Why It’s Crucial to Clean Your Tankless Water Heater

September 5, 2024

Most homeowners are accustomed to not servicing their water heaters. Like all tank-style heaters, tankless water heaters benefit from annual flushing and periodic replacement of anode rods, so corrosion doesn’t take hold. In reality, this sort of maintenance is rarely done. Too many people tend to let their water heaters work once they break down, which could cost money in severe water heater repairs or replacement.

However, as more homeowners have transitioned to energy-efficient, on-demand tankless systems, routine maintenance from the outset will keep these advanced units running. In return for a higher upfront cost, tankless water heaters offer long-term benefits related to lower energy and water bills, making them an economically viable option. Routine maintenance plays a vital role in maximizing the total value of your tankless system, which is likely to endure upwards of 20 years.

Calcium Buildup and the Importance of Regular Maintenance

How often your tankless water heater is serviced depends on the hardness of the water in your area. Hard water contains calcium buildup that, if not checked, will scale down your heater and shorten its life expectancy. Fortunately, innovations will make this maintenance less painful and much more straightforward.

Innovations in Tankless Water Heater Maintenance

1. Automated Descaling Systems

• What’s New: Most modern tankless water heaters are outfitted with auto-descaling systems, which actively flush out most of the buildup, minimizing the need to perform routine maintenance manually.
• Why This Is Important: These systems achieve consistent water flow and heating efficiency, letting you know your unit works optimally.

2. Smart Monitoring and Alerts

• What’s New: It’s now integrated with innovative technology to monitor your water heater’s performance in real-time. Advanced sensors detect scale buildup and alert you when maintenance is required.
• Why It Matters: You can schedule service before problems happen, which prevents costly repairs and keeps the service going uninterrupted.

3. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions

• What’s New: New models of tankless water heaters now support cleaning agents that are biodegradable and non-toxic. These agents effectively remove scale buildup without damaging your unit or the environment.
• Why It Matters: These solutions are safer, offering alternatives to harsh chemicals aligned with today’s environmental standards.

4. Improved Flush Kits

• What’s New: Sophisticated flush kits that make cleaning these gadgets more accessible and complete are now available. Most have pumps, hoses, and environment-friendly cleaning solutions that make maintenance a breeze.
• Why It Matters: These will help you avoid scale and lime buildup on your gadget and continue to make it run efficiently and smoothly.

How to Clean Your Tankless Water Heater

The tankless water heater will be cleaned by running white vinegar or an eco-friendly cleaner through the heat exchangers to remove scaling and mineral buildup. Do not employ chemicals you would not drink, as trace amounts might be left behind in your water supply.

Due to these minerals, it is recommended that you install a tankless water heater with a flush kit so that you can turn off the main water supply and run a cleaning solution through the appliance. Fortunately, newer models of flush kits have made this process more accessible and allow you to maintain your unit more efficiently.

Also, take some time to clean the screen filter on your unit. For model-specific guidance on maintenance, refer to your owner’s manual or call a licensed professional plumber for assistance.

If you need help cleaning and maintaining your tankless water heater, contact your local plumbing professionals at Magnificent Plumbing today, where they can set up a recurring maintenance package so you will never have to worry about your water heater again.

FAQs About Tankless Water Heater Maintenance

1. How often should I get my tankless water heater serviced?

It is recommended that you service your tankless water heater once a year. If the area has hard water or your system operates above 130 degrees, it will be advisable to service every 6 to 9 months.

2. What will occur if I don’t clean my tankless regularly?

This can lead to the setting of calcium and sediment in a neglected tankless water heater, resulting in reduced heating efficiency, greater energy use, and, with any luck, clogs or damage to the system.

3. Can I clean my tankless water heater myself?

You can clean your tankless water heater with the proper tools and cleaning solution. However, if you need clarification on any procedure, follow the manufacturer’s or a professional’s
instructions.

4. What are the newest tools for maintaining the tankless water heater?

Some innovations include automatic descaling systems, intelligent monitoring with alerts, eco-friendly cleaning solutions, and a comprehensive maintenance kit to make cleaning a breeze.

5. Does the flush kit have to be used when cleaning?

Yes, a flush kit makes cleaning the tankless water heater easy by letting you turn off the main water supply and pump cleaner efficiently through the system. It is highly recommended for regular maintenance.