Why Does Your Water Heater Keep Tripping The Breaker? The Shocking Truth Revealed!

If your water heater keeps tripping the breaker, it can be a frustrating and inconvenient problem. There are several potential reasons why this might be happening, and it’s important to identify the cause so you can fix it and prevent it from happening again.

Common Causes of Water Heater Breaker Trips

• Overloaded Circuit: The water heater is on the same circuit as other appliances, and if too many appliances are running at the same time, it can overload the circuit and trip the breaker.
• Faulty Heating Element: The heating element is responsible for heating the water in the tank. If it’s faulty, it can draw too much current and trip the breaker.
• Thermostat Malfunction: The thermostat controls the temperature of the water in the tank. If it malfunctions, it can cause the water to overheat and trip the breaker.
• Loose Wiring: Loose wiring can create a short circuit, which can trip the breaker.
• Water Leak: If there’s a water leak in the water heater, it can cause the electrical components to short out and trip the breaker.
• Sediment Buildup: Sediment can build up in the bottom of the water heater tank over time. This can insulate the heating element and cause it to overheat, which can trip the breaker.
• Old Age: Water heaters typically last for 8-12 years. If your water heater is old, it may be time to replace it.

Troubleshooting Steps for a Water Heater That Keeps Tripping the Breaker

1. Check the Circuit: Make sure that no other appliances are running on the same circuit as the water heater. If there are, try turning them off and see if that solves the problem.
2. Reset the Breaker: If the circuit is not overloaded, try resetting the breaker. To do this, simply turn the breaker off and then back on.
3. Inspect the Heating Element: If resetting the breaker doesn‘t solve the problem, check the heating element. If it’s burned out or damaged, it will need to be replaced.
4. Check the Thermostat: If the heating element is not the problem, check the thermostat. If it’s malfunctioning, it will need to be replaced.
5. Inspect the Wiring: Look for any loose or damaged wires. If you find any, tighten them or replace them as necessary.
6. Check for Water Leaks: Inspect the water heater for any leaks. If you find a leak, fix it and then reset the breaker.
7. Flush the Water Heater: Sediment can build up in the bottom of the water heater tank over time. To remove the sediment, flush the water heater by following the manufacturer’s instructions.

How to Prevent a Water Heater from Tripping the Breaker

• Avoid Overloading the Circuit: Make sure that no other appliances are running on the same circuit as the water heater.
• Maintain the Water Heater: Regularly inspect the water heater for any problems and fix them as soon as possible.
• Flush the Water Heater: Flush the water heater every year to remove sediment buildup.
• Replace the Water Heater: If your water heater is old, it may be time to replace it.

Tips for Replacing a Water Heater

• Choose the Right Size: Make sure to choose a water heater that is the right size for your needs.
• Hire a Qualified Plumber: If you’re not comfortable replacing the water heater yourself, hire a qualified plumber to do it for you.
• Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions: When installing the new water heater, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Why does my water heater keep tripping the breaker when I turn it on?
A: This could be a sign of a faulty heating element or thermostat.

Q: Why does my water heater keep tripping the breaker when I take a shower?
A: This could be a sign of an overloaded circuit or a faulty heating element.

Q: Why does my water heater keep tripping the breaker when I wash dishes?
A: This could be a sign of an overloaded circuit or a loose wire.

Q: Why does my water heater keep tripping the breaker when I run the dishwasher?
A: This could be a sign of an overloaded circuit or a faulty heating element.

Q: Why does my water heater keep tripping the breaker when I run the washing machine?
A: This could be a sign of an overloaded circuit or a loose wire.