Why Would a Water Heater Need to be Reset? Causes and Solutions

Water heaters, particularly electric models, may need to be reset for various reasons. This article delves into the reasons why a water heater might need resetting and provides solutions to address these issues.

Understanding the Need for a Reset

Most often, if a water heater needs to be reset, it means the unit has gotten too hot. This could be due to the malfunction of one or both of the thermostatic control switches.

What Causes Hot Water Heaters to Constantly Trip?

There are several reasons for an electric hot water heater to trip on a continuous basis:

Thermostat

The typical electric hot water heater has two thermostats: one in the upper region and one in the lower area. Each thermostat controls a heating element. The thermostats monitor the water temperature and communicate with each other to ensure the water reaches the set temperature. If a thermostat malfunctions, it may become unreliable, causing the associated heating element to fail to turn off. When the water gets too hot, the reset button may trip.

Heating Element

An electric hot water heater may trip if one or both of the internal heating elements have burned out, or if a short develops. The heating elements are exposed to water, and if the casing cracks, exposed wires can cause the water to become too hot. The thermostat typically turns off the power to the element, but the element may start heating the water continuously. When the water becomes too hot, the reset button trips.

Button Issue

The reset button itself can also be a cause for continuous tripping. This is a switch that can wear out over time. If the button is worn out, it may not properly register the temperature of the water, causing the power to be cut even when the water temperature is low. In most cases, when a reset button is replaced, the upper thermostat is also replaced.

Wiring or Breaker Issue

A continuous reset could indicate an issue with the wiring or a breaker. Factors such as loose wires, the absence of a lug connector between wires with different metals, or a worn-out breaker can cause reset issues with the hot water heater. Breakers can wear out due to basic wear and tear, humidity-based corrosion, or electrical system shorts.

Internal Components Corrosion

The internal components of an electric water heater may corrode due to exposure to moisture. This includes the thermostat, lug connectors, and other associated parts. Corrosion of these components can cause them to malfunction over time, leading to a constantly tripping reset button.

Electrical Grounding Issue

If the heating element experiences a ground short, the temperature of the water can instantly increase, causing the reset button to trip. In such cases, an electrician is required to fix the issue.

Diagnostics and Solutions

To diagnose and solve the issue, you can first check the thermostat to ensure it's functioning properly. If the thermostat is faulty, it needs to be replaced. Check the heating element for any signs of damage or corrosion. If the heating element is faulty, it needs to be replaced. Check the wiring and breakers; if the wiring is loose or a breaker is worn out, they need to be repaired or replaced. If the issue persists, it may be time to call a professional electrician for a thorough inspection and repair.

By understanding the causes and addressing them promptly, you can prevent the need to reset your water heater frequently and ensure the safety and efficiency of your hot water system.

Conclusion

Water heaters, especially electric models, can face issues that require a reset. Understanding the reasons why a water heater needs to be reset and addressing them promptly can help maintain the functionality of your hot water system. Regular maintenance and timely repair can avoid frequent resets and ensure safe and efficient performance.