Water Heaters - Super HOT water!!

We started having problems in the summer. Came here and found that if I hit the red reset button, I would have EXTREMELY hot water. [Temp was about 150-160]

Finally, the thermostat shorted out last Sunday. I replaced the upper 'stat yesterday. The bad one didn't have a temp adjustment on it. It was preset at the factory.

I adjusted the new 'stat to 125 degrees and turned on the power. We have hot water alright. Man is it HOT. By the fact that I can't keep my hand under the water, I am guessing that it is about 160 degrees.

I flushed the tank and then drained it before I replaced the 'stat. I filled the tank while replacing the 'stat. Before I turned the power back on I turned on every hot water faucet in the house. When I got water in all faucets, I turned on the power.

So now my question is: Why is the water so hot?

It is a reliance Model #5 40 20RS960 Max on both elements is 4500 watts. I have no idea how old it is.

One other thing, the 'stat I replaced from Lowes, isn't made the same as the one I took off, therefore I can't put the plastic cover back on the 'stat.

Thanks!!


____________________

In His Grace,

Karen RN

Failure is NOT an option!!

Did you replace BOTH the upper and lower thermostats?

Did you wire them correctly?

Pictures always help.

No I didn't replace the bottom 'stat. Yes I am sure the upper 'stat is wired corectly. I drew a picture and also took a digital pic.

I thought that the upper 'stat was bad d/t the reset button popping, so I didn't mess with the lower one.

Thanks!!


_____________________

In His Grace,

Karen RN

Failure is NOT an option!!

It most likely is a problem with the lower thermostat not opening. As a result the lower element never stops heating until the safety thermostat (the pushbutton) activates and shuts off power to both elements.

furd,

THANK YOU!!! I replaced the bottom 'stat and now I have nice hot water not super hot scalding water.

However, I still have a problem. I can't put the plastic covers back on either 'stat. They won't fit. Therefore I haven't put the covers back on. Do you have any suggestions?

Thanks!!

Karen, the new t-stats didn't come with covers? If it would be possible to snap even one corner on it would be best. Otherwise put the metal covers back on with the power off preferably.

BEFORE putting on the METAL covers go buy a can of 'LIQUID TAPE". (Home Depot, Radio Shack) ANY color will do (I like red):D

The application process is quite difficult! You actually have to shake the can and 'brush' it on!:rolleyes:

Wait about an hour and do it again!

Make sure you 'brush' the terminal screws and anything else that may short out otherwise.

:thinker: Cut a coffee container plastic lid to fit the metal cover also. Glue it on with some adhesive.

Now you have what you need.

Charlie:coffee:
(graduated McGyver University)