Ruud SP11698 Thermodisc Snap-D...
IN STOCK (leaves warehouse same day if ordered before 3pm ET)
$20.32
Ruud SP11698 Thermodisc Snap-Disc Upper Thermostat

Ruud SP11698 Thermodisc Snap-Disc Upper Thermostat

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Model: SP11698

In Stock (leaves warehouse same day if ordered before 3pm ET)

$20.32
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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.

Manufacturer Resources

Product Specs

list_batch:
RUU-20260924
Product Type:
Thermostat
Department:
Plumbing
Product Subgroup:
Water Heater Parts

Ruud SP11698 – Frequently Asked Questions

1) Is the Ruud SP11698 the upper or the lower thermostat on an electric water heater?
The SP11698 is the upper thermostat. It mounts at the upper thermostat location against the tank wall and controls the upper heating element in a dual-element electric water heater. If you are chasing a fault on the lower element, this is not the part you need, you want the lower thermostat for that position.
2) Will the Ruud SP11698 fit a Rheem, AO Smith, or Bradford White heater?
The SP11698 is sold as a direct-fit replacement in compatible Ruud tank-style electric water heaters. Fit on other manufacturers' tanks is not something Ruud states for this part, so match the thermostat to the Ruud model you are servicing rather than cross-applying it.
3) Should I replace both thermostats when the upper one fails on a dual-element heater?
The SP11698 covers only the upper position. Many service techs replace the matching lower thermostat and check both elements on the same call, since a scorched upper thermostat often points to a shorted element or dry-fired element. The SP11698 alone restores upper-element temperature control; it does not include a lower thermostat or an element.
4) How does a snap-disc thermostat like the SP11698 actually control the element?
It is a bimetallic snap-action switch. As tank water temperature at the upper element rises, the disc snaps and opens the circuit to that element; as the water cools below setpoint, it snaps closed again. No electronics, no calibration, single-function control, which is why the design has stayed in use across the water heater industry.
5) Is the SP11698 a good part to carry on the truck for water heater service calls?
It is a common repair-stock item. The upper thermostat is one of the parts that fails on residential electric tanks, and this one is listed for contractor repair stock, service and maintenance calls, and new installation service kits. Keeping one on the van means a no-hot-water call can be closed the same visit instead of coming back.
How fast can I get the Ruud SP11698 delivered?
Most orders ship the same day from our distribution partners, with quick delivery throughout the continental U.S. Need it urgently? Contact Us for expedited shipping options.
Can I return it if it doesn’t work for me?
Yes—ZenSupply offers a hassle-free return policy. If the product isn’t the right fit, reach out to our support team for a return authorization or setup a return by following our return instructions.
Does the Ruud SP11698 come with a warranty?
Absolutely. The Ruud SP11698 is backed by a manufacturer’s warranty. For full warranty terms, check the product documentation or Contact Us.
How do I get technical support or installation help for the Ruud SP11698?
You can call, text, or email our expert support team for fast answers. We’re here to help with product selection, installation tips, and troubleshooting. Contact Us
Why buy the Ruud SP11698 from ZenSupply?
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