Residential Bradford White Water Heater Problem Repair And Reviews

Question: Bradford white water heater issues?

(Posted by: Chris on 2009-12-20 16:48:48)

I have a Bradford White water heater that is about 5 to 6 years old. The issue with the water heater is that it seems to heat the water fine but there is not very much hot water. There is not really enough for two people to take back to back showers. I think there is around 15 mins max of hot water. In the past we had no issues with two or even three people taking back to back showers. I had a problem with it tripping the circuit breaker so I used a multi- meter and found that the lower heating element was not working. I replaced this and it worked fine for a while and now this issue has come about. I was thinking of replacing the upper heating element or the thermostat. I was just wondering if anyone had any insight as to how I may be able to resolve this issue. Thanks for your advice.

Posted by: Honsell T on 2009-12-20, 17:48:31

A standard tank has only a 6 year warranty, so don't spend a lot of money trying to fix it. There could be mineral build up on the inside, but you may want to check both upper and lower thermostats and elements with a voltage meter, those parts are relatively cheap.

Posted by: Charles M on 2009-12-20, 17:25:41

Over time hard water deposits build up on inside tank of water heater insulating water from heat source. their is no fix for this, you need a new water heater. some last longer than others depending on water usage.

Posted by: JonnyBGood on 2009-12-20, 18:06:07

Use the multimeter to test upper and lower elements. If both elements are good, then suspect the thermostat.

Posted by: spellbound on 2009-12-20, 18:20:29

This happened to me once. Water is supposed to be delivered to the bottom of the tank via a copper pipe. After it is heated it exits the upper part of the tank. If the pipe that delivers water to the bottom is corroded, the water will not get completely heated before it exits the top. There is an anodized rod in the heater that is supposed to protect the inside from corrosion. It the rod corrodes, it can no longer protect the heater, and you will need to replace that rod. It screws right into the top of the heater. You can unscrew it and have a look at it. They make jointed ones in case there is not room above your heater to install a new one. I am no plumber, but I am a contractor and have had some experience with this. Good luck.

Posted by: Main on 2009-12-21, 04:57:00

Before you replace everything regarding your water heater concern, why don't you give a try using testing equipments. This will allow you to check any faulty electrical connection that is running through your water heater. Its way cheaper that buying unnecessary parts.