Electric Water Heater: How to Spot Issues, Reset and Keep Hot Water Flowing

If your shower suddenly turns cold, the first thing to check is the electric water heater. Most homes rely on these units for instant hot water, and a small fault can leave you shivering. The good news? Many problems are easy to spot and fix yourself – if you follow the right steps.

Why Your Electric Water Heater Might Stop Heating

There are three usual suspects: power loss, a tripped reset button, or a bad heating element. A blown fuse or a tripped breaker cuts power instantly, so the heater never fires up. The reset button, located on the top or side of the tank, trips when the unit overheats – it’s a safety feature, not a sign of a dead heater. Finally, the heating element itself can wear out; you’ll notice lukewarm water, strange noises, or a humming sound that never turns into heat.

Step‑by‑Step Reset and DIY Checks

First, make sure the heater is getting electricity. Open your breaker box and look for a switch labeled “water heater” or “EWH”. If it’s off, flip it back on. If the breaker trips again, you probably have a deeper issue and should call a pro.

Next, locate the reset button. It’s a bright red or black button on the upper thermostat. Press it firmly for a few seconds – you should feel or hear a click. If it trips again within minutes, the element or thermostat is likely failing.

To test the element yourself, turn off the breaker, then unscrew the two wires from the element terminals. Using a multimeter set to the ohms (Ω) setting, place each probe on a terminal. A healthy element reads between 10 and 30 Ω. Anything far outside that range means the element needs replacing.

While you have the heater open, glance at the tank for any signs of corrosion or leaking. Small leaks around the pressure valve or drain plug can let cold water in, reducing temperature. Tighten loose connections, but don’t over‑tighten – you might crack the pipe.

If everything checks out – power is on, reset stays set, and the element measures okay – give the heater a few minutes to warm up. Turn on a hot tap and feel for steady hot water. If it’s still tepid, the thermostat could be faulty, which usually requires a professional to replace.

When in doubt, call Bridgewater Appliance Fixers. Our techs can quickly swap out elements, reset thermostats and ensure your system meets safety regulations. Trying a DIY fix saves time, but a licensed repair avoids costly mistakes and keeps your warranty intact.

In a nutshell: check power, press the reset, test the element, look for leaks, and call an expert if anything feels off. Follow these steps and you’ll know whether a simple reset will bring back hot showers or if it’s time for a professional fix.