Here’s How to Reset Your Water Heater
If your showers suddenly turn cold, don’t panic. You might not need a new system — you may just need to reset your hot water heater. Homeowners in Tucson face this issue often, especially with older units or sudden power outages.
Resetting your water heater can bring your hot water back quickly, but it’s important to do it safely and correctly.
1. Turn Off the Power
Before touching anything, cut power to the unit.
If you have an electric water heater, go to your circuit breaker panel and switch off the breaker labeled “water heater.” For gas models, simply turn the thermostat to the “Pilot” setting.
Turning off power protects you from electrical shock and prevents accidental burns.
2. Locate the Reset Button
Next, remove the small metal cover panel on the side of your water heater. You’ll find insulation behind it and, under that, a red or orange button — the reset switch.
This button is connected to your high-limit safety thermostat. When the water temperature exceeds safe limits, the system shuts off automatically. Press the button firmly until you feel or hear a small click.
If it pops back up or immediately trips again, that’s a sign of a deeper issue — like a faulty thermostat or heating element.
3. Restore Power and Wait
After pressing the reset button, replace the panel cover and insulation. Then go back to your breaker panel and turn the power back on.
Give your system about 30–60 minutes to reheat. During that time, listen for the unit activating and check for warm water at a nearby faucet.
If your water still isn’t heating, it could be a wiring, element, or gas control problem. At that point, it’s best to call a licensed professional like Trusted Water Heaters for a quick same-day inspection.
4. When to Reset vs. Replace
If you’re resetting your water heater frequently, it’s not just a fluke — it’s a symptom.
Most electric water heaters last 8–12 years, and constant resets may mean your system is reaching the end of its lifespan.
Replacing it early can prevent leaks, improve efficiency, and lower your energy bills.
We offer fast, same-day replacements across Tucson, Oro Valley, and Marana — backed by our Hot Water Today Guarantee. That means if we can’t restore your hot water today, you don’t pay a dime.
5. Prevent Future Resets
A few simple habits can help keep your system stable:
- Flush your tank yearly to remove sediment buildup.
- Install a surge protector to prevent power spikes from tripping your heater.
- Check your thermostat settings every few months.
For Tucson homeowners dealing with hard water, consider adding a recirculating pump or water filtration system to extend your heater’s life.
Need Professional Help?
Sometimes a quick reset just isn’t enough. If your system keeps tripping, leaks, or fails to reheat, call Trusted Water Heaters Tucson — your licensed local experts for same-day water heater replacement and installs.
Call 520-844-9888 or Text 520-719-0349
Because you deserve Hot Water Today – Guaranteed!
