how can i tell if the heater i have now is bad and needs to be replaced
1113257
If you plug it in and it fails to warm up, it's bad. Either the cord, plug or heating element has a defect. Make sure the out-let has power. Sometimes a circuit breaker in the basement has popped and there's no power on the outlet.
1113258
For most block heaters in vehicles you can plug them in when they are cold or cool for 1/2 hr to an hour and then feel the bottom of your engine and oil pan region for any warmth.
1113259
If the heater has been plugged for a while, the base should feel warm or hot depending on the wattage of the unit.
1113260
If you have an ohmmeter, put one lead on each of the prongs on the cord end. It should read about 60 ohms. (resistance in ohms = voltage squared divided by wattage) therefore: 120 volts squared (14400) divided by 250 (watts) = 59.9 ohms. Unfortunately, the cord is integral to the pad, so unless the cord is broken right by the end, you can't do much for repairs.
1113261
Assuming you don't have a multimeter for testing resistance and you are not able to reach the heater's location to touch it.I would try plugging it in with low light conditions and observe the plug tines for a slight sparking as they make and break contact.Sparks = it's good and working.No sparks = no good.
2259528
The heater on mine doesn't work either, I threw away the box otherwise I would have retuned it!
1720681
If your problem is occurring even with the temperature low AND your tank is older, it is possible that the heating coils within the heater are deteriorating. This exposed "hot spots" that boil the water even if your temperature is low. Or...the thermostat is broken and on "high". This has finally happened to mine and I get noise and sputtering even at the lowest setting. Time for a new tank for me. Mine lasted 10 years.
1228017
Most obvious thing: check the circuit breaker. It is probably not the same one that runs the pump. If you are not familiar with electrical troubleshooting, get professional help. Otherwise, make sure that the heater is getting electricity. If not, get professional help. Otherwise, shut the power off and check for continuity of each component. I'd start with the heating elements. Use your phone and take a picture of the wires on the elements. Remove the wires from the elements and test with an ohmmeter (if available). Each should read about 10 ohms. If either element is open, it will need to be replaced. Replace the wires. Next check the thermostat. Take a picture and remove the wires. Assuming the water temperature is low, the thermostat should be closed and your ohmmeter reading near zero. If it's open, it will need to be replaced. Replace the wires. Next, check the high temperature cut off. Take a picture and remove the wires. Like the thermostat, it should be closed. If it's open, it will need to be replaced. Replace the wires. If it still doesn't work, get professional help. Hope this helps, ..j
885603
If it's blowing the breaker (or fuse) regardless of which circuit it's connected to, the problem is most likely in the heater itself. I would have it serviced by an authorized dealer.
1921719
I was never able to get a new heater. Amazon should be able to help you with a refund. Seller won't do anything.
915273
I do not see any reason why it shouldn't.If the heater is constantly used and is quite old, you should consider a replacement.
1492923
Check the red over load button on the back of the heater. Check the power supply of the outlet plugged into. If that checks out ok, it is defective and you need to return it under warranty.
1792047
Yes, but as bad as the heater works, you can't really tell if the heater is doing anything or not.
986623
My came broken I did not send it back ,did not think they could send me heater replacement ,what did you do? Who did you ask
2247911
Check the age of the unit. Call the manufacture and see if the unit is overage. If old just replace the unit.
803547
My heater does the same.I had two since the first broke. I think their thermostats just dont work well.
275405
I purchased my unit from "TZSeller" and he informed me that if I need parts to just email him and he could get them..Don't know if that is where you got yours but hopefuly whoever you purchased the heater from could help you..It has a 3 year warranty.
10842
It is new. We had an event on a chilly day and put a small space heater in there fine. I am not certain about the warranty.
176824
yes...no problem the problem is the heater goes out in about a year... i have tried 2 of them
2267753
Miss Gosset; The company advises you not to open the heating unit but if you call them they will tell you how to take care of the problem. I still had the warrentee on mine & they sent me a whole new unit. They will probably let you purchase a new electrical unit if you don't have an effective warrentee now. Just give them a call & they can direct you. Hope this helps. Joanna
1109729
This isn't the heater I bought. Mine was also completely covered in black. It also has the light to indicate when it is heating in the middle.