One of the critical components of your home or business water heating system is the thermostat. Basically, a thermostat is a motorized device which regulates the flow of electrical voltage to the heating elements of the water heater system. In effect, not only does the thermostat provide comfort, but also guarantees safety inside the home. When set extremely high, the resulting hot water may cause burns and injuries. When set extremely low, bacteria may thrive in the resulting cold water. In this regard, homeowners need to be familiar with accessing the water heater thermostat in order to keep their hot water at the optimal temperature for their specific needs.
Finding the water heater thermostat
The two most common types of water heaters are gas and electric water heating systems. The location of the thermostat in both the electric and gas water heaters differs.
Electric water heaters
The electric water heating system features two thermostats, namely the upper and lower thermostat, each hidden at the back of the metal access casings on the tanks. Prior to embarking on anything else, switch off the electrical current to the water heating system. Unbolt the two holding screws in the initial thermostat cover. Take out the door, and eliminate any insulation beneath it. Finally, you will see the thermostat featuring a set screw for changing the temperature setting. The thermal controls may be tagged with specific temperatures, or may simply specify warm and hot. Upon setting your desired temperature setting, reinstate the insulation as well as the access casing.
Follow similar steps for accessing the second thermostat. Note that the upper and lower thermostats should be set at corresponding temperature settings, to which the one set at a higher temperature may fail to power on while the other one set at a lower temperature may break down from constant use. Switch on the power again once you're done.
Gas water heaters
In contrast to electric water heaters, the thermostat in gas water heaters is easily reachable, on the obverse of the tank adjacent to the base, despite the fact that on some versions it may be hidden underneath the access cover. On the majority of gas water heating systems, the thermostat is coupled with the main gas valve as well as the pilot valve in a single unit to form a combination control mechanism. Typically, the gas controls are plainly labeled. Adjust the knob to your preferred temperature setting. Reinstate the access casing if there's one.
Regulating the temperature setting of your water heater demands knowledge of where and how to access the system's thermostat. If you find you need additional help with your water heater thermostat, contact a professional service, like Lollo & Allan Electrical.
