5 Signs Your Water Heater Is Overheating

Nothing feels better after a long day than a hot shower. Imagine stepping in after turning on the faucet and your water suddenly becoming uncomfortably hot. If your daily showers turn your bathroom into an instant sauna, you could have an overheating water heater. Water heater overheating signs vary, but all require immediate attention.

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How Do I Know If My Water Heater Is Overheating?

The recommended hot water temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the Department of Energy. The exterior of your water heater will feel warm to the touch, but not excessively hot. If your water temperature gets much hotter than 120 degrees, it can cause burns and be dangerous for your family, especially if you have young children. This problem is usually a sign you have a malfunction somewhere or a failing pressure relief valve. However, if you learn to recognize and diagnose these issues early, you can prevent expensive repairs and major damage within your home.

What Are the Water Heater Overheating Signs?

There are five warning signs your water heater is overheating:

• Mineral buildup in the tank: Well water and some municipal water contain an excess of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. These chemicals can settle on the bottom of the tank, insulating the heating elements. Your water heater works harder, causing the water to overheat.

• Malfunctioning thermostat: When the thermostat on your water heater starts to malfunction, it can cause erratic temperature changes. If your water is too hot, try lowering the temperature on your thermostat. If nothing changes, it could be because of a faulty thermostat.

• High-temperature settings: Check the temperature of your tank. If you set the temperature too high, the water in the tank can become a danger to you and your loved ones. Keeping your water at the recommended temperature range makes the tank run more efficiently and prevents safety issues.

• Problems with the pressure relief valve: Your water heater valve releases steam from inside the tank as the water gets hot. If the valve starts to fail, pressure can build up inside the tank, causing the temperature to rise.

• Faulty heating element: Most water heaters have two heating elements that heat the water inside the tank. If one of these elements fails, it causes the other element to work harder, overheating the water.

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Is an Overheating Water Heater Dangerous?

Your water heater operates efficiently within a specific temperature range. If the water inside the tank stays at a much higher temperature than recommended, it can lead to breakdowns and other problems.

• The buildup of pressure: Excessive heat can cause pressure to build up inside the tank. Increased pressure can cause the tank to leak or burst, resulting in water damage and potential injuries.

• Scalds or burns: An overheating water heater can produce water at unsafe temperatures, potentially causing scalding and burning.

• Damage: High temperatures can damage the internal components of your water heater. This affects the efficiency of your system and leads to expensive repairs or even the need for a replacement.

• Risk of fire: If you have a gas water heater, you may be at risk of fire if the temperature gets too high. Excessive temperatures can ignite the surrounding area, creating a fire hazard.

How Do I Fix an Overheating Water Heater?

If you notice water heater overheating signs, you should take a few steps to diagnose and repair the issue. In most cases, it’s a good idea to contact a plumber. If you’re a DIYer, there are a few things you can do first.

• Turn off the power. Flip the circuit breaker to your water heater to turn it off. If you have a gas water heater, turn off the valve that supplies gas to the system.

• Check the temperature. Get a reading on your water heater thermostat. Make sure it’s set around 120 degrees. If it’s set too high, adjust the settings and turn it down.

• Contact a professional. If your water heater has sediment buildup or other issues that warrant repairs, it’s best to contact a licensed plumber.