Turn off power to the water heater at the breaker
Verify power is off with a non-contact voltage tester or multimeter
Remove the access panel and insulation
Remove the plastic safety cover over the thermostat and element terminals
Take a photo of the wiring before disconnecting anything
Disconnect the wires from the heating element terminals
Set a multimeter to the ohms setting
Place one probe on each heating element terminal
Check the resistance reading
Compare the reading to the expected value for the element’s wattage and voltage
Set the multimeter to continuity mode if available
Test from one terminal to the metal tank or element flange
Confirm there is no continuity to ground
Replace the element if the reading is open, very high, or shows continuity to ground
Reconnect the wires exactly as they were
Reinstall the safety cover, insulation, and access panel
Restore power to the water heater
Check for proper operation after testing