Ruud SP11698 Thermodisc Snap-Disc Upper Thermostat

Ruud SP11698 Thermodisc Snap-Disc Upper Thermostat

The Ruud SP11698 is a Thermodisc-style upper thermostat designed as a replacement control component for Ruud residential water heaters. As the upper thermostat in a dual-element electric water heater system, this part is responsible for sensing tank water temperature at the upper heating element and cycling that element on and off to maintain the temperature setpoint selected by the homeowner or technician. Thermodisc snap-disc thermostats are a long-standing design used across the water heater industry for their simple, reliable bimetallic switching action, and the SP11698 is manufactured to work as a direct-fit replacement in applicable Ruud tank-style water heaters. This is a rough-in/behind-the-tank service part intended for licensed plumbers, HVAC technicians, and water heater service professionals performing repairs or routine maintenance - it is not a decorative or user-facing fixture.

Key Features

• Snap-Disc Thermostat Design: Uses a Thermodisc bimetallic snap-action mechanism to open and close the circuit to the upper heating element as tank water temperature rises and falls.
• Upper Element Position: Installed at the upper thermostat location on the water heater tank, controlling the upper heating element in dual-element electric configurations.
• Direct-Fit Replacement: Manufactured as part number SP11698 for use as a service replacement in compatible Ruud water heater models, simplifying maintenance and repair jobs for plumbing and service contractors.
• Behind-the-Tank Service Component: Mounts against the tank wall under an access panel, making it a rough-in style component intended for installation by a qualified technician rather than a homeowner-facing part.
• Compact Control Component: Straightforward, single-function thermostat control built for dependable cycling of the water heater's upper element during normal operation.

Technical Specifications

• Refer to manufacturer documentation for complete technical specifications.

Typical Applications

• Residential Electric Water Heater Repair
• Upper Thermostat Replacement on Dual-Element Tanks
• Water Heater Service and Maintenance Calls
• Plumbing and HVAC Contractor Repair Stock
• New Water Heater Installation Service Kits

Why Ruud?

Ruud is a long-established manufacturer of residential and commercial water heating equipment, and its OEM service parts - like the SP11698 Thermodisc upper thermostat - are built to match the fit and function of the original components installed in Ruud water heaters. Sourcing a genuine Ruud replacement thermostat helps technicians restore proper upper-element temperature control without guessing at compatibility. For plumbing and service professionals stocking water heater repair parts, the SP11698 offers a straightforward, purpose-built replacement option backed by the Ruud name.