Electric Hot Water System Not Working? Try Our 9-Step Guide

An electric hot water system is a convenient, reliable, efficient solution for many Aussie households. You get a steady supply of hot water based on tried-and-tested technology for your showers, baths and other daily needs. But when you have an electric hot water system not working right, it’s immediately a major inconvenience and headache.

The first rule here? Don’t panic. Because there are several common issues that could be causing the problem – and some of them are straightforward to fix.

This guide will walk you through easy DIY troubleshooting steps to help you identify the issue and determine whether it’s something you can handle yourself – or if it’s time to call a professional.

Understanding electric hot water systems

Before getting into troubleshooting, let’s understand electric hot water systems a little more:

• Electric storage water systems: They heat the water and then store it in a tank. It’s a very common type in many Australian homes due to its ability to provide a large volume of hot water based on conventional technologies.
• Electric instantaneous water systems: These units don’t store hot water. Instead, they heat the water on demand – when you turn that tap. It’s more energy-efficient, since it only uses expensive electricity when hot water is needed.
• Heat Pump Water Systems: They’re highly efficient, working by extracting heat from the air and using it to heat water – like a fridge in reverse. Although electrically powered, heat pump hot water systems consume less electricity than traditional electric systems because they transfer heat rather than generating it directly.
• Electric-boosted solar water heaters: They use solar panels to heat your water – an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution. When sunlight is insufficient, an electric booster is used to ensure a consistent hot water supply.

Signs your electric hot water system is not working properly

Noticing any of the following signs?:

• No hot water when turning on the taps?
• Water temperature fluctuates or remains lukewarm?
• Heating element making unusual noises?
• Water leaking from the system?
• Electric hot water system not heating up after resetting?

Step-by-step guide to troubleshoot your electric hot water system

Are you finding your electric hot water system not working? Follow these easy steps to identify and – hopefully! – resolve the issue:

1. Check the power supply

The most straightforward cause of an electric hot water system not working is a lack of power supply.

SOLUTION: Is your system plugged in? Has the circuit breaker or fuse tripped? Try resetting the breaker or replacing the fuse, but if the problem persists, there may be an issue requiring professional inspection.

2. Inspect the thermostat settings

If your thermostat is set too low, your electric hot water system not heating up properly might be due to incorrect temperature settings.

SOLUTION: Check, if it’s possible, if the thermostat on your system is set to the manufacturer’s recommended hot water temperature. Adjust if necessary and see if the issue resolves.

3. Examine the heating element

The heating element is the component responsible for heating the water. A burned-out or faulty heating element can lead to an electric hot water system not getting hot.

SOLUTION: Turn off the power, and inspect the heating element for visible signs of damage. If you suspect a faulty element, it may need replacement, which should always be done by a professional.

4. Look for tank leaks

Leaks obviously lead to a loss of hot water, but it can also reduce the system’s efficiency. Electric hot water not working quite right might be due to water leaking from the tank.

SOLUTION: Check around the base of the tank for signs of water pooling or dampness. Found a leak?

• Turn off the power and water supply immediately
• Contact a professional plumber to assess and repair the damage.

5. Reset the system

Sometimes, a minor glitch in the system’s operation can be the cause of an electric hot water system not heating up correctly.

SOLUTION: Find the reset button, and then press and hold it for a few seconds before letting go. If the system works correctly again, you’ve dealt with a minor electrical glitch.

6. Check for sediment build-up

Over time, minerals and sediment can build up at the bottom of the tank, reducing heating efficiency and leading to electric hot water not heating up.

SOLUTION: Drain the tank and flush out the sediment. Flushing a hot water tank is usually a straightforward process, but if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, call a professional.

7. Test the temperature relief valve

The temperature and pressure relief valve helps to release excess pressure inside the tank. If this valve is faulty, it can explain your issue with an electric hot water system not hot.

SOLUTION: Carefully lift the valve lever to check if water is discharged. If water flows as expected and stops when the lever is released, the valve is working correctly. If not, the valve might need replacement.

8. Inspect the wiring & connections

Loose or damaged wiring can lead to an electric hot water system not working correctly.

SOLUTION: Are the electrical connections secure and free from corrosion? If you’ve found damaged wiring, turn off the power and contact a licensed electrician to repair it.

9. Evaluate your system’s age

Older hot water systems may simply be at the end of their lifespan, causing them to stop working or not heat up properly.

SOLUTION: Is your system 10-15 years old – or ever older? Consider replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model. Consulting a professional can help determine the best replacement option.

Electric hot water system not working? We’re here to help!

While electric hot water systems are generally reliable, they can experience issues from time to time. While these troubleshooting steps can be managed safely at home, don’t ever forget – electric systems involve potentially dangerous components. And not just that, but regulations often require professional handling for most repairs to ensure safety and compliance.

Is your electric hot water system not working properly? Or do you feel unsure about tackling the issues yourself? Don’t ever hesitate to reach out to the experienced team at S&J Hot Water Brisbane. We’re always here to help with all your hot water system needs – from hot water repairs, replacements, and maintenance, to hot water installations, advice and so much more. Reach out today!