Abstract: A screwplug type water heating unit (10) has a body (12) through which ends (14a, 14b) of a heating element (14) extend. Separate terminal quick connects (22) have tabs (38a, 38b) which engage the ends of the heating element. Electrical leads (L1, L2) which connect with the ends of the heating element are separately engaged in slots (50) of each terminal quick connect by an engagement tab (60) so the heating element is electrically connected in a circuit supplying power to the heating unit. A terminal block (24) attaches to an outer face (26) of the screwplug. The terminal block has openings (94a, 94b, 96a, 96b, 98a, 98b) in it by which the terminal quick connects are installed in the terminal block. The terminal quick connects each have a tab (70) received in a slot (98a, 98b) formed in the terminal block to attach the terminal quick connects to the terminal block.

Abstract: A screwplug type water heater (10) has a heating element (12) immersible in a water heater tank (T) to heat water (L). Electrical terminals (28) on the outer end of the heater connect the heating element into a heater circuit (H) for a control unit (14). The control unit also includes a sensing circuit (S) for the unit to be responsive to water temperature inputs to turn-on the heater to heat water to a desired temperature and maintain it there. A thermistor (16) provides a temperature input to the control circuit. The thermistor is encapsulated in a bracket (32) mounted in, or integrally formed with, the screwplug to sense water temperature. Terminals (36) on the outer end of the heater allow the thermistor to be connected into the control circuit.