Electric Hot Water System Not Working? 7 Troubleshooting Tips

There’s nothing worse than turning on the tap and getting a blast of cold water when you’re expecting a warm shower. If your electric hot water system isn’t working, it can quickly disrupt your day.

The good news is that some problems are simple to identify and may even be easy to fix yourself. Before you call in a professional, there are a few quick checks and troubleshooting steps you can try at home.

Whether it’s a power issue, a faulty thermostat, or something more serious like a failed heating element, this guide will help you pinpoint the issue.

Read on to learn six of the most common reasons your electric hot water system might not be working – along with reasons to call a qualified plumber – and what you can do to get the hot water flowing again.

1. Check the Power Supply

One of the first things to do when your electric hot water system stops working is to check the power supply. A lack of power is often the root cause – and it’s usually easy to spot and fix. Here’s what to look for:

• Make sure the system is plugged in – It sounds simple, but sometimes a loose or unplugged cord is all it takes.
• Check the switch – Ensure the isolation switch (usually near the unit) is turned on.
• Inspect your circuit breaker – A tripped breaker or blown fuse in your switchboard can cut power to the unit.
• Look for signs of a power outage – If other appliances aren’t working, the issue may be with your mains supply.
• Try resetting the system – Some models have a reset button that can reboot the system.

If everything checks out and there’s still no power, it’s time to call a licensed electrician.

2. Inspect the Thermostat Settings

If your electric hot water system isn’t delivering hot water, the thermostat could be the culprit. The thermostat controls the water temperature inside your tank, and if it’s not set correctly – or isn’t working at all – you might only get lukewarm or cold water.

Start by checking the thermostat setting. Most systems have a temperature dial accessible behind a small panel. It should be set between 60°C and 65°C for safe and efficient operation.

If the temperature seems fine but you’re still not getting hot water, the thermostat might be faulty. Over time, thermostats can wear out or lose calibration. You might also notice the water is overheating, which is another sign it’s not regulating correctly.

While you can inspect the setting yourself, replacing or testing a thermostat is a job best left to a licensed technician. It’s a small component, but a critical one in keeping your water consistently hot.

3. Look for Tripped Safety Switches

Electric hot water systems come with built-in safety features to prevent overheating or electrical faults. One of these is the high-temperature safety switch. If this switch is tripped, your system may stop producing hot water altogether.

Here’s what to do:

• Locate the reset button – Most units have a reset button hidden behind a panel or near the thermostat.
• Press and hold – Gently press the button until you hear or feel a click, which means it’s been reset.
• Wait and test – Give the system some time to heat up again, then check for hot water at the tap.
• Watch for repeated trips – If the safety switch keeps tripping, it may point to a deeper issue like a faulty thermostat or heating element.
• Call a professional – Regular tripping is a sign your system needs expert attention.

Always take care when dealing with electrical components.

4. Test the Heating Element

If your water is cold or only slightly warm, the heating element might be to blame. Electric hot water systems usually have one or two heating elements inside the tank, and their job is to warm the water to your desired temperature. Over time, these elements can burn out or become coated in mineral deposits, especially in areas with hard water.

You might notice signs like slow heating, inconsistent temperatures, or no hot water at all. While it’s tempting to try and test the element yourself, it’s important to remember that doing so involves working with electricity and water – never a safe combo for DIY.

A licensed plumber or electrician can use a multimeter to test if the element is still functioning. If it’s faulty, they can replace it quickly and safely. Replacing a broken heating element is often more cost-effective than replacing the whole system, so it’s worth checking.

5. Check for Water Leaks or Rust

Water leaks or signs of rust around your electric hot water system can point to serious problems. These issues often indicate internal damage, corrosion, or a failing tank.

Here’s what to look for:

• Inspect around the base of the unit – Pooled water or dampness is a red flag.
• Check all visible pipes and fittings – Look for drips, moisture, or rust on joints and valves.
• Examine the tank exterior – Rust spots or flaking paint can signal corrosion inside the tank.
• Listen for unusual noises – Gurgling, hissing, or popping sounds may mean sediment buildup or internal rust.
• Smell the water – A metallic or rusty smell can indicate corrosion inside the tank.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to call a licensed plumber. In many cases, significant leaks or rust mean it’s time to replace the unit entirely.

6. Consider the Age of the Unit

Sometimes, the reason your electric hot water system isn’t working comes down to one simple factor – its age. Most electric hot water systems are built to last around 8 to 12 years.

After that, parts start to wear out, efficiency drops, and breakdowns become more common. If your unit is reaching or has passed this age range, ongoing issues may be a sign that it’s time for a replacement rather than another repair.

Older systems can also cost more to run, using more electricity to produce less hot water. You might also notice rust, unusual noises, or leaks – classic indicators of a unit nearing the end of its life.

If you’re facing frequent problems and costly repairs, replacing the system with a modern, energy-efficient model could save you money in the long run. When in doubt, a licensed technician can assess your unit’s condition and help you decide what’s best.

7. When to Call a Licensed Technician

While some issues with your electric hot water system can be checked at home, others need a licensed hot water plumber. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with any part of the process, it’s always safer to call in a professional.

Here’s when to make the call:

• There’s no power and resetting hasn’t worked – This could point to deeper electrical issues.
• The thermostat or heating element needs replacing – These involve working with electricity and water—best left to an expert.
• You see leaks or signs of rust – A plumber can assess whether a repair or full replacement is needed.
• The safety switch keeps tripping – Repeated tripping can mean a fault in the wiring or components.
• Your system is over 10 years old – A technician can help determine if it’s still worth repairing.

Getting expert help ensures your system is repaired safely and reliably.

Know What to Look For

If your electric hot water system isn’t working, don’t panic – many issues can be solved with a few simple checks. Start with the basics like the power supply, thermostat settings and safety switches.

You might be able to get your hot water flowing again without needing professional help. However, if you notice leaks, rust, or ongoing problems like tripping switches or inconsistent temperatures, it’s best to call a licensed technician.

Older systems, especially those more than 10 years old, may need replacing rather than repairing. Regular maintenance and early troubleshooting can extend the life of your system and help avoid sudden cold showers.

By knowing what to look for and when to call in the experts, you can keep your hot water system running smoothly and your household comfortable all year round.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.