Resettable Thermal Switch, 270 Degree, Yellow

Bradford White 415-43676-02 – High-Temperature Resettable Thermal Cutoff (270°F Trip Point)

The Bradford White 415-43676-02 is a factory-specified manual reset thermal cutoff switch designed for use in atmospheric vent gas water heaters. This component provides critical over-temperature protection by breaking the circuit to the gas control valve in the event of excessive heat buildup, ensuring that the water heater remains within operational safety parameters.

Rated to trip at 270°F, this switch is a preventive safety control device, installed in-line with the thermocouple safety system. It is typically mounted to the outer jacket of compatible tank models and restores operation only when manually reset, preventing auto-cycling in unsafe conditions.

Primary Application

This thermal cutoff is used as a limit safety switch in gas-fired residential water heaters that operate with flue baffle and combustion air restrictions. It is intended for use with select Bradford White models and may be deployed during service events involving overheating, vent obstruction, or burner chamber airflow issues.

Key Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer Part Number: 415-43676-02
• Trip Temperature: 270°F (manual reset required)
• Function: Over-temperature safety limit switch
• Color Code: Yellow body (for identification at service)
• Switch Type: Normally closed bimetal thermal cutoff with manual reset
• Mounting Method: Surface mount with factory bracket and fasteners
• Terminal Type: 1/4” spade connectors

Installation Guidance

This part should be installed by qualified personnel trained in gas water heater diagnostics and repair. Prior to replacement, verify that the root cause of the trip event—typically combustion chamber obstruction, flue blockage, or flammable vapor ignition chamber fault—has been resolved. Replacing this component without addressing the underlying condition may result in recurrence or unsafe operation.

Always ensure wiring is routed properly, terminals are securely fastened, and jacket insulation is reinstalled per manufacturer specifications to avoid interference with temperature sensing.

Contractor Notes

• ✔ OEM-Matched Safety Device: This switch must not be substituted with aftermarket parts that deviate from trip tolerance or response characteristics.
• ✔ Diagnostic Role: Switch trip may indicate improper venting, failed baffle alignment, or burner rollout—test all combustion safeguards before reset.
• ✔ Reset Precaution: Never reset a thermal switch without confirming the system is free of combustion or airflow faults.

Compatible Equipment

This switch is commonly used in Bradford White MI and M-I-TW series gas-fired units. Compatibility should be confirmed via the appliance model tag or service manual documentation before ordering.