If you’re experiencing problems with your hot water heater, one of the first things you should check is the heating element. A faulty heating element can cause your water heater to not heat up properly, or it can even lead to a complete loss of hot water. Checking the heating element is a relatively simple task that can be done in a few minutes. In this article, we’ll show you how to check the heating element on your hot water heater, and we’ll also provide some tips on how to troubleshoot and replace a faulty heating element.
To check the heating element, you’ll need a multimeter. A multimeter is a device that measures electrical current, voltage, and resistance. You can purchase a multimeter at most hardware stores for around $20. Once you have a multimeter, follow these steps to check the heating element:
- Turn off the power to the hot water heater at the circuit breaker panel.
- Remove the access panel to the heating element. The access panel is typically located on the side of the hot water heater.
- Disconnect the wires from the heating element. The wires will be connected to the heating element with screws or bolts.
- Set the multimeter to the ohms setting.
- Touch the probes of the multimeter to the terminals on the heating element. The multimeter should read between 10 and 15 ohms.
- If the multimeter reads infinity, the heating element is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Identifying the Hot Water Heater
Before you can check the element, you need to locate and identify your hot water heater. Here are some steps to help you do that:
1. Look in your basement, garage, or utility closet. In residential homes, the hot water heater is typically located in one of these areas. It is usually a large, cylindrical tank that is about 5 feet tall and 2 feet in diameter.
| Fuel Type | Location |
|---|---|
| Electric | Near the electrical panel |
| Gas | Near the gas meter |
| Tankless | Mounted on a wall or in a closet |
2. Check the exterior of the tank for any labels or markings that indicate the manufacturer and model number. This information can be helpful in troubleshooting any issues.
3. If you still can’t locate your hot water heater, consult your home’s floor plan or owner’s manual.
Locating the Heating Element
To locate the heating element, you will need to access the water heater’s tank. Follow these steps:
- Turn off the water heater’s power and water supply. This will prevent any accidents from occurring while you are working on the water heater.
- Find the access panel to the tank. This is usually located on the front or side of the water heater.
- Remove the access panel. You may need to use a screwdriver or wrench to do this.
- Locate the heating element. The heating element is a metal coil that is located at the bottom of the tank.
Here is a table that summarizes the steps for locating the heating element:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Turn off the water heater’s power and water supply. |
| 2 | Find the access panel to the tank. |
| 3 | Remove the access panel. |
| 4 | Locate the heating element. |
Disconnecting the Power Supply
Before you start any electrical work, it is imperative to disconnect the power supply to your water heater. This ensures your safety while you troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Here are the steps to safely disconnect the power supply:
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Locate the Circuit Breaker or Fuse
Locate the electrical panel that houses your circuit breakers or fuses. Identify the breaker or fuse that corresponds to your water heater. It is usually labeled “Water Heater” or something similar.
-
Turn Off the Breaker or Remove the Fuse
Flip the circuit breaker to the “OFF” position or remove the fuse by pulling it straight out. Ensure that the power is completely disconnected before proceeding further.
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Verify Power is Off
To verify that the power is off, you can use a non-contact voltage tester. Turn on the tester and bring it close to the wires connected to the water heater. If there is no voltage present, the tester will not light up. If the tester lights up, double-check that you have turned off the correct circuit breaker or removed the correct fuse and try again.
Once the power is safely disconnected, you can proceed with troubleshooting and replacing the heating element in your water heater.
| Warning |
|---|
| It is crucial to ensure that the power is completely disconnected before handling any electrical components. Failure to do so can result in serious injury or electrocution. |
Draining the Water Tank
Step 1: Turn off power to the water heater. Locate the electrical panel and flip the breaker associated with the water heater to the “off” position. This will cut off power to the water heater, preventing any electrical accidents.
Step 2: Turn off the water supply. Locate the cold water inlet valve on the top of the water heater. Turn the valve clockwise to close it completely. This will stop water from flowing into the tank.
Step 3: Attach a garden hose to the drain valve. Open the drain valve by turning the knob counterclockwise. Place the end of the garden hose over the drain valve, ensuring a snug fit to prevent water from leaking.
Step 4: Open the hot water faucets. Open the hot water faucets in the sinks and bathtubs throughout your home. This will help create a siphon and drain the water from the tank more quickly.
Note: The water coming out of the drain valve may be hot. Take precautions to avoid burns and dispose of the water safely.
| Safety Precautions: |
|---|
| – Wear gloves and safety glasses. |
| – Keep children and pets away from the area. |
| – Allow the water to cool slightly before draining it. |
Removing the Element Housing
Materials You’ll Need:
- Adjustable wrench
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flashlight
- Bucket
After you’ve ensured the power and water supply to the water heater are turned off, you can begin to remove the element housing. This typically involves the following steps:
Step 1: Locate and Remove the Access Panel Cover
Locate the access panel cover on the side or top of the water heater. This cover is usually held in place by a few screws. Remove the screws and lift off the cover.
Step 2: Disconnect the Wires
Inside the access panel, you’ll see the wires that are connected to the element housing. Disconnect these wires by loosening the terminals on the element housing. Be sure to note which wire goes to which terminal, so you can reconnect them properly later.
Step 3: Remove the Mounting Flange
The element housing is held in place by a mounting flange that is bolted to the water heater tank. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the bolts holding the flange in place.
Step 4: Extract the Element Housing
Once the bolts are loosened, you can carefully pull the element housing straight out of the water heater tank. Be careful not to tilt the housing, as this could cause water to spill out.
Step 5: Verify the Element’s Condition
Inspect the element for any signs of damage, such as corrosion, cracks, or breaks. You can also use a multimeter to test the element for continuity. If the element is damaged or has failed, it will need to be replaced.
| Element Condition | Action |
|---|---|
| No visible damage, multimeter confirms continuity | Reinstall the element housing and wires |
| Visible damage or failed multimeter test | Replace the element |
Inspecting the Heating Element
Inspecting the heating element of a water heater is a crucial step in troubleshooting and maintenance. Here are the detailed steps involved:
Visual Inspection
Start by visually inspecting the heating element. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, burns, or corrosion. If you notice any abnormalities, it may indicate a faulty heating element.
Ohmmeter Test
Perform an ohmmeter test to measure the electrical resistance of the heating element. Turn off the power to the water heater, disconnect the wires from the element, and use an ohmmeter to check the resistance between the terminals.
The resistance value will vary depending on the type of heating element. Consult the manufacturer’s specifications to determine the expected resistance range.
Heating Element Inspection Table
| Test | Expected Result | Abnormal Result |
|—|—|—|
| Visual Inspection | No signs of damage | Cracks, burns, or corrosion |
| Ohmmeter Test | Within manufacturer’s specifications | Open or high resistance |
Insulation Resistance Test
Conduct an insulation resistance test to check for any leakage of electrical current between the heating element and the metal sheath or tank.
Disconnect the heating element wires and use an insulation resistance tester. Set the tester to at least 500 volts and measure the resistance between the element terminals and the grounded sheath or tank.
Continuity Test
Perform a continuity test to ensure that there is a complete electrical connection between the heating element and the thermostat. Use an ohmmeter to check for continuity between the element terminals and the thermostat terminals.
Replacement
If any of the tests indicate a faulty heating element, it should be replaced. Disconnect the power, drain the water heater, and remove the defective element. Install a new heating element of the same size and wattage rating.
Testing the Heating Element
Testing the heating element in an electric water heater is crucial to ensure its proper functioning. If the heating element is faulty, it can lead to inadequate water heating or no hot water at all. The following steps will guide you through the process of testing a water heater heating element:
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Safety First
Before starting any electrical work, turn off the electricity to the water heater at the circuit breaker or fuse box.
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Drain the Water Tank
Connect a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater and direct it to a drain or bucket. Open the valve and drain the water tank completely.
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Remove the Heating Element
Locate the heating element cover on the side of the water heater. Use a wrench or socket to remove the cover.
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Disconnect the Wires
Carefully disconnect the wires attached to the heating element terminals. Label the wires for easy reconnection later.
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Remove the Heating Element
Unscrew the heating element from the water heater tank. Be careful not to damage the threads or the gasket.
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Inspect the Heating Element
Check the heating element for any visible damage, such as cracks, burns, or corrosion. If any damage is present, replace the heating element.
-
Test the Heating Element
Using a multimeter set to ohms, test the heating element for continuity between the two terminals. A reading of zero or near zero indicates continuity and a good heating element. If the multimeter reads infinity or an open circuit, the heating element is faulty and needs replacement.
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Reinstall the Heating Element
If the heating element is good, reinstall it by following the steps in reverse order. Tighten all connections securely.
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Restore Power and Fill the Water Tank
Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Open the water supply valve and allow the water tank to fill completely.
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Test the Water Heater
Once the water tank is full, turn on the water heater and check if hot water is available. If hot water is not available, the heating element may not be functioning properly and may need further troubleshooting.
Replacing the Heating Element
Step 8: Inspect and Test
Once the new heating element is in place, inspect the entire assembly thoroughly. Look for any loose wires, damaged insulation, or leaks. Tighten all electrical connections securely using a screwdriver.
To test the new element, turn on the power to the water heater. Open a hot water faucet and allow the water to flow for a few minutes. The water should become hot within a short amount of time.
If the water does not heat up, there may be an issue with the element or another component of the water heater. Contact a qualified electrician or plumber for further diagnosis and repair.
Table: Heating Element Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Water not heating up | Faulty heating element, thermostat, or wiring |
| Water heater overheating | Damaged thermostat or element scale buildup |
| Electrical sparks or noises | Loose electrical connections or damaged wiring |
Reassembling the Water Heater
After replacing the heating element, it’s important to reassemble the water heater properly to ensure it functions correctly and safely. Follow these steps:
- Reinsert the new heating element into the water tank. Make sure it is securely seated in the flange.
- Tighten the heating element bolts to the specified torque using a wrench. Overtightening can damage the element or tank.
- Reattach the thermostat and high-limit switch to their respective terminals on the heating element.
- Reinstall the anode rod, if removed.
- Reinstall the insulation around the heating element and tank.
- Reattach the access panel or cover to the water heater.
- Reconnect the cold and hot water pipes.
- Restore power to the water heater.
- Check for leaks around the heating element flange, thermostat, and water connections. If any leaks are detected, tighten the connections or replace faulty components as necessary.
- Turn on the water supply and allow the water heater to fill.
- Turn on the water heater and adjust the thermostat to the desired temperature setting.
- Monitor the water heater for proper operation and any unusual noises or leaks.
Safety Precautions:
Throughout the reassembly process, observe the following safety precautions:
- Ensure the power is off at the circuit breaker or fuse panel before performing any electrical work.
- Allow the water heater to cool completely before touching or working on it.
- Use insulated tools and wear rubber gloves when handling electrical components.
- If you are unsure about any aspect of the reassembly process, consult a qualified electrician or plumber.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No hot water | Burnt-out heating element | Replace the heating element |
| Not enough hot water | Insufficient tank size | Install a larger water heater |
| Water is not hot enough | Low thermostat setting | Adjust the thermostat to a higher setting |
| Rusty or cloudy water | Corroded anode rod | Replace the anode rod |
Safety Precautions
Before any troubleshooting or repair, disconnect the power supply and turn off the water source leading to the heater.
Accessing the Element
Locate the access panel or cover on the heater’s side or bottom. Remove the screws or bolts holding it in place to access the heating element.
Inspecting the Element
Visually examine the element for signs of burns, cracks, or corrosion. If any of these are observed, the element is likely faulty and should be replaced.
Testing the Element with a Multimeter
Set your multimeter to the ohms setting. Disconnect the wires connected to the element’s terminals. Touch the probes of the meter to the element’s terminals. A reading within the manufacturer’s specified range indicates a functioning element; an infinite reading suggests a break in the circuit.
Replacing the Element
If the element is faulty, carefully unscrew it from the heater tank. Wrap Teflon tape around the threads of the new element and gently screw it into the tank, taking care not to overtighten.
Restoring Power
Reconnect the power supply to the heater. Turn on the water source leading to the heater and allow it to fill the tank.
Checking for Leaks
Once the tank is full, inspect the element and its connections for any leaks. If leaks are detected, tighten the connections or replace the element as needed.
Bleeding the Air
Open a hot water faucet in the house to release any trapped air from the system. Allow the water to run until a steady stream without any air bubbles is observed.
Resetting the Temperature
Adjust the thermostat dial to your desired water temperature setting. Allow the heater to heat up the water before checking the temperature.
Inspecting the Sacrificial Anode Rod
The sacrificial anode rod helps protect the heating element from corrosion. Check its condition and replace it if it’s more than halfway dissolved or shows signs of damage.
Maintaining the Heater
Regularly flush the heater to remove sediment buildup. Inspect and clean the heating element and other components annually to prevent premature failures.
How to Check Hot Water Heater Element
If you’re experiencing problems with your hot water heater, one possible cause could be a faulty heating element. Checking the heating element is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. Here are the steps on how to do it:
- Turn off the power to the water heater.
- Turn off the water supply to the water heater.
- Open the access panel to the heating element.
- Disconnect the wires from the heating element.
- Remove the heating element from the water heater.
- Inspect the heating element for any damage.
- If the heating element is damaged, replace it with a new one.
- Reinstall the heating element in the water heater.
- Reconnect the wires to the heating element.
- Turn on the water supply to the water heater.
- Turn on the power to the water heater.
People Also Ask
What are the symptoms of a faulty hot water heater element?
The most common symptom of a faulty hot water heater element is a lack of hot water. Other symptoms can include:
- Water that is not as hot as it used to be
- Water that takes a long time to heat up
- A humming or buzzing noise coming from the water heater
- A tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse
Can I replace a hot water heater element myself?
Yes, it is possible to replace a hot water heater element yourself. However, it is important to follow the safety precautions listed above. If you are not comfortable working with electricity, it is best to call a qualified electrician.
How much does it cost to replace a hot water heater element?
The cost to replace a hot water heater element will vary depending on the type of water heater you have and the cost of the replacement element. However, it is typically a relatively inexpensive repair.
