Why does my new water heater pop the breaker every time it cycles?

Answer by  scaremall (202)

The heater may be too big for your circuit, check the specifications. Check for loose connections and too small or damaged wiring. The heater could have an internal short.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

Well either it is drawing too much current for that circuit or possibly it it was wired wrong and is causing a short. Either reason could cause the breaker to trip.

Answer by  Anonymous

I am assuming that the heater was previously working... -Chances are that it has a failed heating element that has corroded in two and is now shorting out on itself. You can: Have a plumber investigate, replace it/them yourself, or get a new one.

Answer by  Darry (3853)

Either your water heater is pulling more electricity than your house is wired for and it is tripping the breaker because of this. Or your water heater has an electrical short and it's tripping the breaker to prevent an electrical surge. Have an electrician evaluate the problem.

Answer by  Atomicrayon (2504)

It's possible that you're the victim of faulty water heater wiring. Call an electrician to take a look at how your water heater was installed, it's possible whoever installed it did a poor job.

Answer by  strohs21 (181)

Check the recommendation of the maximum amprage that the unit takes. This is usually at the unit start up. If the breaker is at or below the maximum draw the breaker will trip.