How to Troubleshoot a General Electric Water Heater

A General Electric water heater is meant to do one thing well: heat the water in your home to a comfortable temperature. Most GE water heaters do this without problems for several years. Proper maintenance and cleaning of the unit will extend its life and prevent cold showers in the morning, but a problem with any piece of equipment is inevitable over time. Knowing the proper troubleshooting techniques to fix common problems with your GE water heater will prevent sending your heater to an early grave.

Wrench
Toothbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the gas to the heater if the heating element makes a rattling noise at the gas turn off valve. Turn off the electricity to the breaker. Loosen the nut holding the thermocouple and gas line to the gas adjustment knob on the front of the heater. Pull the lines carefully to remove the heating element from under the tank. Clean the heating element with a toothbrush to remove any mineral buildup.
- 2
  Wait a few minutes up to a half-hour if the water tank does not deliver heated water. Excessive use may cause the unit to overwork.
- 3
  Check the circuit breaker for blown fuses if the heater is not providing hot water or the unit is not running. Flip the switch if the circuit breaker is tripped.
- 4
  Look inside the lighting area of the heater and look for a pilot flame. Relight the pilot using the instructions on the tank, as tank instructions vary by GE water heater model.
- 5
  Turn up the thermostat if the water is not hot enough.

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