If your electric water heater is providing water that is too hot, there are a few possible causes. The most common reason is that the thermostat on the water heater is set too high. This is an easy problem to fix – simply adjust the thermostat to a lower setting. But there is a chance that the cause of your overheating water heater may be something else. This blog post will look into those other possible reasons.
1 – Broken Thermostat
Your water heater is an essential part of your home, and when it isn’t working properly, it can be a major inconvenience. If your water heater is overheating, it could be due to a broken thermostat. If your water heater’s thermostat is broken, then it may be causing your water heater to overheat. You’ll need to replace the thermostat to fix this problem.
2 – Sediment Buildup
If there is sediment buildup in your water heater, it can restrict the flow of water and cause the water to overheat. You’ll need to flush your water heater to remove the sediment. If you have sediment buildup in your water heater, you’ll need to flush it out to remove the buildup and restore proper water flow. Doing so will also help prevent the water from overheating. To flush your water heater, start by turning off the power to the unit. Then, connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and open the valve to let the water drain out. Be sure to place the other end of the hose in an area where the water can drain without causing any damage.
Once the water has finished draining, close the drain valve and turn the power back on to the unit. You may need to bleed the air out of the lines before water will flow through again. To do so, open the hot water faucets in your home and let the water run until it becomes hot. Flushing your water heater regularly will help keep it running efficiently and prevent sediment buildup.
3 – Incorrect Wiring
If your water heater is wired incorrectly, it could cause it to overheat. This is a serious problem that needs to be fixed by a professional electrician. Overheating can damage the water heater and cause a fire. It is important to make sure that the wiring to your water heater is correct in order to avoid this danger.
When to Replace Your Water Heater?
There are several factors to consider when deciding whether or not to replace your water heater, including age, efficiency, and reliability.
Age: The average lifespan of a water heater is 10-15 years. If your water heater is approaching or exceeding this age, it may be time to replace it.
Efficiency: Older water heaters are less efficient than newer models. If your water heater is costing you more than it did when it was new, it may be time to replace it.
Reliability: Water heaters can be very reliable, but they do have a tendency to break down as they age. If your water heater has been breaking down more frequently, it may be time to replace it.
Conclusion
Now that you are aware of the possible reasons your electric water heater is acting up, you will have an easier time fixing it. However, if you are not sure what is causing the problem, it is best to contact a qualified plumber or electrician for assistance.
If you need help with water heater repair in Shelby County, AL, contact Professor Plumb. We offer plumbing and gas services, new installations, and repairs. Schedule a service now!