E4
EcoSmart
Over-Temperature Protection / High Limit Trip
Unit shuts down with E4 on the display; water may be excessively hot just before shutdown.
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Safety Warning
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.
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Possible Causes
Tripped manual reset high-limit thermostat, Failed high-limit sensor, Scale buildup reducing water flow through heat exchanger, Stuck or shorted triac/relay driving heating elements
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Turn OFF power at the breaker and allow the unit to cool for at least 30 minutes. Do not work on a hot heater.
- Check for restricted flow: Ensure all inlet shutoff valves are fully open. Clean the inlet filter screen. Verify that hot water fixtures are not fitted with extremely low-flow aerators that starve the heater.
- Reset high-limit (if equipped): Remove the front cover and locate the manual reset high-limit thermostat on the heat exchanger or heating module. Press the red reset button firmly until it clicks.
- Inspect for scale: Look for signs of heavy limescale on the heating chambers and internal piping. If your water is hard and the unit has not been descaled, plan a descaling procedure using a pump, hoses, and a descaling solution per EcoSmart instructions.
- Check sensors and wiring: Inspect the high-limit sensor wiring and connector to the control board for damage or looseness.
- Test operation: Restore power and run hot water at a moderate flow. If E4 recurs quickly, discontinue use.
- Call a technician if: The unit overheats even with good flow and a reset high-limit. A stuck heating element relay/triac or faulty control board can cause dangerous overheating and should be serviced by a professional.
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Repair Difficulty
Hard
4/5
Required Part
High-Limit Thermostat / Over-Temperature Sensor
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