Electric Water Heater Reset Button Keeps Tripping? Here’s How to Fix It

When the reset button keeps tripping on your electric water heater, it’s more than just a minor annoyance—it’s a clear indication that there’s an underlying issue demanding attention.

Having hot water at our disposal is one of those conveniences of modern living we often don’t think twice about—until suddenly, we’re faced with cold showers and unheated water for chores.

This disruption can quickly turn into a significant inconvenience, prompting an urgent investigation into the cause.

In this article, we will talk about the reasons why the reset button keeps tripping on your water heater and offer insights on how to address this issue, ensuring the continuous flow of hot water that is so essential to our daily comfort and convenience.

What Is the Water Heater Reset Button, and Why Does It Matter?

The reset button on an electric water heater isn’t just a simple switch—it’s a crucial safety feature designed to prevent overheating and protect your household. Understanding how it works and where to find it is key to maintaining a safe and efficient water heater.

What Does the Reset Button Do?

Often called the ECO (Emergency Cut Off) switch or high-temperature cutoff, the reset button is your water heater’s first line of defense against overheating. If the water temperature inside the tank climbs above a safe range (typically between 150°F and 180°F), the button trips and cuts off the power supply to the heater. This prevents dangerous situations, such as scalding burns or potential damage to the unit.

Pressing the reset button restores power, but if the reset button keeps tripping repeatedly, it signals an underlying problem that needs attention. When you press it, you’ll usually hear a distinct metallic “click” sound, confirming the switch has been reset.

Where Is the Reset Button Located?

The reset button on an electric water heater is typically located behind a panel on the side of the tank. To access it:

1. Turn off the Power: Always switch off the power at the circuit breaker before proceeding for safety.
2. Locate the Panels: Most water heaters have two panels—one near the upper heating element and another near the lower. The reset button is usually behind the upper panel.
3. Remove the Panel: Unscrew and remove the outer panel. Beneath it, you’ll find insulation. Gently move the insulation aside to reveal the reset button.

The button itself is often red or another high-visibility color, making it easy to identify.

Understanding the ECO mechanism

During normal operation, the reset button allows electrical current to flow between its terminals, powering the heating elements. You can verify this flow with a voltmeter.

If the water heater overheats, the ECO mechanism activates. For example, in models like the Rheem electric water heater, the plate beneath the button deforms slightly under heat stress, pushing out a pin and triggering the Emergency Cut Off. When this happens, the voltmeter will show no current flow, cutting power to the heating elements.

Before Resetting the Button

To safely reset the button:

• Inspect for Issues: Repeated tripping might indicate problems like a faulty thermostat, damaged heating element, or wiring issues. Addressing these problems is critical to preventing further tripping.
• Let the Water Cool: Allow the tank’s water to cool before attempting a reset. Running hot water from a nearby faucet can help speed up the cooling process.

Important Safety Tip

Ensure that your water heater’s wiring and electrical panel are up to code. Incorrect wiring or undersized breakers can cause electrical hazards. If you notice anything unusual, have a licensed electrician inspect the system to confirm it’s safe and correctly installed.

Why the Reset Button Keeps Tripping

Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat monitors and controls the water temperature inside the tank. When it malfunctions:

• Symptoms: The water may overheat, and the reset button trips frequently. You might also notice fluctuating water temperatures.
• Cause: A faulty thermostat might get stuck in the ON position, causing one or both heating elements to operate continuously, overheating the water beyond safe limits (150°F-180°F).

Solutions:

• Test the thermostat: Use a multimeter to check for continuity. Set the thermostat to a specific temperature, and ensure it responds correctly when power is applied.
• Replace the thermostat: If it fails the test or you notice visible signs of damage, replace it. Ensure you buy a model compatible with your water heater.

Loose or Damaged Wiring

Wiring issues are a common culprit behind reset button problems and can pose significant safety hazards.

• Symptoms: Frequent tripping of the reset button, burned or melted wires, or even a burning smell.
• Cause: Loose connections generate heat during operation, which can damage other components, including the thermostat and heating elements.

Solutions:

• Inspect wiring connections: Turn off the power and examine all wiring connections within the unit. Look for frayed, burned, or loose wires.
• Tighten or replace connections: Secure any loose connections and replace damaged wires. Always use wiring that matches the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure safety.
• Check for further damage: Inspect related components such as thermostats, heating elements, and the reset button for signs of damage caused by faulty wiring.

Defective Heating Element

Over time, the heating elements in your water heater can degrade or become coated with sediment, impacting their performance.

• Symptoms: Water takes longer to heat, fluctuates in temperature, or the reset button trips.
• Cause: A defective element may short circuit or overheat, causing the water temperature to exceed safe limits.

Solutions:

• Inspect the elements: Look for visible signs of damage, such as cracks, corrosion, or sediment buildup.
• Test with a multimeter: Disconnect the element, and check for continuity and resistance. A defective element will show no continuity or unusual resistance levels.
• Replace if necessary: If the element is damaged or coated with heavy sediment, replace it with a new one. Be sure to drain and flush the tank first to remove sediment.

Heating Element Shorted to Ground

A heating element shorted to ground can cause the water heater to heat continuously, bypassing the thermostat’s control.

• Symptoms: Constant overheating, frequent tripping of the reset button, or unusually high energy bills.
• Cause: A short occurs when the element’s internal coil comes into contact with the tank’s metal surface, creating an uncontrolled flow of electricity.

Solutions:

• Test for a short: Disconnect the wires from the element, and use a multimeter to check for continuity between the element terminals and the tank. A reading of 0.0 ohms indicates a short.
• Replace the element: If shorted, replace the element immediately. Consider upgrading to a high-quality element with anti-corrosion properties for longer life.

High Water Pressure

Excessive water pressure can force the water heater to work harder, leading to overheating and triggering the reset button.

• Symptoms: Unusual noises from the water heater, frequent tripping of the reset button, or visible leaks from the pressure relief valve.
• Cause: High pressure can occur due to a faulty pressure relief valve, incorrect pressure settings, or high municipal water pressure.

Solutions:

• Measure water pressure: Use a pressure gauge to check your system’s pressure. Ideal pressure should be between 40-60 psi.
• Install a pressure-reducing valve: If the pressure is consistently high, install a pressure-reducing valve to regulate it.
• Inspect the pressure relief valve: Ensure it operates correctly and releases pressure when necessary. Replace it if faulty.

Inaccurate Temperature Reading

• Symptoms: Water temperature fluctuates or feels excessively hot even when set to a lower temperature.
• Cause: Exposure of the thermostat (e.g., due to removed insulation or a damaged cover) can interfere with its ability to measure temperature accurately.

Solutions:

• Check thermostat insulation: Ensure that the thermostat is properly insulated and protected by its cover.
• Test for accuracy: Use a thermometer to compare the actual water temperature with the thermostat’s setting. Replace the thermostat if it gives inaccurate readings.

Thermal Switch Malfunction

• Symptoms: The reset button trips with no apparent cause or refuses to reset.
• Cause: Over time, the thermal switch may degrade, becoming overly sensitive or failing entirely.

Solutions:

• Test the thermal switch: Use a multimeter to check for continuity. If the switch trips without cause or shows no continuity when pressed, it’s defective.
• Replace the switch: Install a new thermal switch to restore proper functionality. Ensure the replacement is compatible with your water heater model.

Summary

To mitigate the frequency of incidents where the reset button keeps tripping, it is imperative to adhere to a routine maintenance schedule for your electric water heater.

Ensuring that your unit is leak-free is just the start. Equally important is the correct installation of the thermostat-it should be flush and firmly mounted against the heater’s wall, with all wires securely fastened and insulation properly positioned.

Such preventative measures not only enhance the efficiency and longevity of your water heater but also contribute significantly to the safety and comfort of your home environment.

Regular maintenance is key to avoiding unexpected disruptions and maintaining a consistent supply of hot water.