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Why Does The Reset Button on My Electric Water Heater Keep Tripping?

ICSNY • Oct 17, 2022

Are you wondering why the reset button on your electric water heater keeps tripping? The biggest reason why does button keeps popping up is that your water heater keeps losing power. When that happens, you can hit the reset button to turn the electric water heater back on. The reset button is an important safety mechanism, and it allows the unit to turn off if the water temperature gets too hot.

There are several reasons why this button keeps tripping. Take a look at a few of the most common reasons below, and do not hesitate to reach out to a professional who can help you.

1. The Reset Button Itself Is Broken

There might be a problem with the reset button itself. Even though this is a bit unusual, it does happen from time to time. Keep in mind that the reset button is designed to shut off power to the water heater after it reaches a certain temperature. If the reset button continues to trip, it might get worn out. As a result, it might have a difficult time accurately reading the temperature of the water. When this happens, the switch can cut power to the water heater even though the water temperature is not hot enough to do so.

2. The Thermostat Is Not Functioning Properly

Another reason why the reset button might keep tripping is that the thermostat is not functioning properly. Your electric water heater probably has two separate thermostats. There is an upper thermostat and a lower thermostat. The reset button is typically included on the upper thermostat, and it is responsible for controlling one of the heating elements. The goal is to make sure that only one heating element is turned on at a time. The thermostat keeps an eye on the temperature in the water tank. Then, it turns off when the heating element reaches a certain temperature.

If there is a problem with the thermostat, it might get stuck in the on position. As a result, it might not turn off the heating element when it is supposed to, causing the reset button to trip. It would be our pleasure to take a look at this issue for you.

3. The Heating Element Is Burnt Out

The next reason why the reset button might keep tripping is that the heating element has actually been burnt out. If your electric water heater experience a short, the heating element could be burnt out. Power might continue flowing to the heating element even after the thermostat has shut off the power. Therefore, the water temperature will continue going up until it reaches a critical point, which will cause the reset button to trip. If you want to address this issue, you may need to replace the heating element. We can help you with that.

4. There Is a Bad Breaker or Wire

Finally, the actual issue might be electrical. If there is a loose wire somewhere, it could create a safety hazard. Your water heater has safety mechanisms to protect against these issues, which is why the reset button keeps tripping. If you have investigated all of the reasons above, it might be time to take a closer look at the wire or breaker. It would be our pleasure to do a comprehensive diagnostic check to figure out what the problem is. Count on our team to help you identify the issue.

Call Us Today for Help With Your Electric Water Heater

Ultimately, there are lots of reasons why the reset button on your electric water heater keeps tripping. It can be frustrating, but you need to get to the bottom of the issue. Remember that this is a safety concern, and the button trips to prevent you from getting hurt. It also trips to prevent the electric water heater from getting damaged. We have a tremendous amount of experience working with a wide variety of water heaters, and it would be our pleasure to help you as well. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with a member of our team. Let us help you fix the problem with your water heater.

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Most homeowners in need of new heating or cooling equipment will do an internet search to get information. Such a search will typically yield two results: what to buy or where to buy but not why to buy. At InterCounty Supply, as a wholesale supply house, we present all the options for what to buy and why it would be the best choice for YOUR situation. After all the options are presented a homeowner can decide for themselves what they need. ICS then has a licensed, factory trained contractor who SPECIALIZES in the equipment you need come to your home to provide the complete installation cost for the equipment you need. ICS will also handle all the paperwork for any rebates that are applicable.


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