Camco 02103
Screw-in · 120 V
Low-output 120V screw-in choice with an 8-inch manufacturer-listed minimum tank diameter.
View exact elementCamco Water Heater Elements: 120V, 240V & Mounting Guide
An electric water-heater element must match the heater's voltage, wattage, mounting connection and internal tank clearance. Camco makes several high-watt-density replacement elements with similar shapes but different electrical and physical requirements. Compare these four manufacturer part numbers before choosing a replacement.
Three specifications that determine the correct replacement
Supply voltage and element wattage
Check the heater nameplate and original element. A 120-volt element is not the same electrical part as a 240-volt element, and higher wattage is not a permitted upgrade unless the heater maker specifies it.
Screw-in or flange connection
The 02103, 02143 and 02283 use screw-in mounting. The 04363 uses a universal flange arrangement. Confirm the element opening and mounting hardware before removal.
Tank diameter and clearance
The element must clear the inside of the tank. Camco's listed minimum tank diameters range from 8 inches for 02103 to 14 inches for 02283.
For RV water heaters: Many RV systems use 120-volt equipment, but model-to-model requirements vary. The 02283 is a 240/208-volt element and must not be treated as a 120-volt RV heater replacement. Verify the precise original heater model and element before buying.
Camco replacement element specifications
| Part number | Nominal supply | Element rating | Mounting | Minimum tank diameter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 02103 | 120 V | 1,000 W | Screw-in | 8 in |
| 02143 | 120 V | 1,500 W | Screw-in | 9 in |
| 04363 | 120 V | 1,500 W | Universal flange | 9 in |
| 02283 | 240/208 V | 3,500 W at 240 V; 2,500 W at 208 V | Screw-in | 14 in |
What's different between the 120-volt models?
02103: A 1,000-watt screw-in element designed for a 120V supply and an 8-inch minimum tank diameter. It is not a 1,500-watt substitute.
02143: A 1,500-watt screw-in element for 120V supply, with a 9-inch minimum tank diameter. Its screw-in mount differs from the flange-style 04363.
04363: Also 1,500 watts at 120 volts, but supplied as a universal-flange element with its gasket. Match the original flange and fastening layout; identical voltage and wattage do not make screw-in and flange assemblies interchangeable.
What about the 240/208-volt element?
02283: A screw-in element rated 3,500W at 240V or 2,500W at 208V, with a 14-inch minimum tank diameter. This is a different electrical application from the three 120V products. Only choose it for a heater specifically specified for that supply, load and connection.
Camco lists these models as high-watt-density elements and specifies a replacement gasket. The exact connection and manufacturer-approved replacement determine suitability; a generic water-heater label does not establish universal fit.
Camco water-heater elements by exact MPN
Camco 02143
Screw-in · 120 V
Higher-output 120V screw-in element; match the heater nameplate and existing threaded mount.
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Camco 04363
Universal flange · 120 V
Flange-mounted 120V element, not the screw-in 02143 even though the electrical rating matches.
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Camco 02283
Screw-in · 240/208 V
Higher-voltage screw-in element for heaters specifically rated for this electrical supply.
View exact elementReplacement and installation checks
Disconnect electrical power and follow the heater manufacturer's service instructions before draining or removing an element. Allow hot water to cool, inspect the original gasket and mounting surface, and use the correct replacement seal. After installation, refill the tank and purge trapped air before restoring power. Never energize an element in an empty tank; dry firing can damage it.
For an appliance-specific component breakdown, compare our Suburban SW6DE parts diagram or Atwood GC10A4E illustrated parts guide. These appliance references should be used to identify the original required components, not as a blanket fitment endorsement for the elements above.
Frequently asked questions
Can I replace a 1,000W element with a 1,500W model?
Only if the water-heater manufacturer explicitly permits the higher wattage and the electrical circuit and tank meet the required specifications. Do not upgrade wattage based on physical appearance.
Will a screw-in element replace a flange-mounted element?
Not as a direct substitution. Compare the original mounting arrangement, tank opening, gasket and manufacturer replacement specifications.
Can 02283 be powered by a 120-volt RV water heater circuit?
It is specified for 240V or 208V operation. Do not treat it as a verified replacement for a 120V RV appliance.
Does a higher-wattage element always heat more quickly?
Output depends on the rated supply and heater design. The electrical and tank nameplate limits take priority over any potential heating-speed change.
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