a method and system to position a non - immersion temperature sensor relative to a water heater tank is disclosed . an illustrative but non - limiting example may be found in a mounting bracket that includes a body that has a sensor portion configured to receive at least a portion of a temperature sensor assembly . when installed , the mounting bracket may include a biasing element to bias the temperature sensor assembly towards the water heater tank . the bias element may help the temperature sensor assume a proper position relative to the water heater tank , despite variations in equipment that may exist in the field .