Westinghouse electric storage tanks (WER series) use industry-standard surface-contact thermostats. Same architecture as Rheem, AO Smith, Bradford White, and Marathon. Universal aftermarket thermostats fit Westinghouse.
Upper thermostat (with ECO)
- Includes Emergency Cutoff (ECO) red reset button — trips at ~180°F
- Controls upper element AND transfers power to lower thermostat
- Setpoint range: 90-150°F (factory 120°F)
- Spring-clip mounting to tank shell contact plate
Lower thermostat
- Controls lower element only
- No ECO function
- Setpoint 90-150°F (factory 120°F)
- Same spring-clip mounting
Diagnosis
Multimeter continuity test:
- Disconnect leads at thermostat
- Check continuity across terminals when tank below setpoint
- Should show continuity (closed)
- Open when expected closed = stuck open; replace
- Continuity always present = stuck closed; replace (will trip ECO)
Replacement
- Power OFF at 240V breaker; verify with voltage tester
- Remove access cover
- Fold back insulation; remove safety cover
- Photograph wiring
- Disconnect leads
- Release spring clip; lift thermostat off (no draining required)
- Clean contact plate surface
- Press new thermostat firmly against plate — clean contact essential
- Reconnect leads per photo
- Verify dial position (factory 120°F)
- Replace cover; restore power
Cost
- OEM Westinghouse upper thermostat (with ECO): $20-35
- Universal Honeywell L4006A or Camco upper: $10-20
- Lower thermostat: $10-20
- Within 6-year parts warranty: Westinghouse covers thermostat
- Plumber labor if hired: $60-120
Bottom line
Universal thermostats fit Westinghouse. Always clean contact plate before installing. Upper is primary (controls all power); lower is dual-element only.