QA

Quick Answer: How To Replace Thermostat On Gas Water Heater

Can you replace a gas water heater thermostat?

The water heater thermostat is part of the gas valve. They cannot be replaced separately from the valve.

How do you check a thermostat on a gas water heater?

How to Test a Water Heater Thermostat Switch the water heater’s power off. Remove the access panels and insulation so you can access the thermostats/elements. Using a screwdriver, set the upper thermostat on high, and the lower thermostat on low, by turning the dial in the middle. Turn the power back on.

Is my gas water heater thermostat bad?

First calibration is actual temperature of water vs thermostat setting. Set thermostat to 120° and water temperature might be 115° or 125°. Typically, the range is +/-5°. If differential is greater than 20%, the thermostat should be replaced.

How do I know if my water heater thermostat is bad?

If you turn the hot water tap and cold water runs out, then the upper thermostat is damaged. But if the water is hot that becomes later becomes cold, then you have a damaged lower thermostat.

How much does it cost to replace a water heater thermostat?

The average thermostat replacement cost is between $100 and $300. Most other repairs are equally affordable. There are two main types: gas and electric. A gas unit works by way of a gas flame while an electric one works using electric elements, or coils.

How does gas water heater thermostat work?

The thermostat is a thermistor that responds to heat by producing a small electric current. The current increases when water temperature increases, and drops when temperature drops. Changes in the electric current cause gas control to turn ON and OFF. When gas control turns ON, it releases gas to burner.

What causes a water heater thermostat to burn up?

Re: What causes burned wires on electric water heater thermostat? A shorted element, depending on WHERE it is shorted, would either cause the water to overheat and trip the ECO, or trip the circuit breaker, but NOT “overload” the thermostat or its connections.

Why is my new gas hot water heater not getting hot?

No Hot Water — Gas Water Heater. If a gas water heater isn’t heating, a common problem is usually that the pilot light has gone out. This may be caused by the gas valve, the natural gas supply, or—more likely—the thermocouple located next to the pilot light.

Are gas water heater thermostats universal?

No, all water heater thermostats are not universal. There are some variances in thermostats between single-element water heaters and dual-element water heaters. Also, there is a difference in the upper and lower thermostats in dual-element water heaters.

Where is the thermostat on a gas hot water tank?

Adjusting water heater temperature For instance, most newer gas and electric water heaters have a thermostat behind an insulated access panel. Electric water heaters often have two thermostats — one at the top and another at the bottom of the tank.

Do you have to drain a hot water heater to change the thermostat?

Always disconnect the power or shut off the breaker before doing any work on a water heater. To change thermostats, you will need to remove the access panel and safety cover (do this for both upper and lower access panels on dual element units).

How long should a hot water thermostat last?

Traditional hot water cylinders: 8-12 years. Heat Pump water heaters: 10+ years.

What is the most common problem with water heaters?

Water leaks are perhaps the most common type of water heater issue you’ll face. Any water heater will start to leak eventually, as by nature water will eventually corrode your tank and create microscopic cracks or fractures. However, this isn’t always a sign that your tank is what’s leaking.

How much is Lowes water heater installation?

The basic water heater installation cost at Lowe’s is $325. Plus, an estimated fee of $40 is usually added on top of this basic installation cost. Typically, additional piping will be required to complete the installation, so allocate some funds for this expense.

How often should a hot water heater be replaced?

Water Heater Lifespan If your tank water heater is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it. With proper maintenance, a tank water heater tank should last six to 12 years. A tankless water heater can last for more than 20 years. Check your water heater’s warranty for the most accurate timelines.

Do gas water heaters have a reset button?

A water heater reset button, usually red, is located in the center of the limit switch just above the water heater thermostat. The water heater limit switch is a safety device that will shut the power down to the water heater if something malfunctions and the water gets to hot.

When should I replace my thermostat?

Signs You Need a New Thermostat Heating or cooling system will not turn off or on. The temperature reading is incorrect. Recent spike in your energy bill. Frequent temperature fluctuations. Thermostat is 10 years old or older.

Does a gas water heater have a heating element?

A gas heater looks like an electric unit, except that it doesn’t contain the two heating elements. It has a gas burner at the bottom, with the chimney running up through the middle of the tank.