Rheem SP20832A Natural Gas Control Thermostat
An OEM natural-gas control thermostat (gas valve/control) used on compatible Rheem gas water heaters to control water temperature and regulate gas flow to the burner where SP20832A is specified.
Key Features:
- Natural gas control thermostat (fuel type: Natural Gas)
- Product type listed as Thermostat
- Manufacturer description: a gas valve/control that manages water temperature and regulates the flow of fuel gas to the burner to support efficient and safe operation
- Manufacturer guidance: use the water heater serial number to ensure you select the correct control unit for your heater
- Related items shown on the product page as commonly paired (application-dependent): Pilot Assembly Replacement Kit (SP21058) and Burner Access Door - Gasket Replacement Kit (SP20063)
Compatibility & Applications:
- Intended for Rheem gas water heater applications that specify SP20832A
- The provided sources do not include a model list for this control
- Must only be used where the manufacturer specifies this exact part number: SP20832A
Installation & Operation Notes:
- Installation should be performed by a qualified service technician (gas control replacement)
- Follow the water heater's service/installation manual and the manufacturer's guidance to verify the correct control by serial number before installing
- The product page does not provide step-by-step instructions; customer reviews mention receiving installation directions with the part and describe installation as straightforward
Maintenance & Troubleshooting:
- This control is commonly replaced when water heater operation is unstable or pilot/operation issues persist after other repairs (review-reported example: continued pilot-loss after replacing a pilot assembly, resolved after replacing the gas valve/thermostat)
- If problems continue after replacement, use the unit's service manual and confirm correct part selection by serial number, since proper operation depends on having the correct control for the specific heater
Certifications & Compliance:
- Manufacturer listing includes a California Proposition 65 warning for this product
- No other separate certifications or listings are explicitly stated for this service part in the provided sources
User Reviews & Q&A Summary:
- Review themes:
- Frequently described as the correct/"perfect fit" replacement and easy to install
- Common outcome: restoring normal hot water operation and avoiding full water heater replacement
- Several reviewers emphasize verifying the correct part before ordering (including confirming by serial number with support)
- One reviewer reported receiving a defective first unit but noted the replacement worked and praised the support experience