Why Does My Electric Water Heater Keep Turning Off

What Can Cause an Electric Water Heater to Keep Shutting Off?

Electric water heaters keep the water in your house hot enough to run your washing machine and dishwasher, as well as to keep your shower and tub water pleasant and toasty in the winter. If your water heater continues shutting down, you’ll need to figure out what’s causing the problem. A fundamental grasp of how this device operates is a solid starting point.

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There are a variety of factors that might cause your hot water heater to shut down, ranging from malfunctioning thermostats and damaged heating components to excessively high water temperature readings.

How Electric Water Heaters Work

In accordance with How Stuff Works, water heater tanks have a capacity of 40 to 60 gallons of water and their exteriors are insulated with polyurethane foam or a similar substance, which is then protected by an outer shell. The water enters the heater through a dip tube at the bottom, where it is heated to the desired temperature. It is equipped with three primary valves: a drain valve for emptying the tank, a pressure relief valve for relieving pressure, and a shutdown valve for stopping the flow of water in.

Water heaters powered by natural gas operate in a different way.

The dip tube is responsible for bringing cold water into the electric water heater tanks.

Afterwards, it exits the tank via the heat-out pipe and travels to the location where it is required.

Water Heater Keeps Shutting Off

Mr. Plumber says that when the hot water is shut off frequently, it is most likely because the hot water heater is tripping the circuit breaker on the main circuit. If the temperature of the water in the tank is greater than 180 degrees, the power will be turned off by pressing the reset button. These tanks feature two thermostats and two heating elements, and if one of the thermostats is not functioning properly, one of the heating elements may continue to heat the water, resulting in the need to replace the thermostat.

It has the potential to continue heating the water even if the thermostat instructs it not to.

If the thermostats and heating elements are in proper working order, it is possible that the electric water heater reset button is the root of the issue.

Because the reset buttons are a component of the tank’s upper thermostat, it is possible that the entire component will need to be replaced.

Gas Water Heater Specifics

If the reset button on your gas water heater continues tripping, you’ll need to take a different approach to fixing the problem. Besides hot water, gas water heaters also accept cold water, which is heated by gas burners at the bottom of the tank. It is heated, rises to the surface, and then departs the system through a hot water output pipe. The burner that warms the water is controlled by a gas regulator device that is mounted on the exterior of the tank. An exhaust flue, which allows exhaust gas to move up and out of the building through a vent pipe or chimney, is also available.

A tiny valve known as a thermocouple, which is also known as a flame sensor, is a component of the pilot light.

A clogged thermocouple, a filthy pilot light, or any other component might cause the machine to shut down, necessitating the hiring of a plumber to clear it out.

If the heater isn’t getting enough fuel, it might be because of a faulty gas valve or a leak, or it could be because unclean air inlets are preventing oxygen from reaching the main burners, resulting in a shutdown of the heater.

The best course of action is to call a plumber. Gas water heater maintenance should be performed on a regular basis in order to avoid these problems from occurring.

Why Does My Electric Water Heater Reset Button Keep Tripping?

If the electricity to your water heater goes out, the reset button on the water heater may be used to switch the appliance back on. Your reset button, on the other hand, acts as a safety measure, shutting off the unit if the water temperature rises to an unsafe level. If you find yourself regularly resetting your water heater in order to turn the electricity back on, there is an issue with the unit. In this post, we’ll look at four of the most prevalent reasons why your reset button continues triggering:

  • Heating element that has failed
  • Faulty thermostat
  • Faulty reset button faulty wiring or a faulty circuit breaker

When a problem arises, it is critical to locate the root of the problem and call an expert who can establish what is causing the specific problem and solve it. Since 1918, MSP has been delivering solutions to homes in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota. Tank water heaters and tankless water heaters are both repaired by our crew in a short amount of time. Make an appointment as soon as possible!

Reason1: Bad Thermostat

Electric water heaters are equipped with two thermostats: an upper and a lower thermostat. The upper thermostat has a reset button, which may be found on the top of the thermostat. You have two thermostats because the heater has two heating elements, one at the top and one at the bottom. In order to prevent more than one heating element from being turned on at a time, each element has its own thermostat that “talks” to the other elements. Your thermostat keeps track of the temperature of the water in your tank and switches off the heating element when the water reaches the temperature you specify.

Repair: A competent plumber can determine which thermostat has failed and replace it with a working model.

Reason2: Burnt Out Heating Element

The heating element in your water heater is responsible for the actual heating of your water. It is possible that your heating element will encounter a short. This is frequently the case when the metal housing of the element fractures and the element’s live wires are exposed to water. Because of a short in your heating element, the electricity flowing through the element will remain long after your thermostat has turned off the power. As a result, your heating element will continue to raise the water temperature in the tank until it reaches 180°F.

Your water just isn’t as hot as it used to be, which is the most prevalent symptom that your heating element has burned out.

Reason3: Bad Reset Button

If the reset button on your water heater keeps tripping, it’s possible that the fault is with the button itself. The reset button on your water heater is meant to remove power to your unit if the temperature of your water surpasses 180 degrees Fahrenheit. However, with time, the switch on the reset button might become worn out, making it difficult to precisely monitor the temperature of the water. Even if the water temperature is low, it is possible that the switch will shut off the electricity to the water heater in this situation.

A skilled plumber will most likely need to replace your complete higher thermostat if your reset button is the source of your problem.

Reason4: Bad Wiring or a Bad Breaker

It’s possible that your problem is electrical in nature. If you have a tangle of unsecured wire, it might pose a serious safety risk. Fortunately, your water heater is well-equipped to protect you against electrical dangers and malfunctions. When a wire becomes loose, it generates an excessive amount of heat. Because the heat created by the loose wire may be detected by your reset button, it will trip as a result. If you have aluminum wire in your home and copper wiring in your water heater, you may experience further wiring problems.

The connection between the two different metals might cause the water heater’s circuit breaker to trip if the right lug connector is not in place.

The solution: If a plumber is unable to find any problems with your water heater’s operation, have an electrician examine your wiring and breaker.

Ready to get your water heater working again?

The vast majority of individuals have found themselves in the shower, waiting for the hot water to arrive, but without success. This is really inconvenient, especially if you’ve just returned from a long and exhausting journey and need to take a shower. Fortunately, the majority of these concerns may be resolved by the individual. The need to contact a plumber and waste a lot of money on something you could easily fix yourself is unnecessary. Depending on the sort of water heater you have, there are a variety of reasons why it continues shutting down.

Here are a handful of the most often encountered.

Reasons Why Gas Water Heater Keeps Turning Off

In recent years, gas water heaters have grown in popularity, particularly in urban areas. This is due to the fact that they are energy efficient and are reasonably priced. Consider the following reasons why your gas water heater may be constantly shutting down.

1. Gas Supply

Gas water heaters must have a continuous supply of gas to the pilot light in order to function properly at all times. It is impossible for the pilot light to remain lit if the gas supply is interrupted or if the volume of gas available is insufficient. Check to see that the line valves are open. This is the only method to ensure that the gas gets to the pilot light in the first place. Note:

2. Dirty or Dusty Pilot Light Burner

As previously stated, a pilot light is an absolutely required component of a gas water heater. If your gas water heater is constantly shutting down, it’s possible that the problem is with the filthy pilot light burner. When there is dust or dirt on the pilot light, it will automatically switch off, resulting in the complete shutdown of your heater. Because dirt will obstruct airflow, this is the case. It is advised that you contact your plumber for assistance in clearing up the debris. Because the cleaning procedure is not straightforward, you should not attempt to complete it on your own.

If the problem persists, you may always re-light the pilot light, but doing so will simply make the situation worse. At the end of the day, your complete heater may fail, resulting in you incurring far more charges than you should have had to.

3. Broken or Dirty Thermopile

Heater’s thermopole is the portion of the heater that responds to the pilot light and activates the gas supply. Similarly to the pilot light, the thermopile can become inoperable if it becomes worn out or clogged with dirt. If it is unable to communicate effectively, the water heater will not begin to operate, even if the pilot light is illuminated. Fortunately, a thermopile may be simply replaced, and a replacement part can be obtained for a reasonable price. However, once again, we recommend that you hire a plumber to complete this work.

4. Dirty Air Inlet

The air intake of a gas water heater is another component that is subject to dirt and dust accumulation. The air intake ensures that air can be delivered to the primary burners. If it becomes blocked, oxygen will not be able to reach the lamps, and they will be turned off. The most effective strategy to avoid this problem is to get your heater serviced on a regular basis. If the air intake does become clogged, a plumber may easily unclog it without causing too much trouble.

Reasons Why Electric Water Heater Keeps Turning Off

Electric water heaters are a regular feature in the majority of households. Generally speaking, they will not break down as frequently as gas heaters, although faults may still occur. If your electric water heater is constantly shutting down, there are a few things you should be aware of. Because all electric water heaters use the same electronic technology, you won’t have many selections, which is a good thing. The electronic system of a heater is formed of the following three components:

  • An electrical socket, a thermostat, and a heating element are all included.

Any one of these three components can fail, preventing the water from heating up properly.

Broken Electricity Source

In the heater’s electrical system, the electrical outlet is the most important component. This is responsible for directing the power to the remainder of the device. An intermittently shutting down water heater may be the result of this problem in some cases. Keep in mind that a faulty electrical outlet can do a lot of damage to your home. The heater should be turned off right away if you hear a buzzing or cracking sound when you turn it on. A short circuit, or perhaps an explosion, is something you don’t want to happen at any cost.

A Bad Thermostat

The thermostat is in charge of controlling the heating components. When the water temperature drops below a certain point, the thermostat sends a signal to the heating components. Your water will re-heat as a result of this. When the water reaches the temperature you prefer, the thermostat will automatically switch off the heating element to conserve energy. If you have an HVAC or hybrid system, you’ll note that this is quite similar to the thermostat that controls your air conditioning. The majority of electric water heaters feature two thermostats, one on top and one on the bottom.

However, just like every other component, they are susceptible to failure.

Your heater will not function properly in this situation, and the water will not be heated. The only way to resolve this situation is to replace the faulty thermostat. This must be done by a professional plumber since it is extremely unsafe to work around anything that is powered by electricity.

When the thermostat indicates that the water should be heated, the heating element is responsible for doing so. A typical cause of your hot water heater shutting off unexpectedly is a faulty thermostat. When the heating element fails, it will no longer be able to heat the water. If the heat source is not functioning properly, the water in the tank will remain cold, even if everything else is functioning well. Heating components should be replaced on a regular basis by a plumber. If it is fitted incorrectly, it can also result in a short circuit, which can cause significant harm.

How Can You Troubleshoot Electric Heater Problems?

In the case of an electric water heater, you may be perplexed as to why your water heater keeps shutting down. Knowing the cause of your electric heater’s failure might save you a significant amount of money in the long run. Here’s how to troubleshoot issues with your electric heater using the steps outlined above. First and foremost, you must switch off the electricity. This is critical since it will ensure your safety. Then check to see if the problem isn’t related to the electricity. Examine the circuit breakers to ensure that they are not tripped.

  • This will eliminate the possibility of an issue with the power outlet.
  • If the electricity is delivered to it and everything is functioning properly, it will measure the temperature of the water.
  • If both of these parts are functioning properly, the problem is most likely due to a malfunctioning heating element.
  • This can be caused by a variety of issues, such as an inadequately sized water heater, among others.
  • The next thing you should look for is any potential cross-connections between cold and hot connections.
  • If the water is running, it is likely that there are crossed connections at the source of the problem.
  • If the undersized heater or crossed connections aren’t the problem, look inside the system as we’ve already discussed in this article.
  • Sediment can cause the components to cease functioning correctly, but this is a basic problem that can be resolved quickly.
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Signs You May Need a New Heater

When enough is enough, it’s time to call it quits. In the event that your water heater continues shutting down, no matter how many times you try to fix it, it’s time to replace it.

The longevity of older models is often greater, despite the fact that they are not as efficient as modern versions. Listed below are some red flags that calling a repairman is a waste of time and money:

  1. Your heater is more than ten years old–the average lifespan of a heater is ten to fifteen years. If your heater is more than ten years old, it is on its way out. Leaks– If you notice water surrounding the tank, it’s likely that the tank has split. You may be able to remedy this for a little amount of time. Fractures, on the other hand, have a tendency to grow in size. It is likely that your heater is making a lot of noise because of a large amount sediment buildup in the system. Despite the fact that build-up may be removed, this is typically an indication that you need a new unit. Unexpectedly high hot water bills– Unexpectedly high hot water bills may indicate a problem. If you are using your heater in the same manner as you normally do but your expenses are increasing, there is a problem. When this happens, it is usually a sign that the heater needs to be replaced. Take into consideration tankless water heaters. In the event that your water heater continues shutting down regularly, it’s necessary to make a fresh start with your plumbing. Put an end to your water heater maintenance expenditures by purchasing a new one

Water Heater Keeps Turning off Bottom Line

When your water heater continues shutting down, it’s critical to figure out what’s causing it to do so. It is always advisable to consult a plumber, but you should be well-versed in the subject before doing so. You don’t want to wind up spending more money diagnosing the problem than you do on resolving it. Furthermore, the root cause of an issue may on occasion be something as simple as a misunderstanding.

Why Does My Water Heater Keep Turning Off?

What is causing your water heater to continually shutting down? In the event that you are standing at the bathroom sink and no hot water comes to you in order to wash your hands, it is likely that your water heater has shut off by itself. There are a couple of issues that might cause your water heater to go down unexpectedly. You can look into this on your own, but you’ll want to validate your findings with a plumber before allowing them to solve the problem. If you want to begin troubleshooting your water heater on your own, first determine if you have a gas or an electric water heater.

Gas water heaters are equipped with intake and exhaust pipes for the gas they use.

Gas Water Heater Keeps Turning Off

When a problem with the pilot light, thermocouple, or gas supply occurs, gas water heaters may shut off.

1. Pilot Light Burner

When the pilot light on a gas water heater goes out, the water heater will automatically shut down. When you open up the container containing your pilot light, you can observe if it is still glowing or not. If it has gone out, the most probable cause is just a buildup of dirt and dust in the pilot light’s air intake, which is blocking airflow to the light. It will go out if there isn’t enough air. Do not re-light the pilot light, since this will just cause the problem to occur again. Make a call to your plumber and ask them to clear away the dust and dirt.

2. Thermocouple

Another possible cause for the pilot light to go out is that the thermocouple has been worn out over time. This is a reasonably straightforward and affordable remedy for your plumber, which is a welcome relief. It’s possible that your gas water heater doesn’t have any of these issues, in which case the most likely explanation is a problem with the gas supply. Due to the potential risk associated with gas, this is not a situation you should attempt to solve on your own.

Electric Water Heater Keeps Turning Off

Electric water heaters provide a whole different set of issues than do gas water heaters, for example.

1. Water is Too Hot

Have you lately increased the temperature of your hot water heater? It’s possible that you cranked it up too much. When the water heater reaches a specified temperature, generally 180 degrees, a safety shut-off is activated and the heater is turned off. Reduce the temperature by a few degrees (if it has been raised recently) and see if it solves the problem.

You may have an issue with the heating element running continuously if you have a temperature that high and you did not set it. This overheating might be caused by a variety of various issues, but a plumber can diagnose and resolve them.

2. Other Electrical Issues

It is possible that a component of your electric water heater or anything related to it (such as a smart thermostat) has been damaged in some way, causing the electrical water heater to shut down. It’s possible that the problem is with the heating coil, your thermostat, the thermometer, or any number of other components of the system. Ultimately, a plumber will be required to assist you in resolving the situation. There are a variety of other factors that contribute to a hot water heater continually shutting off.

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The water heater repair services we provide in Fremont are available for both tankless and electric water heaters. To schedule service, call immediately. Page speed enhancements that are automated for optimal site performance

Water Heater Keeps Shutting Off

When it comes to house problems, it’s one of the most frustrating, causing even the most level-headed homeowner to wonder, “Why does my water heater keep going off?” Your thoughts on this topic are probably racing through your head as you make your way from a freezing shower to your gas or electric water heater, still soaking wet. According to all likelihood, the answer to your concern is rather basic and can be resolved relatively fast with the assistance of an experienced plumber:

  • If your gas water heater is constantly shutting down, the thermocouple is most likely the source of the problem. This very important component detects when the pilot light is on and then opens the valve that directs gas to the burner. A defective thermocouple will cause the gas supply to the burner as well as the pilot to be cut off completely. A thermocouple that has been twisted or otherwise damaged will prevent the pilot light from heating it. Additionally, a buildup of dirt might be to cause. The same way that a buildup of dirt and grime may impair the smooth operation of your air conditioner, a filthy thermocouple can prohibit your water heater from performing its function.
  • If your electric water heater continues shutting down, you’ve most likely already determined that the problem is due to an electrical malfunction. And you’re accurate, but which one is it, exactly? A number of factors contribute to the frustration associated with electric water heater difficulties, particularly if the unit is connected into an electrical outlet, the breakers are turned on, and there appears to be no clear cause for the unit to malfunction. An skilled technician can immediately identify the source of the problem, which is most commonly a problem with the heating coil or the thermostat, and resolve it. The problem is most likely caused by an electrical short in one or more circuit breakers if the water heater causes the breaker to trip every time it attempts to heat water.

Water Heater Repair in New Jersey

The truth is, if you happen to believe that there is a solution to every problem, you are absolutely accurate in more ways than one. To solve this problem, just contact Arctic Air Conditioning so that our highly trained technicians can provide dependable water heater repair services. Since 1977, we have been providing services to the counties of Monmouth, Middlesex, Mercer, Ocean, and Somerset. Get in touch with us right away! Customers’ Testimonials5 Rating |”The water heater was showing its age after 14 years with the pilot light going out every 2 to 3 days or so.” “I received bids from another firm that were significantly more.” – Siva Machavolu4 Rating |”At initially, there was a snag with the company.

  • When they started rewiring my unit, they didn’t finish it right away.
  • Nevar, 5 Stars |”Excellent service!” In the words of Maria Cornhill, 5 stars for “fast and efficient service at a reasonable price.” – Kathleen Brophy5 Stars |”Mike was on time, polite, disguised, and honest in his assessment of what we need or did not require.
  • I was very pleased with the work that was done to remove and install a new hot water heater.
  • “Thank you very much, Sal!” Dave Graziano is a writer who lives in New York City.

My Gas Water Heater Keeps Shutting Off! What Do I Do?

There are few things more frustrating than getting ready to take a nice shower or bath only to discover that you can’t obtain any hot water. In contrast, if your gas water heater is constantly shutting down for no apparent cause, this is exactly the situation you may find yourself in! Gas water heaters automatically shut off for several reasons, the most common of which are that the pilot light has gone out, the pilot light cannot be ignited, or there are difficulties with the gas supply.

In this section, we’ll look at what you can do to get to the bottom of this problem and improve the reliability of your hot water supply.

Dirty Thermocouple

If you are able to ignite your pilot light, but it continues to go out, the thermocouple is the first component to examine. In order for the water heater to be ignited for the first time, a valve must be opened and gas must be let into the burner before the pilot light can ignite the gas. After approximately 30 seconds, the heat from the lit pilot light flame triggers a simple electrical switch known as a thermocouple, which guarantees that the gas supply to the pilot light remains open and that your water heater continues to operate.

The thermocouple is frequently located right next to the pilot light, making it immediately visible.

If the thermocouple is contaminated, switch off the gas to enable it to cool down.

Bent or Damaged Thermocouple

Because it must be positioned in the pilot flame in order to function, the thermocouple will not function. A thermocouple may get twisted or broken as a result of a collision or simply from the passage of time. The thermocouple may be straightened by gently bending it closer to the pilot light, but if it is damaged or broken, you may need to hire a plumber to repair or replace the thermocouple completely.

Dirty Pilot Tube

It is possible for dirt or soot to accumulate in the pilot light tube, which can result in a weak flame or even the failure of the pilot light to illuminate at all. If you observe a faint, flickering yellow flame emanating from your pilot burner instead of an intense, blue flame that rises to a maximum of 12 inches in height, the most likely cause is a filthy pilot burner. When the pilot tube has cooled, you may carefully clean it with a needle to remove any clogs, but if the problem persists, you should contact a professional plumber.

A Bad Gas Valve

Your gas water heater will shut down if the supply of gas to the pilot light or burners is interrupted owing to damage to the gas valve or its internal parts. If you’ve eliminated the possibility of a problem with your pilot light or thermocouple, the gas valve on your water heater is most likely to be to blame. Your plumber is the most qualified person to do gas valve repair or replacement.

Dirty Or Clogged Air Inlet

Air intake screens are found at the bottom of gas water heaters, and they can become clogged with dust, dirt, soot, fur, and lint. Gas water heaters are also susceptible to rust. If the air intake screen becomes blocked, it will not allow enough air to get through to keep the gas burners operating, resulting in the water heater shutting down. If you discover the scent of natural gas emanating from your water heater at any time, leave your house immediately, switch off your gas supply, and contact your gas provider for emergency help.

Investigate these five features of your gas water heater if your gas water heater is constantly shutting down. Magnificent Plumbing, your local plumber, can provide you with experienced guidance on how to restore consistent operation to your gas water heater.

7 Reasons Your Water Heater Pilot Light Keeps Going Out

There is nothing more inconvenient than stepping into a frigid shower to begin a chilly day. It’s possible that you’ve recently found that the pilot light is constantly going out. Thousands of consumers are dissatisfied with their water heaters, which fail to function properly only a few months after installation. Is it usual for your water heater to go out on you in the middle of the night? No! Your heater should be able to easily reach the 10-year milestone without experiencing any serious problems.

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Take a look at these beautiful water heaters in Phoenix.

What Is The Pilot Light?

The Pilot Light is the heart of your water heater, and it controls the flow of water. Essentially, it is a little blue flame that produces heat by burning petroleum gas. There would be no heat and, hence, no warm water if this flame were not present.

So, What Are The Reasons Your Water Pilot Light Keeps Going Out?

Not only will we identify the potential issues, but we will also provide you with solutions to those issues. Please take notice of the following: Check to see whether your water heater is still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. If this is the case, it should be returned to the supplier or manufacturer for repairs or complete replacement. Precautionary measure: To begin, shut off the main gas supply valve to prevent potentially fatal gas leaks. Wait 5 minutes for the heat and gas to dissipate before continuing.

1. An Unclean Pilot Tube

It’s a problem that practically all water heaters have at some point. Please don’t be concerned, your heater is in perfect working order. It’s simply a buildup of dirt. The Pilot tube is responsible for supplying gas to the pilot light in order for it to burn. if the tube becomes blocked with dirt or other particles, the flame will go out. It is possible that the tube is partially blocked and only supplying a little amount of gas for combustion—which explains why your pilot light keeps going out.

To gently clear the tube, use a thin needle to poke it with.

You must be patient during this process.

Place the container back where it belongs and turn on your water heater.

2. A Dirty Thermocouple

In the case of a water heater, the thermocouple serves as its brain. It is in charge of shutting down the gas valve when it detects that the pilot light has gone out. Because the pilot light produces an electric current, the thermocouple is activated when this current is present. It serves as a safety measure, preventing gas leaks from occurring. As a result, a filthy thermocouple might be the source of your water pilot’s inability to function properly. When a coating of filth and dust accumulates on the surface of a thermocouple, the electric current cannot reach it.

On a chilly Monday morning, there is no hot water. The solution: You’ll have to perform some more cleaning this time. To begin, shut off the main gas supply valve and allow the thermocouple to cool before proceeding. Using a new piece of sandpaper, scrape away all of the filth and grime.

3. A Kinked Thermocouple

As soon as you’ve finished cleaning, double-check the location of the thermocouple. Also, look to see whether it’s a little bent. The thermocouple must be placed close to the pilot light in order for it to receive heat and activate the gas valve. As a result of being too far away, heat will not be received and an electric current will not be generated. The thermocouple will determine that the pilot light has been turned out and will seal the valve, cutting off the gas supply to the house. The answer is as follows: First, turn off the gas and turn off your heater, and then wait for the thermocouple to cool down before proceeding.

To be effective, the blue flame must be placed close enough to the pilot light so it contacts or wraps around the blue flame.

4. A Broken Thermocouple

So, you’ve cleaned and straightened your thermocouple, but your water pilot continues to fail despite all of your efforts. You should be prepared to accept the possibility that your thermocouple is faulty at this point. Perform a diagnostic test with a multimeter on your thermocouple first, though, before you give up on it. If the voltage delivered by your thermocouple is significantly less than 20MV, then the device is almost certainly damaged and should be replaced immediately. The Solution: If the multimeter reading is near to, but not exactly at, 20MV, you can adjust the thermocouple closer to the pilot light to save energy.

5. Flex Tube Issues

Flexible tube is a long tube that links the gas controller to the burner, which contains the pilot light, thermocouple, and other components. If the flex tube is broken or blocked, the gas will not be provided to the burner for combustion to take place. Flex tube failures, on the other hand, are not as prevalent as thermocouple failures. This is why you must first inspect and ensure that your thermocouple is in excellent working order before turning your attention to the flex tube. The Solution is as follows: Straighten any kinks in the flex tubing that have formed.

Leaks in the gas line will lower the amount of gas that reaches the burner.

6. A Faulty Main Control Valve

It’s possible that you’ll never run into this situation again. We recommend that you examine the pilot tube, thermocouple, and flex tube before attempting to modify or repair this piece of equipment. The Main Control Valve Unit has a very low failure rate. However, don’t count it out just yet; it’s possible that it’s the source of your water pilot’s incessant failure. Main Control Valve: This valve is in charge of regulating the gas and water pressures of the water heater. Your water heater’s heart and soul is the thermostat.

When the gas is ignited, the main valve is fully opened, allowing for a consistent stream of gas to be provided.

A malfunctioning main control valve will cause the gas valve to close abruptly, cutting off the gas supply and resulting in a feeble flickering flame. The following are signs of a defective main control valve:

  • A malfunctioning pilot button that does not illuminate after being pressed
  • A malfunctioning control knob
  • When the water temperature exceeds the stated range, you will feel extremely hot water.

The solution: There is no way around a defective main control valve in this situation. However, despite the fact that there are specialists who say they can fix this, manufacturers highly advise against it. It is recommended that you replace the item to prevent incurring more expenditures and causing damage to other components of your water heater.

7. Poor Electrical Wiring

When it comes to electric water heaters, this is generally a concern. The fact that you should always engage a professional to install your water heater is one of the main reasons for this. If your water heater suddenly stops working, this is the first indication of a defective electrical system. The Solution: Turn off your water heater as soon as possible and contact a professional. Please do not tamper with the electrical wiring system.

Our Final Word

If all of your methods fail and your pilot light continues to go out, it’s time to call in the heavy guns (the professionals). We’re aware. We’re aware. The services of technicians are not cheap, but at the very least you will have greater confidence in the repairs. In addition to that, we are all aware of the dangers associated with electricity and natural gas. Your safety is of the utmost importance. Did you find this information useful? Check out Why Are Trane HVAC Units So Popular? for more information.

Why is My Water Heater Tripping the Reset Button?

The reset button on your water heater is a safety feature that turns down the electricity to your water heater if the water temperature within it surpasses 180 degrees Fahrenheit for any reason. ECO (emergency cut off) switch or “high limit safety thermostat switch” are two other names for the reset button that can be found on some models. So what is it that is causing the button to trip over and over again? There are a variety of potential underlying issues to consider. We’ll go through the four most popular ones.

Reason1: Bad thermostat

Electric water heaters are equipped with two thermostats as well as two heating components. As shown in the image below, there are two thermostat/element combinations: one at the top and one at the bottom. An illustration of an electric water heater. Thanks to Waterheatertimer.org for the photo! When the temperature of the water in the tank rises over a certain point, the thermostat will turn off the heating element and the tank will be ready to use. However, when a thermostat malfunctions, it may become “stuck” and fail to switch off the element it is supposed to control.

If this is the case, you’ll need to have the thermostat repaired or replaced.

Reason2: Loose electrical connection

It doesn’t matter where they occur; loose electrical connections are a safety threat. The high resistance created by a snag in a wire generates a significant amount of heat, which might eventually result in a fire if not addressed.

It is possible for your water heater’s reset button’s thermometer to trip (regardless of the temperature of the water) if there is a loose electrical connection inside the system of your water heater. This can happen regardless of the temperature of the water.

Reason3: Bad heating element

In one of the heating elements, there is a short that permits electricity to continue to flow through the element long after the thermometer has been turned off. This indicates that the heating element is still operational and will continue to raise the water temperature until the reset button is triggered.

Reason4: Bad reset button

The reset button, like all other elements of the water heater, will ultimately show signs of wear and strain. This might lead it to work less efficiently and to trip on a regular basis, regardless of the temperature of the water contained within the tank. This button is really part of your top thermostat, which is where the reset button is located. As a result, if this is the issue, you will need to replace the entire thermostat system.

So, how do I know which is causing the reset button to trip?

Because you’re dealing with 240 volts of electricity, diagnosing the problem on your own can be difficult and perhaps dangerous. Unless you have extensive familiarity with wiring and electrical components, we recommend that you consult with a professional to identify the source of your problem. The good news is that your water heater can be tested and repaired by a qualified technician. Set up an appointment with Mr. Plumber immediately if you live in the Atlanta area and require the services of a professional plumber to fix your water heater or other plumbing problem.

Related Reading:

  • Three Warning Signs That Your Water Heater Is About to Fail
  • Is it better to repair or replace my old hot water heater?

Mr. Plumber is based inMarietta, Georgia, and has three sites in the Atlanta metro region to serve the needs of customers.

Troubleshooting Checklist for an Electric Water Heater

Electric water heaters have a similar appearance to their gas-fueled counterparts. In order to limit heat loss from the heated water, they both employ an insulated steel storage tank jacket, with insulation between the storage tank and the tank jacket. The primary difference between electric and gas water heaters is the source of heat used to heat the water. Electric upper and lower heating components that extend into the water tank heat the water in an electric water heater, which is powered by electricity.

When it comes to electric water heaters that provide little or no heat, the most common problem is a faulty heating element, which is a pretty affordable component that is quite simple to repair.

Watch Now: How to Repair an Electric Water Heater

Limited warranties are provided with both residential and commercial hot water heaters. Every tank is equipped with a rating plate that displays the tank’s model and serial number. These numbers specify the year in which the tank was manufactured, and they will decide if the tank is covered by a prorated warranty, which may include the provision of a new tank or replacement parts at no cost or at a discount.

Take a picture or write down the information, then contact the manufacturer if the tank is leaking or the element is not working correctly. Field labor is not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. The following is something that you can perform before you start diagnosing the issue.

Warning

Working with electric water heaters when the power is on is risky since they are high-voltage (240-volt) equipment that can cause electrocution. Turn off the electricity to the water heater’s circuit by turning off the relevant breaker in your home’s service panel before inspecting any electrical components of the water heater (breaker box). Also, use a non-contact voltage tester to check all of the wires in the water heater to ensure that the power is turned off before touching any of the wires.

How to Fix

The Spruce Tree

No Hot Water

A water heater that does not generate hot water might be due to a lack of electricity, a tripped limit switch, or one or more faulty heating components, to name a few possibilities. As a first step, make sure that the circuit breaker for your water heater is not tripped on your panel of electrical circuit breakers. Switch off the circuit breaker and then turn it back on if it has been tripped. If the heater’s breaker does not trip (i.e., if it is still turned on), attempt the following steps to reset the high-temperature limit:

  1. Turn off the circuit breaker for the water heater’s circuit at the service panel if necessary. Removing the access panel for the water heater’s upper heating element is a good idea. Carefully remove all of the insulation and the plastic safety shield, taking care not to come into contact with any of the wires or electrical connections
  2. To reset the high-temperature cutoff, press the red button above the higher thermostat, which is positioned above the upper thermostat. Reinstall the safety guard, the insulating material, and the access panel. Turn on the circuit breaker for the heater. Test each heating element and replace it if required if this does not resolve the problem

“The Spruce” is a song by Candace Madonna.

Inadequate Hot Water

If your water heater is producing hot water but not enough of it, it is possible that your unit is too small to satisfy the hot water demands of your home. Take precautions to ensure that the water heater’s capacity does not exceed the demand.

How to Fix

The water heater should be able to provide hot water to a capacity of 75% of its total capacity. For example, a 40-gallon water heater is appropriately suited for a 30-gallon demand. If the demand exceeds the capacity of the heater, attempt to restrict the length of showers, install low-flow showerheads, and spread out dishwashing and laundry to different times of the day rather than doing them all at the same time to reduce the strain on the heater. The failure of one or both of your unit’s heating elements, even if your unit is not undersized, might indicate that one or both of its heating elements have failed.

See also:  How To Relight Pilot Light Water Heater

When hot water runs out rapidly during a shower, it is an indication of a faulty bottom heating element in the shower.

Water Temperature Is Too Hot

When there is too much hot water, it may be almost as annoying as when there is not enough hot water. If you’re encountering this problem, it’s possible that one or both of the thermostats on your water heater are set too high.

How to Fix

To double-check the thermostat settings, do the following:

  1. In the service panel, turn off the electricity to the water heater to conserve energy. The access panel, insulation, and plastic safety shield from each heating element on the water heater should be removed before continuing. Do not come into contact with any wires or electrical terminals. Using a non-contact voltage tester, check the cables to ensure that the power has been turned off. Ensure that the heat is set correctly on both thermostats: Both of them should be at the same temperature as each other. 115 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit is the acceptable temperature range. Make use of a flathead screwdriver to adjust the temperature to the correct level
  2. And Set the other thermostat to the same temperature as the first
  3. For each element, replace the safety guard, insulation, and access panel as needed. Turn on the circuit breaker for the heater.

“The Spruce” is a song by Candace Madonna.

Water Leaks

Water leaks are often caused by leaking valves and plumbing connections, but they can also be caused by difficulties with the tank’s drainage system. Water leaks may cause substantial damage to a property, which is why it is critical to repair the leak as soon as it is discovered.

How to Fix

Leaks from water heater tanks can occur as a result of faulty heating components or corrosion in the tank. Inspect the elements for looseness and, if required, tighten them with an element wrench to prevent them from moving.

A rusted tank is unable to be repaired and must be completely replaced instead. Turn off the water heater’s power and water supply, and then totally drain the tank to stop the leaks from occurring. “The Spruce” is a song by Candace Madonna.

Rust-Colored Water or Bad Odor

If your water has a brown, yellow, or red tinge to it as it comes out of the faucet, corrosion might be occuring within your water heater tank or in the pipes in your home. If your water comes out smelling like rotten eggs, it’s possible that bacteria has built up in the tank of your hot water heater. A professional plumber may be required to replace the anode rod in the tank, which is something that you should avoid doing unless absolutely necessary. courtesy of KariHoglund / Getty Images

Tank Making Noises

Is your water heater making noises? If so, what are they? Is there a low rumbling or popping sound when you turn it on? What if it’s a high-pitched whine instead? It’s possible that the sounds you’re hearing is the sound of boiling water. When there is a significant amount of sediment building in the bottom of a tank, it can cause the bottom of the tank to overheat, which can result in the water boiling.

How to Fix

In order to remove the silt from the tank, the first thing to attempt is to empty it. The tank may need to be replaced if this does not alleviate the problem. “The Spruce” is a song by Candace Madonna.

Water Heater Reset Button Keeps Tripping?

Our hot water heaters are extremely useful for a variety of reasons, from taking hot showers to cleaning dishes. Year after year, they put up tremendous effort on behalf of our family. However, due to regular wear and tear, these water heaters are susceptible to malfunctioning at any point in time. A lot of problems might arise, but one of the most prevalent is when the water heater’s reset button continues tripping over and over again. When this occurs, it can result in a great deal of irritation for everyone involved.

Continue reading to learn about a few probable causes for an electric water heater reset button that is constantly tripping, as well as how to resolve the problem.

Potential Causes

If the water heater reset button keeps tripping, the first thing to check is the temperature setting on the thermostat. When using an electric water heater, you have two thermostats: one on the top and one on the bottom of the tank. The reset button may be found on the top of the thermostat. The function of these thermostats is to monitor the temperature of the water and to turn off the heating element when the required temperature has been reached or exceeded. One of the reasons for having two thermostats is that the water heater has an upper and lower heating element, each of which is regulated by a separate thermostat.

Occasionally, though, one of these thermostats may have a malfunction and become locked in the ON position.

This cycle might repeat itself over and over again until the problem is resolved.

Solution

If your thermostat is damaged or malfunctioning, the best course of action is to hire a professional to replace it.

Once an expert has determined which thermostat is failing, he or she will replace it. Given the fact that this solution contains electrical components, we strongly advise that you seek the advice of a specialist.

Worn-out Heating Element

According to what we covered previously, thermostats and heating elements are two of the most important components of an electric water heater. While we previously discussed the issues associated with a faulty thermostat, we will now examine the issues associated with worn-out heating components. If the reset button on your water heater continues tripping, it’s possible that one of the heating components is faulty or worn out. Because it is used to heat water, your hot water heater will not function properly if this component is missing.

This exposes live wires to water, resulting in a system short due to a short circuit.

The water will continue to be heated by the thermostat until the temperature reaches 180 degrees.

One indicator to check for is water that does not feel hot to the touch.

Solution

The solution is similar to that of a thermostat in that it entails the simple replacement of a system component. If the reset button on your hot water heater is constantly being triggered, changing one of the heating components may be the solution. Make sure you get an expert to do this replacement service for you.

Broken Reset Button

When the reset button on a water heater continues tripping, another typical cause is a corroded or faulty reset button. If this button is not functioning properly, it is possible that you may require a replacement. With this reset button, you may force the device to shut down when it reaches a temperature of more than 180 degrees. This button, on the other hand, can become worn out over time, perhaps resulting in problems. When the button fails to precisely monitor the temperature of the water, this is a regular problem.

Solution

Replacement of a water heater’s thermostat is the most effective option when its reset button repeatedly trips. Due to the fact that this button is located on the higher thermostat, you will just need to replace that specific thermostat; the lower thermostat should still function properly. As previously said, it is essential that a professional manage the replacement.

Poor Wiring or Bad Breaker

If there is any loose wiring or if the cables were not properly put, this might potentially be the source of the electric water heater reset button problem. When this type of incident arises in your house, you will want immediate assistance. Wiring faults might not only cause difficulties with the water heater, but they can also be a significant safety hazard. Your electric water heater, on the other hand, is constructed with a number of safety mechanisms that will protect you from a catastrophic failure.

There will be an excessive amount of heat generated if there is a loose wire in the system.

This procedure will be repeated until the problem has been resolved. It’s possible that a faulty breaker will cause problems as well. If your circuit breaker is worn out or malfunctions, it is possible that the hot water heater reset button will trip as a result.

Solution

First, contact a plumber to see whether they are capable of doing this job. If this is not the case, you may require the services of a professional electrician. While dealing with this issue can be stressful and time-consuming, contacting a professional can resolve the issue in a matter of minutes. Are you a homeowner in search of dependable heating, cooling, and plumbing supplies?

Our dedicated specialists are standing by to help.

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In addition, ICS will handle all of the paperwork for any rebates that may be available.

Why Your Water Heater’s Pilot Light Keeps Going Out & How to Fix It

The date is May 13, 2021. When the pilot light flame on your gas water heater goes out, it is an annoying and frustrating situation to have to deal with. When your water heater’s pilot light fails to stay lit, you’re left without hot water, which makes even the most basic of tasks such as taking a shower a chore. Naturally, you question, “How did this happen? What happened?” Is there anything you can recommend to help you get things going again? What should I do to have it repaired? “May you tell me about the costs I can expect?” Fortunately, if your water heater pilot light goes out, you should be aware that this is a frequent problem that many homeowners have and that the time and effort required to repair it is low.

Why does the pilot light on my water heater keep going out?

Because of problems with the heater’s thermocouple or owing to access to combustible air, your water heater’s pilot light continues going out repeatedly.

Thermocouple Issues

When your pilot light is on, your thermocouple detects the presence of the flame. The thermocouple’s tip is positioned above the pilot flame, providing a voltage that maintains the gas valve open in the process. A thermocouple will shut down the gas supply to your water heater if it detects that the pilot light on your water heater is not lighting up properly.

When thermocouples are exposed to moisture or dust for an extended period of time, they might malfunction, gather dust, or get bent away from the pilot light’s flame. In either situation, the thermocouple will have a difficult time sensing the pilot light and shutting down the gas flow.

Lack of Combustible Air

Another reason why your gas water heaterpilot light won’t remain lighted might be that there isn’t enough combustible air in the room where it is located. To keep the pilot light on in your water heater, you’ll need to blow air into it. Otherwise, the flame will be extinguished. Take precautionary measures to ensure that the water heater is not surrounded by material, such as litter or lint, which might increase the quantity of combustible air present. Maintain as much cleanliness as possible in the surrounding region.

What do I do if my water heater pilot light keeps going out?

Try to rekindle the spark on your own first, if at all possible. Take the following general steps:

  1. Locate the gas shut-off knob and turn it all the way to the “Off” position. The gas flow is halted as a result of this. Allow for a few minutes for the gas to dissipate before continuing. To get access to the burner, remove the access panel. To begin the flow of gas, turn the knob to the “Pilot” position. You’ll want to press and hold the knob down for a few seconds. While still holding the gas knob, ignite the pilot with a long lighter while still holding the gas knob. To ignite your gas water heater, use the button on the side of the tank that says “ignite.” As soon as the flames have been extinguished, turn the gas knob to the “On” position and wait for the main burner to come on.

If you are unable to relight the pilot or if your pilot light keeps going out, it is possible that you have another problem, such as a faulty thermocouple, to consider. Please refer to the owner’s handbook for your water heater equipment for further information.

Can I replace a thermocouple myself?

Yes. In the event that you are handy with tools, you may be able to change the thermocouple yourself. It is easier to accomplish this by turning off the gas valve and removing the entire burner and thermocouple assembly. In the case of minor repairs, it is preferable and safer to hire someone who is knowledgeable in the field of repair. A specialist may also evaluate your water heater for other faults and provide advise or ideas on how to deal with any existing or future difficulties that may arise.

Call BGE HOME

Please contact BGE HOME at (410) 918-5600 if your water heater pilot light will not light or continues going out. You may also contact us online. Our licensed specialists are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to come out and inspect your water heater and make recommendations on how to get it running safely and effectively again. This item was posted on Thursday, May 13th, 2021 at 4:09 pm and is filed under Uncategorized. Commenting and pinging are temporarily closed for this post.

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