American Water Heaters Electrical Short or Ground Fault (Electric Models)

Water heater trips the household circuit breaker or GFCI.

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

Possible Causes

Shorted heating element, Damaged wiring insulation, Water intrusion into junction box, Faulty control board

High voltage warning: Turn off the breaker and verify power is off before inspection.

1. Inspect junction box: Remove cover and check for loose wires or signs of arcing. Tighten connections and dry any moisture.
2. Test elements: Disconnect wires and test each element for continuity to ground. Replace any element that is grounded.
3. Inspect wiring: Look for burned or pinched wires behind access panels and repair as needed.
4. Control board: If elements and wiring are good, the control board may be shorted and require replacement.

Medium 3/5

Heating Elements

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