Tankless water heaters are often heralded for their low maintenance requirements compared to traditional tank-based models. They also run more efficiently and can last longer. To achieve these benefits, a few maintenance requirements must be met. We’ll look at a few ways to maintain tankless water heaters so they run at peak performance.
How to Maintain Your Tankless Water Heater
Tankless units heat water on demand. As cold water passes through a heat exchanger, it’s heated by a natural gas burner or an electric heating element. Maintaining your system ensures this process continues uninterrupted and you always have hot water when you need it. You can optimize your tankless water heater’s performance by following these maintenance tips:
Flush Out Mineral Buildup
Sediment can build up in the system and usually consists of naturally occurring minerals. These minerals are more concentrated in hard water. A water heater should be flushed at least once a year or more often if water hardness is a concern. Mineral scale can reduce your water heater’s efficiency and shorten the system’s lifespan.
However, you can prevent mineral buildup by flushing the unit. This can be a DIY task if you’re equipped with hoses, a cleaning agent, and a sump pump or recirculation pump. To flush a tankless water heater:
- Turn off the power supply to the system.
- For a gas-powered unit, turn off the main gas supply valve.
- Close the cold (blue) and hot (red) water valves.
- Remove the purge port valve caps, which protect the hose connections.
- Connect hoses to the cold and hot purge ports
- Attach the blue hose to the recirculation pump.
- Run the red hose into a container filled with a cleaning solution.
- Open the port valves by turning them perpendicular to the water tubes.
Place the pump in the container filled with a commercial cleaning solution or water/vinegar mixture. Then turn on the pump. It will start pushing the cleaning fluid through the hose. The solution will return to the container once it passes through the heat exchanger.
After using the cleaning solution, continue this process with plain water. A tankless water heater should be flushed and drained for 45 to 60 minutes to ensure it’s cleaned thoroughly. Consult with the user manual for instructions on flushing your specific model.
Once the unit is cleaned, close the port valves, disconnect the hoses, and seal the purge valves. Then, you can turn on the power or gas and run the hot water.
Change the Water Filter
Depending on the tankless water heater, it may have an inlet water filter. It needs to be cleaned regularly, but how frequently depends on water quality and how often you use the water heater. The sediment the filter traps can accumulate and block the water flow.
To replace the water filter:
- Turn off the water supply valve.
- Loosen the old water filter with a wrench.
- Remove the old filter from the water inlet valve.
Don’t use too much force to detach the filter. Excessive pressure can damage the valve and other parts.
When installing the new filter:
- Insert it into the inlet valve, making sure it’s aligned properly.
- Tighten the new filter with a wrench until it fits securely.
- Avoid over-tightening the filter, which can damage the assembly.
- Slowly open the water valve.
- Check near the filter and valve connections for leaks.
- Tighten connections if necessary to stop any leakage.
Clean the Water Filter
If the water filter can be cleaned, turn off the water supply and remove it. The filter can be rinsed in warm, soapy water or wiped with a soft cloth. Check the user manual for recommendations on cleaning your system’s water filter.
Clean the Air Filter
If you have a gas tankless water heater, it may have an air filter between the fan and intake pipe. This filter stops dirt and bugs from getting into the system. If it gets too dirty, your water heater can stop working, and an error message may appear warning you to clean the filter.
Cleaning the air filter is simple. Remove the screws and the filter. Wash and dry it in water before reinstalling it. Again, check the user manual for instructions specific to your system.
Clean the Outside of the Water Heater
Cleaning the exterior of a tankless water heater is also important. Use a soft cloth to remove dirt or grime from the unit’s casing and the area around it. Otherwise, debris can get inside the water heater and potentially damage sensitive components. It takes little time and effort to wipe down a water heater. Neglecting this step can eventually lead to inconvenient breakdowns and costly repairs.
Check for Damage
Water heater damage often starts small and progresses over time. A small amount of wear can lead to one part failing; in turn, other components can fail. Therefore, look for damaged valves, faulty heating elements, rust, or leaks and call a professional if something isn’t right. The sooner an issue is addressed, the less extensive and costly it is to resolve.
Should I Hire a Professional for Tankless Water Heater Maintenance?
If you’re confident and handy enough, you can take care of routine maintenance yourself. However, hiring a professional for maintenance isn’t a bad idea. They are trained in every aspect of the process, allowing them to complete every step properly. Professional maintenance ensures no detail is missed and can keep the warranty valid.
How Often Do I Need Tankless Water Heater Maintenance?
We recommend performing or scheduling maintenance annually. More frequent maintenance may be needed if you set the water temperature high or have hard water.
Contact Sky to Schedule Tankless Water Heater Maintenance
At Sky Heating & Air Conditioning, our licensed plumbers are experienced in maintaining tankless water heaters. We ensure our Portland area customers have a constant supply of hot water. When properly maintained, a tankless unit runs reliably and efficiently and can last for 20 years or more. To schedule tankless water heater maintenance and other services, call us at (503) 694-4665 today.