Whirlpool 140385 User Manual

5

If you lack the necessary skills required to properly install 
the electrical wiring to this water heater, do not proceed but 
have a qualifi ed electrician perform the installation.
When making the electrical connections, always make 
sure:

• 

The electrical supply has the proper overload fuse  or 
breaker protection.

• 

Wire sizes and connections comply with all applicable 
codes.

• 

Wiring enclosed in approved conduit (if required by 
local codes).

• 

The water heater and electrical supply are properly  
grounded.

Figures 3, 4, and 5 are provided as reference drawings 
for the 120/240v 2-wire models only. Always reference 
the wiring diagram located on the water heater for the 
correct electrical connections and 

connect the electrical 

supply to the water heater in accordance with local utility 
requirements and codes.

When installing the electrical wiring to the water heater:

1.  Be sure tank is completely filled with water before 

making any electrical connections. (See Figure 2)

2.  Disconnect the electric power. 
3.  Loosen the screw holding the junction box cover to the 

top of the water heater and set aside. 

4.  Connect the electrical supply to the water heater.  

A standard 1/2 inch opening has been made in the 
junction box for conduit connections. 

5.  Connect ground wire to green ground screw in the 

junction box of the water heater.  Reinstall the junction 
box cover.

Figure 3
120/240V 2-Wire Models

Junction Box

Cover

Ground

Wire

Conduit

White Wire (120V Models)
Red Wire (240V Models)

Black Wire

Green

Ground

Screw

Black

White

Approved Connectors

Figure 4
Wiring Diagram
120V Models Only

Overload
Protection

Neutral

Hot

Circuit
Breaker

To 120V
Power Supply

Electrical

Service Ground

Ground
Screw

Black

Red

Approved Connectors

Figure 5
Wiring Diagram
208/240v Models Only

Overload
Protection

To 208/240v

1 Phase

Power supply

Electrical
Service ground

L1

L2

Circuit
Breaker

Ground
Screw

NOTE: Applying electrical power to elements that are not submerged 
in water will destroy them. The manufacturer will not warranty any 
elements damaged in this manner.

Figure 2
Heating Element