How to Fix the Thermostat on a Hot Water Heater
- Turn off the breaker for the electric water heater inside the breaker panel. ...
- Remove the screws to open the access panel and expose the electrical wiring to the water heater. ...
- Remove the screws from the access panel at the bottom of the water heater. ...
- Unsnap the plastic protector cover from the thermostat. ...
How do you replace the thermostat in a water heater?
How to Test and Replace a Water Heater Thermostat
- Turn Off the Power. Locate the circuit breaker for the water heater in the main panel and switch it off. ...
- Access and Check the Upper Thermostat. Unscrew and remove the access cover for the upper thermostat, fold the insulation up and tape it to the tank with electrical ...
- Isolate the Thermostat. ...
- Calibrate the Meter. ...
- Test the Upper Thermostat Terminals. ...
How to replace an electric water heater thermostat?
- Head to the circuit breaker and turn off the power to the thermostat. ...
- Pull out the two panels that protect the thermostat. ...
- Locate a plastic panel on the thermostat and heating element. ...
- Check for a “snapping” movement as you push the button. ...
- Confirm if there is no power on the unit especially if you want to still work on the unit. ...
How to troubleshoot the water heater electric thermostats?
- Move to the thermostat terminals and check if it is supplied with power. ...
- Disable the lower thermostat by rotating its dial to the least setting. ...
- Place the prongs of the multimeter on the terminal 1 and blue wire of the heating element. ...
- If the tool reads 240V that means there is power on the setup. ...
- Move to the lower thermostat on the heater. ...
How much does it cost to repair a hot water heater?
On average, a hot water heater repair costs about $500. There are a number of factors that influence the total cost of the repair. Your location could make the cost more or less.
How do you troubleshoot a water heater thermostat?
Troubleshooting thermostat problemsCheck and replace the upper thermostat if it is defective.If the high limit switch has tripped, manually reset an ECO button.Check and replace the thermostat if it is grounded.Thermostat out of calibration - calibrate if possible; if not, replace it.
How do I know if my hot water thermostat is bad?
How Do I Check My Water Heater Thermostat?No hot water – This most likely indicates a problem with the upper thermostat.Not enough hot water – This most likely indicates a problem with the upper thermostat.Slow hot water recovery – This is another problem that can occur when the lower thermostat is malfunctioning.More items...•
Do you have to drain a water heater to change the thermostat?
Follow the steps below if you need to know how to replace a water heater thermostat. If it's the heating element, go here for instructions. Start this project by draining your water heater tank. If you have too much water for a bucket, connect a garden hose to the drain spigot and place the other end in a floor drain.
How do you check a thermostat on a hot water heater?
Test the lower portion of the thermostat, by touching one lead to the common terminal (next to the temperature setting) and the second lead to the left heating element terminal. If the water in the tank is below the thermostat's set temperature, the multimeter should read close to zero ohms of resistance.
How much does it cost to replace water heater thermostat?
Thermostat. You may also run into problems with the thermostat on your unit. The cost to repair or replace one is usually $150 to $200.
How do I test my thermostat?
3:595:57How to Test a Thermostat with a Multimeter! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHaving a 24 volt signal on the control board telling. The basically the blower motor to turn on inMoreHaving a 24 volt signal on the control board telling. The basically the blower motor to turn on in high speed. Now we're gonna read our voltage. From Y to C.
Why would a hot water heater stop heating?
If an electric water heater is not producing hot water, it could be a simple problem like a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker. Additionally, some electric water heaters have a circuit-style safety switch located near or on the thermostat.
Should both thermostats on water heater be set the same?
Setting the top element slightly higher helps the elements to be used evenly. If you set them to the same temperature, the bottom element will be the first one on every time, and frequently the only one used to maintain the temperature.
Are hot water heater thermostats universal?
No, all water heater thermostats are not universal. There are some variances in thermostats between single-element water heaters and dual-element water heaters. Also, there is a difference in the upper and lower thermostats in dual-element water heaters.
How do I know if my thermostat is working properly?
6 Signs Your Thermostat Is BrokenYour HVAC System Won't Turn on. ... Your Air Conditioner or Heater Runs Non-Stop. ... Differing Temperature Readings Throughout the Home. ... Short-Cycling. ... Programmed Settings Keep Getting Deleted. ... There's No Response to Changes in Temperature Settings. ... Why Thermostats Break Down.More items...•
Where is the reset button on a thermostat?
0:262:05Homeowner Tip- How to Reset Your Thermostat - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAll you have to do is hit set. And press and hold.MoreAll you have to do is hit set. And press and hold.
What trips the reset button on a hot water heater?
The high resistance caused by a loose wire produces a substantial amount of heat that can eventually cause fires. If there is a loose electrical connection within your water heater's system, your reset button's thermometer can trip (regardless of the water's temperature) if it picks up the heat from that loose wire.
Should my water heater be warm to the touch?
Water Heater Is Hot to Touch Even though it's designed to boil water, your water heater shouldn't get so hot that you can't touch it. Water heaters are designed to be well insulated so that heat stays in. A water heater that gets too hot could have one of several issues, including: A blocked flue.
Can a hot water heater thermostat go bad?
When the water reaches the desired temperature, it's the job of the thermostat to shut the heating element off. But if one or both thermostats go bad, it can force the heating element to run continuously, overheating the water.
What trips the reset button on a hot water heater?
The high resistance caused by a loose wire produces a substantial amount of heat that can eventually cause fires. If there is a loose electrical connection within your water heater's system, your reset button's thermometer can trip (regardless of the water's temperature) if it picks up the heat from that loose wire.
Testing The Thermostats on A Dual Element Water Heater
Since most electric water heaters use both an upper and lower element, the process outline below is for them. To test, you will need a multimeter a...
Electric Water Heater Thermostat Replacement
1. Always disconnect the power or shut off the breaker before doing any work on a water heater. To change thermostats, you will need to remove the...
Gas Water Heater Thermostat Replacement
Gas water heaters use a different type of thermostat system. On most gas water heaters, the gas control valve, which includes both a thermostat and...
When Should You Repair Your Water Heater Thermostat?
There are a few tell-tale signs that you should pay attention to when it comes to your water heater. Some of the signs below may be an indicator that your water heater should be repaired.
What does a thermostat do in a water heater?
The thermostat regulates the temperature of the water in a water heater. If the temperature is set too low, then the water will cool prior to distributing to the faucet. Likewise, if the temperature is set too high, then you could risk burning or scalding water temperature released from the faucet. Locate the upper and lower thermostats.
How long does it take for an electric water heater to reheat?
Electric water heaters typically take a long time to reheat. The time it takes an electric heater to reheat is double the time it takes for a gas heater. If you find that it is taking even longer to heat, there may be a problem with the heating elements or thermostat.
What happens when a water heater thermostat breaks?
When a water heater's thermostat breaks, you won’t be able to gauge or set the temperature of your hot water. Maintaining the integrity of the thermostat is important for keeping your water from reaching scalding temperatures.
How to fix a thermostat that won't turn on?
Check both thermostats for power supply. Press the button to reset the thermostat to determine whether it will or won’t operate. Replace the thermostat if there is no power to the upper system.
Why is my thermostat too hot?
Water that is too hot is a big indicator that your thermostat is set too high. Other external factors such as seasons may contribute to this problem, and you should change the recommended setting according to the transition from cold to warm weather.
How to reset a thermostat?
Here's how to fix a thermostat if you have no hot water: 1 Locate the upper and lower thermostats. 2 Check both thermostats for power supply. 3 Press the button to reset the thermostat to determine whether it will or won’t operate. 4 Replace the thermostat if there is no power to the upper system. 5 If your upper system is receiving power but there is no hot water, then replace the upper heating element.
How to test a water heater thermostat?
Remove the access panels to the elements along with the insulation underneath. Use a screwdriver to set the upper thermostat to its highest setting. Set the lower thermostat to its lowest setting. Turn the power to the water heater back on.
Where is the thermostat located on a gas water heater?
On most gas water heaters, the gas control valve, which includes both a thermostat and a heat limiting device, are located on the outside of the unit, near the bottom. It can be identified as the component with the controls for temperature and the pilot light. If the thermostat on a gas water heater goes bad, you will have to replace ...
How to check if thermostat is bad?
Use your multimeter to check for power on the upper element terminal screws. If no power, this thermostat is bad and needs to be replaced. If there is power, test the lower thermostat.
What happens if you don't read the thermostat?
If there is no reading, the upper thermostat will need replacing since it provides voltage to the lower thermostat.
How many thermostats are needed for dual element?
For each element, the unit requires a matching thermostat, so dual element units have two thermostats, and single element models only one.
Can you replace an old thermostat?
Take the old thermostat (s) with you to purchase a replacement. While most thermostats are interchangeable, the best results come from accurately matching the components.
When Should You Repair Your Water Heater Thermostat?
If you are noticing that the water coming out of your faucet isn’t as hot as it once was, suspect a problem with the thermostat. A broken water heater thermostat can cause elevated electricity bills since an inefficient heating mechanism is constantly running.
When to Repair or Replace A Water Heater Thermostat
If your water heater thermostat is leaking, you should not attempt to fix it on your own. A leaky unit can lead to a number of serious safety hazards that only a trained professional should deal with.
Get In Touch With Our Team Today For Top-Notch Thermostat Repair
At Rick’s Plumbing, we’ve been the go-to plumbers and heating technicians for over 25 years. No matter what problem you need to address – from a leaky sink or toilet to complicated heating or air conditioning issues – we can help.
How to check if hot water tank thermostat is bad?
With hot water in the tank check voltage at the lower thermostat by putting a test lead on each of the two screws on that thermostat. It should read 240 volts; if it does not the upper thermostat is bad and needs replaced.
How many thermostats does a water heater have?
Nearly all residential hot water heaters have two thermostats and two heating elements.
What happens if the lower thermostat doesn't come on?
If the lower element never comes on the lower thermostat is bad and needs replaced. Continue to run hot water in the sink. As the water in the tank continues to cool, it will reach a point when the lower thermostat shuts off and the upper thermostat turns the upper heater on.
Why is my water heater shorting?
Answer: You could have a short somewhere that is blowing the breaker, or a circuit that is too small for the hot water heater being used.
How to adjust temperature on a water heater?
Adjust the temperature according to directions on the new thermostat - a good setting is 120° on the upper thermostat and 110° for the lower thermostat. Check and set both even if only one was changed. Turn the power on and, giving plenty of time, verify that the tank is operating properly and producing hot water.
How to check if a voltmeter is working?
Do not stick your fingers any further into the opening than is absolutely necessary! With the cover out of the way check for voltage at the top two screws by setting a voltmeter to a voltage setting of at least 240 volts and putting one test lead to each of the top two screws. If voltage is detected the power is not turned off yet; turn it off and re-check. Only when the power is turned off should you continue.
What does it mean when water heats up and then cools rapidly?
Answer: If the water heats up and then cools rapidly it indicates cold water is entering the tank. Do you have a hot water leak somewhere, or is the tank very small and cannot supply the quantity of hot water you wish?
Should You Replace the Water Heater Thermostat?
First, you need to determine if you need a thermostat replacemen t. Go ahead and drain the water heater tank if you suspect it is filled with sediment. If you have no hot water, check the unit for power.
Caution: Danger, High Voltage!
Electric water heaters use a 240-volt current. That’s twice the voltage found in standard receptacles. So, be sure to remove the fuse or shut off the breaker at the service panel.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to replace an electric water heater thermostat is easy. The scariest thing to get past is working with electricity. But as long as you turn off the power at the breaker box and drain the tank of water, you’ll be perfectly safe.
Call 1-Tom-Plumber
Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need help servicing or replacing parts on your water heater.
Why does my thermostat run out of water?
If cold water runs out, the reason is a faulty upper thermostat.
What to do if your thermostat is tripping?
Waiting for too long can damage your heater more and may even be the cause of accidents. When your thermostat starts tripping, you can call a professional plumber to help you.
What temperature does an Eco water heater trip?
Most thermostats are set to trip automatically when the temperature is around 82 degrees Celsius (or 180 degrees Fahrenheit). Unfortunately, if you have a faulty ECO, it is possible for your system to overwork. Aside from tripping, this can also result in fires and other accidents.
How to check continuity of heater element?
When you check the element, use a multimeter in the resistance setting. Place the lead on the element and see if it can detect continuity. If it does not, you need to replace the element before using your heater again.
Why is it important to have a water heater?
One of our small comforts in life is using hot water for our daily showers. We also use it for our laundry and even for washing our dishes. In many countries with especially cold weather, a water heater can be a priority that people cannot go without. Hence, a reliable heater may be crucial for a person’s daily life.
What happens if your water heater is loose?
Loose or bad elements can cause electrical shocks and fires. When your water overheats, it can also damage the other parts of your heater, and you may need to replace it entirely. If you suspect faulty elements, call an expert to fix the problem before it gets bigger.
Why does my heater keep tripping?
If it keeps tripping, then the primary reason we need to look into is your heater’s thermostat. In many cases, a defective one may cause the reset button to trip on its own.
