How to Maintain Tankless Water Heater

Are you planning to install a tankless water heater, or do you already have one? Using a tankless water heater has several benefits, including energy efficiency, space-saving, and unlimited hot water supply.

Proper tankless water heater maintenance is essential to ensure its optimal performance, efficiency, and longevity. Unlike traditional water heaters, tankless systems heat water on demand, which reduces energy consumption but also requires regular upkeep to prevent issues like mineral buildup and system wear. By following routine maintenance practices, you can avoid costly repairs, extend the lifespan of your water heater, and ensure the steady delivery of hot water for your household needs.

This guide on how to maintain tankless water heater will provide you with key steps and tips to keep your tankless water heater in prime condition.

What Are the Benefits of Maintaining a Tankless Water Heater?

Before diving into the maintenance techniques, it’s essential to understand why maintaining your tankless water heater is crucial.

• Ensures Energy Efficiency: Regular maintenance helps maintain the peak energy efficiency of a tankless water heater. Accumulation of mineral deposits in the heat exchanger can reduce its efficiency and increase energy consumption.
• Prevents Costly Repairs: Routine maintenance can help identify any potential issues with your tankless water heater early on, saving you from expensive repairs or replacements.
• Extends Lifespan: A tankless water heater can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance, while traditional systems typically have a lifespan of  10-15 years.
• Ensures Steady Hot Water Supply: Regular maintenance can prevent mineral buildup and other issues that disrupt the hot water supply.

Now, let’s move on to the steps you can take to maintain your tankless water heater.

What Will You Need?

Before starting the maintenance process, gather the following tools and supplies:

• A soft-bristled brush
• White vinegar or a descaling solution recommended by the manufacturer
• A bucket or a large container
• A cloth or towel

Once you have everything you need, you can begin the maintenance process.

10 Easy Steps on How to Maintain Tankless Water Heater

Step 1. Turn Off the Power and Water Supply 

Before starting any maintenance on your tankless water heater, it’s crucial to ensure your safety by turning off the power and water supply. If your unit is powered by electricity, switch it off at your circuit breaker. For gas-powered units, make sure to turn off the gas valve. Next, locate the water shut-off valves connected to the water heater and close the cold water inlet and hot water outlet. This step ensures that no water will flow through the system while you’re working on it, preventing leaks or unnecessary mess during the maintenance process. Always double-check these shut-offs before proceeding to avoid potential accidents.

Step 2. Drain the Water Heater 

After ensuring that the power and water supply are turned off, the next step is to drain your tankless water heater. Locate the purge valve caps on the service ports of your water heater. Slowly unscrew these caps to relieve pressure, but be cautious, as a small amount of water may spill out. Once the pressure is relieved, attach the appropriate hoses to the service ports.

Place the other ends of the hoses into the bucket or container to collect the water. Open the purge valves to allow any remaining water to flow from the unit. This step helps to clear the system of any sediment or buildup before cleaning it thoroughly.

Step 3. Clean the Water Heater 

With the tankless water heater drained, the next step is to clean the unit to remove any mineral buildup or scale that may have accumulated. Begin by preparing a descaling solution or using white vinegar, a natural and effective cleaning agent. Attach a submersible pump to one of the hoses connected to the service ports, and place the pump in a bucket filled with the descaling solution or vinegar. Ensure the other hose directs the solution back into the bucket, creating a closed-loop system.

Turn on the pump and allow the solution to circulate through the water heater for 30 to 60 minutes. This process will break down any limescale and improve the unit’s efficiency. Once the cleaning is complete, turn off the pump and disconnect the hoses, ensuring no solution remains within the unit.

Step 4. Flush the Water Heater 

After cleaning the water heater with the descaling solution, it is essential to thoroughly flush the unit to remove any remaining residue or cleaning solution. Reconnect the cold water supply and slowly turn it on to allow fresh water to flow through the unit. Open the hot water valve to enable the water to exit the system. Continue flushing until the water runs clear, ensuring all traces of the solution are eliminated. This step ensures the water heater is safe and ready for regular use.

Step 5. Reassemble and Test the Water Heater 

Once the flushing process is complete, it’s time to reassemble the water heater. Begin by closing the hot water valve and reconnecting any previously removed components, such as the inlet and outlet pipes. Ensure all connections are secure to prevent leaks. Turn on the water supply and inspect the unit for any signs of leakage. Finally, restore power to the water heater or relight the pilot light, depending on your model. Allow the unit to heat the water as usual and test the system by running hot water from a nearby faucet. Confirm that the water is heating correctly and that the system functions efficiently.

Step 6. Perform Regular Maintenance 

To ensure your water heater continues to operate efficiently and lasts for many years, it’s essential to perform regular maintenance. This includes flushing the tank annually to prevent sediment buildup, inspecting the pressure relief valve to ensure it functions correctly, and checking for any signs of leaks or corrosion on the unit. Additionally, replace the anode rod every few years, as it helps prevent the tank from rusting. Keeping up with these routine tasks will help maintain the performance and longevity of your water heater.

Step 7. Know When to Call a Professional 

While regular maintenance can address many common issues with a water heater, there are times when professional assistance is necessary. If you notice persistent leaks, unusual noises, or inconsistent water temperatures despite routine maintenance, it may be time to consult a licensed plumber or water heater technician. Additionally, if your water heater is over 10-15 years old and showing signs of wear, a professional can help determine whether repair or replacement is the best option. Seeking professional advice ensures the safety and efficiency of your water heating system.

Step 8. Insulate Your Water Heater and Pipes 

One effective way to improve the efficiency of your water heater is by insulating the unit and its pipes. For tank water heaters, adding an insulation blanket can help minimize heat loss and reduce energy consumption. Similarly, insulating the hot water pipes can ensure water stays warmer as it travels through your plumbing system, saving energy and money. Be sure to use insulating materials that are specifically designed for water heaters and pipes, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when installing them. This simple step can significantly enhance your water heater’s performance and energy efficiency over time.

Step 9.  Consider Upgrading to a Tankless Water Heater 

If you want to improve your water heater’s energy efficiency and longevity, consider upgrading to a tankless model. Unlike traditional tank water heaters, which continuously heat and store large amounts of water, tankless models only heat water as needed. This on-demand heating saves energy and reduces wear and tear on the unit over time. While the initial cost may be higher than a traditional water heater, the long-term benefits make it a worthwhile investment. Consult with a professional plumber or contractor to determine if a tankless water heater is suitable for your home.

Step 10. Keep an Eye on Your Water Heater 

Even with regular maintenance and proper care, water heaters can still develop issues over time. Therefore, monitoring your unit for any signs of trouble is essential. If you notice changes in the water temperature or quality, unusual noises, or leaks, address them promptly to avoid more significant problems. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s warranty and know when it expires. If any unexpected issues arise within the warranty period, you can take advantage of coverage and repairs at no additional cost.

By following these ten steps, you can prolong the life and efficiency of your water heater, saving both energy and money in the long run.

Conclusion

How to maintain tankless water heater is essential to ensure it operates efficiently and lasts for many years.

Regular flushing to remove mineral buildup, inspecting and cleaning filters, and keeping an eye on the unit for any signs of wear or malfunction are key steps in preserving its performance. Adhering to the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations and scheduling annual servicing by a professional can prevent costly repairs and keep the system running smoothly.

By investing time in proper care, homeowners can enjoy a consistent hot water supply and maximize the energy-saving benefits of their tankless water heater.