How to Service a Tankless Water Heater Like a Pro
Tankless water heaters provide a continuous supply of hot water while being energy-efficient and space-saving. However, regular maintenance is essential to ensure they operate at peak efficiency and avoid costly repairs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to service a tankless water heater like a pro, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Key Takeaways
- Always shut off the power and water supply before performing maintenance.
- Removing scale buildup with vinegar or a descaling solution helps improve efficiency.
- A clogged filter can reduce water pressure and affect heater performance.
- Regular checks can prevent costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns.
- If you encounter complex issues, a licensed plumber can provide expert service.
Why Regular Maintenance Matters
Over time, mineral deposits and scale can accumulate inside your tankless water heater, causing reduced efficiency, poor water flow, and even system failure. Regular servicing helps prevent these issues, ensuring your unit provides consistent hot water and operates efficiently for years to come.
Step-by-Step Maintenance Guide
1. Turn Off the Power and Water Supply
Before starting any maintenance, safety is the top priority. For electric heaters, switch off the power at the circuit breaker. For gas-powered heaters, turn off the gas supply. Also, close the cold water supply valve to prevent water from entering the unit during servicing.
2. Prepare the Unit for Flushing
To remove scale buildup, you’ll need:
- Two hoses
- A submersible pump
- A descaling solution or 3-4 gallons of undiluted white vinegar
- A 5-gallon bucket
Connect one hose from the cold-water service valve to the pump and another hose from the hot-water service valve to the bucket.
3. Flush the System
Turn on the pump to circulate the descaling solution through the heater. Let it run for at least 60 minutes to break down mineral buildup. After an hour, turn off the pump and discard the used solution.
4. Rinse the Unit
Refill the bucket with clean water and use the pump to flush out any remaining solution. Run the pump for another 10 minutes to ensure the system is completely rinsed.
5. Clean the Inlet Filter
The inlet filter prevents debris from entering the system. Remove it, rinse it under clean water, and reinstall it securely.
6. Restore the System
Close the service valves, remove the hoses, and open the cold water supply valve. Restore power or gas, and turn the unit back on.
Safety Precautions
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Wear gloves and safety glasses when handling descaling solutions.
- Ensure proper ventilation if working with gas-powered units.
- Double-check for leaks before using the unit again.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you notice issues like inconsistent water temperature, strange noises, or error codes, it’s best to call a professional. Some models have complex components that require expert handling.
How Express Plumbing and Drain Can Help You
At Express Plumbing and Drain, we specialize in servicing and repairing tankless water heaters. Our team of licensed plumbers ensures your unit functions efficiently and safely. Whether it’s routine maintenance, descaling, or troubleshooting, we have the expertise to handle it all.
Why You Should Choose Express Plumbing and Drain Service
- Over 20 Years of Experience – We’ve been serving the community with reliable plumbing services for decades.
- Licensed and Insured Technicians – Our professionals are certified and equipped to handle all plumbing needs.
- Same-Day Service Available – Quick response times mean you won’t be left without hot water for long.
- Affordable Pricing – Transparent pricing ensures no hidden costs.
- Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed – We prioritize customer satisfaction and quality workmanship.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your tankless water heater in top shape. By following this guide, you can prevent scale buildup, improve efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your unit. However, if you need expert assistance,
Express Plumbing and Drain is here to help with professional service and expertise. Contact us today for reliable and efficient plumbing solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I service my tankless water heater?
It’s recommended to service your tankless water heater at least once a year. If you have hard water, more frequent maintenance may be necessary.
Can I use any descaling solution for flushing?
You can use a commercial descaling solution designed for water heaters or undiluted white vinegar as an eco-friendly alternative.
What are the signs that my tankless water heater needs maintenance?
Common signs include fluctuating water temperature, reduced water pressure, unusual noises, and error codes on the unit.
Can I perform maintenance myself, or should I hire a professional?
Basic maintenance like flushing and cleaning filters can be done as a DIY task. However, if you encounter issues like gas leaks or persistent error codes, a professional should be consulted.
Does Express Plumbing and Drain offer emergency services for water heaters?
Yes! We offer same-day and emergency water heater services to ensure your water heater is up and running as quickly as possible.
