If your electric hot water system has stopped working, the most common electrical cause is a tripped circuit breaker or safety switch at your switchboard. Check your switchboard for any tripped switches on the hot water circuit (usually labelled 'HWS' or 'Hot Water'). If the breaker trips again after resetting, the heating element or thermostat has likely failed and needs replacement by a licensed electrician.
What to do right now
- 1
Check your switchboard
Look for the circuit breaker labelled 'Hot Water', 'HWS', or 'Off Peak'. If it's tripped (in the middle or off position), try resetting it. If your hot water is on an off-peak tariff, it may only heat overnight.
- 2
Check the dedicated hot water switch
Some homes have a separate isolator switch near the hot water unit itself. Make sure this hasn't been accidentally turned off.
- 3
Wait and check the water
If you reset the breaker successfully, electric hot water tanks take 2–4 hours to fully reheat. If it's on an off-peak tariff, it won't start heating until the off-peak window (usually 10pm–7am).
- 4
Call an electrician if it trips again
A breaker that keeps tripping on the hot water circuit usually indicates a failed heating element or thermostat. This is a common repair — a licensed electrician can replace the element, usually in under 2 hours.
When to call an emergency electrician
- ⚠️The hot water circuit breaker trips again after resetting
- ⚠️The hot water unit is making popping or sizzling sounds
- ⚠️Water is leaking from the pressure relief valve or the unit itself
- ⚠️You can see corrosion or rust on the unit
- ⚠️The hot water is only lukewarm even after full heating time
- ⚠️Your hot water system is over 10 years old and has never been serviced
How much does it cost?
An emergency electrician callout for hot water issues typically costs $200–$400 for diagnosis. Heating element replacement costs $250–$500 including parts and labour. A full hot water system replacement (supply and install) ranges from $1,000–$2,500 depending on the tank size.