Methods for Examining an Electric Hot Water Heater

Erin M • November 20, 2019

Check Out These Great Tips!

 

Electric water heaters look similar to gas-fueled ones. Both types use a steel-insulated storage tank jacket, that is insulated between the storage tank and the tank jacket to keep the water from losing heat.

 

The primary difference between electric and gas water heaters is the heat source. An electric water heater uses electric upper and lower heating elements that extend into the water tank. Gas heaters heat the water from below the tank with a gas burner.

 

Problems with little or no heat are most often caused by failed heating elements. Improper settings, high home water pressure, or a lack of tank maintenance can also cause issues.

 

To check your electric water heater the first step is to turn off the power. Electric water heaters are high-voltage appliances that are dangerous to work with when the power is on. Prior to checking any electrical parts of a water heater, shut off the power to the heater's circuit by turning off the appropriate breaker in your home's breaker box.

 

Also, test all wires in the water heater with a non-contact voltage tester to confirm the power is off before touching the wires. If you are unfamiliar with your breaker box or uncomfortable performing these steps, contact a plumbing professional.

 

When you have a heater that isn’t producing hot water, but it is getting power, it may have a tripped limit switch or one or more failed heating elements. First, check the water heater's circuit breaker in the service panel to make sure it hasn't tripped. Switch it off, then switch it back on again if the breaker has tripped.

 

If a tripped breaker is not the problem, try to reset the high-temperature limit on the heater:

 

Turn off the breaker to the water heater's circuit in the service panel.

 

Remove the access panel for the upper heating element on the water heater.

 

Remove the insulation and the plastic safety guard, being careful not to touch any wires or electrical terminals.

 

Press the red button. This is the high-temperature cut-off reset button and is located above the upper thermostat.

 

Replace the safety guard, insulation, and access panel.

 

Turn on the heater's circuit breaker.

 

If that doesn't solve the problem, you may need to call a professional to replace the heating element.

 

Our technicians are trained to repair all makes and modes and they can quickly assess the problem with your heater. However, a repair may not be the right option for you. You may want to consider buying a new hot water heater.

 

There are some tell-tale signs to look for that will help you to know when the time is right to invest in expert water heater installation from Adam’s Air.

 

You may need to replace your old heater if:

 

Your current water heater is at least 12 years old

 

Rust-colored water comes out of your taps or there is rusty buildup on top of your tank

 

Your water is not getting hot at all

 

You no longer have enough hot water at any one time to meet your needs

 

Your unit makes cracking or popping noises when the water is heating

 

Your tank is leaking

 


A man is sitting in front of a radiator holding a light bulb.

HVAC Troubleshooting Tips for Homeowners

By Adam's Air Systems • April 15, 2025
HVAC Troubleshooting Tips for Homeowners
A white fan is sitting on the side of a building

Should I Keep My HVAC Fan Running?

By Adam's Air Systems • March 18, 2025
The Pros and Cons of keeping the HVAC fan running
A fan is covered in snow next to a fence

Keep Your HVAC System Running Well in the Winter

By Adam's Air Systems • February 19, 2025
HVAC in the Winter
A man is kneeling down and working on a furnace

My Furnace is Making Strange Noises – What Should I Do?

By Adam's Air Systems • January 16, 2025
If your furnace is suddenly making strange or unusual noises, don't ignore it. While some sounds can be harmless, others may signal underlying issues that require immediate attention. To help you ensure your home stays warm and safe, here’s a breakdown of what those noises might mean and what you can do about them.
A bunch of air conditioner fans are sitting on top of each other.

Top 10 Benefits of Upgrading to Energy- Efficient HVAC Systems

By Adam's Air Systems • December 17, 2024
When it comes to keeping your home comfortable, your HVAC system plays a crucial role. But did you know that upgrading to an energy-efficient HVAC system can do much more than heat or cool your home? It can reduce energy consumption, cut down on your utility bills, and even increase the quality of life for you and your family. For homeowners in Hamilton, making the switch to an energy-efficient system is an investment that pays off in multiple ways. If you're considering an upgrade, here are the top ten benefits of choosing energy-efficient HVAC systems.
A picture of a heat pump and a picture of a furnace.

Heat Pump or Furnace? Choosing the Right Heating Solution for Your Home

By Adam's Air Systems • November 26, 2024
When it comes to keeping your home warm during cold seasons, the decision between a heat pump and a furnace can be tricky. Both heating solutions have their unique benefits, but choosing the right one for your home depends on several factors, including your budget, energy efficiency, and climate. If you're in the Hamilton area, trusted experts like Adam's Air Systems in Hamilton can help you make an informed decision. Let's break down the key considerations for both options:
A room with a large hot water heater and a lot of pipes.

Battle of the Hot Water Tanks

By Adam's Air Systems • October 26, 2024
In today's eco-conscious world, the quest for energy efficiency extends even to our home water heating systems. Homeowners are increasingly faced with a decision between traditional hot water tanks and their modern counterparts, tankless water heaters. But which is the right choice for your home? This comprehensive guide explores the pros and cons of each, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and environmental values.
Furnace Repair Hamilton

Tell me About Furnace Tune-ups

By Dawn Sherwin • September 23, 2024
Furnace tune-ups are essential maintenance procedures designed to ensure that heating systems operate efficiently and safely. During a tune-up, a qualified technician typically performs a thorough inspection of the furnace, checking for any signs of wear or potential issues. This includes cleaning and adjusting burners, inspecting the heat exchanger for cracks or corrosion, and ensuring that all safety controls are functioning correctly.  Regular tune-ups not only enhance the efficiency of the furnace, leading to lower energy bills, but also extend the lifespan of the unit and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs down the line. Additionally, a well-maintained furnace contributes to improved indoor air quality, making it a crucial investment for any homeowner.

Take Control of Home Humidity for Ultimate Comfort

By Dawn Sherwin • August 13, 2024
Ever felt like your home is too sticky in summer or too dry in winter? Humidity plays a crucial role in your home's comfort and health. Understanding how to manage it with your HVAC system can make all the difference. This blog post will guide you through the importance of controlling humidity, the impact on your home and health, and how to use your HVAC system to keep it in check. You'll also find practical tips to maintain optimal humidity levels, ensuring a comfortable and healthy living environment.

Program Your AC and Furnace Settings

By Adam's Air Systems • July 15, 2024
Properly programming your AC and furnace settings can drastically improve your home's energy efficiency and comfort levels. Start by setting a consistent schedule to match your daily routine. For instance, during the summer, set your AC to a higher temperature when you are away from home and lower it when you are typically there.  Conversely, in the winter, lower the furnace settings when the house is empty and raise them when you are back. Utilizing programmable thermostats or smart home devices can automate this process, making it more convenient and reducing the chance of human error. Additionally, it's essential to perform regular maintenance, such as changing filters and checking for leaks, to ensure your HVAC system operates at peak performance.
Show More