How To Reset an Electric Water Heater 

Power Down

The first thing you need to do is make sure there’s no power running to the water heater. You don’t want to mess with electricity and water at the same time. To do this, go to your circuit breaker panel and look for the switch labeled “Water Heater” or something similar. Flip it to the off position. You’ll want to be absolutely sure that the power is off before doing anything else because safety always comes first. If you’re not sure which switch controls the water heater, you might need to turn off the main breaker for the entire house just to be safe. It’s a small inconvenience for a big payoff.

Find the Reset Button

Next up is finding the reset button on your water heater. You’ll usually find it on the upper thermostat, which is under a small metal panel. First, grab a screwdriver to unscrew the panel. Once the panel is off, you’ll see some insulation. Move that aside and look for a small red button. If you're unsure where this little button is hiding, take a minute to glance at your water heater’s manual. If you can’t find the manual, a quick online search for your model should do the trick.

Press the Reset Button

Next, press the reset button. You should hear a small click. If you don’t, it might mean the reset button wasn’t tripped in the first place, which could point to a bigger issue that might require a plumber or plumbing repair service. Once you’ve pressed the button, put the insulation back in place and reattach the metal panel. You’re halfway there.

Get the Heater Running Again

It’s time to switch the breaker back to the “on” position. Once that’s done, your water heater should start working again. But don’t expect instant hot water. It usually takes about 30 minutes for the heater to get the water to the right temperature. If this doesn’t fix the problem, you may have a more serious issue at hand. This is when it’s time to reach out for professional help and schedule a water heater repair or water heater replacement if the unit is nearing the end of its lifespan.

How to Know If You Fixed It

After waiting for about 30 minutes, it’s time to check if your efforts paid off. Turn on a hot water tap and see what comes out. If the water is warm and steamy, congrats. You’ve successfully reset your water heater, and your shower is saved. If you’re still getting cold water, it could be a sign of a bigger issue, like a faulty thermostat or heating element. In that case, it’s probably best to call in a plumber in Berea. Mr. Rooter Plumbing can help with a plumbing repair services or full-on water heater replacement, so don’t hesitate to get professional help if needed.

Prevent Future Water Heater Worries

To avoid having to reset your water heater regularly, a little maintenance goes a long way. Here are some simple tips to keep your heater running:

• Regularly Check the Temperature Setting. Keep it at around 120°F to prevent overheating and unnecessary wear.
• Flush the Tank Annually. Sediment can build up over time, leading to inefficiency and potential problems down the road.
• Schedule a Professional Inspection. Having a plumber check out your system can catch minor issues before they turn into bigger, more expensive repairs.

Do You Need Some Professional Assistance? 

If resetting doesn’t fix the issue, call Mr. Rooter Plumbing. Whether you need an emergency water heater repair or water heater replacement, we’ve got you covered. Our team is always here to help with all your plumbing repair service needs. Contact us to schedule your appointment.