State Select single thermostat water heater, model ES652SORT, about 4 years old. Has been set on about 145 degrees since new. Started tripping the internal breaker a few weeks ago. Would reset and it would trip again later. Adjusted temp down to around 130, didn't trip anymore. Reset back to 145 and started tripping again. Back to 130 and it hasn't tripped again.

So, what is this telling me?

If I am called to this service call, I would replace the elec. element first. Then, I would set your temperature to 125F. Let's see what other Experts have to say. Back to you. Milo

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Reset back to 145 and started tripping again.

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I would say that 145 degrees is too close to the temperature at which the over temperature device is suppose to trip off for safety.
It may have worked that way for years as you say, but now the over temperature devise has gotten a little weak and is tripping. The maximum recommenced temperature setting is 120-125.

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I would replace the elec. element first.

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Why that Milo? Obviously the element is working.

Yeah, first thing I do is check that the element has proper continuity or resistance (ohms) to see if the element is good or not. Here, you would be surprised how often I find plenty of hot water, but the continuity/resistance is all messed up by mineral deposits adhered to the element and can cause overheating and popping of the thermostat reset button... replace element here if needed.

Otherwise, I replace the thermostat... just defective at this point and super cheap part, too.

As Hkstroud pointed out, 145F is usually considered an excessive temperature, but is only excessive in terms of sending hot water out to the entire home. Here, ideally, your water heater temperature should be set to 140-145F and a direct hot water pipe should be piped up over to the DISHWASHER. The hot water to the rest of the home is then put through a mixing (or tempering) valve and reduced to 120F (tub/shower valves get further reduced to 112-115F using temp. limiting devices integral to the valves). Note here, however, that most states do NOT require the 140-145F, but it is the DW manufacturers that specify this in their installation manuals and the fact that legionella bacterium do not thrive at this temperature range.

I would suggest the tests as mentioned and I would consider installing a mixing valve (for reasons mentioned) or consider turning the entire water heater temp. down to 120F, especially if there are small children in the home!

Good day!

Mark

Thanks for the reply, Mark and others.

I live in Central Texas, I guarantee the element probably has a very generous mineral coating. I will get a new element and thermostat, neither one of those will break the bank.

Just me in the house and I like my hot water HOT. I understand that 140+ is a little dangerous and accept that risk.