Cold Water Enters the Tank:

The electric water heater begins operating when cold water enters through the dip tube. This tube directs the cold water to the bottom of the tank, ensuring even heating.

Thermostats Detect Temperature:

The two thermostats—one near the upper heating element and the other near the lower—monitor the water's temperature. The thermostats activate the heating elements if the water is below the set temperature (usually 120-140°F).

Heating Elements Activate:

The upper thermostat activates the top heating element first, heating the water in the top part of the tank. Once the upper thermostat reaches the desired temperature, it shuts off, and the lower thermostat then activates the bottom heating element to continue heating the remaining water.

Water Heats Gradually:

As the heating elements heat the water, the heated water rises to the top of the tank, while cooler water remains at the bottom, gradually heating up.

Hot Water is Delivered:

When a hot water faucet is turned on in your home, hot water is drawn from the top of the tank, and cold water enters through the dip tube to replace it. This cycle repeats as long as the water heater is operating.

Thermostats Maintain Temperature:

Once the water reaches the desired temperature, the thermostats turn off the heating elements. The thermostats will reactivate the heating elements if the water cools to maintain the desired temperature.

Safety Features Protect the System:

The temperature and pressure relief valve automatically releases water if the pressure or temperature exceeds safe limits, preventing potential damage to the tank.

Water Heater Goes into Standby Mode:

After heating the water to the desired temperature, the water heater goes into standby mode until hot water is needed again or the water cools down.