RHEEM Electric Upper Thermostat with High Limit SP11698

RHEEM Electric Upper Thermostat with High Limit SP11698

Restore precise temperature control to your electric water heater with the genuine Rheem PROTECH SP11698 Upper Thermostat — the most popular upper thermostat used in residential electric water heaters, engineered for accurate, reliable performance as a factory-authorized OEM replacement.

Product Overview

The Rheem SP11698 is a 2-Pole High Limit thermostat featuring both Normally Open and Normally Closed thermostat contacts (TOD style). This design is the most popular upper thermostat in residential electric water heaters. These water heaters often have a “non-simultaneous” design, which means only one element is on at any given time.

A thermostat controls the power to the heating elements — if the water in the tank is below the desired temperature, the thermostat turns on the heating element. This thermostat also includes a manual reset high limit.

Technical Specifications

Series: 59T/66T | Voltage: 208/240/277/480V | Switch Type: DPST/SPDT | Temperature Adjustment Range: 90°F to 150°F | Thermostat Differential: 17°F to 27°F | Accuracy: ±5°F | High Limit Setting: 170°F | High Limit Tolerance: ±5°F | High Limit Contact Configuration: DPST | High Limit Control: Manual Reset

Compatible with 72-30-2, 72V52-2, and 81GX66S/D residential electric water heaters.

Key Features & Benefits

• Genuine Rheem PROTECH OEM Part — factory-authorized component for exact fit and performance
• Most Popular Upper Thermostat — the go-to replacement for non-simultaneous design residential electric water heaters
• Wide Voltage Compatibility — operates at 208V, 240V, 277V, and 480V to suit a range of residential and light commercial installations
• Manual Reset High Limit Safety — automatically shuts off the heating element if tank temperature exceeds 170°F, protecting against overheating and scalding
• Precise Temperature Control — adjustable from 90°F to 150°F with ±5°F accuracy for consistent hot water delivery
• TOD-Style Design — industry-standard thermostat on demand (TOD) configuration for broad compatibility
• Durable Construction — built for long-lasting performance in demanding water heater environments
• Warranty Compatible — genuine Rheem parts help maintain your water heater’s warranty coverage

Compatible Applications

• Residential electric water heaters (non-simultaneous / single-element-at-a-time design)
• Commercial electric water heating systems
• 72-30-2, 72V52-2, and 81GX66S/D Rheem residential electric water heater models
• Ruud and Richmond brand electric water heaters (same parent manufacturer)

Installation Notes

• Turn off power at the breaker before beginning any repair — electric water heaters operate at 240V and can cause serious injury
• Remove the upper access panel and insulation to expose the thermostat
• Press the red manual reset button if tripped before replacing the unit
• Disconnect wiring, remove the old thermostat, and snap the new SP11698 into the bracket
• Reconnect wiring per the original configuration, replace insulation and access panel, then restore power
• Set desired temperature and test for proper hot water output

If you are unsure about electrical work, consult a licensed plumber or electrician.

Part Number: SP11698
Brand: Rheem / Rheem PROTECH
Series: 59T / 66T
Category: Water Heater Replacement Parts / Thermostats & Temperature Controls
Also Known As: Upper Thermostat, High Limit Thermostat, TOD Thermostat, Electric Water Heater Thermostat, Non-Simultaneous Thermostat, Upper Element Thermostat