Our water is constantly scalding - whats wrong? Immersion heater fault?

Question

Hi there,

Just today we became aware that all the hot taps in our house are producing really really hot water (steaming!) which they don't normally do. We have an immersion heater but I don't know much about plumbing etc. We are worried because we have a toddler who likes to wash his own hands and the water is suddenly burning hot and also because a few years ago we heard the story of an immersion heater fault leading to the death of an infant when the water tank in the attic overheated and sent scalding water on top of the child. Is there anything to worry about? Can anyone help? We can't phone our housing authority until Monday as it is the weekend but I am quite concerned. Thank you :-) xx

Answer 1

Sounds like a thermostat-related problem.  Whatever is used to set the desired water temperature is not functioning properly, or not all.  The water is being constantly heated 24-7.  Call a reputable plumber to check this out immediately.  

Answer 2

IF YOU HAVE YOUR OWN WATER HEATER,YOU CAN TURN IT UP OR DWN,IF ITS GAS TURN DOWN THE SETTING AT THE GAS VALVE,IF ITS ELEC.TAKE THE 2 COVERS OFF THE SIDE OF THE TANK,YOU'LL SEE 2 THERMOSTATS TOP&BOTTOM,CK THE SETTINGS,AND TURN THEM DWN.IF THEY ARE ELEC.AND THEY HAVEN'T BEEN MESSED WITHMAYBE YOU HAVE A DEFECTIVE THERMOSTAT,IT SHOULDN'T CHANGE TEMP.ON ITS OWN,IF YOU HAVE TO GO THROUGH A HSING ATHY,THEY SHOULD HAVE AN EMERGENCY MAINT.#THIS WOULD BE CONSIDERED AN EMERGENY

Answer 3

It could be a grounded element too, if not the thermostat.

For the moment you can turn off the power to it at the breaker when the water is too hot. Then turn it on when cooler or when you need it or plan to shower or do laundry.