I installed a heating element my water boiler. It was the one on the upper part of the water heater. The one i replaced was fried. I did exactly what i was told. Turn off the main source, turned the circuit breaker off, connected a garden hose, opened the release valve, and gave it time to flush. I then went to unscrew the old heating element and had about a gallon of water pour out before i got the new one in. I then about an hour later to give a little dry time after wiping the element down. I connected the positive and negative wires. Then I turned the main water source back on, turn the water valve on, and close the pressure valve. When I went to the circuit breaker on turned it back on. I walked back to the water heater and kept hearing a spark like noise and a glowing orange light as in the element was heating up or something was burn out. I then turned off the circuit breaker again and left it. Now i need to know before I do anymore damage if thats normal or is there still a problem.

Even though you opened the valves to the water heater, the water can't come in if the air can't get out. You need to open a hot faucet to get the air out.

Yes before you turn the power back on you need to bleed the air out of the heater and lines to make sure that the top element is covered with water, otherwise you will need to replace the top one again.... hope this helps you to rememver what to do the next time you play plumber. Just kidding, I believe folks need to understand how these things work so they can maintain their equipment in their home. Many cannot afford to call a plumber for something like this. Good luck