Two Plumbing technicians walking alongside the Meetze Plumbing van on their way into a customer's home to fix a plumbing issue Two Plumbing technicians walking alongside the Meetze Plumbing van on their way into a customer's home to fix a plumbing issue

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How To Reset an Electric Water Heater

A plumber uses a flashlight to see the water heater and its panel

Have you ever found yourself with no hot water? Before you panic about having to take a cold shower, there are steps you can take to restore your hot water supply. If you have an electric water heater, the problem might be resolved with a simple water heater reset. This is a straightforward DIY task that doesn’t require a professional plumber.

In this blog, our expert plumbers at Meetze Plumbing have assembled a step-by-step guide for safely and effectively resetting your water heater.

Why You May Need To Reset Your Water Heater

Electric water heaters are complex appliances with various components working together to provide hot water on demand.

Sometimes, factors such as power surges, thermostat malfunctions, or internal glitches can cause the system to malfunction, leading to a loss of hot water. In such cases, resetting the water heater can often resolve the issue without the need for professional intervention.

Step-by-Step Guide To Resetting Your Electric Water Heater

If you find yourself needing to reset your electric water heater, follow these steps:

1. Turn Off the Power

Before attempting any maintenance on your electric water heater, you should ensure your safety by turning off the power supply. Locate the circuit breaker or fuse box connected to your water heater and switch off the corresponding breaker or remove the fuse.

2. Locate the Reset Button

The reset button on electric water heaters is typically near the thermostat or heating element access panels. The button is typically red and may be labeled “reset.” If you can’t find it, you should see if your water heater has a panel and look behind that.

3. Press the Reset Button and Turn the Power Back On

Once you’ve located the reset button, push it and wait for a few seconds. This should restore the operation of your water heater. Replace the panel on your water heater if there is one, and then turn the power back on at your circuit breaker.

4. Check To See If Your Water Heater Works

After pressing the reset button and turning the power back on, the only thing left is to see if this fix has solved your water heater problems. Check to see if the power has been restored to your electric water heater. You may have to wait an hour or more for the water heater to heat the water fully.

Call Meetze Plumbing for Water Heater Repairs

Did resetting your electric water heater solve the problem? If yes, then you’re good to go! Just monitor your water heater for any recurring issues. While resetting it is an easy fix, it shouldn’t be something you have to do often.

If resetting your water heater didn’t restore its operation, or if you frequently have to reset it, it’s time to seek the help of a professional plumber. Meetze Plumbing has been in business since 1981, and we proudly serve homeowners throughout the Columbia, SC area and the Augusta, GA area.

We have experience with all types of water heater problems, so we can solve your electric water heater issues quickly and effectively. We provide both water heater repairs and replacements, so we’ll have the solutions you need.

Contact Meetze Plumbing today to schedule water heater services in Columbia, Augusta, or the surrounding areas.

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