Have you ever been burned by water from your shower? If you have, chances are, your electric water heater is overheating, and there are several reasons why this could happen. Overheating is extremely dangerous as it can pose a danger to your family if no safety mechanisms are put in place. Fortunately, the hot water heater is not a complicated device; in fact, homeowners can troubleshoot the sources of overheating themselves. Look at the following things.

A Very High-Temperature Setting 

Before engaging any professionals, check the thermostat temperature settings. The thermostat has a dial that allows you to adjust the water temperature. Most households use a temperature of between 32 to 49 degrees Celsius. Check if the thermostat dial is within this range and adjust if necessary. If this does not solve the problem, investigate the other possible causes below.

A Malfunctioning Thermostat

Thermostats are responsible for keeping the water at the optimum temperature by switching the heating element on or off accordingly. During the installation of a water heater, temperatures are normally set to activate the safety feature at 49-degree Celsius. A faulty thermostat, however, will not trigger this safety feature, and the water gets heated way past the pre-set temperature. 

On a similar note, a thermostat that is not placed flush against the water tank gets inaccurate temperature readings, and water keeps on heating too. Fortunately, the thermostat can be replaced. Contact an electrician for a quick fix.

A High Mineral Content Deposit

Your home water supply has some dissolved minerals which cannot be removed by the purification system. In this regard, the minerals tend to settle at the bottom of the water heater around the heating element. 

When burdened by sediments, the heating element will have to put in an extra shift in order to attain the same temperatures that it would without sedimentation. This normally results in overheating of the elements, which in turn overheats your water and gradually reduces the lifespan of your equipment. To alleviate this problem, clean your water heater regularly to get rid of any settling sediments.

A Faulty Temperature Pressure Relief Valve

A blocked temperature pressure relief valve is very dangerous to the homeowner as it can potentially end up in an explosion. The temperature pressure relief valve serves to prevent a build-up of steam inside the water heater, and if jammed, the water gets too hot. A sure-fire sign of a blockage of the relief valve is the sound of boiling water inside your water heater. If you notice this, shut off the power supply and call a plumber immediately.

Water heater problems are very dangerous to you and your family. If at any time you notice that water from your shower and faucets is getting too hot, any of these could be the problem. Contact an electrician for an all-round examination of your water heater and hot water repairs.

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