One of the most frustrating issues with electric water heaters is their tendency to overheat. Just imagine scalding hot water coming out of your sinks and showers when all you wanted was a warm shower—definitely not the refreshing experience you were hoping for! If you’ve found yourself in this predicament, you’re probably itching to know what caused the overheating and, more importantly, what you should do about it. Your team at Gahanna Plumbing & Drain has got you covered. Keep reading to find out the top three reasons your electric water heater may be overheating.
1. THE THERMOSTAT
Let’s start by looking at the thermostat. The water heater’s thermostat diligently monitors the temperature of the water inside the tank. When the water temperature drops below a certain point, the thermostat springs into action, firing up the heating element to bring the water temperature back up. So, if your water heater is overheating, it could be due to a thermostat that’s set too high or, worse yet, malfunctioning. So, the very first thing to investigate when your water heater is overheating is the thermostat.
2. THE HEATING ELEMENT
Is your electric water heater feeling a bit too hot? It could be due to a damaged heating element. Over time, things tend to wear down, losing their efficiency and effectiveness. And heating elements are no exception! When your water heater starts overheating, the likely culprit is a faulty heating element. If you suspect this might be the case, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’re here to help!
3. SEDIMENT BUILDUP
Did you know that sediment buildup in your water heater can lead to overheating? This is actually why regular maintenance of your water heater is so important. Over time, these sediments can insulate the heating elements, trapping the heat and causing the water heater to work even harder, which is what causes the water heater to overheat. The solution is simple: a good old tank flush can free your water heater from this buildup. However, be cautious as this job involves water and electricity. It’s always best to call a licensed plumber to handle the task.
Don’t let an overheated water heater cause permanent damage or break the bank with expensive repairs or replacements. Take action now and address the issue before it escalates. If you’re struggling with a water heater that’s overheating, please feel free to reach out to us. We’re eager to assist you and have you up and running again in a flash!
Call Gahanna Plumbing & Drain today at (614) 245-2256, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!