When the water from your hot water fixtures suddenly becomes too hot, you have a faulty water heater. 

If the issue remains unchecked, the hot water can burn or scald members of your household, especially high-risk people like the young and old. An overheating water heater also increases the risk of water heater problems such as leaking and explosion, so you should address the issue immediately. 

Several factors can cause your water heating system to overheat. Read along to discover the usual culprits behind the problem.

A faulty thermostat

Your hot water system has a thermostat to regulate your water temperature. When the system reaches the desired water temperature, the thermostat shuts off the power supply, preventing your water from becoming too hot.

A malfunctioning thermostat will fail to signal your hot water unit to shut off. As a result, the hot water unit will continue to heat your water even after attaining the desired water temperature.

The water temperature setting is too high

A broken thermostat is not the only thing that can cause your water heater to overheat. System overheating can also occur if the temperature setting on your thermostat is too high.

Avoid setting your water heater's temperature too high in winter to avoid injury. In winter, the cold climate can make your hot water not feel hot enough, but raising the temperature will increase the risk of scalding and burning.

A broken pressure relief valve 

Your water heater has a pressure relief valve that releases excess pressure from your hot water system, reducing the risk of an explosion. If this safety valve malfunctions, your water heating system will have no way of tracking and controlling pressure buildup.

As a result, your water will only get hotter and hotter.

Sediment buildup inside the hot water tank

Over time, the sediment that builds up at the bottom of your hot water tank forms an insulating layer that can prevent the water from heating up fast enough. As the system runs harder to heat your water, it may overheat, causing you to have scalding water.

An overheating water heater poses health and safety hazards to you and your family. It also increases the risk of water heater failure, which may lead to costly repair bills or premature replacement of your water heater. As a result, the problem requires immediate attention. 

Contact a hot water plumber today to request a quote for your water heater repairs.