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Why Does My Water Heater Keep Turning Off?

It’s one of the most maddening home dilemmas, reducing even the most even-keeled homeowner to ask, “Why does my water heater keep turning off?” Chances are, you’re muttering this question as you make your way, dripping wet, from a cold shower to your gas or electric water heater.

In all likelihood, the answer to your question is rather straightforward and can be fixed quickly with the expertise of a skilled plumber:

  • If your gas water heater keeps turning off, the problem most likely lies with the thermocouple. This vital component detects when the pilot light is lit and then allows gas to flow to the burner. A faulty thermocouple will shut off gas to the burner as well as the pilot. A bent or otherwise damaged thermocouple will prevent the pilot light from heating it. A buildup of dirt may also be to blame. Just as a buildup of dirt and grime can interfere with the smooth operation of your air conditioner, a dirty thermocouple can prevent your water heater from doing its job.
  • If your electric water heater keeps turning off, you’ve probably already narrowed the cause to an electrical glitch. And you’re correct, but which one? In some ways, problems with an electric water heater can be more frustrating than those with gas water heaters, especially if the water heater is plugged in, the breaker is live and there is no obvious reason for it to malfunction. An experienced technician can quickly get to the root cause, which is most often a problem with the heating coil or thermostat. On the other hand, if the water heater causes the breaker to shut down every time it attempts to heat water, the problem most likely is an electrical short in the breaker.

Water Heater Repair in New Jersey

If you happen to believe that for every problem, there is a solution, you’re correct in more ways than one. The solution is to call Arctic Air Conditioning so that our experienced professionals can perform reliable water heater repair services. We have been serving Monmouth, Middlesex, Mercer, Ocean, and Somerset counties since 1977. Contact us today!

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