Kenmore electric water heater shows E07 and will not heat; sometimes breaker trips

Safety: Only work on live voltage if you are trained and have a proper multimeter. Otherwise, contact a licensed electrician.

• Verify breaker size: Check that the water heater is on a dedicated 30A double-pole breaker (typical for 4500W elements). Reset the breaker fully OFF then ON.
• Check supply voltage: With power ON and access cover removed at the top junction box, measure between L1 and L2; you should see ~240V. Measure L1 to ground and L2 to ground; each should be ~120V.
• Inspect connections: Turn power OFF. Remove wire nuts and inspect for burned or loose copper. Trim back damaged wire and reinstall with new appropriately sized wire connectors.
• Tighten strain relief: Ensure the incoming cable is secure and not pulling on the internal connections.
• Correct wiring errors: Confirm that both hot legs from the double-pole breaker are connected; a missing leg can trigger E07 and prevent heating.
• Breaker replacement: If voltage drops significantly under load or the breaker is hot to the touch, have an electrician replace the breaker and inspect the panel.