Why Tankless Water Heater Services are Important if You Own One in 2023

If you have a tankless water heater then having it regularly serviced is important to it longevity and ongoing performance. In this article we explain the importance of tankless water heater services.

Table of Contents

1. What is a Tankless Water Heater?
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2. Installation
3. Maintenance
   1. Flushing the unit:
   2. Cleaning the burner:
   3. Checking the venting system:
   4. Checking the electrical connections:
4. Electric Water Heater Services Repair
5. Signs that Your Tankless Water Heater May Need Replacement
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6. Replacing Tankless Water Heaters
   1. Choosing a new unit:
   2. Professional installation:
   3. Disposing of the old unit:
7. Tankless Water Heater Services FAQ
   1. What is a tankless water heater, and how does it work?
   2. What are the benefits of a tankless water heater?
   3. Do tankless water heaters require maintenance?
   4. How long do tankless water heaters last?
   5. What should I do if my tankless water heater needs repair or replacement?

What is a Tankless Water Heater?

A tankless water heater is a modern and efficient alternative to traditional water heaters that use a storage tank. Unlike conventional water heaters, tankless water heaters heat water on demand, providing hot water only when needed via pushing cold water past a hot electric element.

As a result, they are more energy-efficient, space-saving, and longer-lasting. However, like any other appliance, tankless water heaters require regular maintenance and repairs to function at their best.

Installation

The first step in getting a tankless water heater is to have it installed by a professional. Tankless water heaters require specialized skills and equipment to install correctly.

A professional installer will assess your home’s hot water needs, determine the appropriate unit size, and install the water heater by following local building codes and safety standards.

A professional installation ensures that the unit is properly vented, wired, and connected to the gas or electricity source.

These are the main reasons why we don’t suggest taking a do it yourself approach to installation or tankless water heater services.

Maintenance

Like any other appliance, a tankless water heater requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced efficiency, increased energy bills, and even damage to the unit.

Here are some maintenance tasks that your tankless water heater service provider can perform:

Flushing the unit:

Over time, a mineral build up can accumulate inside the unit and impede water flow, reducing efficiency and performance. Flushing the unit removes mineral build up and restores flow. This occurrence will depend on the nature of the mineral composition of the water at your location.

Cleaning the burner:

If your tankless water heater works off gas then the burner is responsible for heating the water. Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on the burner, reducing efficiency and performance. Cleaning the burner ensures that it is free from debris and functioning correctly.

If your heater works off an element then this will need to be checked for build up of minerals and condition of the element.

Checking the venting system:

Tankless water heaters require proper ventilation to prevent the build up of dangerous gases, such as carbon monoxide. Checking the venting system ensures that it is free from blockages, leaks, or damage.

This is especially relevant if the heater is located inside the building and not mounted on the exterior wall.

Checking the electrical connections:

Tankless water heaters require electrical connections to function. Checking the connections ensures that they are secure, tight, and not corroded.

Electric Water Heater Services Repair

Even with regular maintenance, tankless water heaters can develop problems that require repairs. Some common issues include:

1. No hot water: If you are not getting any hot water, the problem could be due to a faulty thermostat, a malfunctioning heating element, or a gas supply issue.
2. Inconsistent hot water: If your hot water temperature fluctuates, the problem could be due to mineral buildup, a faulty temperature sensor, or a malfunctioning heating element.
3. Water leaks: Water leaks can occur due to loose connections, damaged valves, or a cracked heat exchanger.
4. Error codes: Tankless water heaters have built-in error codes that indicate a problem with the unit. This will help you diagnose the issue. Some common error codes include ignition failure, flame failure, or high-temperature limit switch tripping.

When you notice any of these problems, it’s essential to contact a professional tankless water heater services provider to diagnose and fix the issue. Attempting DIY repairs can be dangerous and can cause more harm than good.

Signs that Your Tankless Water Heater May Need Replacement

While tankless water heaters are designed to last longer than traditional water heaters, they are not invincible. Over time, parts can wear out, and repairs can become less effective.

As technology advances, newer models may offer better efficiency, performance, and features than older models.

Here are some signs that your tankless water heater may need replacement:

1. Age: The average lifespan of a tankless water heater is around 20 years. If your unit is approaching or exceeding this age, it may be time to consider replacement. As the unit ages, parts can wear out, and efficiency can decline, leading to increased energy bills and reduced hot water output. Your electric water heater services technician can assess the condition of the unit if you’re unsure.
2. Frequent breakdowns: If you are experiencing frequent breakdowns, repairs may become less effective, and the cost of tankless water heater services may start to outweigh the cost of a new unit. Moreover, frequent breakdowns can be a sign that the unit is at the end of its lifespan and needs replacement.
3. Reduced hot water output: If your unit is not producing enough hot water or the hot water output is inconsistent, it may be a sign that the unit is not functioning correctly. While tankless water heater services may solve the issue in some cases, if the problem persists, it may be time to consider a new unit.
4. Strange noises: If your unit is making strange noises, such as hissing, popping, or banging, it may be a sign of a serious problem, such as a clogged burner or a damaged heat exchanger. In some cases, the problem may be fixable, but if the noise is persist, it may be time to consider a new unit.
5. High energy bills: If your energy bills or gas use are increasing without explanation, it may be a sign that your unit is not functioning efficiently. Over time, mineral build up, sediment, and other factors can reduce efficiency, leading to increased energy bills. If regular tankless water heater services and repairs do not solve the issue, it may be time to consider a new unit.

If you notice any of these signs, you should contact a professional tankless water heater services provider to assess your unit’s condition and recommend the best course of action.

Delaying replacement can lead to increased energy bills, reduced hot water output, and even damage to your home.

Replacing Tankless Water Heaters

While tankless water heaters are designed to last longer than traditional water heaters, they are not invincible. Over time, parts can wear out, and repairs can become less effective.

As technology advances, newer models may offer better efficiency, performance, and features than older models.

When it’s time to replace your tankless water heater, here’s what you need to know:

Choosing a new unit:

When choosing a new tankless water heater, consider your hot water needs, the size of your home, and your budget. Look for models with high energy efficiency ratings, long warranties, and easy-to-use controls.

Professional installation:

Installing a new tankless water heater requires professional installation to ensure that the unit is installed safely and according to local building codes. Moreover, a professional installer can assess your home’s hot water needs, determine the appropriate unit size, and install the unit properly.

Disposing of the old unit:

Properly disposing of the old unit is essential to prevent environmental harm and comply with local regulations. Contact your local waste management department to find out the proper disposal methods for your old tank

Tankless Water Heater Services FAQ

What is a tankless water heater, and how does it work?

A tankless water heater is a type of water heater that heats water as it flows through the unit, rather than storing it in a tank.

When hot water is needed, cold water flows through a heat exchanger and is heated by a gas burner or electric element. The hot water then flows out of the unit and into your home’s pipes.

What are the benefits of a tankless water heater?

Tankless water heaters offer several benefits over traditional tank water heaters. They are more energy-efficient, as they only heat water when it’s needed, reducing energy waste.

They also take up less space, as they don’t require a large storage tank. Tankless water heaters can also provide an endless supply of hot water, as long as the unit is sized correctly for your home’s hot water needs.

Do tankless water heaters require maintenance?

Yes, like any appliance, tankless water heaters require regular maintenance to ensure that they are functioning properly and efficiently.

Professional maintenance typically involves flushing the unit to remove mineral build up, inspecting the unit for leaks or damage, and testing the unit’s performance.

How long do tankless water heaters last?

Tankless water heaters typically last longer than traditional tank water heaters, with an average lifespan of around 20 years. However, the lifespan of a tankless water heater can vary depending on usage, maintenance, and other factors.

What should I do if my tankless water heater needs repair or replacement?

If your tankless water heater needs repair or replacement, it’s essential to contact a professional tankless water heater service provider.

A trained technician can assess your unit’s condition, recommend the best course of action, and perform any necessary repairs or replacement. Delaying repairs or replacement can lead to increased energy bills, reduced hot water output, and even damage to your home.