Though they require less maintenance than tank water heaters, tankless water heaters shouldn’t be ignored. If they are not at least annually serviced, hard water can produce mineral deposits that will clog your system and prevent water from passing through. Check out these three reasons why tankless water heater maintenance is essential to your unit’s continued functionality!
One of the most important parts of your tankless water heater is the heat exchanger, which contains narrow passages that carry water to your pipes as it heats it. Because the pipes within the exchanger are so narrow, it is easier for lime and other particles to build up over time and clog your water heater. Additionally, if these particles build up for long enough, they can damage the heat exchanger and cause major problems! Make sure to flush your water heater at least once a year to prevent damaging particle buildup.
Descaling is necessary from time to time, especially if hard water is common in your area. This process basically involves removing any excess grime from your unit. Once settled at the bottom of your system, limescale and grime can mix with water to create a big mess! Descaling is similar to flushing, but goes deeper to more effectively break up sediment and scale.
Many tankless water heaters are small and easy to install in closets or under sinks, but due to their compact size they require more frequent cleaning. If you ignore these necessary cleanings, it can lead to sediment buildup and water heater failure. You should never attempt to clean the unit by yourself, as doing so without proper knowledge of which valves to turn off during the process could seriously damage your water heater.
Consider contacting a professional plumber to avoid any unnecessary hassle when changing, flushing or descaling your unit. Barbosa Plumbing & Air Conditioning has been trusted to serve the North Dallas area for over 40 years and we would love to help you with any questions or inquiries you may have! Feel free to contact us at (214) 351-7030 to schedule your tankless water heater maintenance today.