Best Gas Control Valves for Water Heaters: Reliable Options
Choosing the right gas control valve is essential for safe, efficient water heating. The valves below represent commonly used, OEM-recommended options from trusted brands. Each product supports standard residential gas lines and offers tunable temperature settings, compatibility notes, and installation cues to help you identify the best fit for your water heater model.
| Product | Brand | Model / Key Detail | Inlet Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reliance Water Heater Gas Control Valve (WT8840B) | Honeywell | 100112336 / 160°F; 1″ cavity | 1/2″ NPT x 1/2″ |
| Reliance Water Heater Natural Gas Control Valve | Reliance | 100112336; Thermostat-compatible | 1/2″ NPT x 1/2″ |
| AP14270G Gas Control Thermostat | Rheem | Natural Gas; OEM part | — |
| Bradford White 415-52907-01 | Bradford White | Icon 2.0 replacement (1″) | 1″ gas line |
| Bradford White 415-52907-02 | Bradford White | Icon 2.0 replacement (2″) | 2″ gas line |
Reliance Water Heater Gas Control Valve WT8840B (100112336)
This gas control valve is designed for upright mounting and operates within a temperature range suitable for typical residential use (ambient 0°C to 60°C). It features a standard 1/2 inch inlet/outlet (NPT x 1/2 inch) with inverted flare connections. The valve supports a gas flow range from approximately 30 to 75 cubic feet per hour and is calibrated with a pressure regulator setting around 5.0 inches water column. It is produced by Honeywell for use with compatible Reliance water heaters and integrates with standard standing pilot systems. Typical applications include natural gas-fired residential units where reliable control of flame and temperature is needed.
Key features: upright mounting, 1/2″ inlet/outlet, 30–75 ft3/hr flow, 5.0 in. Wc regulator, 160°F capacity in some models, and compatibility with Resideo/Honeywell valve assemblies.
Reliance Water Heater Natural Gas Control Valve 100112336
This thermostat-compatible gas valve supports a range of Reliance, AO Smith, State, and American-branded water heaters. When selecting this valve, verify the model and serial numbers of your heater to confirm fitment. The design emphasizes compatibility across brands and ease of replacement for service valves in residential gas appliances. It is essential to confirm the unit’s specific valve model to ensure proper operation and safety compliance.
Key considerations: model/serial verification, broad brand compatibility, and standard 1/2″ connections. Suitable for users seeking a replacement that aligns with multiple major manufacturers.
Rheem AP14270G Gas Control Thermostat
The AP14270G is a gas control thermostat designed to regulate gas flow from the main supply line to the burner and to help set and maintain the water temperature. Marketed as an OEM genuine factory-authorized part, this valve is intended for Rheem-brand water heaters and compatible models. Proper operation depends on correct installation, correct wiring or pilot operation, and a matching thermostat range to your heater’s specifications. This valve is suitable for those replacing a Rheem ICON-style valve or similar configurations requiring a 1-1 connection footprint.
Key aspects: gas flow control, temperature regulation, OEM-recommended part, and compatibility with common Rheem configurations.
Bradford White Natural Gas Control Valve 415-52907-01
Bradford White’s 415-52907-01 represents a 1″ Icon 2.0 universal replacement kit. It supports the replacement of Icon 1.0 valves and provides an advanced control system for accurate water temperatures. The unit uses a millivolt-powered control, avoiding the need for external electricity, and includes indicators such as pilot-on status with simple 1–2–3 lighting instructions. It is designed for Bradford White residential systems requiring a robust, user-friendly retrofit path for older ICON valves.
Considerations include compatibility with Icon 2.0 replacements, pilot indication, and straightforward installation steps that minimize downtime during service.
Bradford White Natural Gas Control Valve 415-52907-02
This is a 2″ Icon 2.0 replacement valve kit for Bradford White systems. It shares many features with the 1″ variant but is sized for larger supply configurations or higher demand installations. The kit provides an advanced control system for maintaining precise water temperatures, along with a millivolt-powered operation that does not rely on external electricity. Pilot-on indication and clear 1,2,3 lighting instructions are included to simplify maintenance and troubleshooting.
Key points: 2″ gas line compatibility, Icon 2.0 replacement, millivolt operation, and user-friendly installation cues.
Gas Control (Thermostat) – NG
Rheem’s Gas Control (Thermostat) for natural gas offers a straightforward approach to regulating gas flow and burner temperature. Marketed as an OEM Genuine Factory Authorized Part, this valve is intended for use with Rheem gas heaters and similar systems requiring a reliable, standards-compliant replacement. When selecting a thermostat valve, verify model compatibility with your heater’s control board and ensure correct venting and safety configurations are in place to support safe operation.
Considerations include OEM authorization, compatibility with Rheem configurations, and ensuring a proper match to the heater’s plumbing and gas line sizing.
Buying Guide
- Compatibility: Verify the valve model with your heater’s brand, model, and serial number to ensure a proper fit and safe operation.
- Connection size: Check inlet/outlet sizing (commonly 1/2″ or 1″) and ensure the valve matches your existing gas piping and connectors.
- Control technology: Decide between mechanical millivolt systems and electronically actuated valves, considering installation complexity and power needs.
- Safety features: Look for standing pilot options, pilot-on indicators, and clearly marked temperature ranges to prevent overheating.
- Installation considerations: Some valves are designed for upright mounting or specific orientations; ensure your installation follows manufacturer guidance.
- OEM compatibility: Using OEM-authorized parts generally ensures better reliability and warranty alignment.
- Maintenance and service: Consider parts availability, replacement kits, and the ease of replacing Icon or traditional valve assemblies.
- Cost vs. value: While price varies, prioritize reliability, safety approvals, and correct fit over minimal upfront cost.