Water heater switch

ScottG wrote:
Is this the first time you've used it on elect? From the factory they have a clip through the switch so it won't be turned on accidentally and burn out the element. The dealer usually removes this pin but sometimes not. (I found mine laying in the WH area and wondered what it was for a long time).

Uhhuh mine had a safety pin through the switch also.

Thanks for the suggestions, guys.

Lyle

Me Again wrote:
You are at the first stage of the switch failing. The little spring loaded button is melting. Soon it will switch but not make electrical contact. Take it off and go to Ace Hardware. They have ones that pop in the same rectangular hole. AND you can mount it so top in is on, as it is not labeled like the upside down OEM switch!!!!!

Just ask me how many times we did not have hot water last year to figure this out!

Chris

How can it melt if it never gets used? :-) I think it's simply corrosion. Not a big deal as I almost never use it, but want it to work when I =do= want it to. I was hoping for a "quick fix" for while we're here at the campground, but I guess I'll just burn a bit extra LP.

Lyle

ScottG wrote:
Is this the first time you've used it on elect? From the factory they have a clip through the switch so it won't be turned on accidentally and burn out the element. The dealer usually removes this pin but sometimes not. (I found mine laying in the WH area and wondered what it was for a long time).

Have used it once or twice, so I know about the clip. Removed it, but it wouldn't rock.

Lyle

You are at the first stage of the switch failing. The little spring loaded button is melting. Soon it will switch but not make electrical contact. Take it off and go to Ace Hardware. They have ones that pop in the same rectangular hole. AND you can mount it so top in is on, as it is not labeled like the upside down OEM switch!!!!!

Just ask me how many times we did not have hot water last year to figure this out!

Chris

Is this the first time you've used it on elect? From the factory they have a clip through the switch so it won't be turned on accidentally and burn out the element. The dealer usually removes this pin but sometimes not. (I found mine laying in the WH area and wondered what it was for a long time).

CR56 Used for electrical stuff

Ballistol non petro and all natural cleaner/lube. Check youe local gun shop, or maybe Wally World

Lyle,
NAPA makes a silicone spray that I believe is non conductive. Perhaps the electrical gurus will chime in here and confirm this before you try it.

For a quick fix you can turn the power off. Remove the switch and wirenut the wires together. You can turn it off with the breaker in panel.