Electric Water Heater Repair: Common Issues, Fixes, and When to Call a Pro

When your electric water heater, a home appliance that uses electrical elements to heat water for showers, dishes, and laundry. Also known as a storage tank water heater, it’s one of the most relied-on but least noticed systems in your home. stops working, it’s not just an inconvenience—it’s a full-stop on your morning routine. Unlike gas models, electric water heaters don’t need a pilot light or venting, but they’re just as prone to breakdowns. The most common culprits? A tripped reset button, a burnt-out heating element, or thick sediment buildup hiding inside the tank. These aren’t rare issues—they happen in nearly every home after 8 to 12 years of use.

If your water goes cold suddenly, check the reset button, a safety switch on the thermostat that cuts power when the heater overheats. It’s usually red and sits near the top of the tank. Pressing it might bring the heat back—but if it trips again within a day, something deeper is wrong. That’s where heating elements, the metal coils inside the tank that actually heat the water. come in. One or both can burn out over time, especially if the water is hard or the thermostat is faulty. You can test them with a multimeter, but if you’re not comfortable with wiring, it’s safer to call someone who is. Sediment buildup is another silent killer. Over years, minerals settle at the bottom, forcing the elements to work harder, wasting energy, and eventually burning out. Flushing the tank once a year can extend its life by years.

And then there’s the big question: Is your 15- or 20-year-old heater worth fixing? Often, the answer is no. Newer models are 20% more efficient, come with better warranties, and don’t risk leaks that flood your basement. But if you’re on a tight budget, a simple repair—like replacing a thermostat or element—can buy you another year or two. The key is knowing what’s fixable and what’s a sign of total failure. Below, you’ll find real-world guides on diagnosing these problems, step-by-step checks for reset buttons and elements, and clear advice on when to replace instead of repair. No fluff. Just what works.