A hot water heater temperature control valve should match the heater’s fuel type, brand, and exact model. For Rheem-family natural gas heaters, the SP20867C kit is the model-specific option in this lineup; the SP20832E is another Rheem natural gas control thermostat. The Reliance and Resideo WT8840B valves may suit buyers checking specific replacement numbers, while the 110-326 valve lists broad compatibility but requires careful verification. Confirm the existing part number and heater model before ordering, and use a qualified professional for gas-valve installation.
| Product | Best suited for | Key detail |
|---|---|---|
| Rheem SP20867C | Owners of listed Rheem-family models | Includes valve and instructions |
| Rheem SP20832E | Buyers seeking a Rheem OEM control thermostat | Controls gas flow and water temperature |
| Reliance 100112336 by Resideo | Buyers matching the WT8840B part number | 160°F rating; 1-inch cavity |
| Reliance 100112336 thermostat | Owners of listed A.O. Smith-family brands | Professional installation advised |
| 110-326 valve | Buyers checking for a copper-probe replacement | Metal construction and copper probe |
Rheem SP20867C Natural Gas Valve Kit
The SP20867C is a natural gas water heater control valve kit. Its listed contents are a gas valve and installation instructions. The product information identifies it as a direct replacement for Rheem, Ruud, and Richmond gas water heaters, and names several example models, including XG40T06EN38U1, 6G40-38FN4, and XG75T06EN76U1.
Best for: Owners of a listed Rheem-family natural gas heater who can verify the model number against the replacement part. The named model examples and included instructions make this a more model-focused choice than a valve described only as broadly compatible.
Limitation: The listed compatibility is not universal. Do not assume it fits every Rheem, Ruud, or Richmond heater; compare the full model and existing part number before purchase. The listing identifies a gas valve, so professional installation is a prudent choice.
Rheem SP20832E Control Thermostat
The Rheem SP20832E is described as a natural gas control thermostat and a genuine OEM replacement part. Its stated functions are controlling gas flow from the main supply line to the burner and regulating water temperature for hot-water delivery.
Best for: Buyers whose heater documentation or existing component identifies SP20832E as the required part. The OEM designation and clearly stated control functions make it relevant when the goal is to replace a Rheem thermostat rather than choose a generic valve by appearance.
Limitation: The supplied product information does not list compatible heater models or kit contents. Verify the exact model and part number before ordering; the Rheem name alone does not establish fit for every Rheem water heater.
Resideo WT8840B 160°F Gas Control Valve
This Reliance water heater gas control valve is identified by trade number WT8840B and part number 100112336. The listing specifies a 160°F temperature rating and a 1-inch cavity. It also gives an ambient temperature range of 0°C to 60°C.
Best for: Buyers who have confirmed that their existing valve or heater documentation calls for part 100112336 or WT8840B and matches the listed dimensions and rating. The clear part identifiers help narrow a replacement search.
Limitation: The available product details do not identify a compatible heater-model list. Do not use the 160°F rating or 1-inch cavity alone to determine fit; confirm the complete replacement specification for the heater.
Reliance 100112336 Gas Control Thermostat
This natural gas control valve thermostat is identified as part 100112336 and is described as compatible with A.O. Smith, Reliance, State, and American-branded water heaters. The listing specifically cautions that it should be installed by a professional, not a homeowner, and says homeowner installation could potentially void a warranty if professional installation is required.
Best for: Owners of one of the named brand families who have verified that part 100112336 is the specified replacement. It may be a useful option when the existing component number matches and professional installation is planned.
Limitation: Brand names alone do not confirm compatibility with every heater from those manufacturers. Check the model and part number, and follow the product’s stated professional-installation caution. The listing also states that the product is manufactured in China.
110-326 Valve With Copper Probe
The 110-326 gas water heater control valve is described as having a metal construction and an integrated copper temperature-sensing probe. According to the product details, the probe senses water temperature and the valve adjusts gas flow. The listing also claims corrosion-resistant, rust-proof, and wear-resistant construction.
Best for: Buyers whose heater requires the 110-326 configuration and who specifically need a valve with a copper probe. The probe and stated temperature-control function distinguish it from listings that provide only a part number or brand-family fit.
Limitation: The listing’s “broad compatibility” description does not name specific heater models. Verify fit against the manufacturer’s parts information instead of relying on the general compatibility claim. Although the listing says installation is easy, a gas control valve is a safety-critical component, so qualified installation is the cautious choice.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Water Heater Control Valve
A gas water heater control valve manages gas flow to the burner and works with temperature-control components. A replacement must correspond to the heater’s design and specified part. Similar-looking valves are not necessarily interchangeable. Use the heater’s model label, the old valve’s markings, and manufacturer parts information to narrow the selection before ordering.
How do I confirm the correct replacement part?
Start with the complete water heater model number, not just its brand. Locate the existing valve’s part number or trade number if it can be read safely. Compare those identifiers with the replacement listing and the heater maker’s parts documentation. For example, the SP20867C listing names particular Rheem-family models, while the Reliance listings identify part number 100112336. Those details are more useful than a general statement that a part fits a brand.
If the old label is missing, unclear, or inconsistent with a listing, ask the manufacturer or a qualified service professional to identify the correct part. Do not choose by image, connector appearance, or a broad compatibility claim alone.
Does the heater’s fuel type matter?
Yes. The products in this comparison are described as natural gas water heater parts or gas control valves. Confirm the fuel type specified for the heater and the replacement. Do not assume that a natural gas part is suitable for another fuel configuration. If the product listing does not clearly match the heater’s fuel type, seek confirmation before purchase.
When is an OEM or model-specific part preferable?
A model-specific replacement is easier to assess when the listing provides compatible heater models or a matching part number. The SP20867C listing provides several model examples, and the SP20832E is described as a genuine OEM part. These details can help buyers compare a replacement with the original specification.
A part described as OEM or as a direct replacement still needs verification. Check the exact heater model and part number rather than treating a brand name as proof that every model is covered.
What do temperature ratings and probe details tell me?
A temperature rating is a product specification, not proof that the valve fits a particular heater. The WT8840B listing specifies a 160°F rating, a 1-inch cavity, and an ambient range of 0°C to 60°C. Compare these values with the required part specifications, but do not use them as substitutes for model compatibility.
A copper probe, as listed for the 110-326 valve, describes a sensing feature. It does not by itself confirm that the valve matches the heater’s connections, controls, or required replacement number. Match the full assembly specification.
Should I install a gas control valve myself?
Use the product’s installation instructions and the water heater manufacturer’s guidance. The Reliance 100112336 listing explicitly recommends professional installation and warns that homeowner installation could potentially affect a warranty. Because these components control gas flow, buyers should arrange qualified service if they are not trained to work on the appliance or if installation requirements are uncertain.
What should I compare before ordering?
- Exact part number: Match the replacement number to the existing component or manufacturer documentation.
- Heater model: Check the complete model identifier against the listing’s compatibility information.
- Fuel type: Confirm the part is specified for the heater’s gas configuration.
- Included items: The SP20867C listing says it includes a valve and installation instructions; other listings may not specify kit contents.
- Installation requirements: Follow the product and heater maker’s directions, including professional-installation guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all water heater temperature control valves interchangeable?
No. A valve must match the water heater’s model, fuel type, and required part specification. A shared brand name or similar appearance does not establish compatibility.
What is the difference between a gas control valve and a thermostat?
The product listings use both terms for assemblies that regulate water temperature and control gas flow to the burner. The exact functions and configuration depend on the specific heater and replacement part.
Can I choose a valve based only on its temperature rating?
No. A temperature rating is one specification, not a complete compatibility check. Confirm the heater model, part number, and required assembly details as well.
Is the SP20867C compatible with every Rheem water heater?
The listing identifies it as a direct replacement for Rheem, Ruud, and Richmond gas water heaters and gives example models, but it does not establish fit for every model. Check the exact heater model before ordering.
Should a professional install a gas water heater control valve?
The Reliance 100112336 listing says professional installation is advised and warns that homeowner installation could potentially affect a warranty. Follow the specific product instructions and arrange qualified service when needed.
What if I cannot read the part number on my existing valve?
Use the heater’s complete model number and contact the manufacturer or a qualified service professional for part identification. Avoid ordering based only on a photo or a general compatibility statement.