One of the most common issues with electric water heaters is that they have a tendency to overheat. And when that happens, you’re left with scalding hot water coming out of your sinks and showers. Not a pleasant experience, right? Plus, it can even cause damage to your water heater. So, if you’ve found yourself in this predicament, you’re probably wondering what caused the overheating and what you should do about it. Well, the good news is that our team at Huber Heights Plumbing & Drain has got you covered. We’ve compiled the three most common reasons why your electric water heater might be overheating. So, let’s dive in and get you some answers!
1. THE THERMOSTAT
First, let’s talk about the thermostat. You see, the water heater’s thermostat keeps an eye on the temperature of the water inside the tank. When the water gets too chilly, the thermostat gets to work and kicks the heating element into action, warming up the water again. So, if your water heater is getting too hot, it could be because the thermostat is set too high, or it might be acting up. That’s why the first thing you want to do when your water heater is overheating is to check the thermostat.
2. THE HEATING ELEMENT
Another possible reason for your electric water heater overheating is due to a damaged heating element. Just like anything else, over time, things tend to wear down, becoming less efficient and effective. And heating elements are no exception. So, when you’re dealing with an overheated water heater, it’s often because of a faulty heating element. If you think this might be the issue with your water heater, feel free to give us a call.
3. SEDIMENT BUILDUP
Lastly, if there’s sediment buildup in the tank, this can definitely cause your water heater to overheat. Over time, sediment buildup can insulate the heating elements, trapping the heat inside. And you know what happens next? Your poor water heater has to work even harder, leading to overheating. To fix this, the tank needs a good flush to get rid of all that sediment buildup. Since it involves dealing with water and electricity, it’s best to call a licensed plumber for the job.
Leaving an overheated water heater unfixed can cause permanent damage to the unit and result in a hefty price tag for repairs or replacement. It’s always better to address the overheating issue as soon as possible before it turns into a bigger problem. So, if you’re having problems with your water heater overheating, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’d love to hear from you and get you back up and running in no time!
Call Huber Heights Plumbing & Drain today at (937) 764-3381, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!