Featured Image: Image of a technician checking a heating element in a water heater
Water heaters are an essential part of any home, providing us with hot water for showers, baths, and dishes. However, like all appliances, they can eventually develop problems. One common issue is a faulty heating element. If your water heater is not heating the water as it should, it could be a sign that the heating element needs to be replaced.
Checking the heating element in a water heater is a relatively simple task that can be done by most homeowners with basic tools. In this article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to check the heating element in your water heater. We will also provide some tips on how to troubleshoot other common problems that can affect your water heater.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can quickly and easily check the heating element in your water heater and determine if it needs to be replaced. This will help you to restore your hot water supply and avoid the inconvenience of a cold shower.
Identifying the Heating Element
The heating element is an essential component of the water heater, responsible for transferring electrical energy into heat to warm the water. Identifying the heating element can be straightforward, given the following steps:
Locating the Heating Element
1. External Water Heaters: In external water heaters, the heating element is typically housed within a cylindrical compartment at the bottom of the tank. To access it, locate the access panel at the base of the heater.
2. Internal Water Heaters: Internal water heaters have their heating element immersed directly in the water. To access it, open the control panel at the top of the heater.
Visual Inspection
3. Locate a metal coil-shaped component in the designated compartment or immersed in the water. This is the heating element.
4. Check for any visible signs of damage, such as corrosion, cracks, or breaks on the heating element or surrounding circuitry.
5. If the heating element appears damaged or corroded, it is likely faulty and needs to be replaced.
Additional Information
| Heating Element Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Immersion Heating Element | Directly submerged in water |
| Sleeve Heating Element | Housed within a metal sheath |
| Flanged Heating Element | Mounted on a flange at the end of the tank |
Disconnecting the Power Supply
Before working on any electrical component, it’s crucial to ensure the safety of yourself and others by disconnecting the power supply. Follow these detailed steps to safely isolate the water heater:
Identifying the Power Source
- Locate your water heater’s electrical panel. It’s typically found near the appliance or in the main breaker box of your home.
- Identify the dedicated circuit breaker or fuse that supplies power to the water heater. This information should be labeled on the panel or in the user manual.
Turning Off the Power
- Once you have identified the power source, turn off the circuit breaker or remove the fuse. This will cut off electricity to the water heater.
- Double-check that the power is disconnected using a non-contact voltage tester. Place the tester near the electrical terminals of the water heater and ensure it doesn’t light up or beep.
Isolating the Water Heater
- At the water heater, disconnect the electrical wires running from the power source to the appliance. Use pliers or a screwdriver to loosen the terminals and carefully remove the wires.
- Cap the exposed wire ends with electrical tape to prevent accidental contact and short circuits.
- Verify that all wires have been disconnected and are properly capped.
Safety Precautions
- Always wear appropriate safety gear such as gloves and safety glasses when working with electricity.
- Never work on live electrical circuits. Ensure the power is disconnected before touching any wires or components.
- If you are unsure about any aspect of the process, consult with a qualified electrician.
- Remember that safety should always be your top priority when working with electrical appliances.
Removing the Access Panel
Locate the access panel on the side or front of the water heater, usually near the bottom. This panel will be secured with screws or bolts.
Using a screwdriver or wrench, carefully remove the screws or bolts holding the access panel in place. Be cautious not to drop any screws or bolts inside the water heater tank.
Once the screws or bolts are removed, lift the access panel off the water heater. Be mindful of any wires or connections behind the panel.
Refer to the table below for specific instructions on removing the access panel of various types of water heaters:
| Water Heater Type | Access Panel Location | Removal Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Electric | Bottom front or side | Remove screws using a screwdriver. |
| Gas | Bottom front or side | Remove bolts using a wrench. |
| Tankless | Front or rear | Remove screws using a screwdriver or hex key. |
Isolating the Heating Element
Once you’ve located the heating element, you need to isolate it from the rest of the water heater. This will involve disconnecting the power supply and draining the water from the tank.
Before you begin, make sure that the water heater is turned off and that the power supply is disconnected. Then, open a hot water faucet to drain some of the water from the tank. Once the water has stopped flowing, close the faucet.
Now, you can disconnect the power supply to the water heater. This will usually involve removing a panel on the side of the water heater and disconnecting the wires that are connected to the heating element.
Once the power supply is disconnected, you can begin draining the water from the tank. To do this, connect a garden hose to the drain valve on the bottom of the water heater and open the valve. The water will begin to drain out of the tank. Once the tank is empty, close the drain valve.
Now that the water heater is drained, you can remove the heating element. To do this, simply unscrew the nuts that are holding the heating element in place. Once the nuts are removed, you can pull the heating element out of the tank.
Once you have removed the heating element, you can inspect it for damage. If the heating element is damaged, you will need to replace it. To replace the heating element, simply insert the new heating element into the tank and tighten the nuts that are holding it in place. Then, reconnect the power supply to the water heater and turn on the water.
Safety Precautions
When working on a water heater, it is important to take the following safety precautions:
- Make sure that the water heater is turned off and that the power supply is disconnected before you begin working on it.
- Wear gloves and eye protection when working on a water heater.
- Do not attempt to repair a water heater if you are not qualified to do so.
Disconnecting the Element
The following steps will guide you through the process of disconnecting the heating element from the water heater:
1. Safety First
Before beginning any work, turn off the power to the water heater at the breaker panel. Also, shut off the water supply to the water heater by closing the valve located on the cold water inlet pipe.
2. Remove the Access Panel
Locate the access panel on the front of the water heater and remove it by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
3. Take Note of Wiring Connections
Before disconnecting any wires, take a picture or make a detailed sketch of the wiring connections to ensure you can reconnect them correctly later.
4. Disconnect the Wires
Using a pair of pliers, carefully remove the nuts that hold the wires to the heating element terminals. Disconnect the wires from the terminals and pull them out of the way to prevent accidental contact.
5. Remove the Heating Element
With the wires disconnected, gently pull the heating element straight out of the water heater tank. Use caution when removing the element, as it can be heavy and awkward to handle.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Mark the Terminals | Before disconnecting the wires, mark each terminal with a piece of tape or a marker to indicate which wire goes where. |
| Use a Socket Wrench | For better leverage and easier removal, use a socket wrench instead of a regular wrench to remove the nuts on the terminals. |
| Wear Gloves | Wear gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges on the heating element or the inside of the water heater tank. |
Testing Continuity with a Multimeter
To test the continuity of the heating element using a multimeter, you can follow these steps:
Step 1: Safety Precautions
Before starting, ensure the water heater is disconnected from the power supply and the water has been drained. Wear protective gloves and safety glasses for added safety.
Step 2: Identify the Heating Element
Locate the heating element inside the water heater tank. It is typically a cylindrical-shaped component located near the bottom of the tank.
Step 3: Set Multimeter to Ohms Mode
Set your multimeter to the ohms (Ω) setting. This mode measures electrical resistance, which indicates the flow of electricity.
Step 4: Connect the Multimeter Probes
Connect one probe to each terminal of the heating element. These terminals are typically located at the ends of the element.
Step 5: Observe Multimeter Reading
Observe the multimeter reading. If the multimeter displays a reading of zero or close to zero, it indicates that the heating element has continuity and is conductive.
Step 6: Detailed Explanation of Interpreting Results
The multimeter reading indicates the following possibilities:
| Reading | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 0-10 ohms | Excellent conductivity, indicating a functional heating element. |
| 10-50 ohms | Fair conductivity, which may indicate minor issues. Further troubleshooting may be necessary. |
| Over 50 ohms | Poor or no conductivity, indicating a faulty heating element that needs replacement. |
If the multimeter reading exceeds 50 ohms, the heating element is likely faulty and requires replacement.
Testing the Resistance
1. Turn off the power to the water heater at the breaker or fuse box.
2. Disconnect the wires from the heating element terminals.
3. Set your multimeter to the ohms setting.
4. Touch the probes of the multimeter to the terminals of the heating element.
5. If the multimeter reading is between 10 and 13 ohms, the heating element is good.
6. If the multimeter reading is too low or too high, the heating element is bad and needs to be replaced.
Replacing the Heater Element
1. Turn off the power to the water heater.
2. Drain the water from the water heater by opening the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
3. Remove the access panel to the heating elements.
4. Disconnect the wires from the heating element terminals.
5. Unscrew the old heating element and pull it out of the tank.
6. Wrap the threads of the new heating element with Teflon tape.
7. Insert the new heating element into the tank and tighten it into place.
8. Reconnect the wires to the heating element terminals.
9. Close the access panel.
10. Fill the water heater with water.
11. Turn on the power to the water heater.
If you are replacing a heating element, it is important to first test the resistance of the new heating element before installing it. This will ensure that the new heating element is good and will not cause any problems.
| Heating Element Resistance | Status |
|---|---|
| 10-13 ohms | Good |
| Less than 10 ohms | Bad |
| More than 13 ohms | Bad |
Reinstalling the Access Panel
1. Locate the access panel, typically found on the front or side of the water heater.
2. Remove the screws holding the access panel in place.
3. Carefully lift the access panel away from the water heater.
4. Inspect the heating element for any signs of damage or corrosion.
5. Use a multimeter to test the heating element for continuity. If there is no continuity, the heating element is faulty and needs to be replaced.
6. If the heating element is faulty, disconnect the wires from the element and remove it.
7. Install a new heating element into the water heater and reconnect the wires.
8. Thoroughly inspect all components and connections:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Gasket | Ensures a tight seal between the access panel and water heater, preventing leaks. |
| Screws | Tightened securely to hold the access panel in place. Loose screws can compromise watertightness. |
| Wires | Checked for damage or fraying. Ensure proper insulation to prevent electrical hazards. |
| Electrical connections | Tightly secured to ensure reliable electrical flow. Poor connections can lead to overheating or power loss. |
| Heater Element Assembly | Correctly seated and properly connected to the water tank and electrical terminals. |
9. Carefully slide the access panel back into place and secure it with screws.
10. Turn on the water heater and check for any leaks or unusual noises.
Reconnecting the Power Supply
Once the tests are complete and you have determined that the heating element needs to be replaced, you can proceed with the following steps to reconnect the power supply:
Safety First: Shut Off Power
Before you begin, ensure the safety of your work environment by shutting off power to the water heater. Locate the circuit breaker or fuse box that controls the water heater and switch it to the “off” position.
Disconnect the Wiring
Carefully disconnect the wires that connect the heating element to the power supply. Note the position and orientation of the wires for proper reconnection later.
Remove the Old Heating Element
Using a socket wrench or similar tool, remove the bolts or screws that secure the heating element in place. Carefully lift and remove the old heating element from the water heater tank.
Inspect the Tank Opening
Before installing the new heating element, inspect the opening in the water heater tank where the heating element will be inserted. Remove any debris or scale buildup to ensure proper contact and sealing.
Insert the New Heating Element
Carefully insert the new heating element into the opening in the water heater tank. Align the heating element correctly and ensure it is fully inserted.
Secure the Heating Element
Tighten the bolts or screws that secure the heating element in place, ensuring a snug fit. Avoid overtightening, as this can damage the heating element or the water heater tank.
Reconnect the Wiring
Reconnect the wires to the heating element terminals, paying careful attention to the positions and orientations noted during disassembly. Secure the wires tightly.
Restore Power
Turn the circuit breaker or fuse back on to restore power to the water heater. Allow the water heater to fill up and heat the water before using it.
| Tip | Safety Note |
|---|---|
| Use a non-contact voltage tester to verify that power is off before touching any electrical components. | Always shut off power before working on any electrical appliance. |
| Handle the heating element with care to avoid damage. | Electrical components can be dangerous. If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified electrician. |
Checking Heating Element In Water Heater
Identifying a faulty heating element in a water heater is essential for maintaining hot water supply. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you check the heating element:
Step 1: Safety Precautions
Always disconnect power to the water heater before performing any electrical work. Turn off the circuit breaker or switch at the fuse box and drain the water from the tank.
Step 2: Locate the Heating Element
The heating element is typically located at the bottom of the water heater tank. It is usually cylindrical in shape and may be secured by bolts or screws.
Step 3: Remove the Heating Element
Disconnect the wires from the heating element using a wrench or pliers. Remove the bolts or screws holding the element in place and carefully pull it out of the tank.
Step 4: Inspect the Heating Element
Carefully examine the heating element for any signs of damage, such as cracks, breaks, or discoloration. Check the connections and wires for loose or broken components.
Step 5: Test the Heating Element
Use a multimeter to test the heating element for continuity. Set the multimeter to the ohms setting and place the probes on each end of the heating element. If the multimeter reads zero ohms, the element is functioning properly. If it reads infinity, the element is damaged and needs to be replaced.
Step 6: Replace the Heating Element
If the heating element is damaged, purchase a new element of the same type and wattage. Install the new element into the tank, tighten the bolts or screws, and reconnect the wires.
Step 7: Refill the Water Heater
Once the new heating element is installed, refill the water heater by turning on the water supply and opening the hot water faucets until water flows freely.
Step 8: Restore Power
Turn on the circuit breaker or switch at the fuse box to restore power to the water heater.
Step 9: Test the Water Heater
Turn on the hot water faucet and check the temperature of the water. If the water is hot, the heating element has been successfully replaced.
Resetting the Water Heater
If the water heater is not producing hot water, it may need to be reset. Here’s how:
Step 1: Locate the Reset Button
The reset button is usually located on the front or side of the water heater. It is typically a red button labeled “Reset.”
Step 2: Press the Reset Button
Press and hold the reset button for 5-10 seconds. You may hear a click or beep when the water heater resets.
Step 3: Wait for the Water Heater to Heat Up
It may take 30-60 minutes for the water heater to reheat the water.
How To Check Heating Element In Water Heater
Checking the heating element in a water heater is a common troubleshooting step when the water heater is not providing hot water. The heating element is responsible for heating the water in the tank, and if it is not working properly, the water will not heat up. There are a few simple steps that you can follow to check the heating element and determine if it needs to be replaced.
- Turn off the power to the water heater. This can be done at the circuit breaker panel or by removing the fuse that supplies power to the water heater.
- Remove the access panel to the heating element. The access panel is usually located on the side or bottom of the water heater. Once the access panel is removed, you will be able to see the heating element.
- Check the heating element for continuity. To do this, you will need a multimeter. Set the multimeter to the ohms setting and then touch the probes to the terminals of the heating element. If the multimeter reads 0 ohms, then the heating element is good. If the multimeter reads infinity, then the heating element is bad and needs to be replaced.
- If the heating element is bad, you will need to replace it. To do this, first turn off the water supply to the water heater and then drain the water from the tank. Once the water has been drained, you can remove the old heating element and install the new one. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the new heating element.
People Also Ask
How do I know if my water heater element is bad?
There are a few signs that may indicate that your water heater element is bad. These signs include:
- The water heater is not providing hot water.
- The water heater is making a popping or crackling noise.
- The water heater is leaking water.
- The water heater is tripping the circuit breaker.
How much does it cost to replace a water heater element?
The cost to replace a water heater element will vary depending on the type of water heater and the cost of labor in your area. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $200 for the part and labor.
Can I replace a water heater element myself?
Yes, you can replace a water heater element yourself. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and to turn off the power and water supply to the water heater before you begin.
