Resetting a water heater takes only a few seconds to physically press the button, but it takes 30 to 120 minutes for the water to fully reheat, depending on your system.
Pushing the reset button on your electric water heater restores power to the heating elements. This button acts as a high-limit safety switch, often called an ECO (Emergency Cut-Off) switch. It pops out to cut power and prevent scalding or damage when internal water temperatures rise above a safe limit.
Age: If your current water heater is 10 years old (or older), it's time to start considering a replacement now. Rusty Water: If you notice rusty water coming from your hot water tap, it could be a sign that your tank is corroding from the inside.
It typically takes 30 to 40 minutes for a gas water heater to heat back up, and 60 to 120 minutes for an electric one.
Traditional tank water heaters last 8 to 12 years, while tankless models typically last 15 to 20 years. Lifespans vary greatly depending on water quality, unit design, and whether you perform regular maintenance like flushing the tank and checking the anode rod.
Water leaks are perhaps the most common type of water heater issue you'll face. Any water heater will start to leak eventually, as by nature water will eventually corrode your tank and create microscopic cracks or fractures. However, this isn't always a sign that your tank is what's leaking.
If your water heater now has power, you're all set. (Way to go!) Just keep in mind it'll take a few hours to reheat the water in the tank. If your water heater still doesn't work, flip the breaker to OFF, and call us so we can determine what's happening and get hot water flowing again.
Only heat the hot water twice a day
Try heating the water for an hour in the morning and an hour in the evening. Start the water heating about an hour before you need it. For example, if you shower at 08:30, start heating the water at 07:30. If you wash up in the evening at 19:30, then start the water heating at 18:30.
If your hot water runs out after just 5 minutes, your water heater is likely struggling to produce, retain, or deliver hot water efficiently. The most common culprits are a broken dip tube, a failed lower heating element, or a failing mixing valve.
Most Common Bradford White Water Heater Repair Problems
If a standard showerhead is fitted, it will use around an extra half a gallon each minute, accounting for a 25-gallon emittance every 10 minutes, or 50 gallons throughout a 20-minute shower. *1 gallon = 4.54 litres.
Professional installation costs to replace a water heater
The more hours of electrical, carpentry and plumbing work that are required for your installation (for example, installing new electric, water or gas lines or drywall), the higher your total water heater replacement cost.
Patience is key after a reset. It typically takes 30-60 minutes for the water to heat up, but this can vary based on tank size and unit efficiency. If hot water doesn't return within this timeframe, consider checking for a tripped circuit breaker, malfunctioning heating elements, or incorrect thermostat settings.
Key signs your water heater is failing include active leaks, rust-colored water, loud popping noises, and a lack of hot water. If your unit is over 10 years old or requires frequent repairs, it is likely nearing the end of its lifespan.
If you're not sure how long it takes, try turning the heating on about 30 minutes before you need it. You should turn it off 30 minutes before you'll stop needing it. You might need to turn on your heating earlier if your home takes longer to reach a comfortable temperature.
A 10-minute shower typically uses 12 to 25 gallons of hot water, depending on your showerhead's flow rate and how hot you keep the water.
Here are a few other common reasons your water heater reset button will trip:
Signs That You Should Reset Your Thermostat
Yes, you must turn off the circuit breaker to reset an electric water heater. Water heaters run on 240 volts. To safely access the reset button behind the metal panel, cutting the power at your breaker box is essential to prevent severe electrical shock.
If your tank water heater is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it. With proper maintenance, a tank water heater tank should last six to 12 years. A tankless water heater can last for more than 20 years. Check your water heater's warranty for the most accurate timelines.
A bad thermostat—whether in your vehicle or your home’s HVAC system—fails to regulate temperature. In cars, it causes engine overheating or poor fuel efficiency. In homes, it leads to unresponsive systems, short cycling (turning on and off rapidly), or incorrect temperature readings.
Common reasons a hot water heater stops working include tripped circuit breakers, failed heating elements (electric), faulty thermocouples or pilot light failures (gas), and heavy sediment buildup. Other causes include broken dip tubes, faulty thermostats, or the unit reaching the end of its 10–15 year lifespan.