[OT] Should the hot wire be attached to the rheostat or the heating elements?

[gfr92y]

Model Number: HCH4061
Brand: Holmes
Age: More than 10 years

The electrical cord on my Holmes Ceramic Heater (HCH4061) frayed at the entry point to the heater.

While removing the frayed cord, I forgot to pair (mark) the wires on both sides of the enclosure before snipping the cord. So, now I do not know if the hot wire should be attached to the rheostat or to the heating elements (see image below).

I am not even sure if it matters, but if it does, I am going to guess the hot wire goes to the heating elements and the neutral wire goes to the rheostat.

So, should the hot wire be attached to the rheostat or the heating elements?

Thanks!

gfr92y

Attachment 995