Ask The Expert: UPDATE 32A Voltage at the Heating Elements, But Not Heating Water Tank
ISSUE UPDATE:
Hi Shane,
Thanks for the reply, the serial number is 600147071386. It is a 120V unit.
Thanks so much,
Gwyn
___________________________________________
RESPONSE:
OK, based on this serial number, this is a brewer that uses a Solid State Relay (SSR). My guess is that the SSR is not functioning or your High Limit (Single shot t-stat) is open. This is assuming that the thermostat is calling for heat, of course. If the t-stat is calling for heat, then you should have 120V from the blue wire on the SSR to neutral. I would suggest that you remove the blue wire from the SSR when taking this reading (of course making sure to observe safe electrical procedures). This will help prevent the possibility of false readings.
FYI—SSR’s and any solid state components, for that matter, are notorious for false readings when using a multimeter so be careful. It can fool the best of us. In addition, because of the way this brewer is wired, your readings at the heating element will always be misleading. See the wiring diagram for clarification.
If the t-stat is calling for heat, then the SSR should close and the heater should start heating; unless, of course, my theory is correct and the SSR or the High Limit is not functioning.
To check the high limit, which of course is mounted at the top of the tank, make sure the brewer is unplugged, then remove both wires from the High Limit. Next, check continuity between each terminal. If you get continuity, then the High Limit is good and, therefore it has to be your SSR that is the problem.
The easiest way to verify this is by taking an amperage reading with your amp clamp. Place your amp clamp on the red wire that goes to the heating element when the brewer is on and calling for heat. If the SSR is working, you should be getting about 15 amps. If you are getting zero amps, as I believe you will, then we have found the culprit. Replace your SSR.
Let me know how this turns out. I hope this information will be helpful.
Shane Blais
Director of Technical Services
and Corporate Training

Comments