The best gas valve for a hot water heater is the exact replacement part specified for its make and model. The Reliance 100112336 is best for compatible A.O. Smith, Reliance, State, and American-branded heaters; Rheem SP20867C is aimed at specified Rheem-family models; and the Richmond AP15255A-1 is a direct replacement option for its matching part number. Check the heater label and existing valve before ordering, and use a qualified professional for installation.
| Product | Best suited for | Key identification |
|---|---|---|
| Reliance 100112336 | Compatible A.O. Smith, Reliance, State, and American-branded heaters | Part number 100112336 |
| Rheem SP20867C | Listed Rheem-family natural gas heaters | Part number SP20867C |
| Reliance 100112336 by Resideo | Buyers matching the 100112336 / WT8840B listing | 160°F and 1-inch cavity listed |
| Richmond AP15255A-1 | Heaters requiring the matching Richmond part | Direct replacement for AP15255A-1 |
| WV8840B1110 replacement | Buyers whose heater calls for this part number | Part number WV8840B1110 |
Reliance 100112336 Gas Control Valve
This natural gas control valve and thermostat is listed as compatible with A.O. Smith, Reliance, State, and American-branded water heaters. Its part number, 100112336, is the main detail to compare with the existing valve and the heater’s parts information.
Best for: Owners of a listed brand whose heater documentation or current valve identifies 100112336. It was selected for its stated brand compatibility. Caution: The listing says a professional should install the valve and warns that homeowner installation may potentially void a warranty. Confirm fit before purchase.
Rheem SP20867C Control Valve Kit
The kit includes a gas valve and installation instructions. The listing identifies it as a direct replacement for Rheem, Ruud, and Richmond natural gas water heaters and names example models including XG40T06EN38U1, 6G40-38FN4, PRO+G40-38U RH62 EC1 -1, and XG75T06EN76U1.
Best for: Buyers whose heater is a listed Rheem-family model and whose required part is SP20867C. It stands out for listing example model numbers and including instructions. Caution: The examples are not proof of fit for every Rheem-family heater; match the full model and part number.
Reliance 100112336 By Resideo
This listing identifies the valve as Reliance 100112336, trade number WT8840B, with a 160-degree-F rating and a 1-inch cavity. It also lists an ambient temperature range of 0°C to 60°C. Those identifiers can help distinguish it from other gas control valves that may look similar.
Best for: Buyers who have confirmed the 100112336 or WT8840B designation and need to compare the listed specifications. Caution: The provided information does not name compatible heater models, so verify application with the heater manufacturer or a qualified service professional.
Richmond AP15255A-1 Valve Thermostat
This product is described as a new, upgraded OEM water heater gas valve thermostat and a direct replacement for the old AP15255A-1 part number. The listing also identifies it as a thermostat control, making the part number the key selection detail.
Best for: Buyers replacing a valve specifically identified as AP15255A-1. It was selected because the listing clearly states the replacement number. Caution: The provided product details do not identify a complete list of compatible heater models, so do not rely on brand alone to establish fit.
WV8840B1110 Gas Control Valve
This replacement listing names the part number WV8840B1110 and describes the item as a replacement for a Honeywell water heater gas control valve. It also states a one-year warranty period. The supplied details do not provide a list of compatible heater models.
Best for: Buyers whose existing valve or parts documentation specifically calls for WV8840B1110. Caution: Do not assume it fits every heater using a Honeywell valve; verify the exact number and application before ordering.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Water Heater Gas Valve
How can you check whether a valve will fit?
Start with the water heater’s manufacturer label and full model number. Then compare the replacement part number with the number printed on the existing valve, if it is readable, and with the manufacturer’s parts information. A similar appearance or matching brand name is not enough to establish compatibility.
Should you choose a kit or a standalone valve?
A kit may include additional items or instructions, as the Rheem SP20867C listing does. Review the stated contents and compare them with what the repair requires. A standalone replacement may be suitable when the exact component is already identified, but the product details should support that match.
What specifications matter besides the part number?
Check the fuel type, model application, trade number, and any listed temperature or dimensional details. For example, one 100112336 listing also names WT8840B, 160°F, and a 1-inch cavity. Use those details to confirm a match rather than treating them as universal specifications for every valve.
Who should install a gas control valve?
Gas control valve replacement involves a gas appliance. The Reliance 100112336 listing specifically says professional installation is recommended and cautions that homeowner installation may affect a warranty. Follow the heater manufacturer’s instructions and local requirements, and consult a qualified professional when the correct procedure is uncertain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a valve with the same brand but a different part number?
Not based on brand alone. Match the exact part number and confirm compatibility with the heater’s full model number.
Is 100112336 the same as WT8840B?
One product listing identifies 100112336 as trade number WT8840B. Confirm both identifiers against your heater’s parts information before buying.
Does the Rheem SP20867C kit include instructions?
Yes. Its listed contents are a gas valve and installation instructions.
Can a homeowner install a gas water heater valve?
The Reliance listing advises professional installation. Check the appliance instructions and consult a qualified professional for the repair.
What should I do if the existing part number is unreadable?
Use the heater’s full model number to ask the manufacturer or a qualified service professional to identify the correct replacement.