We had a new 6000 Watt electric water heater (Panasonic Model DH-6GM2) installed in the kitchen by the house builders.

It however produces only lukewarm water - the explanation given is that the current reaching the house is measured at only 190V due to the distance from the mains.

The worrying thing is that instead of the lights dimming when we switch it on, the opposite happens, and they glow brighter.

Does any electrical-savvy TV member know why this happens? Is it a sign of faulty wiring? Is it dangerous?

We are located in the boondocks and there are no qualified electricians around, so not easy to get a professional opinion on the spot.

The thought of this unit being attached to metal taps and behaving like this is rather worrying.

Very grateful for any advice, many thanks.

What is the distance of the mains? Distance should not be an issue, unless your connection to utility is defective. You should have 220-230 voltage at the meter, if you do not then you have break in the wire or loose connection to utility service. What is the size of the wires for the mains to the meter and size of the wires to your home's main? The heater should be wired directly to your main directly with a correctly sized breaker and wire. I've seen a lot of heater installation trouble because they are not the only thing on the circuit (wire). There shouldn't be anything else on the circuit between your main and the heater except for breakers. Sounds like it is not on it's own circuit and neutral is poor. Without knowing more, it sounds like you have three problems or two or one. Issues are a faulty utility connection, over loaded or poor neutral circuit and the heater has not wired correctly for the load and on it's own circuit.

JKO, if I were you I would post your question on TV Housing Forum. There are a couple of very knowledgeable electricians that are very willing to advise people like you and me. Good luck

I forgot to say Brightening is caused by a loose neutral connection. I have found the utility company helpful in the past with problems like you are having.

I got myself a gas water heater, its hot even with a strong water pump pressure!

gas container outside, good air ventilation.

take care!

cheers,

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