Like most household appliances, tankless water heaters require regular maintenance to operate efficiently and prevent premature breakdowns. If you plan to buy a tankless water heater or recently purchased a property with one already installed, here’s what you need to know to keep it operating smoothly.
Common Problems with Tankless Water Heaters
Generally, a tankless water heater is almost worry-free and doesn’t require much maintenance. However, in areas with hard water, like much of Ontario, minerals like magnesium and calcium attach and accumulate on the pipes and heating elements, affecting efficiency and flow rates. These deposits must be removed every few months to maintain performance.
When to Perform Tankless Water Heater Maintenance
Generally, you should get your tankless water heater cleaned and serviced at least once annually. However, you may need to service the unit twice a year in areas with hard water, especially if you don’t have a water softener in your home.
What Happens During a Water Heater Maintenance Call
During a professional water heater maintenance call, a technician will flush a solution through the burner system to remove mineral deposits. This process can take anywhere between 90 minutes and two hours.
The technician will also clean the fuel, water heating, ignition, fan and burner assembly. They’ll clean the water and air filters, inspect the condensate drain, review the error code history and check for proper ventilation and exhaust.
The technician should also check the heater’s temperature-pressure release (TPR) valve, a safety feature designed to open if there’s too much pressure inside the unit. Residue or sediment can block the valve’s opening. To check your TPR valve yourself, shut off the gas or electricity to the unit and open the valve. If no water comes out, it may be time to install a new one.
Benefits of Scheduled Water Heater Maintenance Plans
If you’re too busy to remember when your last water heater service call was and when you should schedule your next one, sign up for a scheduled maintenance plan with an experienced and reputable water heater service company. A company representative will contact you when your heater is due for a tune-up, and a technician will visit your home and give the unit a thorough inspection and cleaning.
Tankless Water Heater Maintenance and Repair in Orangeville, Alliston and Surrounding Areas
At Don’s Heating & Cooling, we provide water heater installation, repair and maintenance services for tank and tankless systems. Sign up for our Service Maintenance Agreement, and we’ll remind you when your water heater is due for regular maintenance. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help make your house feel like home.