It can be hard to manage if your water heater keeps randomly shutting off, especially if you are in a season when you need hot water the most. Water heater shut-offs are usually a sign of a deeper mechanical problem, so you should contact an expert quickly to diagnose your issue. With that in mind, the team at Titanium Plumbing is to give the most common answers to the question, “Why does my water heater keep turning off?”
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Most Common Reasons for Water Heater Shutdowns in Paramus, NJ
Below are some of the most common reasons why your water heater keeps shutting down. Regardless of the cause behind the random shutdowns, you need expert water heater repair to fix your problems.
Tripping Circuit Breaker
One of the most common causes of random water heater shutdowns is because of your circuit breaker. Water heaters use electricity, and if there is a problem with your electrical systems, it can cause the circuit breaker to trip every time you turn it on. Frequent circuit breaker tripping indicates a larger electrical issue, so you need a professional to help you identify the problem.
Overheating
Water heaters have a safety auto-shutoff mechanism that will trip if the system gets too hot. Overheating is most likely a result of thermostat settings being too high or due to low water flow in the tank.
Sediment Buildup
Most water heaters build up sediment over time, which can cause the water supply lines to clog and shut off water flow. Insufficient water flow can cause your system to overheat and shut down randomly.
Dirty Thermostat
Water heaters have thermostats that detect the current water temperature and tell the system to keep heating or to stop. If your water heater keeps turning off, it could be because a faulty thermostat isn’t regulating water temperature properly, so the system gets too hot and shuts down.
Bad Heating Element
Electrical water heaters have a metallic or ceramic heating element that heats the water to the desired temperature. If heating elements are damaged, they will stop working, and water heating will consequently stop.
Faulty Wiring
Another common answer to the question, “Why does my water heater keep turning off?” is bad wiring. A single faulty wire causes electrical problems that can cause your system to randomly shut off. Faulty wiring also creates electrical hazards, meaning that you should contact a professional plumber to replace any damaged wiring or electrical components.
Gas Supply Problems
If you have a gas furnace, random shutdowns can happen because of faulty gas lines or an insufficient gas supply. For example, there could be holes in your gas line or your gas burner head might be broken.
Can I Fix My Water Heater On My Own?
Depending on the root cause of the shutdowns, you might be able to fix it yourself. Try these steps if your water heater starts randomly shutting off:
- Check your gas lines and gas valves. If there is a problem, you may be able to smell gas when you turn your system on or when it is running.
- Clean the air inlet seams. Sometimes, overheating is a result of insufficient airflow due to a venting issue or clogged vents.
- Check the thermocouple couplings and heating element voltages. Most residential water heater heating elements should have a total voltage of 240. If you have a dual-heating element heater, both should read 120 volts for a total of 240 volts.
- Check the water supply tubes to the heater. If you notice any damage, you can unscrew and replace them on your own. Flex tubes are useful replacements when pipes need to bend and twist around corners.
- If you have a tank heater, flush the tank to remove any hard water sediment that might be clogging the water supply lines.
When Should I Contact a Professional?
In general, you should always contact a professional for any gas or electrical problems. Gas and electrical issues are fire hazards and pose serious safety risks for you and your family. A professional plumber can diagnose and fix your water heater problems safely, including handling water heater replacement when needed.
Water Heater Repair and Installation in Paramus, NJ
Read our blog if you need guidance on choosing the best water heater for home use. If you have any more questions like, “Why does my water heater keep turning off?” send a message to Titanium Plumbing online or give us a call today at 201-254-8580 to schedule an appointment!