Water heaters are essential appliances found in most households. Water heaters provide hot water for many daily household needs like cooking, bathing, and cleaning. To ensure that your water heater is working properly, it is critical that you monitor one key component – the water heater heating element. Regularly testing your heating element can help prevent unexpected failures and expand the lifespan of your system. In this blog, we will guide you through the process of testing a water heater element, troubleshooting common issues, and replacing a faulty element if necessary. It is important to note that receiving help from a professional may be necessary, and it could help prevent any additional issues with your water heater.
Understanding Water Heater Elements
What is a water heater element?
The water heater heating element is a component within an electric water heater that is responsible for heating the water in your unit. The element consists of a metal rod, typically made up of stainless steel, copper, or Incoloy. It is generally covered to prevent corrosion, which helps to increase the lifespan of the system. It converts the electrical energy into heat through resistance. Commonly, most water heaters have two elements: an upper and a lower. Both of these elements work together to maintain a consistent water temperature.
Purpose and function of water heater elements
The primary purpose of the heating elements is to heat the water inside the tank. The upper element typically heats the water at the top of the tank, while the lower element heats the water that is found at the bottom of the tank. This dual-element system ensures that hot water is always readily available when needed and helps maintain an even temperature throughout the tank.
Preparing to Test the Water Heater Element
There are different things that can be prepared prior to testing your water heater element. Testing your heating element can help you identify any issues you are experiencing with your hot water supply. To effectively test your element, there are necessary tools and steps to utilize and follow.
Necessary tools and equipment
The following tools and equipment will help you when testing your heating element.
- Multimeter: this is a device that is used to measure the electrical voltage, resistance, and current.
- Screwdriver: a flathead or Philips, depending on your water heater, will come in handy when testing your appliance.
- Electrical Tape
- Non-Contact Voltage Tester: this is an optional tool to utilize, but it is recommended for safety.
Safely Powering Off the Water Heater
It is very important that you go through this process safely. Your water heater is an electrical appliance, meaning there is always a chance that you could be shocked or electrocuted if not completed properly. In order to safely power off your water heater, read through the following steps.
- Locate the circuit breaker in your home.
- Identify the breaker switch that controls the water heater, and switch it to the “off” position.
- Use a non-contact voltage tester to ensure that no electrical current is flowing to the water heater before proceeding.
Since safety is a large factor when it comes to testing your water heater’s heating element, it may be necessary to call upon a professional plumber to assist you with this job. The plumbing team here at Logan Services is always ready to assist you with all of your plumbing problems. If the heating element test seems difficult or you feel as if your skillset is not ready for this project, be sure to give us a call.
Steps to Test the Water Heater Element
There are a couple of steps to follow when testing your water heater element. These steps fall into three main categories: locating, testing, and interpreting. Follow along with the steps below to successfully test your element.
Locating the water heater element
- Remove the access panel on the side of the water heater. This panel is typically held in place by screws (this is where your screwdriver will be helpful).
- Once the panel is removed, you will see insulation covering the thermostat and the element. Carefully, pull back the insulation to expose the element.
Testing the element with a multimeter
- Using your multimeter, set it to the ohms setting.
- Disconnect the wires from the element’s terminals. Be sure to take note of which wire is connected to which terminal for reassembly.
- Place one probe of the multimeter on each terminal of the element.
- Observe the reading on the multimeter display.
Interpreting the multimeter readings
- A functional water heater element will typically show a resistance reading between 10 and 30 ohms.
- A reading of 0 ohms indicates a shorted element, which means the element needs to be replaced.
- A reading of infinite resistance (or no change on the display) indicates an open circuit, meaning the heating element is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Identifying common problems with water heater elements
Water heater elements can undergo many different issues. Some common issues include:
- No Hot Water – The lack of hot water can indicate a faulty element or a faulty thermostat.
- Inconsistent Water Temperature – Since a heating element’s job is to create consistent water temperature, if you are experiencing inconsistent temperatures, then there is an issue with your heating element. It could be either one or both of the elements.
- Tripping Circuit Breaker – This is typically a sign of a shorted element.
Determining When to Replace a Faulty Circuit
If you are struggling to determine when to replace a faulty heating element, be sure to fall back on the readings from your multimeter. If your multimeter is indicating a shorted or open element, then it is time to replace it. Additionally, if you are noticing any visible signs of damage, such as corrosion, or burn marks, then the element should be replaced. Replacing your water heater element will ensure that your water heater will be able to heat and function properly.
Replacing a Malfunctioning Water Heater Element
If all signs are pointing to a replacement, then it is important that you do so immediately. Replacing a faulty water heater element will help your water heater function properly. There are steps that can be taken to properly replace an element. However, if it is deemed necessary, call on a professional to help replace your heating element. Our plumbers are all knowledgeable and well-trained, allowing them to replace your element quickly and effectively.
- Step-by-step guide for replacing the element
- Drain the Water Heater: Drain your water heater by attaching a garden hose to the drain valve and empty the tank to a safe level. If you are replacing the upper element, empty the tank to just below this element. However, if you are replacing the bottom or both elements, drain the entire water heater.
- Remove the Faulty Element: Use an element wrench to unscrew the old element from the tank.
- Install the New Element: Insert the new element into the tank, and be sure to tighten it securely.
- Reconnect the Wires: Attach the wires to the new element terminals, ensuring they are connected correctly.
- Refill and Restore Power: Close the drain valve, refill the tank with water, and switch the circuit breaker back on.
- Maintaining the water heater after replacement
Like any appliance in your home, regular maintenance is important. Receiving routine maintenance on your water heater can extend your system’s life.
- Inspect the Elements & Thermostat Annually: Check for any signs of wear or damage.
- Flush the Tank Periodically: Flushing your tank helps remove sediment buildup that can negatively impact efficiency.
- Check the Anode Rod: The anode rod is an important component in water heaters. The rod prevents tank corrosion. Be sure to inspect the rod and replace it if necessary to prolong the life of your water heater.
- Monitor Water Quality: Especially if you have hard water, consider installing a water softener to reduce mineral buildup within the tank and elements.
- Annual Inspections by Professionals: If you really want to maintain your system, schedule annual inspections of your water heater to catch any potential issues early.
Final Thoughts
Testing and maintaining your water heater elements is a straightforward process that can save you from unexpected cold showers, low-quality water, and costly repairs. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can ensure that your water heater operates efficiently and reliably. Knowing that your water heater is in good working condition provides peace of mind. You won’t have to worry about suddenly being without hot water, which can be particularly troublesome during the colder months. Regular checks can also ensure the safety of your home, as faulty elements can sometimes lead to electrical issues or leaks. Receiving regular maintenance or replacing faulty elements will help you enjoy consistent hot water, while also prolonging the life of your appliance.
If you have been monitoring your hot water heater and heating element, and you believe it is time to replace it, give us a call! The Logan Services plumbing department is ready to provide you with home comfort.
