how to check hot water tank heating element

3 min read 06-02-2025

how to check hot water tank heating element

Is your hot water lukewarm, or worse, completely cold? A faulty heating element could be the culprit. This guide will walk you through how to safely check your hot water tank's heating element and determine if it needs replacing. Knowing how to test a hot water tank heating element can save you money on costly repairs.

Understanding Your Hot Water Tank's Heating Element

Before you begin, always turn off the power to the water heater at the breaker box. This is crucial for your safety. Electric water heaters use one or two heating elements to heat the water. These elements are submerged in the tank and, over time, can fail due to mineral buildup, corrosion, or simply age.

Types of Heating Elements

Most electric water heaters have either one or two heating elements. A single element will heat the entire tank, while a dual-element system has a top and a bottom element for faster heating and better temperature regulation. Knowing which type you have will help in troubleshooting.

Tools You'll Need

Screwdrivers: Phillips and flathead, depending on your water heater model.
Multimeter: This is essential for testing the element's continuity. A non-contact voltage tester is also a good idea.
Safety Glasses: Always protect your eyes.
Gloves: Protect your hands from potential shocks or burns.
Bucket: To catch any water that may spill during the process.
Towels: For cleanup.

How to Check Your Hot Water Tank Heating Element: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Access the Heating Element

Locate the access panel on your water heater. This is usually located near the bottom of the tank. Remove the screws securing the panel.

Step 2: Disconnect the Power

Double-check that the power to the water heater is OFF at the breaker box. Use a non-contact voltage tester to verify that there's no power going to the element terminals.

Step 3: Disconnect the Wiring

Carefully disconnect the wires from the heating element terminals. Take photos or make notes of how the wires are connected. This is crucial for reassembly.

Step 4: Remove the Heating Element

Depending on your model, you might need to use pliers or a wrench to remove the element. There may be a nut securing it to the tank. Be prepared for some water to leak out; have your bucket ready.

Step 5: Testing the Heating Element with a Multimeter

Set your multimeter to the ohms setting (usually represented by the Ω symbol). Touch the multimeter probes to the element's terminals.

Good Element: A good heating element will show a low resistance reading (typically between 10 and 20 ohms, but this can vary depending on the element's wattage). A reading close to zero indicates a short circuit. An infinite reading suggests an open circuit.
Bad Element: A reading of infinity (OL or open circuit) indicates a broken heating element that needs replacement. A reading of zero ohms (a short circuit) also means the element is faulty and needs replacing.

Step 6: Reassembly (If Replacing)

If the element is faulty, carefully remove the old element and install a new one. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions. Reconnect the wires exactly as they were before.

Step 7: Restore Power

After reassembly, restore power to the water heater at the breaker box. Turn on the water heater and monitor the water temperature to ensure it heats up properly.

Troubleshooting Further Issues

If your heating element tests good but you still don't have hot water, there could be other problems:

Thermostat: A faulty thermostat might not be sending power to the heating element.
Lower Element (If applicable): If you have a dual-element system, the other element may be faulty. Repeat the process for that element.
Electrical Wiring: Check for loose connections or damaged wiring between the breaker box and the water heater.
Element Build Up: Even with a good element, severe mineral buildup can hinder its ability to transfer heat effectively.

When to Call a Professional

If you are uncomfortable working with electricity or if you're unable to resolve the issue, it's best to call a qualified plumber or electrician. Working with electricity can be dangerous, and a professional can ensure the job is done safely and correctly. This is especially true if you have a gas water heater; always call a professional for gas water heater repair.

Remember, safety is paramount! If you're not comfortable working with electricity, call a professional. This detailed guide should help you diagnose a faulty hot water tank heating element.