State electric water heater: some hot water, but it runs out quickly.

Safety: Turn off power at the breaker and confirm with a voltage tester.

• Access lower compartment: Remove the lower access panel and insulation.
• Test element: Disconnect wires from the lower element and measure its resistance. Replace the element if it's open or shorted to ground.
• Check thermostat: Verify that the lower thermostat switches power to the element when the tank is partially cooled. Replace the thermostat if it's not switching.