AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a brand-new, retail-packaged universal heating element designed for residential electric water heaters. The item is manufactured by Utilitech and bears the model/item number 0362369. Its specifications include a high-wattage rating of 5500 Watts at 240 Volts, suitable for large-capacity tanks or fast-recovery heating needs. Physically, the element features a fold-back (dual loop) design constructed of a high-performance alloy, likely Incoloy or copper with a protective coating, to resist lime and mineral buildup. The base consists of a heavy-duty threaded zinc hex head for a secure screw-in installation and includes two terminal screws for electrical connections. A black rubber sealing gasket is visible and included in the assembly. The packaging consists of a plastic blister shell attached to a cardboard backing card with a blue, white, and grey color scheme. The condition is pristine and unused, as it remains in its original factory sealed packaging, though the cardboard backing shows minor edge wear and a slight bend at the top hanger hole. This component is a modern service part, typically used in water heaters manufactured within the last 20 years, providing a drop-in replacement for standard 1-inch NPSM threaded heater ports.

Based on my examination of the high-resolution imagery provided, I have assessed the Utilitech 5500W/240V Universal Screw-in Water Heater Element (Item #0362369). The item appears to be in its original factory-sealed blister packaging. The seals are intact, and the copper/alloy element shows no signs of oxidation, dry-firing, or installation marks. The zinc hex head and gasket appear factory-fresh. While the cardboard backing shows minor shelf wear and a slight bend at the hanger, this is typical for retail stock and does not negatively impact the functional value of the component. Market analysis indicates that this is a high-volume, modern service part. Comparables from national retailers like Lowe’s and specialized plumbing supply houses consistently price this specific model in the $20 range. There is no rarity associated with this item; it is a mass-produced industrial commodity with high liquidity and steady demand within the home maintenance sector. The valuation is based on current MSRP for New Old Stock (NOS) or current retail inventory. Because this is a standard maintenance item, its value is capped by the cost of newly manufactured equivalents. Limitations of this appraisal include the inability to perform a continuity test with a multimeter to verify electrical integrity. While visually authentic, I cannot confirm the metallurgy of the alloy or the elasticity of the rubber gasket without a physical tactile inspection. Full authentication would require verifying the batch code on the reverse of the card and checking for the UL listing stamp on the hex head, which is partially obscured by the packaging in this view.