You cannot inspect a thermostat with the power turned off.
Troubleshooting thermostat electric water heater.
How to troubleshoot the water heater electric thermostats preparing for a water heater thermostat test.
A water heater repair will be unnecessary if there s another reason why.
When you check different components of an electric water heater you do so after turning off the power.
Locate the screws that hold the electric access panel to the water heater.
Begin by turning the breaker inside the breaker panel of water heater off.
A thermostat continuity test.
Turn off the power to the water heater in the service panel.
You will see the electric wiring that handles the water heater.
Next remove the screws and open the panel.
Test the wires to confirm the power is off using a non contact voltage tester.
Remember a few things before you try to troubleshoot a thermostat.
Remove the access panel insulation and plastic safety guard from each heating element on the water heater.