Tankless water heaters have become increasingly popular over the years due to their energy efficiency and longevity. Unlike traditional tank-style water heaters that store a large volume of water and keep it constantly heated, tankless water heaters heat water on demand, only using energy when needed. This not only conserves energy but also saves homeowners money on their utility bills.
However, like other appliances, tankless water heaters require regular maintenance to function properly and last longer. One question homeowners often ask is whether their tankless water heaters need to be flushed. Below, we explore the answer to this question and why it’s important to flush your tankless water heater.
What Is Flushing?
Flushing a water heater means draining all the water from the tank and cleaning out any sediment or mineral buildup that has accumulated inside. In a traditional tank-style water heater, sediment and mineral buildup can accumulate at the bottom of the tank, causing it to become less efficient over time and potentially shortening its life span. Flushing the tank regularly can prevent this buildup and keep the water heater running smoothly.
Do Tankless Water Heaters Need to Be Flushed?
The short answer is yes, tankless water heaters do need to be flushed regularly. While tankless water heaters don’t store water like traditional tank-style water heaters, they still use a heat exchanger to heat the water as it passes through. Over time, mineral buildup can occur inside the heat exchanger, which can lead to reduced efficiency and potentially cause damage to the unit. Flushing your tankless water heater removes these deposits and restores its optimal function.
Why Is Flushing Important?
Flushing your tankless water heater is important for several reasons. First and foremost, it maintains the efficiency of the unit. Mineral buildup inside the heat exchanger can cause the unit to work harder to heat the water, which can lead to higher energy bills and a shorter life span for the unit. Flushing the unit regularly removes this buildup and keeps the unit running at its best.
Flushing your on-demand water heater can also improve the quality of your water. Over time, sediment and mineral buildup can affect the taste and odor of your water as well as its general quality. Flushing the unit can remove these impurities.
Finally, flushing your tankless water heater is important for safety reasons. Over time, mineral buildup can cause the unit to overheat, which can lead to a potential safety hazard. Flushing the unit regularly can prevent this from happening and ensure your tankless water heater is functioning safely.
How Often Should You Flush Your Tankless Water Heater?
Many tankless water heater manufacturers recommend flushing the unit at least once a year to maintain its efficiency and extend its life span. Some manufacturers even require annual flushing to keep the warranty valid.
The frequency of flushing your tankless water heater depends on several factors, such as:
- The hardness of your water
- The amount of hot water you use
- The type and model of your tankless water heater
Generally speaking, you should flush your tankless water heater at least once a year, or more often if you notice any signs of mineral buildup, such as:
- Reduced hot water flow or pressure
- Fluctuating or inconsistent water temperature
- Strange noises or smells from your tankless water heater
- Higher energy bills
You can also install a pre-filter or a water softener to reduce the amount of sediment and minerals that enter your tankless water heater.
How Do You Flush a Tankless Water Heater?
Flushing a tankless water heater isn’t a difficult task, but it does require some equipment and safety precautions. You’ll need:
- A submersible pump
- A bucket
- Two hoses
- A pair of pliers
- A screwdriver
- A vinegar solution (about 2 gallons of white vinegar mixed with 4 gallons of water)
To flush your tankless water heater, follow these steps:
- Turn off the power and gas supply to your tankless water heater.
- Turn off the cold water supply valve and open a hot water faucet in your home to relieve the pressure in the system.
- Locate the service valves on your tankless water heater. They’re usually located at the bottom of the unit and have color-coded handles (blue for cold water and red for hot water).
- Attach one hose to the cold water service valve and place the other end in the bucket with the vinegar solution.
- Attach another hose to the hot water service valve and place the other end in an empty bucket or drain.
- Connect the submersible pump to an outlet and place it in the bucket with the vinegar solution.
- Open both service valves and turn on the pump. The vinegar solution will circulate through your tankless water heater for about an hour, dissolving any mineral deposits.
- After an hour, turn off the pump and close both service valves.
- Disconnect the hoses and drain any remaining vinegar solution from your tankless water heater.
- Turn on the cold water supply valve and flush out any vinegar residue by opening a hot water faucet in your home for about 10 minutes.
- Turn off the faucet and restore the power and gas supply to your tankless water heater.
It’s important to note that the flushing process may vary depending on the specific make and model of your tankless water heater, so it’s always best to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or hire a professional technician to do the job.
If you have any questions or concerns about flushing your tankless water heater, feel free to call on the experienced pros from Arnett’s Water Systems, the specialists San Diego residents trust for high-quality products and exceptional service at a reasonable price. Call one of our friendly team members today at (619) 223-1209 to learn how we can keep your tankless water heater working perfectly for you and your family.