Troubleshooting

Most common cause for improper electric water heater operation can be linked to heating element failure.

When troubleshooting an electric water heater with the incidence of “No Hot Water” or “Insufficient Amount of Hot Water” It is always a good idea to check the heating elements first following the procedure on page 11.

Common Heating Element Failures Are:

1.Dry Firing. Element may be partially submerged in water or most likely, completely exposed with no water in tank. In some cases sediment or lime build up around an element can eventually cause an air pocket, and within seconds, result in a dry fired element. At this point the element becomes inoperative. When element replacement is required, be sure tank is full of water prior to energizing the water heater.

2.Grounded Element. An element with a short circuit to ground will in most cases cause the circuit breaker in the service panel to open or shut off. In some cases there may not be enough current draw for the circuit breaker to open. This will allow the heating element to be in continuous operation resulting in over heated water, limited only by the ECO or Energy Cut Off located in the thermostat. Repeated actuation of the ECO reset button on the thermostat usually is the result of a grounded element.

3.Sediment build up. Slow hot water recovery can usually be traced back to sediment or lime build up around heating element. Sediment build up can also over time cause a dry fired element.

The illustration below shows a common “Screw-In” type heating element identifying certain features commonly referred to throughout this manual.

1-½ Hex		Terminal Block
Screw-in Flange		Terminal Block
Screw-in Flange

Zinc Plated Copper or

Incoloy Sheath

0642	4500W 240V	RC02404524

Terminal Block		Element Rating Ink Stamped
Screw		on side of Terminal Block.
		on side of Terminal Block.

Typical Direct Immersion “Screw-In”

Type Heating Element

Page 9

Commercial Electric Energy Saver Medium Duty E32 Series Models, E32-80R, E32-50S, E32-120R specifications

Bradford-White Corporation offers a range of high-efficiency water heaters, including the E32 series models: E32-120R, E32-50S, and E32-80R. These models fall under the Commercial Electric Energy Saver Medium Duty category, designed for various commercial applications that require reliable hot water delivery.

The E32 series is built to meet the demands of commercial environments while ensuring energy efficiency. The E32-120R model features a 120-gallon capacity, making it ideal for establishments with high hot water usage. Similarly, the E32-50S offers a 50-gallon capacity, suitable for smaller commercial operations, while the E32-80R provides an 80-gallon option for medium-sized applications. Each model is designed to deliver hot water on demand, with recovery rates optimized for commercial settings.

A notable feature of the E32 series is its Energy Saver technology. These models are equipped with high-efficiency insulation and advanced heating components that minimize heat loss and reduce energy consumption. This not only leads to lower utility bills but also contributes to a reduced carbon footprint, aligning with contemporary environmental standards.

The integration of an advanced electronic control system in the E32 series allows for precise temperature control and monitoring. Users can easily set and adjust water temperatures to meet specific needs, enhancing comfort and safety. Additionally, these models are designed with user-friendly installation features, allowing for straightforward setup and integration into existing systems.

Durability is a hallmark of the E32 series, with each model constructed using high-quality materials that withstand the rigors of commercial use. The tanks are designed to resist corrosion, ensuring a long lifespan and reliable performance. Furthermore, these heaters come with warranties that reflect Bradford-White’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Maintenance is easy with the E32 series, featuring replaceable heating elements and accessible anodes. This reduces downtime and increases the longevity of the units. Moreover, they comply with all safety and performance regulations, providing peace of mind for business owners.

In summary, the Bradford-White E32-120R, E32-50S, and E32-80R models are versatile, energy-efficient, and durable solutions for commercial hot water needs. Their combination of advanced technology, user-centric features, and robust construction make them a reliable choice for various commercial applications.