recycling hot water heater

[FalkyBrew]

First do water heaters have pumps? If so could I use one for brewing? What parts can I use from an old water heater if any? Im guessing I can use the elements for my Ebrewery.

 

[djfriesen]

I hear the supply lines make decent filters for a cooler mashtun. I guess it would depend on what kind of shape it's in.

 

[Bobby_M]

If it's electric, nothing. The elements are dirt cheap already so if you need one, buy it.
Gas? The valve assembly is expensive if you wanted to automate.
No pumps. It's a tank and a heat source/control.

 

[FalkyBrew]

I don't know anything about water heaters. I just figured there would be parts that would be valuable. So I can use the valve assembly? It is an electric water heater 40 gal whirlpool. Is there a thermocouple or a thermostat I could use?