The best water heater valve control is the one that matches your heater’s fuel, brand, model, and existing valve part number. The Reliance 100112336 is suited to compatible A.O. Smith-family heaters; ClimaTek’s WV8840A1000 and WV8840B1158 are options for heaters requiring those exact part numbers; Rheem’s kit targets listed Rheem-family models; and Bradford White’s valve is for compatible ICON systems. Confirm the match before ordering, and have a qualified professional install a gas control valve.
| Product | Best For | Key Check |
|---|---|---|
| Reliance 100112336 | Compatible A.O. Smith-family heaters | Valve part number and heater model |
| ClimaTek WV8840A1000 | Replacement for WV8840A1001 | Existing valve number |
| ClimaTek WV8840B1158 | Heaters requiring WV8840B1158 | Exact part number |
| Rheem SP20867C | Listed Rheem-family heaters | Model compatibility |
| Bradford White ICON 2.0 | Compatible Bradford White ICON systems | Valve and service-kit match |
Reliance 100112336 Natural Gas Control Valve
Best for: Owners of compatible A.O. Smith, Reliance, State, or American-branded water heaters seeking the listed 100112336 thermostat and gas control valve. It was selected for its clearly identified replacement number and stated brand range.
The manufacturer listing identifies this as a natural gas control valve. Confirm the water heater’s model and existing part number before choosing it; brand alone does not establish compatibility.
Limitation: The listing says installation should be performed by a professional, rather than by a homeowner, and notes that homeowner installation could potentially affect a warranty.
ClimaTek WV8840A1000 Standing Pilot Valve
Best for: Buyers replacing a standing-pilot water heater valve identified as Honeywell or Resideo WV8840A1001. ClimaTek states that this valve directly replaces that part number, making the existing valve label the key selection check.
This option is useful when a buyer needs a specific valve family rather than a broadly described universal replacement. Match the number on the old component and the appliance requirements before ordering.
Limitation: The supplied product details name WV8840A1001 as the direct replacement reference. They do not provide a broad list of compatible heater models, so verify fit for the specific appliance.
ClimaTek WV8840B1158 Natural Gas Valve
Best for: Buyers whose existing water heater valve is identified as WV8840B1158. The listing describes it as an OEM-upgraded natural gas valve and identifies WV8840B1158 as its replacement reference.
Choose this if that exact part number matches the appliance documentation or removed valve. The listing also specifies a 2-inch cavity, a detail worth checking against the installation requirements before purchase.
Limitation: The provided product information does not list compatible heater brands or models. Do not assume it fits a heater based on appearance alone.
Rheem SP20867C Combination Gas Control Kit
Best for: Owners of compatible Rheem, Ruud, or Richmond natural gas water heaters. This kit includes a gas valve and installation instructions, and the listing provides example model numbers, including XG40T06EN38U1 and XG75T06EN76U1.
It is a better fit for buyers who can verify their heater against the listed model references or manufacturer documentation. The named family coverage helps narrow the search, but the heater’s exact model remains important.
Limitation: The listed compatibility applies to common models, not necessarily every Rheem-family water heater. Check the complete model number before ordering.
Bradford White ICON 2.0 Gas Control Valve
Best for: Buyers with a compatible Bradford White residential system that uses an ICON valve. The listing describes a 1-inch gas line, millivolt-powered control that requires no external electricity, pilot-on indication, and simple lighting instructions.
The product is presented as a replacement service kit for previous ICON valves. Its stated temperature-control function and pilot indicator may be relevant when replacing a matching system component.
Limitation: “Universal” in the listing does not establish fit for every water heater. Confirm the ICON generation, part number, and system requirements before buying.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Water Heater Valve Control
How do I check compatibility?
Start with the water heater’s full model number and the part number printed on the existing control valve. Compare both with the product listing and appliance documentation. Similar-looking valves can have different connections or specifications, so appearance by itself is not enough to confirm fit.
Does the gas type matter?
Yes. These products are described for natural gas applications. Do not assume a natural gas valve works with propane equipment. Check the appliance label and the replacement valve’s stated fuel type before purchase.
Which specifications should I compare?
- Part number: Match the replacement reference to the current valve or heater documentation.
- Brand and model: Use the full water heater model, not just the brand name.
- Physical details: Confirm dimensions, cavity, gas line, port, and connection requirements where listed.
- System type: Check whether the heater uses a standing pilot or another ignition arrangement.
- Safety features: Review any stated temperature limits or energy cut-off behavior against the appliance requirements.
Should a homeowner install a gas control valve?
Use a qualified professional for gas valve replacement. The Reliance listing specifically recommends professional installation. Because the valve controls gas flow, follow the water heater manufacturer’s service instructions and applicable local requirements rather than relying on a generic installation guide.
What if the old valve number is unreadable?
Find the water heater’s complete model number on its rating label and consult its parts documentation or a qualified technician. Avoid selecting a replacement only by visual similarity; the wrong part may not match the heater’s gas or control specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are water heater control valves interchangeable?
No. Compatibility depends on the heater model, fuel type, valve part number, and system specifications.
Can I use a natural gas valve on a propane water heater?
Do not assume so. Use only a valve specified for the water heater’s fuel type and requirements.
What does a water heater gas control valve do?
It regulates gas flow to the burner and works with the heater’s temperature-control system. Specific functions vary by valve design.
Is the part number more useful than the valve’s appearance?
Yes. Part numbers and heater model documentation provide a more reliable compatibility check than visual resemblance.
Who should replace a gas control valve?
A qualified professional should handle replacement, following the appliance manufacturer’s service instructions and applicable requirements.