Electric water heaters are a reliable and convenient way to have hot water in our homes. However, sometimes, they may fail to work correctly and must be reset. Resetting an electric water heater is a simple process that can save you from calling a technician and spending money on repairs.
This article will provide practical tips and step-by-step instructions on effectively resetting your electric water heater.
How to Reset Electric Water Heater?
Before we start, it is essential to note that electric water heaters come in different models and brands. Thus, the resetting process may differ depending on the specific model of your electric water heater.
● Turn Off the Power
The first step to resetting your electric water heater is to turn off the power supply. To do this, go to your home’s circuit breaker panel and switch off the circuit that powers your electric water heater. Alternatively, you can unplug the water heater from its power source.
Read also: How to Reset Rheem Water Heater Easily at Home
● Remove the Cover
After turning off the power at the breaker box, carefully remove the cover of your electric water heater. The cover might be secured with screws or clips, depending on your model. With a screwdriver, gently remove the screws or use pliers to unclip the cover. Look for any loose wire that could indicate a connection issue.
Before pressing the reset button, take a moment to inspect the area. If you notice any loose wires, it’s important to address these, as they could be the root cause of your water heater’s issues. Secure any loose connections you find to ensure your water heater operates safely and efficiently.
● Locate the Reset Button
After removing the cover, you might need to remove the insulation to see the controls. Look for the reset button, which is typically red and close to the thermostat. The thermostat, which controls the water temperature, is an essential component of your heater.
If the reset button has tripped, it’s often a sign that the thermostat detected an abnormal temperature.
The reset button is designed to trip in case of a malfunction and needs to be manually reset to resume normal operations.
Read also: What Trips the Reset Button on a Hot Water Heater?
● Press the Reset Button
With the reset button located, press and hold it for a few seconds. You may hear a clicking sound indicating that the button has been reset. Release the button and wait a few minutes before replacing the cover and restoring power to the electric water heater.
● Restore Power
Once the reset button on the electric water heater has been pressed, you can restore power to the electric water heater. Go to your home’s circuit breaker panel and switch on the circuit that powers your electric water heater. Alternatively, plug the water heater back into its power source.
● Test the Water Heater
Finally, it is essential to test your electric water heater to ensure it works correctly. Turn on a hot water faucet in your home and check if the hot water is flowing. If the water is hot, your electric water heater has been successfully reset.
If the water is not hot, you may need to repeat the resetting process or call a technician for further assistance.
Ensuring your electric water heater’s reset process is done correctly can prevent future malfunctions and extend the lifespan of your unit. Regularly checking for issues like loose wires or sediment buildup can keep your water heater running efficiently.
Why is the Electric Water Heater Not Working – Potential Factors?
Several potential factors may exist if your electric water heater is malfunctioning. Some of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning electric water heater include the following:
● Power Supply Issues
If the water heater is not receiving power, it will not work correctly.
● Faulty Thermostat
The thermostat regulates the temperature of the water. If the thermostat is faulty, it may cause the water heater to malfunction.
● Tripped Circuit Breaker
A tripped circuit breaker can cause the electric water heater to stop working.
● Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment can build up in the water heater tank, which can cause it to malfunction.
● Heating Element Failure
The heating element is accountable for heating the water. If it fails, the water heater will not work correctly.
That’s it for 6 easy steps to reset the electric water heater! Don’t forget to check your water heater’s elements regularly to prevent it from malfunctioning. If you’re not confident in determining the potential factors as to why it won’t work, don’t hesitate to consult a professional.
