Water Heater Electric

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   water heater electric drain pipe leaking running water all the time even when power tuned off?
   I hav a electric water heater. Very hot water was coming out of drain pipe continuosly. I turned off the pwer for one day and used all the hot water. But water is still running. now its cold water though but it did not stop untill i stopped main water supply. How can I fix it.
   its a metal drain valve is near top of the water heater,with a pipe coming out of it and a lever on the side

   • ANSWER:
     There are 4 reasons why a water heater t&p valve leaks please read about it here.
     http://www.masterplumber.net/warer_heater_relief.htm
     I also did a blow up of what is printed on the T&P valve warning label. Most people never read it and it is very important.
     http://www.masterplumber.net/no_heat/stuck_relief_valve.htm

2. QUESTION:
   How do I make it so my electric water heater heats the water in my new house?
   We just moved into our home, and it is not brand new, so we know this heater has worked in the past. Do electric heaters have pilot lights? I can hear some activity when the water is running upstairs, but no heating occurs.

   • ANSWER:
     Make sure the breakers on the main electrical panel are turned on. There is also an overload/reset breaker on most water heaters. Remove the cover and reset this as well. If it still doesn't heat, the electric coil or coils are probably defective. These can be purchased for about - each at Home Depot. Some water heaters only have one - some have two. Good luck.

3. QUESTION:
   My friend told me a can buy a electric water heater and install it on the water tube?
   My friend told me that i can buy a electric heater to put in the tub. But she said inside is the correct? She told i can remove the water head were the water come out and install the electric heater. Its that correct?

   • ANSWER:
     and again
     NO

4. QUESTION:
   Would an electric furnace and water heater be cheaper to run?
   When I get my own house, I want it to have an electric furnace and water heater. I know you can get electric water heaters, but what about an electric furnace? In fact, maybe have an electric heater built into the wall of every room. I've seen it done before.
   I live in a cold climate, so I need good heat.

   I'm not some kind of green fanatic, it's just that having a gas line running to my house scares me, because it could explode. It's been happening a lot around here lately.

   • ANSWER:
     If you are in a cold climate, a heat pump won't be enough......so you'd be using some sort of electrical resistance (heating coils, strips, bands) and they cost a lot more than other fuels in most areas. Our house isn't large (1700 sq ft, Ohio) and was built with electric baseboard heat because gas wasn't available at the time. . . . . heating bills were 0 - 00/month. So we converted to propane gas and bills run no more than 0 in coldest month.

     2 of our neighbors went to geo-thermal. Cost a fortune to install and even so they have to switch-on electrical resistance back-up in cold weather because the ground is too cool in northern Ohio for geo to be efficient.

     Plug-in electric heaters would be worse yet because they would be 110 volt instead of 220 for a built-in system.

     Built-in 220 volt electric heaters with individual room thermostats that allow you to fully heat only the rooms you are using sound like the best bet if you are opposed to gas. (Gosh, where are you that the gas lines are exploding???? Never heard of such a thing.) How about fuel oil ??

     Added: but we like our electric water heater so much we kept it instead of converting to propane: makes no noise, not much to wear-out or break.......we replaced to 20 year old-on that was still working fine with a better insulated one - housing gives-off no heat and we estimate it costs only about a month more than gas - and well worth it.

5. QUESTION:
   can a 120volt electric hot water heater work on a 110 out let?
   i know it probally wont but thats all i can find and do they make a 30gallon hot water heater (electric) thats a 110 ?if so where ? thanks

   • ANSWER:
     http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_04231633000P?mv=rr#ppspecs

     Sears sells them 120V which is what you need, this will work for your application as long as you have a 20AMP breaker your good to go which you should have

6. QUESTION:
   what is causing the circuit breaker to trip after installing electric water heater?
   We had a water heater installed (electric) Tuesday afternoon. On Wednesday morning the water was hot. throughout the day and extra hot I might add. The manual said the water heater was factory set at 120/125 degrees. Here it is Thursday and our water is warm all day and tonight the water has turned to cold only. I checked the breaker box and found the breaker is tripped? I am not using anything tonight to use hot water. Do you think the water will get hot again. Why does it trip the breaker. It is a 40 gal the same as before and the other one is maybe 12 years old.

   • ANSWER:
     Call the company that installed it. They either didn't wire it correctly or there is something wrong with the heating element. Either way, do not turn the breaker back on until it's been looked at.

7. QUESTION:
   where can i get a free electric water heater?
   I am a vet in need of an Electric water heater and electric stove. Any help would be appreciated
   Also keep in mind i live in a small country town in missouri about 45 minutes from St. Louis

   • ANSWER:
     try social services, our area has a group called total action against poverty that often pairs vets and elderly with groups that can help with the cost and installation. Often times there is nothing that needs to be done in return but many do volunteer to off set the cost. Plus we have a great volunteer program in VA that if you do 2 hours of volunteer work per month, you get an extra allotment from the foodbank and it is not income dependant.

8. QUESTION:
   Does anyone know of an electric water heater that will qualify for the federal tax credit?
   I need to buy a new water heater and it has to be electric. The way I am reading the requirements to be eligible for a tax credit, the electric water heater has to have an Energy Factor of 2.0 or greater. I'm not finding any electric water heaters with an Energy Factor above 0.98 though. Any specific brands and model numbers of a qualifying electric water heater will be greatly appreciated.
   I appreciate the answers. Thanks for your help.

   • ANSWER:
     I couldn't find any, either. Nor could I find any tankless water heaters that are energy star compliant, so there goes that theory. If you can't meet the federal requirement, check with your municipality and state. Many have rebate programs of their own that will gain you real dollars instead of a tax credit.

9. QUESTION:
   Will I save money on my gas/electric bill if I swap my electric water heater with a gas water heater?
   My electric water heater is on it's way out, and I'm wondering if it is more efficient to replace it with a gas water heater than electric water heater. I looked into real time water heaters but for what they cost, I'd have to live in my house 22 years to get the savings, which isn't worth it.

   • ANSWER:
     Gas is generally a bargain compared to electric water heating. You can find out for certain by getting in touch with your elec co and gas co and asking them how much elec and gas is, then do some guesstimating to decide which is better.

10. QUESTION:
    Can I just plug an electric water heater?
    Hello,

    My house previously used gas (Tank, not a natural gas line) to heat my water and power my stove. I purchased an electric stove, and my water heater stopped working, so I want to install an electric water heater also.

    It seems pretty easy to me, it appears I can just purchase an electric water heater and connect the water lines and plug it into the outlet.

    Is it possible that it could be this simple?

    There is no need to plug the gas lines, as, the tank will be removed by the gas company.

    Thanks.

    • ANSWER:
      It is going to depend on the size of your heater...and how far you are from power outlet....which needs to be 220 or 240 volts. Your going to need a heavy gauge wire to run to it...so you might as well hard-wire it instead of trying to use a plug....which is not a good idea. Those plugs can get hot.

      Also....unless you just don't like gas ( propane ) to heat the water...I would suggest you buy another LP water heater....it's going to be a lot cheaper to run it than it is to run an electric water heater.

11. QUESTION:
    Should I replace my electric water heater with a gas one?
    My electric water heater is only a couple years old, but I hear that gas heaters heat the water faster and cheaper. Are the potential savings significant enough to justify replacing a fairly new electric model?

    • ANSWER:
      In the long run, you will save money by switching.

      Perhaps you can sell your fairly newer electric water heater and cut your initial loss somewhat.

12. QUESTION:
    Is an electric water heater more efficient than gas because less of the heat leaks out?
    An electric water heater can be completely insulated. How much of a factor is that, in how efficient it is?
    In other words, to what extent does a gas water heater leak heat because it can't be completely insulated? Is it only a very small percentage, or is it a big factor?
    Nobody understands my question. It's only about the part of the tank that isn't insulated. It can't be insulated because then the burning gas would burn the insulation.

    • ANSWER:
      You can make your electric water heater more efficient simply by turning it OFF when not in use.

13. QUESTION:
    What should water temperature be during no sunlight periods, using a solar/electric water heater?
    We have solar water heating, but during off-peak hours, the electric water heater kicks in. ( Two hours in the evening and 1.5 hours in the early morning) The water is 140 degrees. Is this normal? I know the thermostat can be turned down on regular water heaters, but does it need to be this hot because of the solar? Water is scalding hot!

    • ANSWER:
      I would think it needs to be turned down. They recommend a maximum 125 to prevent scalding.

      I have only worked on a few solar systems but they all used a "regular" water heater to supplement the heat and store the warmed water. They were just plumbed differently.

      Usually they were set lower and on all the time. Lower so they did not try to heat the water going through the solar panels.

      But it is near impossible for us to tell you how yours is set up, the logic of the system. We know nothing about it, how it is plumbed, what controls, even how it works normally.

      I don't know if you have two tanks or one and the single tank is for both storage and heating.

      The main reason people turn up the temp is if the water is hotter you use less. So at 140 you might get three showers first thing in the morning, but at 125 degrees maybe only two without time in between heating water.

      I say try it. I can't think of any reason lowering the temp would be a problem, except for capacity as mentioned.

      Good Luck.

14. QUESTION:
    How do you tell when you electric water heater is going out?
    When I turn the water on in my shower, I turn the water on all the way hot, only warm water comes out,it's the same way with my bathroom sink...Does this mean my hot water heater is going out? I have an electric water heater.

    • ANSWER:
      your heating elements are not working properly disconnect power ........ drain hot water tank.......take off top and bottom covers if there are wires disconnect them.......get a wrench and pull out element[s] take to Lowe's and get new ones .00 each

15. QUESTION:
    How should I transport a electric water heater safely?
    I am buying a electric water heater 50 gallon: can I transport it without damaging it on it's side in the box (horizontaly) or is it better to transport it upright (vertically)?

    Extra question: Should I shell out an additional 0 bucks for the Wirpool ENERGY SMART Water Heater or just go with a regular one? Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      1. Lay it on its side, gently---best to put the end on the tailgate, then lift the other end and slide in--and pull it out the same way. If you lay it over halfway, then tilt it, it will bend the outside cover of the tank-though it won't hurt anything, just put a ding in it. Sold water heaters for couple of years.

      Look at the energy ratings and estimated cost on the yellow energy guide which must be clearly visible. Also look at tank life. Most energy efficient heaters, especially electric, are not that much more efficient cost wise to justify the added expense. Tank warranty is important, you can about guarantee that if the tank warranty is 5 years, it will leak before year 6. So figure in the annual operating cost found on the yellow sticker, plus the expected life. I operated the state Energy Star program, and sold water heaters. I bought the cheapest one available, because the energy savings did not outweigh the excessive costs of the more expensive models. But that was a couple years ago--and using more efficient gas water heaters..

16. QUESTION:
    Our home has an oil hot water heater should we keep it or switch to an electric water heater?
    We are concerned with the cost of heating oil but want to be enviromentally friendly also. Which type of water heater is the most efficient electric or oil?

    • ANSWER:
      Whatever you do, get away from oil heat!!!

17. QUESTION:
    How much is a 5 year old electric water heater worth? How long do they typically last?
    a woman at work has a 50 gal electric water heater for sale. They are building a new house and going with gas. My water heater runs out in about 7 mins and is about 20 years old....assume it is filled with sediment. Is it worth buying a lightly used one for ?

    • ANSWER:
      I wouldn't. Water heater life spans suck. The used one is probably loaded with sediment/mineral deposits. If it has a sacrificial anode, it may be almost used up as well.

      I'm betting that the reason yours can't keep up is its age and sediment.

18. QUESTION:
    What regulations/laws must be complied with in the design of an electric water heater?
    Just wondering...I have seen so many electric water heaters on the market and I just want to know if they are safe with the excessive amount of power that is used to heat the water.

    What regulations/laws etc must be complied with in the design of an electric water heater?

    • ANSWER:
      Of course they are safe, however electric water heaters are not so efficient. Get a natural gas/propane thankless water heater.
      They use about 3000+ watts i think and are 220 VAC.

      I don't know the regulations that go into making one though.

19. QUESTION:
    How long does an electric water heater last?
    Just asking for general answers. How long will an electric water heater last before it will need replacing?

    • ANSWER:
      Depends on your water quality and if you perform maintenance from time to time on it.

20. QUESTION:
    Does an electric water heater still have a pilot light?
    I have a gas water heater and had a bit of a fire scare, now I'm paranoid. If I switch over to an electric water heater, is there still a pilot light?

    • ANSWER:
      === you will use alot of electric power and big peso bill for having an electric water heater in Mexico please stick with gas heater == a new gas unit will be safe for many years -- not to worry ..... OH !! the electric water heater does not have a pilot light -- only the gas units have pilots ... the reason that you had a blow up with the old gas water heater is because it was rusted and just plain old...

21. QUESTION:
    Which is cheaper to have gas or electric hot water heater?
    Just brought an older home with an outdated hot water heater in it-it along with my furnace are both gas. Got my first gas bill which was out of this world. Wanted to know if i should replace with a new gas or new electric heater?

    • ANSWER:
      Gas is nearly always cheaper, get one with a high energy efficiency rating. Tankless water heaters seem like a great idea, but the instantaneous loads on the electrical system are just crazy and will put most houses into a larger electrical service size 00-3500 would not be uncommon for the electrical wiring costs alone, plus the cost of the unit, plus the cost of the plumbing. Making sure you have a 90% furnace and proper sealing and insulation would have a much quicker payoff.

22. QUESTION:
    Who knows is it cheaper to heat water with a gas boiler or electric water heater?
    Ive recently moved house and got my first gas bill its shocking. Ive got a gas boiler for the water and heating (not a combi) which ive been using but ive also got an electric water heater. Anybody please help I need to reduce these bills!

    • ANSWER:
      Is the bill from an estimate or an actual reading?
      Check the final reading on the bill and compare it with the meter dial.
      Energy to heat the water is measured in kilowatts and electricity is generally more expensive.
      Gas and electricity have rocketed in price over the last 18 months-2 years,so we are all paying more.
      Making the heating system more efficient and keeping the t/stats turned down a notch will help as will a good lagging jacket on the tank and only heating the water when you need it.
      Has the boiler been serviced and the system been checked over since you moved in?

23. QUESTION:
    are you satisfied with a whole-house electric water heater?
    I am thinking of replacing my hot water tank with a Stiebel Eltron Tempra tankless electric water heater. I have been told that electric tankless doesn't work very well. Does anybody out there have one, and do you like it?

    • ANSWER:
      My brothers neighbors brother has this friend. Just kidding! I did a lot of asking when remodeling my house and installing two 50 gallon hot water tanks. I wanted very much to believe the tankless units would be better. All the practical information I discovered about them, is, they are not reliable, they use a tremendous amount of electricity when on, they don't usually last three years (warranty's are pro rated, you don't get a new one, just a cheaper replacement). If you have remote cabin that you use two times a year, it would be ok.

24. QUESTION:
    How easy is it to put in a electric water heater?
    We have a gas water heater and we would like to have an electric w.h. instead. How hard would it be to switch, and what do we need to do to change it over?

    • ANSWER:
      Its not too difficult...

      You'll need to run a circuit to the new heater, from your panel box...so that means wire, and a circuit breaker. (it should be on a circuit by itself, straight from the panel box, not run from something else).

      Plumbing wise, you'll just need some standard fittings/adapters to connect to your existing plumbing....for example, you may need to extend the plumbing (or cut it back) to match the connector on the water heater.

      You'll also need a cap on the gas line.
      (I'd just tape over the exhaust stack opening from the old heater with aluminum tape, or duct tape)

      Have Fun

25. QUESTION:
    How do I make a simple electric water heater for school?
    I'm trying to make a simple electric water heater for school, but I can't find good instructions on making one.

    • ANSWER:
      Well here is an idea

      1. connect a battery to a lightbulb
      2. put a grilling mesh thing over light ul so their is a little table on top of lihtbub and trn i on
      3. you can put a eaker f wter over ightbulbnd t will heat up water with lightbulb

26. QUESTION:
    Why would a fuse blow on an electric water heater?
    Over the past 24 hours, the right fuse (of two 15 amp fuses) has blown on the electric water heater. I repalced first time with old but unused 15 amp fuse, then same again today.
    There is no hot water whatsoever when one fuse blows.

    Over the past two days, we have done loads of laundry at HOT/Cold setting, which does use lots of hot water, but we have done the same many times over the past year.

    Water heater is maybe 5 years old? Rental.

    Any suspicions as to the cause?

    • ANSWER:
      The fuse keeps blowing because there is probably a burned out heating element. If you have more than one element, try disconnecting the upper element after removing both fuses (to remove power while you are working on it). Tape the ends of the wires so that they won't short out or come in contact with you. Then screw the fuses back in to see if the other element(s) produce any heat. If the fuse blows again, maybe it is the lower element that is burned out, but I would first suspect the upper element because elements will burn out if the water level drops.

      Hopefully you will get hot water, but it will take longer to heat up with just one element. If this works, you will have to drain the tank and replace the defective element (after removing the fuses, of course).

27. QUESTION:
    Installing a timer on electric water heater make sense if it's new and energy efficient?
    I got a new energy efficient electric tank water heater about 1 year ago. Is there any benefit at all in installing a timer so it doesn't consume any energy during certain hours? Utility company energy auditor recommended it, but a lot of people say there's no benefit.

    • ANSWER:
      Only if you're gone for long periods.
      No matter how good the insulation, there is some constant loss of heat.
      If you're gone long enough that the energy for 're-heat' is less than the loss
      over the time you're gone, then there's a 'pay-off'.
      Do be aware that there's some time lag when it reheats again.

28. QUESTION:
    how can you tell if you have a gas or electric water heater?
    how can you tell if you have a gas or electric water heater?

    • ANSWER:
      One easy way is to look for a flue pipe going to a chimney coming out the center of the top of it. (It is big, 3 or 4 inches in diameter.) If there is a flue pipe coming out of the top, it is gas. There will also be a black gas pipe going to the lower front of the heater.

      If it's electric, there will not be a flue pipe, and there WILL be a heavy electric wire coming out of it.

      ~Cindy!

29. QUESTION:
    Where can I find a 75 Gallon electric water heater and how much would it be?
    Looking to replace our 60 Gallon electric water heater with a 75 gallon. I definitely want to buy but don't know where and how much it'll be...Can any one help? ~ Thanks in advance.

    • ANSWER:
      You can try looking in the Grainger catalog, they have 80 gal electric water heaters for about US $ 650. Also, you might be able to get 2 40-gal units (for about the same price) and hook in parellel, then, if demand is less, (like the kid that is taking hour-long showers moves out) you could shut one off and save some money.

      In Canada their website is: www.acklandsgrainger.com

30. QUESTION:
    which is better, a gas or electric water heater?
    so, i need to replace the water heater. my home is the 1950's ranch style in north texas. it's currently gas. the thing is...i was in a nasty gas explosion a few years ago...and consequently HATE gas, scared to death of it, can't even use my oven without freaking out. but...also not rolling in cash. right now i just keep the closet door shut and never get near the water heater.

    when i get the new one, which is better and cheaper? gas or electric? and if i already have a gas one, can i even switch to electric? or is that impossible?

    i have a 30 gallon heater, is that ok? this house has two people in it. about how much should i pay for a water heater, will any one do?

    • ANSWER:
      Electric water heaters cost less to purchase but are more costly to operate. Gas water heaters are a little more expensive to purchase but cost a little less to operate. It will be cheaper for you to have a gas model installed as you already have things set up for a gas one. If you switch to an electric water tank you will have a more costly installation as you will most likely have to hire an electrician. It is possible to do though.

      In addition, you should do a little research and try to buy an "energy star" rated model regardless of whether it's gas or electric. This will save you a bit of money annually. Also, as for safety...the newer water heaters are much safer than older models used to be. To insure safety always have a qualified technician install a hot water tank.

      Depending on where you reside, a 30 gal. (which is fine for 2 people) electric water tanks generally costs 0 and up whereas a gas model may start at around 0 and up. Installation will be an additional cost. Most brands that are energy star rated are pretty good, it really doesn't matter what brand name you purchase.

      If I may also suggest something, you should look into purchasing a tankless water heater, especially since you have a ranch style home and it appears that your water tank is currently on the same floor as your living space (in a closet). I have an on demand tankless gas water heater. Mine is actually from the mid. 1980's. It's gas and I have never had a problem with it except for regular maintainence. I can't tell you how much money they save. They also make electric models. I have a newer small electric model in a cottage where gas is not available.That one also works wonderfully. I do suggest that if you do ever choose to go with this type of water heater, that you have a plumber who routinely installs these do it. I have heard some plumbers say how they wouldn't recommend them but in reality it's usually because their company either doesn't sell them or they don't know how to install them. These water heaters do cost more, usually around 0.00 and installation generally costs the same as a tank model. However, in my opinion, they are really worth it if you consider the fact that they aren't continually heating up water day in and day out, they save so much money in gas. It's designed to only heat the water as you need it (when you turn the faucet on). They work very well.

      Whatever you choose, good luck to you!
      Take care.

31. QUESTION:
    Can i bring a portable electric water heater into Australia through customs?
    Ii am returning to Australia soon and wish to purchase a portable electric water heater from Thailand for my campervan as they do not sell them in australia. I just need to know, before i purchase the appliance, if it is ok and will not be a problem through customs. Thank you

    • ANSWER:
      Yes. (I would leave it packaged though. Then if they ask if it is a bomb or something they can read about it.) Why wouldnt you be able to bring it in?

      Good idea. Yeah I have never seen them in Aus either. Can you get a brand that sells other merchandise in Aus? That way you may/maynot be able to claim the warranty more easily if you have any problems with the unit.
      You will be the envy of the trailer park!

32. QUESTION:
    Why is my electric water heater popping its internal breaker?
    I have a five year old electric water heater that throws out its internal breaker about every other day this started a week ago. It does not throw out the wall breaker or the pannel breaker it just shuts itself off.

    • ANSWER:
      It is DESIGNED to trip the internal breaker before tripping external breakers. If it was not, there would be no reason to HAVE an internal breaker. Tripping the breaker means the unit is drawing more current than it should. A bad heating element is always the first place to look. Given the age of the unit, it would not be unusual for the element to go bad.

33. QUESTION:
    Converting gas water heater with electric water heater?
    How much that is run roughly, gonna try to get a used one. Most of my house runs on gas. (its a pretty old house). Would it bad to convert it all to electric. What all do I need except the electric water heater? Please help, thank ya

    • ANSWER:
      Maggot you are going to run into some major expensive if you try to convert your gas water heater, to electric. If it is old house may have only have 60 amp service. You would need to change your main disconnect breaker and will need to know that your existing conductors would carry additional load. I would call Electrical contractor for free estimate. I am going to make guess of about 00.00 if it is in old house.

      Good Luck

34. QUESTION:
    How to change an electric water heater element.?
    It looks eazy but never done it befor,,how do you change the element in an electric water heater?

    • ANSWER:
      Turn off power , make sure the thermostat isn't tripped. Some of them have a red button to reset them. The best way to test for a bad element is to use an ohms meter if you have one. You can buy a cheap socket for turning the element out at local hardware. It does make it easier. DRAIN the water heater before removing the element....Should have a bib to connect the hose to down low. After draining heater , turn the element out and make sure the heater doesn't have a bunch of crap laying in the bottom of it. If it does you need to flush it out. I use a shop vac with a smaller hose that fits into the element hole. I also root around with a stick to break the crap loose. After you get it cleaned out , put a little dope on the threads of the new element and thread into heater. Connect wires and FILL WITH WATER before you turn the power on. If you turn the power on with no water in it the element may burn itself out. Good luck...Some heaters have two elements.. The bottom one goes bad first , most of the time.

35. QUESTION:
    Bradford white electric water heater circuit trips?
    I have a Bradford white electric water heater that keeps tripping its built in circuit(Not the main breaker at the electric panel for the whole house). I can get an electric reading on the top heating element that has the circuit switch, but no reading on the lower heating element wires. I am planning on replacing the lower heating element, should this resolve my issue or is there something I am missing?

    • ANSWER:
      All domestic double element water heaters use a non-simultaneous upper thermostat, to control the system. The top element heats first, once it's heated the top half of the tank, the thermostat shunts the electric down to the lower thermostat which then activates that element and heats the lower half of the tanks contents. If the red reset hi-limit is popping in the upper thermo repeatedly, it could be a faulty thermostat or it could be elements that are enough past their prime to work the system too hard. If you can read a volt/ohmmeter, remove one wire from one screw on each element, then touch both screw heads on each element with the tester in the ohm's position to read resistance, (having shut off the electricity beforehand of course), and you should have a reading of 12.3 to 12.7 on a standard 3500/4500 watt element. Anything higher or lower should be replaced. If you find a bad one and replace it that may solve the problem, or you may also wind up having to replace the upper thermo as well. Sometimes once they've popped several times they get weak and continue on doing the same thing.

36. QUESTION:
    Reasonable price for electric water heater installation?
    I am having an old 40-gallon electric water heater replaced with a new 40-gallon one. I was given a quote of about ,200 for everything (price of new heater, cost to take away the old one, and cost to install the new one). Does anyone know if this is a reasonable price?

    • ANSWER:
      Bought a sears 40 gallon gas water heater in 2002 for 5 with an additional 0 to install and remove original that it replaced.

      Seems 00 may be high but then again 5-6 years have passed since I did mine.

37. QUESTION:
    New GE Electric Water Heater Problem?
    We installed a new GE electric water heater. We have waited a few hours and no new water is coming out.

    We followed the directions and filled up the tank before turning it on. It is properly connected. Any ideas?
    Reset the circuit breakers last night. Woke up this morning and now lukewarm to warm water is coming out.

    • ANSWER:
      When you say you filled the tank, did you bleed the air off the top to make sure the water went all the way to the top lines before energizing?? If not, it's possible to trap enough air in the top of the tank to keep the top element out of the water before bleeding. If it's energized while it's out of the water it's instantaneously toast! If you did bleed, then proceed to below.

      First, turn off the breaker to the unit, then take the top element cover off the case. There should be a fairly large thermostat on top, with two wires coming out of the insulation from the top junction box and connecting to the top two screws on the thermo. One will probably be red and one may be black, (why they don't use black and white in these things is beyond me). You'll need a voltage tester to make sure there's 240 volts, or close to that, across the two top screws when you re-energize the unit. If you do have the proper voltage, then check to see if the voltage is reaching the top element. If it is, then shut off the breaker again and remove one of the wires going to the element and check the ohms resistance, by touching the screws, one with each probe. You should have 12.3 - 12.7 ohms of resistance for the element to work properly. If no continuity, then the element is fried and will need to be replaced.

38. QUESTION:
    Is only having 15 minutes of hot water in a 20 gallon electric water heater correct?
    When i called my landlord about having hot water for only a short period of time he said he was going to send someone out to look at the water heater (it's electric). When I called him two weeks later to see what the deal was, he told me that it is a 20 gallon water heater which only gives 15 minutes of hot water at a time and it takes a little bit afterwards to replenish itself. Is that correct? It just doesn't sound right to me.

    • ANSWER:
      20 gal hot
      yep that's right

39. QUESTION:
    I need to drain my electric water heater, but the drain valve is clogged w/ sediment, any ideas how 2 drain?
    I have to change the lower element in my 50 gal. electric water heater, however when I try to drain it through the drain valve nothing comes out. I've tried opening the nearest hot water faucet to help & nothing, a trickle at best, any suggestions?

    • ANSWER:
      Poking a wire in the valve is not a good idea, it is likely that you will damage the seat or the valve head so it will not close properly later.

      If you have not already done so, try opening the valve with the water supply on. The extra pressure may get you started.

      Another option is to turn off the water supply and open a hot water valve somewhere near the heater. Connect a washing machine supply hose to the valve and supply water pressure using a garden hose with the valve open. The effect should be to backflush the valve and remove some sediment.

40. QUESTION:
    Electric hot water heater piped into the boiler?
    We just bought a house that has a 50 gallon electric water heater that has the cold line of the water heater piped into the boiler. What is the purpose of this? Also it has a "Fast fill" valve. What is this?

    • ANSWER:
      Hi Mike,

      I'm really shocked that with all the "professionals" giving you advice, no one's hit the nail on the head YET, until me, of course.

      I live in New England, and see this configuration all the time. We have one heck of a long heating season here. Let me explain the reasoning behind what you have, because it is used constantly in this part of the country.

      Your electric hot water heater can be expensive to run, and if you have several people standing in line for showers in the morning (like mine), can find itself unable to "recover" the water temp after a shower or two.

      Since your boiler will run extensively during the heating season anyway, they are using the boiler to pre-heat your supply even before it gets to your water heater. It evidently has a small "tankless" water heater that couldn't keep up with the household demand, necessitating additional capacity. The aquastat that is in the main boiler (for the boiler's water heater) is certainly disconnected, so it will only pre-heat when your heat is being run. The free-standing water heater is on it's own in the non-heating season.

      This is a very "green" way to exploit as much value as humanly possible from every gallon of oil burned, and you had to run the boiler anyway!

41. QUESTION:
    why does my Electric water heater keep shutting off?
    I have an electric water heater and i have to keep turning back on almost everyday. Whats wrong with it? oh and i noticed its kinda leaking a little bit, whats that mean?

    • ANSWER:
      Is the breaker tripping? What part is it leaking from?

42. QUESTION:
    How to fix my electric water heater?
    There is power going to my whirlpool electric water heater but it is not turning on. It is on a double 20 amp breaker and all the wires are correct. I pressed the red reset button near the bottom of the tank, this is the lower element right or the lower thermostat? When I press the red button nothing happens also the upper element has just a big silver nut and nothing else so it has to be the lower one right. there is no hot water and how do i tell what lower element to buy?

    • ANSWER:
      I have to wonder how you know that there is power going to the heater when you do not seem to know that the elements can burn out (behind the big silver nuts) and need to be replaced.

      Your breaker is a two pole 20 meaning it is 240 volts. If for some reason one "leg" of the voltage is out then the heater will not work. There should additionally be a disconnect switch near the heater. This should also be on. Sometimes there are fuses in a disconnect switch and these should also be checked. Both legs need to be checked as they come into and leave the thermostat or thermostats to determine if the thermostats are bad. And finally you will need to determine if the elements are bad.

      Since you seem to be a little unfamiliar with the terminology and procedure I might suggest you get a qualified electrician to check out all the potential problems.

43. QUESTION:
    is it a good idea to turn off my electric water heater when im not using it like every other month.?
    i own a condo and when its not rented every other month i turn the electric water heater off to save on my electric bill,,,,am i hurting my water heater by doing this.... i turn it off at the breaker box

    • ANSWER:
      No should be fine, in fact they sell timers to auto. turn off the heater when not needed like at night when you sleep. You may also want to invest in an insulation blanket for extra savings.

44. QUESTION:
    need a electric water heater sufficiant to fill a bath?
    we are in the planning stages of constructing 14 appartments and need a electric heater capable of filling a bath no central heating required

    • ANSWER:
      Any water heater that will hold 80ltrs + of water should do work ok, but make sure it is well insullated.

45. QUESTION:
    Electric Hot Water Heater Leaking from Top Seal and Upper Heating Element Cover?
    Hi, I have an eight year old GE electric water heater in the garage. I just noticed today it's leaking from the top seal and also out of the upper heating element cover. I turned off the cold water valve. Any suggestions?

    • ANSWER:
      Well Jeff you have a few options one is to replace upper element to see if that would stop the leak, and replace the top seal. only if you are a handy kind of person. In all honesty it sounds like its time to replace the water heater. If you are not sure how to do that you should check out ehow.com they have all the answers and step by step instruction if not You should call a plumber.

46. QUESTION:
    Replaced heating element in electric water heater, still no hot water?
    I just replaced the heating element in my 40 gallon electric water heater and I am still not getting hot water. Any other ideas of what the problem may be? I would like to avoid replacing the whole thing if possible.

    • ANSWER:
      if everything is connected properly - there should be a reset button somewhere by the thermostat. You may have to punch it.

      I'm sure that you've already flipped the panel switch? I don't mean to sound silly, but I've been there done that too....teehee

47. QUESTION:
    How do you convert gas water heater to electric?
    We no longer wish to use gas to heat our water. We want electric. Is there a simple way to do this with our existing water heater? Thanks.

    • ANSWER:
      You will have to replace the gas water heater with an electric one. You don't convert gas water heaters to electric and vise versa. You will also have to have an electrician wire the electric water heater into the electric panel (breaker box). Depending on the size of your electric coming into the house will determine if it can be done without up dating your breaker box and service (60, 100, 200 AMP Service) It has always been more expensive for electric water heaters in our area (Ohio) than it was for gas.
      Hope this helps!

48. QUESTION:
    if i turn off my electric water heater in florida for 3-4 months will it evaporate,break it etc.?
    my mom is leaving her condo in FL for 3-4 months. should she shut off her electric hot water heater at the breaker or leave it on and running. there's no vacation switch. not sure what to do. her condo was destroyed by a leak which flodded then molded. Just gutted put back together. very nervous on what exactly she should do now when she wants to leave? thanks

    • ANSWER:
      Hi i am an actual electrician. Most of the houses i wire are vacation homes so I deal with this alot. There is no harm in turning off your water heater while you're gone. I actually recomend it because it can be costly keeping it on and not using it at all. Draining it is fine too. HOWEVER!!!!! Be sure you COMPLETELY filled up BEFORE you turn the power back on to it!!!!! If it is not then you will be replacing another water heater becaue it will damage the coils inside. If you're not comfortable using the breaker to turn it off you can hire a licensed electrician to come and wire in a switch and you might even consider a timeclock box that can save you even more money on your ever increasing power bill. I hope this answer helps!

49. QUESTION:
    How do I convert a gas water heater to electric in my motorhome?
    I have a 96 Pace Arrow Motorhome and I want to convert the gas water heater to electric. I understand there is a heating element that can be screwed in the drain hole of the existing heater. Where do I purchase this item?

    • ANSWER:
      Find the nameplate on the water heater and contact the manufacturer.

50. QUESTION:
    Tankless vs converntional water heater, gas or electric?
    I have an electric water heater that is due for replacement. My range, and central heat is gas. There is no gas line piped to the location of the water heater.

    I am considering a tankless water heater. I am considering electric, because the house is already wired for it. If I go with gas, then I will have to run a pipe to it. What do you think?

    What do you think of hybrid (gas/electric) water heaters?

    Is a tankless water heater really better than a conventional water heater with a timer attached?

    • ANSWER:
      Stick with wut works.replace the electric heater.