Water heater keeps tripping the circuit breaker? Here are the possible reasons why

Home appliances often require maintenance and timely replacement to prevent the circuit breaker from tripping. A water heater is commonly found in every house and is used on a daily basis. Stepping into a cold shower instead of a warm one, especially in winters, is no fun.

This can be frustrating and inconvenient as it could disrupt your daily routine. Dealing with a tripped circuit breaker means that the water heater shuts off repeatedly. You need to flick it back on in this case. 

However, a water heater frequently tripping a circuit breaker could be a warning sign of an underlying problem. There could be several reasons for this issue, and it may require professional assistance. To avoid severe damage or safety hazards, it’s essential to understand why the water heater keeps tripping the breaker. We list the main causes in this post.

1. Faulty heating element

A heating element in the water heater is responsible for warming the water. If you notice that the supplied water is less hot than usual, it could indicate that the heating element has been damaged. Over time, this element wears out and develops cracks. Due to this, the electrical current to the appliance increases, leading to a tripped breaker repeatedly. Replacing the heating element usually resolves the issue.

2. Faulty thermostat

The thermostat in a water heater regulates the temperature of the water inside the appliance. If something is wrong with the thermostat, then it may cause overheating and when this happens, the unit’s breaker trips as a safety measure.  

3. Poor wiring

Internal wiring is a common cause of failure among electrical appliances. Loose, frayed, and damaged wiring can create electrical shorts, causing the breaker to trip. It can also cause power surges and overheating. Additionally, if the electrical circuit is under the pressure of heavy demand, it will continue to trip regardless of your usage of the appliance. 

4. Malfunctioning breaker

An ageing circuit breaker can be the one to blame for your water heater causing the breaker to trip. They have a limited number of cycles and can become weak and faulty over time. Replacing the breaker is necessary; the older it is, the more likely it is the source of your issues. 

5. Leaking water

If the water heater’s internal tank has cracks or holes, it can result in water leaking outside. It can not just trip the circuit breaker but potentially cause electrical shocks or fire risks if the water touches sections of electrical wiring. 

6. Electrical overload

An electrical water heater requires a dedicated circuit with the correct amperage. Overloads become inevitable if the circuit is shared with other appliances or if the water heater is drawing more current than what the circuit can handle. This could cause the breaker to trip due to excessive strain on the unit. 

These are the warning signs in a water heater that shouldn’t be ignored. It’s recommended to get professional assistance of an electrician or plumber to prevent further damage and ensure safety.