How to check a hot water heater? Turn off its breaker which gives it power, and eliminate the metal cover to see its thermostat. Then, pull its plastic cover and insulation if in the heater.
After that, get the power tested using a non-contact voltage type of detector and identify the two metal elements of the ends in the open panel. Most of these water heaters have two heater elements.
Living in a small home or apartment with the device could only have a single component. But honestly, it is a nightmare situation if you allow yourself to shake with the chills while taking the morning shower. Never let an icy rainfall from the clouds of water from your faucet. Use a water heater but be sure it’s freaking hot. My friends, there are more things that you should know, so without further ado, let’s start!
Steps To Check A Hot Water Heater With Accessing The Elements
Below are the steps to consider in testing a hot water heater:
Step #1. Turning off the device
Test the element but be sure the device is not active. The metal box attached to the wall is the electric breaker. Search it in the laundry room, basement, and ample storage closet in your home. Search for the breaker that marks with the device. It controls the power in a room you find the heater, and it flips it off.
Step #2. Removing the metal cover seeing the thermostat
The metal plate is next to the base of a device. So, use the Philips head screwdriver that removes the screws that hold the metal place securely. The heating elements and the water heater’s thermostat are right below the plate. So, set the screws and metal cover nearby. Place the screws inside a tiny bowl if you worry that the screws will roll below the appliance.
Step #3. Pulling out the plastic cover and insulation if they are available
Most hot water heaters feature cellulose insulation or fiberglass underneath the metal cover. So, pull it out to set it aside after. Most heaters feature plastic above the thermostat. The plastic covers are suitable because of friction with a tab above to pull and release. Pull the account up to remove the plastic cover and eliminate it in the thermostat. But remember that insulation and plastic safety cover is not present in the water heaters. Avoid this step if your device does not have these.
Step #4. Testing the power using a non-contact voltage detector
See the electric power and turn off the heater before you finally begin working. Examine the electrical current in the device by touching the detector’s angle, as this leads to the wires and continues to the thermostat. The active outlet means to say the detector can beep or light up. If it does not light up correctly, it means you’re successful in turning off its power. Purchase a non-contact voltage detector in any home improvement store or hardware store if you have no one available. The equipment measures five inches long and appears the same as a giant plastic pen. Plus, it has its metal prong.
Step #5. Identifying the two metal elements’ ends
The two metal elements in the open panel usually have both ends. See if these elements extend a few inches in the hot water heater. The base ends are visible on the open board. Each base measures one inch across while a tiny plastic plate screws into it.
Steps To Check A Hot Water Heater With Using A Multimeter
Below are the steps to follow in how to check a hot water heater:
Step #1. Setting the multimeter at its lowest setting
Tap the multimeter’s two metal types of prongs to ensure they work. Calibrate the equipment and hold it together while moving its needle pointing to zero.
Step #2. Removing one of the water heater element’s wires
Each of the elements in a hot water heater has two electric wires that run to screws holding the part correctly. Choose the right heater element you want to get tested. Then, remove the first wire by searching the loose end. Unravel it approximately in the metal element. Perform this to get the conductivity of the element tested. Use a pair of pliers to eliminate the wire wrapped in the water heater element.
Step #3. Holding the prongs of multimeter to element screws
Set the multimeter’s body on the water heater’s foundation. Place the tip of the first prong right through the center of one of the screws of the water heater element. Grab the second prong, hold it, and move it towards the center of the double screw of the water heater element.
Step #4. Seeing the number of ohms of resistance
A digital panel or dial points out the resistance. If the micrometer signals it, the element works properly, indicating resistance between 10 to 30 ohms. The needle that does not move means to say the water heater does not work correctly. The element is not working if the multimeter has a lower number.
Step #5. Getting the second element of the water heater tested
Test the first element if it is okay, try and test the second element using a multimeter. Determine the aspects broken and replace them. Call the water heater manufacturer and ask them to send a repair service for you.
Step #6. Reattaching the cover and covering the exposed panel of the water heater
Use a needle-nose plier that effectively tightens the wire after replacing or testing the elements. Snap the cover securely in place above the thermostat. Press the insulation around it. Then, set the panel to its proper position. Re-insert the screws that you removed earlier. Get the screws tightened in the holes until they hold the metal panel securely in place. Then, turn the power breaker on, restoring the electricity flow. It’s best to also know water heater checklist.
It’s A Wrap!
Now you learn how to check a hot water heater using a multimeter and access the elements. Follow the steps carefully and see that you do the right thing. Never get yourself exposed to the nightmare of shaking with the chills taking the morning shower. You may want to read related articles; know how to install a gas hot water heater and how to clean a hot water heater.