Thermador Water Heater: Smells Like Burning
A burning or gas smell needs immediate attention — shut it down and check the wiring or venting. Add a photo of your Thermador Water Heater in the box below: the Triage Profile says what it is, how urgent it is, and who to call.
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In the next five minutes
Safe first steps, before the call. Nothing here needs a tool.
If you smell gas, a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, or anyone feels dizzy or sick: don’t touch any switch or plug, leave and get everyone out, then call 911 or the gas company from outside.
Smoke or flames: get everyone out and call 911.
No gas smell, smoke or flames? Turn the water heater’s gas control knob to OFF if it’s gas, or switch off its breaker if it’s electric.
Everything else about this problem
Is it an emergency?
Is a burning smell from a Thermador water heater an emergency?
Treat it as urgent. Turn it off and switch off its breaker, and do not use it again until the cause is found. If you see smoke or flames, or smell gas, get everyone out and call 911.
Symptoms & causes
A burning smell from your Thermador water heater often indicates an electrical issue, such as an overheating heating element or faulty wiring, which can generate excessive heat. This odor might also stem from insulation burning due to prolonged high temperatures or from sediment buildup on the heating elements causing them to work harder and overheat. If the smell is accompanied by tripped breakers or reduced hot water, it strongly suggests an internal electrical or heating component failure.
Tools & parts
You will need a multimeter for electrical testing, a screwdriver set for panel access, and an element wrench if replacing heating elements. Specific parts like new Thermador heating elements or a replacement Thermador thermostat may be needed. Other potential replacements include new electrical wiring or insulation.
Safety first
Before any inspection or repair, always shut off the electrical power to the water heater at the main breaker panel to prevent electrocution. Additionally, turn off the cold water supply valve to the unit to avoid scalding from hot water discharge and to prevent water damage. Be aware of potential fire hazards from overheating components and the risk of burns from hot water or surfaces during the testing process.
When to call a pro
If the burning smell persists after basic troubleshooting or if you detect a strong electrical short, it indicates a major internal electrical fault that requires a certified technician. Any signs of tank leakage, significant corrosion, or damage to the main control board are complex issues best handled by a professional to ensure proper repair and safety. A technician is also necessary if the problem involves high-voltage wiring beyond simple element replacement or if the unit repeatedly trips the main circuit breaker.
Questions people ask
Is a burning smell from my water heater dangerous?
Yes, a burning smell is a serious warning sign and can indicate an electrical short or overheating components, posing a fire risk. It's crucial to address it immediately to prevent further damage or hazards.
What's the first thing I should do if my Thermador water heater smells like burning?
Immediately shut off the power to the water heater at your home's main electrical panel to eliminate the immediate electrical hazard. Then, turn off the cold water supply valve to the unit.
Can sediment buildup cause a burning smell?
Yes, excessive sediment buildup around the heating elements can cause them to overheat and potentially burn surrounding insulation or even the sediment itself. Regular flushing can help prevent this issue.
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What it is, how urgent, who to call
Add a photo of your Thermador Water Heater in the box at the top. The Triage Profile says what it is, how urgent it is, and who to call.