Water cylinder thermost question

[mhar]

I have a customer who has an 18" thermostat in their water tank which periodically requires resetting. I went to replace this but am unable to put a new 18" one in as the tank is very close to the ceiling and the thermostat is withdrawn in an upward direction. I can get the 18" one out by bending (and probably breaking) it, I would be able to get a 7" one back in, maybe even an 11".

Obviously a 7" one would be reacting to the heat higher up than an 18" one, however I do not necessarily see this as a disadvantage. Am I missing something?

I have mailed a manufacturer to ask but not had any response from them

 

[sparksfly]

7" stat will switch off earlier than 18" up to temp.
Does the element have a plastic cap/lid ? metal ones dissipate the heat. Make sure no clothes are aired on/near the cap and it has space to breathe otherwise it will trip more frequently. If it is old then you do not have much choice....holesaw the ceiling so you can replace one via loft access if poss...future maintenance is important but often overlooked.

 

[mhar]

Thanks for the reply. It is a plastic lid.

Unfortunately above is a vaulted lathe and plaster ceiling

 

[brianmoooore]

Shorter 'stat isn't ideal, but will work OK. You're not the first to come across this problem.

 

[buzzlightyear]

Unfortunately above is a vaulted lathe and plaster ceiling

cut a hole in it ,and lift the element out .bend it, think you are uri geller .