How to Maintain a Tankless Water Heater

Atlanta Tankless Water Heater Services

With proper maintenance, tankless water heaters can last more than 20 years. They also have easily changed parts, so you could likely extend your tankless water heater’s life even longer. This is a dramatically longer life in comparison to traditional tank water heaters that live about 10-15 years. Maintenance is crucial for getting the most life out of your tankless water heater. High Priority Plumbing provides repair, maintenance, and installation services for tankless water heaters, so we are knowledgeable about their proper care. A clean water heater is healthier for your family and will help your water heater reach its full lifespan. 

Proper Tankless Water Heater Maintenance

  • Step 1: Flush Tankless Water Heater–Your tankless water heater should be flushed at least once a year. During the year, your water heater can accumulate minerals quickly, especially if you have hard water. A mineral buildup in your water heater can damage your heat exchanger. A water heater with mineral buildup will not be as efficient, which leads to higher utility bills. Forgetting to flush could dramatically shorten your unit’s lifespan. Some water heaters come with warranties, but failure due to mineral buildup will not be covered because it can be prevented through proper tankless water heater maintenance. If you are comfortable with flushing your own water heater, follow these steps. Prepare a water-vinegar mixture and collect two hoses and a sump pump. Cut the power to your water heater off. Shut the water off to the pump and get your hoses attached. Use the sump pump to flush the vinegar mixture through your water heater. The vinegar mixture will break up the mineral deposits. After you have finished with the vinegar, flush water through the heater to clear the vinegar out. If you are uncomfortable with this process, reach out to our plumbing team at High Priority Plumbing.
  • Step 2: Clean Air Filter–The air filter in your water heater should be cleaned routinely for proper flow. Remove the air filter from your tankless water heater and scrub it with soapy water and a soft brush. Rinse the filter and allow it to dry completely before putting it back inside your water heater. 
  • Step 3: Clean Water Filter–Your unit’s water filter acts as a barrier to capture sediment. Over time, the sediment can clog up the filter and restrict proper function of your water heater. At least every six months, we would recommend cleaning your water filter. Cut off the water supply to your water heater and then you can remove the filter for cleaning. This filter can be cleaned with soapy water. 
  • Step 4: Clean the Outside–Dust and debris can accumulate on the outside of your unit, which could get inside of the unit and cause problems. Shut off the power and water supply of your tankless water heater and give it a good wipe down. 

If you need support with your tankless water heater cleaning, reach out to High Priority Plumbing. During our inspection, we can also make sure the parts within your unit are in good working condition, such as the heating valves, pipes, and elements. We want to help you get the maximum lifespan out of your unit!

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