Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, have gained popularity for their energy efficiency and ability to provide endless hot water without the bulky presence of a traditional tank. However, just like any other appliance in your home, they need proper care and maintenance to ensure long-term performance and prevent unexpected breakdowns. If you’ve recently installed a tankless water heater or are considering upgrading, you might be wondering, “How often do tankless water heaters need maintenance?”
In this blog, we’ll break down the key maintenance tasks your tankless water heater requires, how often they should be done, and why it’s crucial for the longevity of your unit.
What Makes Tankless Water Heaters Different?
Before diving into maintenance, it’s essential to understand how tankless water heaters work and why they require specific care. Unlike traditional water heaters, which store a large volume of hot water in a tank, tankless units heat water on demand as it flows through the system. This means they don’t have the same wear and tear as a traditional tank heater, but they still face issues like mineral buildup and sediment accumulation that require attention over time.
Tankless heaters are generally more energy-efficient because they don’t have to keep a large tank of water heated constantly. However, they rely on precise systems and sensors, which can degrade over time without proper care.
How Often Should You Service Your Tankless Water Heater?
The frequency of maintenance for your tankless water heater largely depends on a few factors, including water quality, the specific model, and how much the unit is used. Here’s a breakdown of typical maintenance tasks and their recommended intervals.
1. Descaling and Flushing (Annually)
One of the most important maintenance tasks for tankless water heaters is descaling, which prevents mineral buildup inside the system. If you live in an area with hard water, this process becomes even more critical. Hard water contains higher levels of calcium and magnesium, which can accumulate inside the heat exchanger and other components of the heater.
Over time, mineral deposits can reduce the efficiency of the unit, leading to higher energy consumption and possibly even system failure. Flushing your tankless water heater helps to remove these deposits, ensuring the unit continues to operate at peak efficiency.
Recommended Frequency: Once a year (more frequently if you have hard water).
2. Checking the Filters (Every 6 to 12 Months)
Tankless water heaters have filters that help prevent debris from entering the system. These filters should be cleaned or replaced regularly to maintain optimal performance. If you notice that your water flow is weaker than usual or that the unit is running less efficiently, it might be a sign that the filter needs to be cleaned.
Recommended Frequency: Every 6 to 12 months.
3. Inspecting the Venting System (Annually)
Tankless water heaters require proper ventilation to expel the exhaust gases safely. Over time, the venting system can become clogged with debris or soot, especially if the unit is powered by gas. This can result in poor combustion, lower efficiency, and potentially dangerous conditions.
To ensure your unit continues to operate safely and efficiently, it’s a good idea to have the venting system inspected and cleaned annually.
Recommended Frequency: Annually.
4. Examining the Water Flow and Pressure (Annually)
Ensuring that your tankless water heater has sufficient water flow and pressure is essential for its performance. If the water pressure is too low, it can prevent the unit from heating water properly, leading to inconsistent water temperatures. A qualified technician will check the flow rate and pressure during a routine inspection to ensure that everything is functioning as it should.
Recommended Frequency: Annually.
5. Check for Leaks or Damage (Quarterly)
While leaks are less common with tankless units, it’s still a good idea to inspect your water heater every few months for any signs of leakage or damage. Look around the unit for any dampness, corrosion, or water stains, which could indicate a problem with the system. Catching these issues early can help prevent larger, more expensive repairs down the line.
Recommended Frequency: Every 3 months.
6. Checking for Error Codes (As Needed)
Modern tankless water heaters are equipped with error codes that alert you to specific problems with the unit. If you notice an error code flashing on your system’s display, it’s essential to address it immediately. These codes can indicate a variety of issues, such as overheating, gas flow problems, or electrical issues.
Recommended Frequency: As needed—whenever an error code appears.
Why Is Regular Maintenance Important?
Regular maintenance is crucial to the longevity of your tankless water heater. Skipping these tasks can lead to:
- Reduced Efficiency: Mineral buildup and clogged filters can cause your unit to work harder, leading to higher energy bills.
- Shorter Lifespan: Lack of maintenance can shorten the life of your water heater, leading to costly repairs or replacement.
- Inconsistent Hot Water Supply: Without regular descaling and servicing, you might experience uneven heating or a complete lack of hot water.
- Safety Risks: Faulty venting or leaks can pose safety risks, especially in gas-powered models. Regular inspections ensure that your unit operates safely.
By keeping up with maintenance, you not only extend the life of your water heater but also ensure that it runs efficiently and safely, providing you with a consistent supply of hot water when you need it most.
Professional Tankless Water Heater Services in the Treasure Valley
While some maintenance tasks, like checking for leaks or cleaning filters, can be done on your own, others—especially descaling and inspecting the venting system—are best left to professionals. Pristine Plumbing offers expert tankless water heater services in the Treasure Valley area, including regular maintenance, repairs, and installations. Our experienced technicians are familiar with all makes and models, and we use the latest tools and techniques to ensure your system runs smoothly year-round.
Don’t wait for an emergency. Schedule an annual maintenance check with Pristine Plumbing to keep your tankless water heater in top condition. We pride ourselves on our transparent pricing, high-quality workmanship, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
Tankless water heaters are an excellent investment for homeowners, businesses, and property managers looking to save space and reduce energy consumption. However, to keep your unit performing at its best, regular maintenance is a must. By following a maintenance schedule that includes descaling, checking filters, inspecting venting, and monitoring water flow, you can ensure that your tankless water heater continues to provide reliable, on-demand hot water for years to come.