Yesterday morning, my water wouldn't get more than lukewarm. I took a shower, and never even had to turn on the cold water. Yesterday afternoon, it started putting out scalding hot water (the thermostats have been set to 120° for years). I replaced both thermostats, turned the water heater off at the circuit breaker, and let the water cool down overnight.
This morning, I checked it, and the water was just warm. I turned the water heater back on about 30 minutes ago, and the water is already scalding hot again. What else could be the problem? I know I installed the new thermostats correctly, and they are also set to 120°.
shellback832011-11-23T09:09:21Z
Favorite Answer
It is possible the element is grounding, but don't think for a second your lower t'stat hasn't failed. Just because it is new, doesn't mean it didn't already fail, especially with a grounded element. This site may help you.http://waterheatertimer.org/How-to-troubleshoot-electric-problems-with-water-heater.html
by way of fact which you're drawing off warm water speedier than it is heated, or the heater isn't suitable for a shower. try turning the nice and comfortable water down somewhat to be certain if it improves.
First, you get today's prize for accuracy for calling it a "water heater" instead of the dumb@zz term "hot water heater." Now for the problem. I believe you have a defective lower element that is partially grounded out, making it heat continuously. The thermostat is single pole, so voltage from the unswitched leg is always on. A grounded element will heat even if the thermostat is open.
We get silt in ours because our water comes directly from a spring, I've noticed lately the water will be hot, hot, and then normal. We need to clean the silt out of the bottom of the heater for it to work correctly.