I have a 50 gallon electric hot water heater thats about 10 yrs old and it has been drained recently and the elements and thermostats were replaced about a year ago. the shower gets completely cold after about 10 minutes as it used stay hot for 20-30 minutes. what could be the cause of this, how do you test elements/thermostats.
dtstellwagen
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It sounds like the lower element isn't getting power or not working, the best way to test is with a multimeter http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005EK3NRS/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005EK3NRS&linkCode=as2&tag=electpowerfix-20 . the cheapest HD sells is around $20.
Let the tank heat up
Turn the power off
Adjust the upper stat to minimum
Turn power on
Measure voltage on the two wires that leave upper stat going to lower stat
Should read 230-240 volts,If not, upper stat is not working '
Turn power off
Adjust the lower stat to minimum
Set meter to resistance (indicated by omega symbol)
measure between the two screws that have wires connected on t-stat
should read less than 1 ohm
if it reads OL (open line) it is not working
measure between the two screws on the element
should read around 11 to 14 ohms
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Have you ever checked the circuit breaker to make certain that it is not tripped?In case you have vigour then there is most effective three things it could be the thermostat, plugged supply pipes or your water heater is completely filled with settlement.When you get water while you activate the scorching water faucet then we are able to rule out plugged pipes.I might say then that you just should have your thermostat checked out. And expectantly the water heater isn't full of contract however you would assess that by means of opening the drain valve located in the direction of the bottom of the unit.If that is okay it could close to need to be the thermostat.If all else fails you're going to need to substitute.Take care and may God bless you.
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you have an element out....i would replace all as long as it will be drained anyhow