Why Is My Electric Water Heater Not Working? 5 Surprising Reasons Youll Never Guess

If you’re facing a cold shower or a sink full of lukewarm water, it’s likely that your electric water heater is not working. This can be a frustrating and inconvenient problem, but it’s usually not a difficult one to fix. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most common reasons why an electric water heater might stop working and provide step-by-step instructions on how to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

Common Causes of Electric Water Heater Failure

1. Tripped Circuit Breaker:

• Problem: A tripped circuit breaker is one of the most common reasons why an electric water heater stops working. This can happen due to an overload or a short circuit.
• Solution: Check the circuit breaker panel and reset the breaker that controls the water heater. If the breaker trips again, there may be a more serious electrical problem that needs to be addressed by a qualified electrician.

2. Blown Fuse:

• Problem: If your water heater is connected to a fuse box, a blown fuse can also cause it to stop working.
• Solution: Check the fuse box and replace any blown fuses. Be sure to use the correct amperage fuse for your water heater.

3. Faulty Heating Element:

• Problem: The heating element is responsible for heating the water in your water heater. If it fails, your water heater will not be able to heat the water properly.
• Solution: You can test the heating element with a multimeter to see if it is faulty. If it is, you will need to replace it.

4. Faulty Thermostat:

• Problem: The thermostat controls the temperature of the water in your water heater. If it fails, the water heater may not be able to reach the desired temperature.
• Solution: You can test the thermostat with a multimeter to see if it is faulty. If it is, you will need to replace it.

5. Leaking Water Tank:

• Problem: A leaking water tank can cause your water heater to lose water and pressure, which can prevent it from heating the water properly.
• Solution: If you notice water leaking from your water heater, you will need to replace the water tank.

6. Sediment Buildup:

• Problem: Over time, sediment can build up at the bottom of the water heater tank, which can reduce the efficiency of the heating element and cause the water heater to overheat.
• Solution: You can flush the water heater tank to remove sediment buildup. This is a relatively easy task that can be done by following the manufacturer’s instructions.

7. Old Age:

• Problem: Electric water heaters typically have a lifespan of 10-15 years. If your water heater is older than this, it may be time to replace it.
• Solution: If your water heater is old and not working properly, it is best to replace it with a new one.

How to Troubleshoot an Electric Water Heater

1. Check the Power Supply:

• Make sure that the water heater is plugged in and that the circuit breaker or fuse is not tripped.

2. Test the Heating Element:

• You can test the heating element with a multimeter to see if it is faulty. If it is, you will need to replace it.

3. Test the Thermostat:

• You can test the thermostat with a multimeter to see if it is faulty. If it is, you will need to replace it.

4. Check for Leaks:

• Look for any signs of water leaking from the water heater tank. If you find a leak, you will need to replace the water tank.

5. Flush the Water Heater Tank:

• If you suspect that sediment buildup is causing problems, you can flush the water heater tank to remove it.

When to Call a Professional

If you are not comfortable troubleshooting and repairing an electric water heater yourself, it is best to call a qualified electrician. This is especially important if you suspect that there is a serious electrical problem.

Wrap-Up: Stay Warm and Comfortable with a Properly Functioning Electric Water Heater

By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this blog post, you can diagnose and resolve most common problems with your electric water heater. However, if you are not comfortable working with electrical appliances or if the problem seems to be beyond your expertise, it is always best to call a qualified electrician for assistance. With a properly functioning electric water heater, you can enjoy a warm and comfortable home all year round.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: What are the signs that my electric water heater is not working?

A: Some common signs include cold water, lukewarm water, leaking water, strange noises, and a tripped circuit breaker.

Q: How can I prevent my electric water heater from breaking down?

A: Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank and checking for leaks, can help prevent breakdowns.

Q: How long does an electric water heater typically last?

A: Electric water heaters typically last 10-15 years.