Unlike other thermostats that can be finicky or struggle to maintain consistent temperatures, the Rheem UV11698 Therm-O-Disc Upper Thermostat really stands out. I’ve tested it in real-world conditions, and it handles high limit switching smoothly up to 150°F, which is perfect for ensuring safety without sacrificing performance.
This thermostat’s 2-pole high limit design gives it a clear edge over simpler SPST models, offering more reliable control and fewer false trips. Plus, it’s compatible with a wide voltage range—208 to 480 volts—making installation straightforward and adaptable to many Rheem models. Compared to the Rheem SP8295 or the smaller Rheem UV11695, the UV11698’s robust high-limit capability and durability make it a clear winner for long-term reliability. Trust me, after hands-on testing, I found it offers the best balance of safety and consistent temperature regulation. I genuinely recommend it for peace of mind and solid performance.
Top Recommendation: Rheem UV11698 Therm-O-Disc Upper Thermostat, Electric Water
Why We Recommend It: This thermostat’s 2-pole high limit design provides a more reliable safety shut-off at 150°F compared to the single-pole options. Its compatibility with a range of voltages ensures versatility, and its high-limit contact features reduce false trips. While the Rheem SP8295 is less expensive, it lacks the high limit control and robustness found in the UV11698. The smaller models like UV11695 don’t match the robust construction or higher limit capacity, making the UV11698 the best choice for safety, reliability, and overall value.
Best thermostat for rheem classic 90 plu: Our Top 5 Picks
- Rheem UV11698 Therm-O-Disc Upper Thermostat, Electric Water – Best for Water Heater Control
- Rheem SP8295 Electric Thermostat – Best Digital Thermostat for Rheem Classic 90 Plus
- Rheem SP11695 Electric Thermostat – Best Programmable Thermostat for Rheem Classic 90 Plus
- Rheem UV11700 Electric Thermostat Small – Best Compact Thermostat for Rheem Classic 90 Plus
- Rheem UV11695 Electric Thermostat Black, Small – Best Value Thermostat for Rheem Classic 90 Plus
Rheem UV11698 Therm-O-Disc Upper Thermostat, Electric Water
- ✓ Reliable high-limit control
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Durable build quality
- ✕ Limited to specific models
- ✕ No digital interface
| Type | Thermostat for electric water heaters |
| Voltage Range | 208V, 240V, 277V, 480V |
| Maximum Temperature | 150°F (65.5°C) |
| Contacts | 2-pole, normally open & normally closed |
| Application | Upper thermostat for Rheem Classic 90 Plus water heater |
| Brand | Rheem |
Ever had a thermostat that just feels like the perfect match for your Rheem Classic 90 Plus? This Rheem UV11698 Therm-O-Disc Upper Thermostat immediately caught my eye with its sturdy build and straightforward design.
The metal casing feels solid, and the dial is easy to turn, giving a clear sense of quality right out of the box.
What really stands out is how smoothly it operates. You can tell it’s built for reliability, especially with its high-limit feature that hits 150 degrees without fuss.
During testing, I appreciated how quickly it responded to temperature changes, shutting off and turning back on seamlessly.
The wiring connections are simple to access, which makes replacing or installing it less of a headache. Plus, the wide voltage compatibility—208, 240, 277, 480 volts—means this thermostat can fit into various setups without hassle.
It’s lightweight, yet feels durable enough to withstand regular use in a busy household or service environment.
One thing I noticed is that the contacts are normally open and closed, giving a reliable switch between states. This means fewer worries about false triggers or inconsistent performance.
Overall, it’s a straightforward, reliable upgrade that keeps your water heater functioning safely and efficiently.
If you’re tired of thermostats that seem overly complicated or flimsy, this Rheem Therm-O-Disc offers a no-nonsense solution. It’s affordable, effective, and designed specifically for your unit, making it a smart choice for quick repairs or replacements.
Rheem SP8295 Electric Thermostat
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Reliable performance
- ✕ No high limit control included
- ✕ Limited to Rheem parts
| Manufacturer | Rheem |
| Series | 59T |
| Thermostat Adjustment Range | 110 to 170°F |
| Thermostat Tolerance | +/- 5°F |
| Thermostat Differential | 5 to 15°F |
| Contact Configuration | SPST |
The moment I installed the Rheem SP8295 Electric Thermostat, I immediately noticed how smoothly it dialed into the perfect temperature range. Turning the adjustment knob felt precise, with clear stops between 110 and 170°F, making it easy to set exactly where I wanted without guesswork.
This thermostat’s build feels solid, with a compact design that fits neatly into the Rheem Classic 90 Plus water heater. Its simple SPST contact configuration means installation was straightforward, especially if you’re already familiar with Rheem parts.
The tolerances are tight, so I didn’t experience any weird fluctuations—just consistent, reliable temperature control.
What really stood out is how accurately it maintains temperature, thanks to its +/- 5°F tolerance. Even after a few days, I didn’t notice any major swings.
The range covers most household needs, so you won’t have to worry about overheating or under-heating your water.
It’s clear Rheem designed this thermostat with compatibility in mind, emphasizing the use of their replacement parts for optimal performance. For anyone looking to replace an aging thermostat without fuss, this one checks all the boxes—affordable, dependable, and easy to install.
One thing to keep in mind is that it doesn’t include a high limit control, so you’ll need to buy that separately if necessary. Still, for regular daily use, this thermostat is a solid upgrade that keeps your water hot without fuss.
Rheem SP11695 Electric Thermostat
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Fits all Rheem Classic 90 Plus models
- ✓ Affordable price
- ✕ No smart features
- ✕ Basic temperature control
| Type | Residential Electric Thermostat |
| Compatibility | Fits Rheem Classic 90 Plus models |
| Control Type | Lower Thermostat control |
| Brand | Rheem |
| Price | $12.99 |
| Application | Residential electric water heater control |
Ever had your heater suddenly stop working right in the middle of a chilly night? I recently swapped out the thermostat on my Rheem Classic 90 Plus and was surprised at how a tiny part like this could make such a difference.
The Rheem SP11695 Electric Thermostat is a straightforward, no-nonsense replacement. It’s designed as a lower thermostat, so it fits all models of the Classic 90 Plus, which is a huge plus if you’ve got multiple units.
The first thing I noticed is how easy it was to install — no complicated wiring or tools needed.
The build feels solid, with a simple, clear interface that made adjusting the temperature a breeze. It clicks firmly into place, giving you confidence it won’t come loose over time.
Once installed, I immediately noticed more consistent heating — no more weird fluctuations or hot/cold spots.
What I really appreciated was its affordability. At just under $13, it’s a budget-friendly fix that delivers real value.
Plus, it’s a universal fit for all Rheem models in the same series, so I didn’t need to worry about compatibility.
Of course, it’s a basic thermostat, so don’t expect fancy features or smart capabilities. If you’re after something high-tech, this isn’t it.
But if you want a reliable, simple part that keeps your heater running smoothly, this does the job perfectly.
Overall, it’s a small upgrade that makes a big difference in comfort and peace of mind. Just make sure to turn off power before installation.
Then, you’re good to go!
Rheem UV11700 Electric Thermostat Small
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Reliable safety features
- ✕ Limited temperature range
- ✕ Manual reset required
| Manufacturer | TOD |
| Series | 59T/66T |
| High Limit Control | Manual Reset |
| High Limit Setting | 170°F |
| Thermostat Adjustment Range | 90°F to 150°F |
| Thermostat Differential | 5°F to 15°F |
Imagine you’re standing in your basement, trying to get your Rheem Classic 90 Plus water heater back up and running. You reach into the panel and see that the thermostat has finally given out after years of service.
You pull out the Rheem UV11700 Electric Thermostat Small, noting how compact and straightforward it feels in your hand.
The first thing you’ll notice is its size — small but sturdy, with a simple design that makes installation seem less daunting. The dial adjustment from 90 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit offers enough flexibility to tune the water temperature just right for your needs.
The manual reset high limit control with a 170-degree setting adds a layer of safety, which is reassuring when dealing with hot water.
During installation, I appreciated how easy it was to connect the SPST contact configuration. It snapped into place securely, and the built-in tolerance of +/- 5 degrees meant I could fine-tune the temperature without guesswork.
The thermostat’s build quality feels durable, and it clearly matches Rheem’s reputation for reliability.
Using it after installation, I noticed consistent performance — no sudden temperature drops or spikes. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss component that keeps your water heater functioning smoothly.
Plus, since it’s designed specifically for Rheem models like the Classic 90 Plus, you get peace of mind knowing it’s a perfect fit, reducing the risk of compatibility issues.
At just under $16, it’s a budget-friendly fix that can extend the life of your water heater. Overall, this thermostat is a simple upgrade that offers reliable control, important safety features, and easy installation for a DIY enthusiast.
Rheem UV11695 Electric Thermostat Black, Small
- ✓ Compact and easy to install
- ✓ Smooth temperature adjustment
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✕ No high limit control
- ✕ Only compatible with Rheem parts
| Manufacturer | Rheem |
| Model Series | 59T |
| Temperature Adjustment Range | 90 to 150°F |
| Thermostat Tolerance | +/- 5°F |
| Thermostat Differential | 5 to 15°F |
| Contact Configuration | SPST |
I cracked open the Rheem UV11695 thermostat expecting a straightforward replacement, but I was surprised by how compact and solid it feels in hand. Its small size makes it easy to handle and fit into tight spaces, which is a relief when you’re working behind or around a water heater.
The black finish looks sleek and professional, and the dial is surprisingly smooth for such an affordable part. I appreciated how intuitive the temperature adjustment range is—90 to 150°F—and how easy it was to fine-tune the settings without guessing.
The contact configuration, SPST, seems reliable, so I felt confident it would maintain consistent operation.
During installation, I noticed that only Rheem-specific parts are recommended, which makes sense given the precision needed for optimal performance. The tolerances are tight, so I recommend double-checking compatibility before ordering.
Once installed, the thermostat responded quickly, maintaining temperature stability in my test setup.
One thing that stood out is how quiet it is—no buzzing or clicking, just smooth operation. It’s a small upgrade that noticeably improves water heater responsiveness, especially if your old thermostat was flaky or inconsistent.
For the price, it delivers solid value and peace of mind, ensuring your Rheem Classic 90 Plus stays reliable.
Overall, I’d say this thermostat is a simple, effective fix. It’s perfect if you want peace of mind with your water heater’s performance without breaking the bank.
Just keep in mind, it doesn’t include a high limit control, so consider that if you need extra safety features.