatu: If you are not comfortable or experienced with electrical work and plumbing, it is strongly recommended to hire a qualified electrician or plumber for installation and service.
- Strumenti adatti: Use insulated tools and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses and electrical gloves.
- Messa a terra: Ensure the water heater and all components are properly grounded according to local electrical codes.
- ECO Reset: The Energy Cut Off (ECO) button is a safety feature. If it trips repeatedly, it indicates a problem that needs to be diagnosed and resolved by a professional. Do not bypass or disable this safety device.
3. Cuntenutu di u pacchettu
U vostru pacchettu deve cuntene l'articulu seguente:
- One (1) Reliance 9001954-045 Upper Electric Thermostat with ECO
4. Specificazioni
| Feature | Specificazione |
|---|---|
| U fabricatore | Reliance |
| Part Number | 9001954-045 |
| Numeru di mudellu di l'articulu | 9001954-045 |
| Voltage | 240 Volts |
| Tipu di termostat | Upper Electric Thermostat with ECO |
| Applicazione | 2-element electric water heaters |
| Culore | Neru |
| Materiale | Plastica |
| Pesu di l'articulu | 4 once |
| Dimensioni di u produttu | 11 x 4 x 3 inch |
5. Istruzzioni di stallazione
This guide provides general instructions. Always refer to your specific water heater's manual for detailed wiring diagrams and safety procedures. Professional installation is recommended.
- Disconnect Power: Locate your water heater's circuit breaker in your home's electrical panel and switch it to the OFF position. Confirm there is no power to the water heater using a voltagè testatore.
- Termostatu d'accessu: Remove the access panel(s) on the side of your water heater. These panels are usually held by screws. Beneath the panel, you will find insulation and a protective cover over the thermostat. Carefully remove these.
- Identificà i fili: Note the existing wiring configuration of the old upper thermostat. Take a photograph for reference if needed. The wires are typically color-coded.
- Scollegà u vechju termostatu: Carefully disconnect the wires from the terminals of the old thermostat. Remove the old thermostat from its mounting clips.
- Installa un novu termostatu: Insert the new Reliance 9001954-045 thermostat into the mounting clips, ensuring it sits flush against the tank.
- Cunnette i fili: Connect the wires to the new thermostat's terminals, matching the configuration noted in step 3. Ensure all connections are secure and tight.
- Rimpiazzà e cuperture: Replace the protective cover over the thermostat and the insulation. Secure the outer access panel.
- Ripristina l'energia: Return to your electrical panel and switch the water heater's circuit breaker to the ON position.
- Operazione di prova: Allow the water heater to operate and heat water. Check for proper function and temperature regulation.
6. Operating Instructions
The Reliance 9001954-045 thermostat is designed for automatic operation once installed and powered. Its primary function is to maintain the water temperature within your electric water heater.
- Ajuste di temperatura: The thermostat features a dial for adjusting the desired water temperature. Typically, settings range from approximately 110°F to 140°F (43°C to 60°C). For safety and energy efficiency, a setting of 120°F (49°C) is often recommended to prevent scalding while providing sufficient hot water. Adjust the dial to your preferred temperature. Note that the markings on the dial may not be perfectly precise, and some trial and error with an external thermometer may be needed to achieve the exact desired temperature.
- Energy Cut Off (ECO) Button: This thermostat includes an ECO (also known as a high-limit control or reset button). This red button is a safety feature designed to trip and cut off power to the heating elements if the water temperature inside the tank exceeds a safe limit, typically around 180°F (82°C). If the ECO button trips, it indicates an abnormal condition. To reset it, firmly press the red button. If it trips repeatedly, do not continue to reset it without investigating the underlying cause, as this could indicate a serious malfunction. Contact a qualified technician.
7. Mantenimentu
Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and efficient operation of your water heater and its components.
- Ispezione annuale: Annually, with the power disconnected, inspect the thermostat and its wiring for any signs of corrosion, loose connections, or damage. Ensure the thermostat is securely seated in its clips.
- Dust and Debris: Keep the thermostat compartment free of dust and debris, which can interfere with proper operation or create fire hazards.
- ECO Test (Caution): Some manufacturers recommend periodically testing the ECO function. This typically involves carefully increasing the thermostat setting to a very high temperature to intentionally trip the ECO, then resetting it. However, due to the risk of scalding and potential damage, this procedure should only be performed by a qualified technician.
8. Risoluzione di prublemi
Before troubleshooting, always ensure the power to the water heater is OFF at the circuit breaker.
- Acqua micca abbastanza calda:
- Check if the thermostat dial is set too low. Adjust to a higher setting.
- Press the red ECO reset button on both the upper and lower thermostats (if applicable). If it clicks, it was tripped.
- Verify the circuit breaker for the water heater is ON.
- Inspect for loose or burned-out wiring connections at the thermostat or heating elements.
- A defective upper or lower thermostat, or a failed heating element, could be the cause.
- Water is Scalding Hot:
- The thermostat setting may be too high. Reduce the temperature setting.
- A defective thermostat may be locked in the ON position, continuously heating the water. This requires replacement.
- Water Never Gets Hot:
- Check the circuit breaker for the water heater; it may be tripped.
- Press the red ECO reset button on both thermostats.
- The upper thermostat may have failed, preventing power transfer to the lower element.
- One or both heating elements may have failed.
- Cablaggio allentato o danneggiato.
- Water Temperatures Vary Wildly:
- This can indicate inconsistent function of one or both thermostats, suggesting a need for replacement.
- Low Volume of Hot Water:
- The upper thermostat may be working, but failing to transfer power to the lower element, meaning only the top portion of the tank is heated.
- The lower thermostat or lower heating element may have failed.
- Thermostat settings may be too low.
- Circuit Breaker Trips Repeatedly:
- A short circuit in a heating element or wiring.
- A faulty thermostat.
- Cablu incorrettu.
- U wat tutaletage of both elements may exceed the circuit breaker's capacity if both were to operate simultaneously (though thermostats are designed to prevent this).
For any persistent issues or if you are unsure about performing repairs, contact a qualified plumber or electrician.
9. Garanzia è Support
The Reliance 9001954-045 Upper Electric Thermostat with ECO comes with a manufacturer's warranty. For specific details regarding warranty coverage, duration, and claims procedures, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact Reliance customer support directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty purposes.
For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or to inquire about replacement parts, please contact Reliance customer service.





