Reliance 650DORT water heater Parts

A Reliance tank-style electric water heater like model 650DORT typically lasts 8 to 12 years. With consistent maintenance (flushing sediment and replacing wear parts like the anode rod and thermostats), it commonly reaches the high end of that range.

Typical lifespan ranges (what to expect)

Most residential tank water heaters fall into these ranges:

Water heater type	Typical life expectancy	What usually ends it
Electric tank (like 650DORT)	8 to 12 years	Tank corrosion, element failure, thermostat issues
Gas tank	8 to 12 years	Tank corrosion, burner/venting wear
Tankless	15 to 20 years	Scale buildup, component wear

What shortens or extends life

These factors have the biggest impact on how long your 650DORT lasts:

• Water quality: Hard water speeds up scale buildup on the heating element.
• Sediment: Heavy sediment makes the heater work harder and can overheat elements.
• Anode rod condition: A worn anode rod lets the tank corrode faster.
• Temperature setting: Higher settings increase stress on components.
• Maintenance frequency: Regular draining and inspection prevents early failures.

Maintenance that adds years

We recommend these practical steps for a tank electric water heater:

• Drain and flush the tank periodically to reduce sediment (see how to drain the tank on an electric water heater video).
• Inspect and replace the anode rod on schedule (see how to replace an electric water heater anode rod).
• Replace failed heating components promptly, such as the element 100108283 or thermostats.
• Keep access covers installed and insulation in place, including the access panel 100109599.
• Watch for early warning signs: rumbling/popping, rusty hot water, slow recovery, or fluctuating temperatures.

Why it matters

Once a tank begins to corrode internally, performance drops and leaks become more likely. Replacing common wear parts early (anode rod, heating element, thermostat) helps protect the tank itself, which is the most expensive part to lose.

You can order replacement parts for your Reliance 650DORT from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

The most common problem we see with water heaters like the Reliance 650DORT is sediment and mineral buildup in the tank, which reduces heating efficiency and can cause rumbling or popping noises. The next most common issue is loss of hot water from a failed heating element or thermostat.

What “most common” looks like in real symptoms

• Not enough hot water or hot water runs out fast
• Rumbling, popping, or crackling sounds during heating
• Fluctuating water temperature (hot then lukewarm)
• Slow recovery (takes longer to reheat)
• Water around the heater (from fittings, valve connections, or the tank)

Quick checks we recommend first (electric water heater)

1. Confirm power: check the breaker and that the heater is receiving power.
2. Look for obvious leaks: inspect the drain valve area and plumbing connections.
3. Listen for sediment noise: rumbling during a heat cycle points to scale buildup.
4. Check temperature consistency: swings often point to a thermostat or element issue.

Common causes and the parts that typically fix them

Symptom	Most common cause	Parts you may need for Reliance 650DORT
No hot water	Failed element, tripped high-limit, wiring issue	Element 100108283, thermostat 100108683
Water too hot or unstable temp	Thermostat out of calibration or sticking	Thermostat 100108421 or thermostat 100108683
Rumbling/popping	Sediment buildup on element and tank bottom	Flush tank; element replacement if scaled (element 100108283)
Premature corrosion/odor	Worn anode rod	2-way 100109624

Why it matters

Sediment buildup makes the heater work harder, which increases energy use and shortens the life of heating components. Catching a weak element, drifting thermostat, or a depleted anode rod early helps prevent “no hot water” surprises and reduces the chance of water damage.

Helpful DIY guidance and ordering parts

For step-by-step troubleshooting and repair help, use our DIY resources like water heater common questions. You can order replacement parts for your Reliance 650DORT from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

The model number for your Reliance electric water heater is printed on the rating label (data plate) attached to the tank. On most units like the Reliance 650DORT, that label is on the side of the tank behind an access panel or near the top where the plumbing connections enter.

Where to look on a Reliance electric water heater

Check these common label locations first:

• Side of the tank, behind the upper access panel
• Side of the tank, behind the lower access panel
• Near the top of the tank, close to the hot and cold water pipes
• Near the electrical junction box or power cable entry
• On the outside jacket, a few inches above the upper thermostat area

If you need to remove a cover to look, turn off the circuit breaker first.

What you should write down (and why)

For parts lookup and correct fit, we recommend recording:

• Model number (example: 650DORT)
• Serial number (helps identify production run)
• Voltage and wattage (commonly listed for the heating elements)
• Tank capacity (gallons)
• Element type (screw-in or bolt-in, if listed)

Quick ID checklist

Item on label	What it helps with
Model number	Matching diagrams and parts list
Serial number	Confirming exact version
Wattage/voltage	Selecting the correct heating element and thermostat

Why it matters

Reliance water heaters often use different thermostats, elements, and access panels across similar-looking tanks. Using the exact model number helps you avoid ordering the wrong heating element or thermostat for your wiring and wattage.

If you are already working in the access area, the parts list for this model includes items like the thermostat 100108683 and element 100108283.

Last updated: March 2026