Water heater gives off a burning smell or signs of overheating plastic

Safety first: Immediately turn off power and gas. Do not continue to operate the heater until the cause is found. Risk of fire.

• Visual inspection: After cooling, remove the cover and inspect for discolored or melted plastic, burnt wiring, or soot marks.
• Tighten terminals: Check mains terminal block and high-current connections for tightness and signs of overheating.
• Check fan operation: Ensure the fan runs whenever the burner is on; replace if seized or slow.
• Remove foreign objects: Clear any debris or insulation that may have fallen onto the burner or heat exchanger.

Warning: If any component shows signs of burning, replace it and investigate the root cause before returning the heater to service.