mimsellis

I understand exactly what you are saying. Initially, my reaction to info from plumber was similiar. My thoughts: water heater will use only what it needs - how can bigger be a prob? Apparently, if it gets more than it needs, the wiring will heat up and can be a fire hazard (please tell me if you think my assumption is wrong). Home Warranty's basis for denial could be improper installation. I've come to realize the bottom line for me: without changing breaker Home Warranty will not cover water heater. Thank you for your time, the dialogue and your thoughts.

Thanks for the input. I apologize for the muddled post. The situation began with 50 double breaker tripping - sporadically at first and then after a week or so, repeatedly tripping even a few minutes after resetting. Home warranty plumber said he checked thermostat and it was good. His test showed the lower element was bad. He replaced that element adding that Home warranty would not cover water heater that needs 30 double and like mine has a 50 double. He went ahead and submitted to home warranty company. Water heater worked fine for several days, then tripped breaker again. I knew it was possible plumber misdiagnosed problem, but did not want to call home warranty again until I researched the issue regarding breaker size. Research revealed using a 50 double when water heater install info states water heater requires a 30 is a fire hazard. I feel pretty confident that the research is reliable. My question regarding replacing the old 50 double with a new 30 double was prompted by other internet diy info on installing a breaker. That info seemed incomplete so I posted here because I recognize my limited education in the electrical arena. I also recognize the potential danger. If the problem is not resolved with a breaker change, I'll most likely be back posting more questions. In the meantime, I will contact an electrian. Thanks again for all the info. It is appreciated.

I didn't take it wrong, but I was hoping to get more info. Clearly, I am not an electrician, but do want to avoid unneccessary expense. If it was a fire hazard, I wondered why the plumber didn't mention that when he replaced the element. I believe there are no stupid questions. Previously, I have changed outlets, switches, and fixtures, but will call an electrician for this. Thanks for your time.

water heater was tripping breaker...home warranty plumber stated home warranty won't cover water heater probs if electrical is over required by water heater. water heater install infor states it requires 30. He went ahead and changed out element, but a few days later it started to trip again. Further research with ge revealed 50 double breaker when water heater calls for 30 breaker is a fire hazard. Ouch... Is this true? Do I really have to have electrician out for this? My main questions: Can I change out 50 double for a 30 double? Does wiring need to be changed for a breaker change such as this? If I can, where do I turn off power to panel? Do I have to call electric company to have main power turned off? What color wires can I expect...and are they different when changing from 50 double to 30 double? Once breaker is changed out, could wiring probs cause tripping or should I call home warranty people again?