Heating element failures, thermostat issues, breaker trips, and sediment buildup. We diagnose and fix electric water heaters same day.
Electric water heaters use one or two immersion heating elements inside the tank to heat the water. A thermostat on each element controls the temperature. When either component fails, you lose some or all of your hot water. Electric water heaters are the most common type in Florida homes because they do not require gas lines or venting — just a dedicated 240-volt electrical circuit.
If you have no hot water, the most likely causes are a tripped circuit breaker, a failed upper heating element, or a failed upper thermostat. We check the electrical supply first, then test the elements and thermostats with a multimeter to identify the failed component. Element and thermostat replacements are completed same day.
If you are getting some hot water but it runs out faster than it used to, the lower heating element has probably failed. The upper element heats the top portion of the tank first for quick recovery, while the lower element heats the full tank. When only the upper element is working, you get about a third of the tank's capacity before the hot water runs out.
Temperature inconsistency is usually a thermostat issue. The thermostats on electric water heaters can drift over time or fail outright. We test both upper and lower thermostats, adjust the temperature settings, and replace any failed components on the spot.
A water heater that repeatedly trips its breaker has an electrical problem that needs attention. The most common cause is a grounded element — where the element casing has cracked and the heating coil is making contact with the tank, creating a short circuit. Less commonly, the thermostat or wiring is at fault. We diagnose the specific cause and repair it.
Installing a new electric water heater requires a dedicated 30-amp, 240-volt circuit. Most Florida homes already have this in place from the previous water heater. If the electrical supply needs to be upgraded or if you are switching from gas to electric, additional electrical work may be required. We provide a complete quote including any electrical modifications during the free estimate.
If you currently have a standard electric water heater and it is time for replacement, consider upgrading to a heat pump water heater. Heat pump units use 60 percent less electricity, which can save $300 to $500 per year on energy costs in Florida. The upfront cost is higher, but federal tax credits and the energy savings typically pay back the difference within 3 to 4 years. We can help you evaluate whether a heat pump upgrade makes sense for your household.