Electric Water Heater Keeps Tripping Breaker: Why and How to Fix?

Electric water heaters are a convenient and efficient way to heat water for your home. However, they can sometimes trip their reset switch, which can be frustrating and inconvenient. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various reasons why an electric water heater reset trip occurs and provide solutions to prevent it from happening again.

Understanding the Reset Switch

The reset switch on an electric water heater is a safety feature designed to prevent the heater from overheating. When the water temperature reaches a certain threshold, the reset switch will trip, cutting off power to the heater. This is important because it prevents the water from boiling and causing damage to the heater or your plumbing system.

Common Causes of Reset Trip

There are several common reasons why an electric water heater reset trip may occur:

• Overheating: The most common cause of a reset trip is overheating. This can occur if the water temperature is set too high, if the heating element is malfunctioning, or if there is a buildup of sediment or scale in the tank.
• Electrical Fault: A faulty electrical connection can also cause the reset switch to trip. This could be due to a loose wire, a damaged fuse, or a malfunctioning thermostat.
• Water Pressure: If the water pressure in your home is too high, it can cause the reset switch to trip. This is because the high pressure can put stress on the heater’s tank and cause it to leak.
• Sediment Buildup: Over time, sediment and scale can build up in the water heater tank. This can reduce the efficiency of the heater and cause it to overheat, tripping the reset switch.
• Faulty Thermostat: A faulty thermostat can also cause the reset switch to trip. This is because the thermostat is responsible for controlling the water temperature, and if it malfunctions, it can cause the water to overheat.
• Loose Heating Element: A loose heating element can also cause the reset switch to trip. This is because the loose element can make contact with the water tank, causing it to overheat.
• Old Age: As electric water heaters age, they become less efficient and more likely to trip the reset switch. This is because the components of the heater can wear out over time.

Troubleshooting and Solutions

If your electric water heater reset trip occurs, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem:

• Check the Water Temperature: First, check the water temperature setting on your heater. If it is set too high, lower it and see if that solves the problem.
• Inspect the Heating Element: Inspect the heating element for any signs of damage or corrosion. If the element is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
• Clean the Tank: If there is a buildup of sediment or scale in the tank, you can clean it out using a descaling solution. This will help to improve the efficiency of the heater and prevent it from overheating.
• Check the Thermostat: Check the thermostat to make sure that it is functioning properly. If the thermostat is faulty, it will need to be replaced.
• Tighten the Heating Element: If the heating element is loose, tighten it using a wrench. This will help to prevent it from making contact with the water tank and causing it to overheat.
• Contact a Plumber: If you have tried all of the above troubleshooting steps and the reset switch still trips, it is best to contact a plumber. They can diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

Prevention Tips

There are a few things you can do to prevent your electric water heater reset trip from happening again:

• Set the Water Temperature Properly: Set the water temperature to a reasonable level, typically between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Maintain the Water Heater Regularly: Regularly inspect and clean your water heater to prevent sediment and scale buildup.
• Install a Water Pressure Regulator: If your home has high water pressure, install a water pressure regulator to reduce the pressure.
• Replace the Heating Element Periodically: The heating element in your water heater will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Replace it every 5-10 years to prevent it from malfunctioning and causing the reset switch to trip.
• Replace the Thermostat: The thermostat in your water heater can also wear out over time. Replace it every 5-10 years to prevent it from malfunctioning and causing the reset switch to trip.

Conclusion: Troubleshooting and Preventing Reset Trips for Optimal Water Heater Performance

By understanding the common causes of electric water heater reset trips and following the troubleshooting and prevention tips outlined in this guide, you can keep your water heater running efficiently and prevent it from tripping the reset switch. Remember, if you are unable to resolve the issue yourself, do not hesitate to contact a qualified plumber for assistance.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Why does my electric water heater keep tripping the reset switch?

There are several possible reasons, including overheating, electrical faults, water pressure issues, sediment buildup, faulty thermostats, loose heating elements, and old age.

2. How do I reset my electric water heater?

Locate the reset button on the heater, typically a small red button, and press it. If the button does not reset, there may be a more serious issue that requires professional attention.

3. What can I do to prevent my electric water heater from tripping the reset switch?

Set the water temperature properly, maintain the water heater regularly, install a water pressure regulator, replace the heating element periodically, and replace the thermostat as needed.