Water Heater Troubleshooting Guide: How to Test Heating Elements with a Multimeter

When you have no hot water or the water is not hot enough from your electric water heater, the heating elements may be the cause of this issue. In this guide, we will guide you on how to locate, remove, and test heating elements in an electric water heater using a multimeter.

Key Facts: Gas water heaters are unique, and thus, there are electric water heater instructions. Having a gas water heater with a breakdown, try checking and relighting the pilot light. For any water heater emergency, call My Georgia Plumber for emergency assistance.

Finding the Heating Elements in Your Water Heater:

• Turn off the circuit breaker that’s designated for the water heater in your electric panel.
  
• Locate the metal panel(s) on the side of your water heater, one for each heating element.
  
• Remove the insulation inside the metal panel, using rubber gloves for safety.
  
• Look for a round or hex type object, approximately one inch in diameter, with a plastic plate held in place by two screws. That‘s the heating element.

Testing the Heating Element with a Multimeter:

• Turn on the multimeter and set it to the lowest ohms setting (Ω).
  
• Loosen one of the screws holding the heating element in place and remove the wire that is attached to it (either screw will work).
  
• Put one probe of the multimeter on the loose screw and one probe on the other screw holding the face of the heating element.
  
• The reading on the multimeter should be between 10 and 30 ohms if the heating element is functioning properly.
  
• If you obtain a low or zero reading, it means that the heating element is faulty and should be replaced.
  
• If your water heater is equipped with two elements, perform the same test on the second one.
  
• Put back the wires, replace the insulation, and lock the metal cover panels.
  

Thermally testing your electric water heater‘s heating elements can pinpoint the source of hot water issues. If the heating elements are defective, replacement should restore normal operation. But if recurring issues persist even after the heating elements have been tested acceptable, it is advisable to call in your local plumbing experts for professional assistance.

Don’t forget that My Georgia Plumber does water heater installations in a lot of places. Call our friendly dispatchers at 770-592-0081 or book online for quick and reliable service.