Resetting a water heater that stopped working means making it safe, restoring power or gas, and using the unit’s reset control if it has one. Most shutdowns come from a tripped breaker or the water heater’s high‑limit safety switch after overheating. Sediment buildup can trap heat on electric elements and trip that switch sooner than you expect. Our technicians handle this kind of issue often for homes across the Colleyville area.
Try these basic, safe checks:
- Electric: turn off the breaker, wait a few minutes, press the red reset button on the thermostat cover, then restore power.
- Gas: set the gas valve to Off, follow the lighting label to relight the pilot or restart ignition, then set temperature to about 120°F.
- Stop and call a pro if you smell gas, see active leaks, or if the unit trips again after resetting. The safest move if a reset won’t hold is to turn the heater off and schedule a professional inspection.
Updated: 2026-08-11
Need help in Colleyville, TX? Call 469-825-9053 or book online. “Alfonso came quickly to our rescue after our hot water heater burst, and replaced it with a new one.” — Holly S.