Electric water heaters are essential for daily comfort, providing hot water for everything from showers to washing dishes. Over time, common issues can arise, most frequently due to corroded heating elements or malfunctioning thermostats. Typically, these parts have a service life of approximately 10 years, and when they fail, your hot water supply can be severely affected.
Identifying Common Problems
Two primary components of electric water heaters that frequently require replacement are:
- Heating Elements: These elements heat the water directly and are prone to corrosion over the years, particularly if your water supply is hard or has high mineral content.
- Thermostats: Responsible for regulating water temperature, thermostats can become faulty, causing inconsistent heating or complete failure.
An important indicator of trouble is the reset switch found on the top heating element. This reset switch is located beneath the top service panel cover. If your water heater repeatedly trips the reset switch, it's usually a clear sign that at least one heating element is failing.
Recommended Repair Approach
Even though it might seem practical to replace only the faulty component, Oasis Plumbing Co strongly advises replacing both heating elements and thermostats simultaneously. Here’s why:
- Efficiency: Changing both components at once ensures balanced and efficient operation, significantly reducing the likelihood of another component failing soon afterward.
- Cost Savings: Labor costs are typically lower when performing both replacements together rather than separately.
- Reliability: Proactive replacement prevents future breakdowns and minimizes inconvenient downtime.
The Replacement Process
Replacing heating elements and thermostats involves several steps:
- 1. Safety First: Always disconnect the power supply before beginning any work on your electric water heater to avoid electrical shock.
- 2. Drain the Tank: To replace elements safely, the water heater tank must first be drained.
- 3. Remove Old Components: Access the heating elements and thermostats by removing the service panel covers, then carefully disconnect and remove the old parts.
- 4. Install New Components: Fit the new thermostats and heating elements, ensuring all connections are secure.
- 5. Refill and Restore Power: After installation, refill the tank, checking thoroughly for leaks. Once confirmed leak-free, restore power to the water heater.
When to Call the Professionals
If you’re uncomfortable performing these steps yourself, or if your heater continues to malfunction despite repairs, professional assistance from Oasis Plumbing Co is just a call away. Our experienced technicians ensure safe, efficient, and reliable service, giving you peace of mind and a well-functioning electric water heater.
By proactively replacing critical components, you can extend the life of your water heater and enjoy consistent, reliable hot water for many years to come.