When your hot water suddenly runs out in the middle of a Mississauga winter, it’s more than an inconvenience; it’s an emergency. A faulty water heater element or thermostat is often the culprit. The good news is, you can perform some basic checks at home before calling in a professional. In this guide, we’ll explain how to check water heater element safely and how to check the thermostat on a hot water heater. We’ll also highlight when it’s best to bring in local experts like HVAC Group Mississauga.
Why Water Heater Issues Are Common in Mississauga
Mississauga homeowners deal with cold winters and hard water, both of which can shorten the lifespan of water heaters. Mineral buildup can damage heating elements and thermostats, leading to higher energy bills and less reliable hot water. That’s why learning to safely inspect your water heater is an essential skill for local households.
Safety First: Preparing to Test a Water Heater Element
Before learning how to check water heater element, follow these safety steps:
- Turn off the power – Go to your home’s electrical panel and switch off the breaker for your water heater.
- Confirm with a voltage tester – Never assume the power is off. Use a tester to confirm there’s no electricity flowing.
- Access the element – Remove the access panel on the water heater and carefully peel back the insulation.
- Wear protective gear – Safety gloves and glasses are recommended when handling electrical components.
Tools You’ll Need
- Digital multimeter
- Screwdriver
- Voltage tester
- Safety gloves
- Flashlight
These are basic tools you can buy from any hardware store in Mississauga, like Canadian Tire or Home Depot.
Step-by-Step: How to Check a Water Heater Element
Once you’re prepared, follow this process:
- Set your multimeter to the lowest resistance (ohms) setting.
- Touch the probes to the screws on the water heater element.
- Read the display – A good element should show a reading between 10 and 30 ohms.
- Check for continuity – If the reading is zero or infinite, the element is faulty and needs replacement.
This method works for both the upper and lower heating elements. If either one fails, your water heater may not produce enough hot water.
How to Check the Thermostat on a Hot Water Heater
If the elements are fine but you still have no hot water, the thermostat may be the problem.
- Turn off the power to the water heater (as above).
- Locate the thermostat – usually behind the same panel as the element.
- Set your multimeter to continuity mode.
- Test the terminals by touching the probes to the thermostat contacts.
- Check results – If there’s no continuity, the thermostat is defective and needs replacement.
For dual-element water heaters, both thermostats (upper and lower) should be checked.
Common Signs of a Bad Heating Element or Thermostat
- Water is cold or lukewarm even after hours.
- Hot water runs out very quickly.
- Circuit breaker trips frequently.
- Unusual popping or hissing sounds inside the tank.
- Energy bills are higher than usual.
If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to test your water heater components.
DIY vs. Professional Water Heater Service in Mississauga
While checking elements and thermostats is safe if you follow precautions, replacing them is a different story. A licensed technician ensures proper installation and prevents further damage.
Local experts like HVAC Group Mississauga provide:
- 24/7 emergency service when your water heater fails.
- Water heater replacement Mississauga services for tank and tankless models.
- Skilled technicians trained in diagnosing thermostat and element issues.
- Full-service HVAC solutions including furnaces, ductwork, and air conditioning.
Benefits of Professional Water Heater Services in Mississauga
- Peace of mind – Safe handling of electrical systems.
- Faster solutions – Certified pros can test, repair, or replace elements quickly.
- Cost savings – Prevent expensive damage from DIY mistakes.
- Energy efficiency – Proper repairs reduce wasted energy.
Check out water heater maintenance tips to keep your system running longer.
Preventing Future Water Heater Problems
Along with testing elements and thermostats, here’s how Mississauga homeowners can extend the lifespan of their water heaters:
- Flush the tank once a year to prevent sediment buildup.
- Install a water softener to reduce scale from hard water.
- Schedule annual maintenance with HVAC Group Mississauga.
- Replace faulty parts promptly before they cause bigger issues.
For more details, see our guide on when to replace a water heater.
Local Expertise You Can Trust
Mississauga residents turn to HVAC Group because of our:
- Certified water heater technicians
- Same-day repair and replacement services
- Transparent pricing (no hidden fees)
- Expertise in both tank and tankless systems
Find us easily on Google Maps and book your appointment today.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to check a water heater element and how to check the thermostat on a hot water heater can help Mississauga homeowners diagnose problems before they become emergencies. But for safe, long-lasting solutions, professional service is always the best choice.
If your hot water isn’t working, contact HVAC Group Mississauga today for expert water heater repair, replacement, and maintenance.
