4 Signs Your Hot Water Heater’s Thermostat Is in Trouble

Your hot water system depends on a lot of different parts. So, when something goes wrong with the heater or the water it produces, it's not always obvious where the problem lies. You can, however, sometimes connect common problems with specific parts. For example, if you have any of the following issues, then your unit's thermostat may be failing.

1. Your Water Is the Wrong Temperature

You're used to your heater producing water at the right temperature and at set times. One of the first signs that you might have a thermostat issue is a change in your water temperature. Most commonly, your water won't heat up. It may be stone-cold or just warm rather than hot when you run your taps.

However, on the other side of the coin, a faulty thermostat can also overheat water. So, if your hot water has suddenly raised in temperature, then this is a sign that your thermostat needs investigation.

2. Your Taps Act Oddly

Your water usually comes out of your taps at the appropriate temperature. So, your hot tap runs hot water, and your cold tap runs cold. Sometimes, if you have a problem with a unit's thermostat, then this system stops working. So, if one or more of your cold taps suddenly starts running hot water, then your thermostat might have a problem.

3. Your Tank Makes Unusual Noises

If your hot water system uses a storage tank, then the tank might give you hints that it has a thermostat problem. If this happens, you'll notice unusual noises coming out of the tank, either generally or when your unit is heating water. This usually happens when the thermostat develops a fault that makes it overheat water. Its override doesn't stop it from heating even when the water is hot enough. This can result in bubbling noises as the water gets too hot.

4. Your RCD Switch Keeps Tripping

If you have a malfunctioning thermostat, then it might trip the RCD safety switch on its circuit. If the thermostat isn't controlling itself like it should, then it might be trying to draw more electricity than usual. Unusual spikes in usage can trip RCD switches. So, if this happens when your water heater in on, your thermostat may be at fault.

While your hot water thermostat can cause any of these problems, they can also be caused by other faults in your unit or its wiring. If you're having any of these problems, then call out an electrician to check the system over. They can then make the necessary repairs.

To learn more, contact a company like Smart-Safe Electrical Services


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