VIDEO : How It Works - Electric Water Heater

This free troubleshooting video discusses how electric water heaters work and common problems associated with electric water heaters not working properly. Some problems discussed in the video: If the dip tube deteriorates, it may break off from the incoming water supply. If this happens, the incoming water will stay near the top of the water tank and will not heat properly. The water heater has an anode rod, which is used to attract corrosive minerals. Some water sources, such as well water, may attack the anode rod, which can result in a strong sulfur smell. However, removing the rod is not recommended, since the corrosive minerals the rod attracts can quickly deteriorate the tank. If the water heater is not working, you should first determine if a house fuse has blown or a circuit breaker has tripped. If the water heater is getting power, you can then check to see if the reset button on the high limit thermostat has tripped. You can then test each element and thermostat for continuity, to determine if a continuous electrical path is present. If an element or thermostat does not have continuity, the part should be replaced.