John Wood Short Cycling / Thermostat Hysteresis Issue

John Wood water heater frequently cycles on and off, causing temperature swings at taps

Advertisements

Possible Causes

Thermostat set too high, Small tank undersized for demand, Thermostat sensing location issues, Recirculation pump causing rapid heat loss

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Adjust thermostat carefully to avoid scalding temperatures.

  • 1. Lower thermostat setting: Reduce the temperature setting slightly to increase cycle length and reduce short cycling.
  • 2. Check recirculation system: If a hot water recirculation pump is installed, ensure it is properly controlled and insulated to prevent excessive heat loss.
  • 3. Verify sensor placement (electronic models): Ensure the thermistor is fully seated in its well.
  • 4. Consider capacity: If demand exceeds tank size, consider upgrading to a larger John Wood heater or adding a storage tank.
Advertisements

Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5

Required Part

Thermostat / Control
Check Price on Amazon

We may earn a commission from links on this page.

Advertisements