Have you ever gone to take a hot shower only to find the water is lukewarm at best? You probably went to your water heater to see if you could find the problem. It’s likely that you spotted the red reset button popped out or a reset alert flashing, requiring you to turn the system back on again. Why does this happen? Below, Osterwisch Company in Cincinnati, OH, shares four occasions that are likely causes for this water heater reboot.

Water Heaters Could Trip Their Reset Button for These 4 Reasons

1. A Bad Thermostat

If the thermostat on your water heater is not properly calibrated or is malfunctioning, the system may overheat. A safety mechanism on the tank will then go off as the temperature will get too hot, leading to a reset. Thankfully, this is an easy fix with a thermostat replacement. 

2. A Wiring Short

We’ve all plugged in a hair dryer or toaster only to find the power to that room shuts off as a breaker shorts out. This can happen within your water heater as well. When the heating element shorts out, the water heater may continue warming the water which will trigger a reset for safety purposes. Rewiring the affected area should fix the issue.

3. A Bad Limit Switch

If a water heater tech inspects your thermostat and finds that it’s ok, the next move is to inspect the limit switch. This decides when to reset the water heater. If it is defective, the limit switch will trip the reset button. A replacement switch is all you’ll need to get your system back up and running.

4. Loose Wiring

Whether you have a gas or an electric water heater, some electrical components are crucial to the system operation. If the wiring comes loose due to poor installation, age, or having been jostled, it may reset your water heater. A technician will assess the wiring and make any necessary adjustments to stop your water heater from resetting.

If you’re unsure why your water heater system is repeatedly starting over, it’s a good idea to call a professional for help. To schedule an inspection with Osterwisch Company call (513) 791-3282. Visit the website for information about their plumbing, refrigeration, heating and air conditioning, and electrical services. The company’s wide range of expertise helps customers tackle their residential and commercial needs more quickly and at a lower cost.