Introduction: How to Flush a Tankless Water Heater and Clean the Air Intake Filter
- Water heaters that do not have tanks will accumulate calcium and debris on the heating elements and filters within the machine.
- It’s recommended to do a flush with food-grade, white vinegar at least once every 12 to 18 months.
- The performance and life of your water heater will be extended if you do this straightforward maintenance.
This is also a good time to remove and clean the air filter inside the tankless water heater while you’re doing your regular cleaning.If you are using a Navien tankless water heater, this instructable will show you how to flush it.However, this procedure can be applied to any tankless water heater so long as you can locate the corresponding components on your machine.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
You will need the following items to complete this task:- A five (5) gallon bucket- Two (2) stainless steel washing machine hoses- A submersible pump – Four (4) liters of white vinegar of food-grade quality. It’s the same product you’d get at any grocery shop. I made the decision to purchase mine from Amazon. At the time, this kit cost around $150. 2: Identify and locate the shutoff valves.
- You should note that the knobs under your tankless water heater are color coded for your convenience.
- These levers are responsible for turning off the water and gas to your tankless water heater.
- If the levers are parallel to the pipe, it implies it is turned on, and if they are perpendicular, it means it is turned off.
Make sure they are all perpendicular to the pipes before turning them on.As a result, the gas (yellow handle on the right side linked to the silver pipes), the central yellow handle, the cold water input (blue), and the hot water outflow will all be turned off (red).During this time, you can also unplug your unit from the power outlet if necessary.
Step 3: Unscrew the Cold Water Service Valve
- A service valve is located just above the red and blue levers.
- The service valve can now be opened once the levers have been rotated such that they are perpendicular to the pipe and the water has been turned off to the tankless hot water heater.
- But first, gather your stuff and get ready to start.
Please keep in mind that there is an external pump that is hooked to the wall near the ground level.The electronic components of the gadget are visible via the vents located at the top of the device.You should make every effort to avoid getting any water on this gadget in order to avoid short-circuiting.Make sure you have a bucket ready to capture any excess water that may come out of the faucet.
It will not explode out, but will instead trickle out in a slow, steady stream.Even though it is a small amount, you do not want it on your garage floor.One thing you may do is prepare one of the hoses that comes with the kit by connecting it to a water source.Make sure one end of the hose is inserted into the bucket so that when you remove the service valve cap, you may try to plug it into the opening fast and divert part of the water into the bucket.
Once you are finished with the cold water side, you may go on to the hot water side.Our water heater is only set to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which I believe to be the case.Make sure you don’t burn yourself while reading this.The water that comes out of the hot water service valve should not be too hot if you have been taking hot showers, using the dishwasher, and running the washing machine just before doing this.The temperature of the water flowing out of the service valve on the hot side of your tankless water heater will vary depending on how long it has been idle.If the water is hot, you may want to unscrew the service valve carefully so that you don’t burn yourself while doing so.
What I did was prepare my bucket and hose in the same manner as I would for the cold water valve, and I carefully unscrewed the hot water service valve until it just started to leak water again.It occurred to me at that point that the water was not hot, but rather warm, so I completed unscrewing the service valve, plugged in the hose, and allowed the water to drain into a pail.Take note that the hot water side of the faucet releases water considerably more quickly and in greater quantities than the cold water side.
Step 4: Setup Your Vinegar and Pump
- The hoses you used to connect to the service valves in the previous step should be ready to use for this step by now assuming you did so in the previous step.
- Make sure you empty your 5-gallon bucket of any water that has accumulated in it from the service valves.
- Approximately 4 gallons of food-grade white vinegar should be added to the bucket.
I purchased a generic brand from Safeway, and the total cost for four gallons was $16.Attach the line that connects to the cold water (blue) service valve to the sump pump’s top outlet.Make certain that all connections are made securely.Do not connect the pump at this time.
Before plugging the pump into the wall, fill the tank with vinegar and set it aside.Because there is no on/off button, it will automatically turn on as soon as you connect it into a wall outlet.Again, before connecting the sump pump to the power outlet, double-check that the hose leading to the hot water service valve is firmly linked and that the other end of the hose is securely inserted into the bucket containing the sump pump.It is not necessary to screw it into the pump; instead, it should be put loosely in the vinegar bucket.
You’re ready to get started now that the hoses have been connected and the pump has been submerged in the vinegar.Connect the pump to the electrical outlet as soon as possible.As soon as the vinegar enters via the cold water service valve (blue) and exits through the hot water service valve (red), it will begin to circulate back into the same vinegar bucket.At the very least, you’ll keep it like way for at least 60 to 90 minutes.The handbook says 45 minutes, but I assumed because it had been so long, I’d simply leave it on for a little longer.
Step 5: Cleaning the Air Intake Filter
- Additionally, while the vinegar is being circulated, you should wipe out the air intake filter.
- If you’ve been noticing an error message on your screen that says ″027,″ you’re not alone.
- This indicates that you should clean the air intake filter.
The tankless water heater’s air intake filter is situated within the tankless water heater.Don’t worry, it’s not difficult to get to, but you must first remove the tankless water heater face plate before you can get to it.A total of four screws hold it all together.Two on the top and two on the bottom.
It is necessary to first remove all of the screws from the face plate before lifting upwards and releasing the hook that connects the top of the face plate to the top of the tankless water heater frame.The innards of the water heater will be exposed as a result of this.Then you’ll want to look for the single screw that holds the air intake filter in place.The air intake filter can clearly be seen in the photographs, as I am pointing it out.
As soon as you have unscrewed the one screw that holds the air filter, pull the whole thing slightly towards you and then slant it slightly so that it will slide over the motor, and you have successfully removed the air filter.You can see how this works in the sequence of photographs I shot.Afterwards, I just strolled over to my water spout outside my garage and ran it on full blast, thoroughly rinsing the filter.After that, I dried it as much as I could with paper towels before reinstalling the filter in the same manner that I had removed it.Replacing the tankless water heater face plate and allowing the pump to continue to operate for the remaining 60-90 minutes is recommended.It is not necessary to plug the tankless water heater into an electrical outlet until after you have completed the flushing procedure.
Step 6: Rinse Your Tanless Water Heater After the Vinegar Treatment
- Now that the vinegar has been pumped through the tankless water heater for 60-90 minutes, it’s time to rinse the vinegar out of the tankless water heater.
- Remove the sump pump from the wall outlet by unplugging it and lifting it out.
- Allow it to drip into a vinegar bucket and save it aside for later usage.
I made the decision to put the vinegar into the toilet rather than on the grass or plants in order to prevent hurting the plants or grass.Now that you have a bucket that is empty, place the bucket back beneath the tankless water heater to keep it there.Only the cold water (blue) side of the hose should be unscrewed.Replace the service valve cap with a screwdriver and tighten it.
Keep the hot water hose connected for now.Allow around 4-5 litres of water to flow through the tankless water heater and out the hot water line into a bucket by releasing the lever controlling the cold water intake.Make careful to turn off the cold water valve after that.After everything has been completed, it is necessary to inspect the water filters.
In the photograph, I’m directing my attention to both of them.These may be unscrewed with just your fingers if necessary.There may be some water that comes out of them, which is why you should have the hose that you used for the cold water (blue) side of the faucet nearby so that you may divert the water back into the bucket as necessary.After removing the filters, make sure to thoroughly check the area for debris.Reinstall the filters by thoroughly rinsing them with water and screwing them back in.
Step 7: Reattach Everything and Turn It on – Moment of Truth
- Following the complete descalement and cleaning of your tankless water heater’s air intake filter, it is time to reassemble everything.
- Before opening any valves, double-check that all service caps are securely fastened.
- After you’ve made certain that everything is properly sealed, you may begin opening valves.
I’d start with the cold water valve and work my way up from there.You’ll hear the sound of water streaming inside your body.After that, turn on the hot water faucet.After that, the gas and central circulation valves are opened (yellow).
Connect the tankless water heater at this point.As soon as the display turns on and the machine begins to cycle, you may observe various symbols on the screen.That’s all there is to it.I hope everything goes as well for you as it did for me.
Please let me know if you have any queries or if there is anything I can clarify.
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Does Your Tankless Water Heater Need a Filter?
- Please keep in mind that this content may contain affiliate links.
- This means that, at no additional cost to you, we may gain a small profit on purchases made via our links.
- However, while some newer models include built-in filters, most do not provide much or any protection against entering particles.
As a result, it is highly recommended that you purchase an inline filter for your tankless heater.
Benefits of an Inline Filter
Although you may not be aware of it, there are a variety of benefits to installing a filter in your tankless water heater system. This is due to the fact that tank heaters are accidentally dealing with incoming water problems.
Hard Water
- Hard water is a result of an overabundance of dissolved minerals in the water’s composition.
- Calcium, lime, and magnesium are the minerals that are most typically found in soil.
- It has the potential to irritate sensitive skin and create stains on freshly washed dishes.
Although there is an ongoing dispute about whether drinking hard water is harmful to your health, there is no doubt that it is destructive to your water supply.Hard water is also bad for the environment.Even a cursory examination of a blocked shower head might reveal the consequences.
Scale
- It is possible for scale to build up in almost every appliance or amenity in your house that has anything to do with flowing water to malfunction.
- Scale is the building of lime or calcium in a water heater, and even a tiny quantity can have a significant impact on the efficiency of the unit.
- A good tankless water heater filter can assist in regulating the amount of lime that enters the system.
While regular maintenance will still be required, the efficiency and lifetime of your heater will both benefit considerably from the cleaner water that is being fed into the system.For further information, see How to Descale a Tankless Water Heater.
Sediment
- This is the muck that, over time, may cause a water heater to fail.
- When using city water, sediment will accumulate, but well water has a far higher concentration of sediment.
- Hot water tanks automatically filter away this material, which might appear as a sandy substance in the bottom of the tank due to the weight of the water.
This is due to the basic law of gravity.Unfortunately, because tankless heaters do not store water, silt is pulled through the system as the water is drawn.This can result in a variety of issues, including harder water, heater damage, and the possibility of blockages in your drains.While drinking turbid water from the tap is usually innocuous, drinking water with sediment is definitely not a good idea.
Filter Installation and Maintenance
- The most important thing you can do to safeguard your tankless heater is to install a filter in the system.
- While the procedure isn’t difficult, it will cost you money up front, but it will more than pay for itself over time by lowering the amount of damage your heater will sustain.
- Some difficulties may still arise, but they may be resolved as part of routine preventative maintenance.
You should also keep in mind that you will still need to cleanse your tankless heater on a regular basis.
Choosing a Good Filter
- There are a few different filter choices available, and you should choose one that is effective in removing silt.
- Cartridge-style filters are the most effective, but you must make sure that filter replacement is a regular part of your maintenance schedule.
- Several sizes of inline filters are available for installation just before a tankless water heater, while whole house water filters are designed to remove sediment from the water as it enters the home.
Based on the rejection ratio, filters are assigned one of three grades.
- Absolute filters provide the finest filtering of the three types of filters and are recommended for use in households where the risk of germs is the greatest.
- For their part, nominal filters guarantee that the biggest particles are eliminated, and they have an efficiency of at least 85 percent. It is important to note that the micron number of these filters denotes the smallest particle size that will be filtered out
- Beta Ratio filters need meticulous preparation and are hence not recommended.
There are also three different forms of filtering.
- Depth filters employ cartridges that must be replaced after a period of time, although they are capable of capturing a wide variety of particle sizes.
- For their part, surface filters are made up of reusable filters that employ a pleated design to cover a larger area than depth filters, making them more suitable in many situations.
- Absorptive filters are a more recent form of the other two types of filters that can also trap negatively charged particles and bacteria that are smaller than the micron rating of the filter
- nevertheless, they are less effective than the other two types of filters.
How to Install a Whole House Filter
We strongly advise purchasing a whole-house filter, which will also filter cold water, as soon as possible. These are often built against the side of the house around the point where the cold water line enters the home. Before you begin, double-check that the water supply has been turned off at the meter.
- Glue a plywood panel to the wall at the filter’s entry point and attach the filter’s mounting bracket to it using hex head screws.
- Wrap the threads of the outlet fitting with teflon tape and fasten it to the filter’s outlet side with a screw driver. Add an adaptor to the intake side of the system.
- Using a pipe wrench and pliers, tighten a threaded fitting into the adapter until it is completely tight.
- Cutting the cold water pipes using a hacksaw and cleaning the edges with an emery cloth will save time and money.
- Attach your filter housing to the wall mount using a screwdriver.
- Apply pressure to the solderless coupling at the other end of the water pipe and the valve assembly at the other end of the water pipe. This should be connected to the input side of your filter.
- Attach the second valve assembly to the outlet side of the first, and double-check that both valves are in the ″off″ position before continuing.
- To confirm that the connection is grounded, attach a bare copper grounding wire between the home side of the filter and its water meter side. Then power on the entire device and check for leaks.
Additional information may be accessed by clicking here.
How to Clean a Tankless Water Heater [A Complete Guide]
- Tankless water heaters require less maintenance than storage systems on average, although they do require regular maintenance, such as cleaning.
- Because the hardness of the water determines how long it will take to maintain the system, there is no defined time range.
- Because mineral deposits accumulate more quickly in hard water locations than in soft water areas, systems in hard water areas will require cleaning more frequently than systems in soft water areas.
When using a tankless system, this often takes longer since it drives minerals through the system rather than allowing them to build up at the bottom of a tank.In most cases, when it comes to tankless water heaters, an alarm will sound when maintenance is required.
How to Clean a Tankless Water Heater
- The first step is to turn off the power source. If the tankless water heater is powered by gas, then turn off the gas supply to the unit. If the problem is electric, shut down the circuit breaker. Make a list of all of the materials that will be required. You will require the following materials: 5 gallon bucket
- 2 stainless steel washing machine hoses
- submersible pump
- 4 gallon bucket of white vinegar (food grade)
- a pair of rubber gloves
- If you don’t already have these goods, you can purchase them as part of a kit.
- Step two: Turn off the water valves on the three water lines.
- Three types of valves are used: one for cold water entering the system (typically blue), one for hot water exiting the system (usually red), and one for water delivery to the residence (usually yellow).
Depending on the manufacturer and type of your tankless water heater, they might be either handles or knobs.Assuming they are handles, the water is switched on when the handles come into contact with the pipe.When they are perpendicular to the pipe, the water is shut off automatically.Ensure that you have unplugged the unit from the wall socket if you haven’t already.
The third step is to remove the purge port valve lids from the purge valves on both the hot and cold water lines.Because they have small handles, it is important to move them cautiously in order to alleviate any pressure that has built up and to minimize any hot water spilling.It is necessary to handle the caps with care in order to ensure that the rubber washer sealing discs remain in place.To guide the water into the bucket, step four involves connecting the housing lines to the valves.
When connecting the hose to the hot water, use extreme caution to avoid burning yourself.Allowing the water to flow into the bucket requires opening the purge apertures.In order to test the temperature of the hot water before opening it totally, open the hot water side slightly and allow it to drip out before fully opening it.When the water has completed draining, leave the hoses in place and remove the water bucket from the sink.Approximately four gallons of food-grade white vinegar should be added to the bucket.Vinegar is a non-chemical cleaning solution that works well.
Chemicals or other vinegars should not be used to clean the water system since they can be harmful to your health as well as the health of the water system itself.As soon as the bucket is full with vinegar, link the ends of the hoses to the submersible pump and submerge it in the vinegar before plugging it in or turning it on.When you turn it on, it will begin to circulate the vinegar through the system immediately.
- Allow it to run for anything between forty-five and ninety minutes.
- Step Six: While the vinegar is being pumped through the pump, remove the face plate of the heater and the air filter from the heater.
- Replace it after rinsing it well and drying it.
- Reinstall the faceplate by screwing it in place.
- When the vinegar has completed pumping, disconnect the pump and carefully get it out of the bucket of vinegar.
- Step Eight: Remove the vinegar from the bucket and place it beneath the water heater.
Afterward, reconnect the hose to the cold water side of the faucet and put the top back on.Open the water valve and let 4 to 5 litres of water to circulate through the system before closing it.Close the valve as soon as possible.Remove the water filters from their mounting brackets and thoroughly rinse them before reinstalling them.Step Eight: Reattach the caps and secure everything in its proper place.Once everything is properly secured, switch on the cold water valve and listen for the sound of running water.
Install the hot water heater, then the gas and central circulation valves, and then complete the installation.After that, you may reconnect the system and continue using it as usual.
Conclusion:
- These processes may differ somewhat from one manufacturer to another or from one model to another.
- Make sure you read the owner’s manual for your exact make and model before you start.
- Some models come with cleaning hoses, whilst others may not be equipped with them.
You can get a tankless water heater cleaning kit if you feel the need to do so.On the internet or at select places, you may get food-grade white vinegar in quantity.It is not recommended to use any other type of vinegar because it might damage or stain the system, and it is also not recommended to use chemicals since they can linger in the water and be harmful to your health.
Warning
- Never clean your tankless water heater without first shutting down the electricity and gas to the unit.
- If your tankless water heater is linked to more than one power source, unplug them all and check with a non-contact electrical tester to make sure everything is working properly.
- We strongly advise you to review and adhere to the particular cleaning instructions for your machine, which are available on the manufacturer’s website.
Any mistreatment might result in damage that necessitates the need for servicing or repair.Hi, Hello, my name is Luis.″TheHeatersGuide″ is written by an author.I am a Mechanical Engineering graduate with a bachelor’s degree.
At the moment, I’m investigating heating technologies.However, I have learnt many different house heating approaches and am still learning about home heating technology today.And I like disseminating the results of my study and reviews.
How to Clean Your Tankless Water Heater Filter
It is recommended that you clean the filter on your tankless water heater once every six months in order to keep it in good working order. This periodic maintenance is simple and only requires a few minutes of your time. To understand how to clean your tankless water heater filter, simply watch our instructional video above or continue reading this article.
Step One: Turn Off the Power to Your Tankless Heater
Remove the device from the power source before you begin working. It is customary for the switch to be situated just below and slightly to the right of the water heater.
Step Two: Remove Lower Panel and Shut Off Cold Water Going In
To remove the lower panel, first remove the fastening screw from it, and then carefully remove the panel. You do not enter the upper panel, which should only be accessed by those who have received specialized training. There will be a total of two valves. Lifting the handle on the cold water faucet will first turn off the water supply.
Step Three: Close The Hot Water Valve And Flush Out Any Water Remaining in the System
- Depending on the model of your tankless water heater, your flush valves may appear a bit different than the ones shown in the illustration.
- The next valve to turn off is the one that controls the hot water that comes out of the device.
- It is likely that there will still be some water trapped inside the system after you have lifted this valve to turn off the water.
The valve that is attached to the drainpipe should be located.The pressure release line is located here.Release the pressure on this valve, and a tiny amount of water should flow.
Step Four: Remove The Filter
- If your tankless water heater is manufactured by Noritz, the filter will be positioned on the side of the unit, between the flush valves.
- If you live in an older Granville house, you may instead have a tankless water heater from the Rinnai brand, and the filter will be situated in the center of the heater.
- Once you have identified the filter, unscrew the filter plug, removing both the plug and the filter, and then sliding the filter off the plug to remove it.
Step Five: Remove Debris From The Filter
Remove any dirt that may have accumulated inside the filter with a cloth, tiny brush, or a crevice tool. Using water to rinse the filter can also aid in the removal of particles.
Step Six: Reinstall The Filter
Once everything has been thoroughly cleaned, reattach it to the plug and reapply the plug and filter. It is important not to overtighten the plug while reinstalling it; you only want it to be hand tight.
Step Seven: Turn it All Back On
- Close the pressure relief line that you opened earlier to allow the remaining water in the system to escape.
- Once the filter plug has been reinstalled, the system should be completely dry.
- After that, turn on your hot water line and then turn on your cold water line.
Close the panel and re-energize the system, and you’ll be good to go again.Maintenance should be performed every six months or as needed.
Easy Home Maintenance
Do you require assistance? Home upkeep does not have to be a difficult task! Check out our collection of How-To Videos on Home Maintenance to understand the fundamentals of taking care of your Granville residence. Watch How-To Videos for more information.
Single Element Sediment Filter
- What is the size of the fittings that this filter makes use of? On both sides of the single-element sediment filter, 3/4″ female connectors are provided. When connecting your filter to either PVC or copper, we recommend that you use shark bite fittings.
- How frequently should I update the filter on my computer? The frequency with which you change your filter may be determined by a number of factors, including the quality of your incoming water and the frequency with which you use water. We recommend that you replace your filter every 6 months on average. If, after 6 months, you realize that your filter is really unclean, you may want to consider changing your filters more frequently. If you observe that your filter is still clean at the end of the six-month period, you may elect to extend the interval between filter changes.
- We have an older Takugi TK-2 with a maximum speed of 6.9 GPM.
- It is necessary to replace the sediment filter’s housing in its whole.
- Is this something that will work, and is the GPM sufficient?
- We were approached by a plumber who attempted to convince us to purchase the WI-HP-Secure-1.5, which I believe is overkill:
- Our filter is capable of handling up to 15 gpm at 100 PSI.
- Is it possible to install this outside? I’m in the process of constructing an outside tankless unit. I reside in Southern California, where the temperature seldom drops below freezing. Yes, it is correct.
- Is it equipped with a mounting bracket? Yes, the housing, mounting bracket, cartridge, and wrench are all included.
- How to do a filter change Please call our customer care department from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Upon request, they will send you precise instructions on how to quickly and easily alter your filter. 305-823-6991. Thank you for contacting us with your inquiry. It is a pleasure to be of service to you.
Tankless Water Heater Maintenance
- Tankless hot water heaters are ideal for consumers who wish to save on energy costs while still having access to hot water on demand.
- The fact that they are small in size means that they are soon becoming the most popular choice for water heaters in both residential and commercial settings.
- If you have a tankless hot water heater, it is critical that you do regular water heater maintenance on it.
Maintaining your water heater on a regular basis might extend its lifespan to more than twenty years.It is recommended that you have your hot water heater serviced at least once a year to avoid any problems.Tankless Hot Water Heater Maintenance should be performed twice a year if you live in a region with hard water or if you have the water temperature set to a high setting on your tankless water heater.The heater’s components will function more efficiently if all of the components are properly maintained.
Several tasks will need to be completed as part of the routine maintenance.
Flushing the System
- At the very least, the hot water heater should be cleansed once a year.
- Minerals accumulate within the water heater throughout the course of the year.
- If you have a hard water source, the scale may accumulate more quickly.
Mineral buildups in your unit’s heat exchanger might cause it to malfunction.Because of the potential failure of the tank’s efficiency, you may find yourself with an increased energy cost each month.By failing to clean your tankless hot water heater on a regular basis, you might significantly reduce its life expectancy.Unfortunately, damage caused by mineral build-up will not be covered by your warranty policy.
Flushing will eliminate all of the mineral build-up that has accumulated.Creating a vinegar water mixture, as well as having two lengths of hose and a sump pump, will allow you to flush the tank effectively.Make sure you switch off the electricity to your hot water heater completely.Turn off the water supply to the pump and then connect the hoses to the pump.
Using the sump pump, you will be able to force the vinegar water into the heater, which will save time.After you have cleansed the machine with the vinegar water, you will want to flush it with plain water to remove the vinegar smell.You can find detailed instructions on how to do this in your hot water heater’s user manual, or you can purchase a descaling package that includes the necessary instructions.If this sounds like an overwhelming process, or if you are concerned that you could make a mistake, you should hire a skilled plumber to do Tankless Water Heater Maintenance.They will be able to cleanse the system and examine the water heater to verify that there is nothing wrong with it before completing the repair.
Cleaning the Air Filter
- An air filter is installed in your tankless water heater, and it will need to be cleaned on a regular basis.
- Remove the filter from the water heater and clean it well.
- After that, you’ll want to scrub it down with a soft brush and a soap and water solution to clean it.
Make certain that it is well cleaned in order to maintain optimal ventilation.After thoroughly rinsing it, allow it to dry fully before reinstalling it in the water heater.
Cleaning the Water Filter
- It is critical that you do not overlook the water filter while doing water heater maintenance on your unit.
- The majority of tankless water heaters are equipped with a screen that helps to collect any silt that may enter the system.
- You will need to remove these particles from your water heater on a regular basis in order to keep it operating at optimal performance.
If sediment builds up in your hot water heater, it can significantly impair its ability to perform properly.The hot water heater’s water supply must be shut down before you can remove the filter from the system.Remove the filter and thoroughly clean it.It is possible to clean it with warm soapy water or by wiping it down with a towel If you are unable to locate your water filter, consult your user handbook to identify where it is located.
Cleaning the Tank
- Occasionally wiping down the outside of the tank is advisable to ensure that no dust or dirt accumulates on it.
- Make sure to turn off the electricity and water supplies before you begin.
- Using a damp cloth, wipe off the tank and the surrounding area.
It is possible for a buildup of dust and debris to get inside the water heater, which can create problems.Tankless Water Heater Maintenance should be performed on a regular basis to guarantee that your unit is operating as it should.When performing heater maintenance, make sure to inspect all of the other components of the heater.Make sure that the heating elements, valves, and pipelines are in good condition and that they are operating properly.
Look for any leaks, corrosion, or anything else that appears to be wrong.If you notice anything that is incorrect, please report it so that it can be corrected as quickly as possible.The longer you let a problem to fester, the worse it can develop and the more expensive it can become.Whether you are experiencing problems with your tankless hot water heater or you want to hire someone to perform all of your water heater maintenance, contact the Original Plumber right now.
Tankless hot water heaters are their specialty, and they have years of expertise with them.They can ensure that yours performs well and lasts for twenty or more years.
How Often Do Tankless Water Heaters Need Maintenance?
It is recommended that tankless water heaters are serviced by a professional at least once a year. However, if you have a water heater that leaks, you may need to have it repaired twice a year.
- The water in the region where you reside is hard.
- The temperature of your water heater is set at a high setting
The reasons for tankless water heater maintenance will be discussed in greater depth later, but for now, just know that they are important. But first, let’s take a short look at how tankless water heaters function in general.
How tankless water heaters work
- Tankless water heaters do not have a storage tank to store water.
- It is instead the case that they heat the water as it enters your home through the cold water line.
- Consequently, when you turn on your hot water faucet, you are effectively activating the tankless water heater.
In contrast to traditional water heaters, tankless water heaters heat water by the use of heating components, which are also known as a heat exchanger.The heat exchanger is fueled by either natural gas (which is the most popular) or electricity.Having provided a quick description of how tankless water heaters operate, let us now look at why they require maintenance…
Why tankless water heaters need maintenance
- Tankless water heaters have a lifespan of 20 years or more, but only if they are maintained properly.
- Unfortunately, as compared to traditional tank water heaters, tankless water heaters are sometimes misrepresented as ″low-maintenance″ technologies.
- However, this is not the case.
When it comes to how much maintenance each unit requires, there isn’t much of a difference between the two units.The reason behind this is as follows: Both types of water heaters are affected by hard water.Hard water refers to water that has a high concentration of minerals, usually calcium and magnesium, in your local location.In a tankless water heater, these minerals can accumulate within the heat exchanger, eventually clogging the passageways and preventing water from flowing through them properly.
As a result, your water heater is forced to work extra in order to heat your water.Over time, this will reduce the lifespan of your water heater and cause your energy expenses to rise (water heater has to work longer, using more energy to heat the water).Furthermore, this mineral deposit on the heat exchanger has the potential to cause irreversible damage, necessitating the replacement of the heat exchanger or the replacement of the complete unit.It is not covered under the manufacturer’s guarantee if this sort of damage occurs.
At the time of a regular maintenance visit, a professional will descale, also known as delime, your tankless water heater to ensure that there is no buildup of sediment around the heating components.At the very least, you should have your water heater descaled once a year by a professional.Nonetheless, there are two unique cases in which you may require maintenance more frequently than once a year:
You may need maintenance more than once a year IF…
1: The area you live in has really hard water
- There is some amount of mineral content in the water that enters your water heater, no matter where you live.
- However, in some parts of the country, the water is more difficult to drink (meaning it has more minerals in it).
- Your tankless water heater may require descalement twice a year if you live in a hard water area.
This will help prevent damage to the heat exchanger in your heater.Map of hard water in the United States.Source: Check the hard water map above to determine if your location has high or low amounts of hard water.Here in Phoenix, Arizona, the water is extremely hard.
To learn more about hard water, read our article, “Why Arizona’s Hard Water Secretly Makes Your Life Harder (And What You Can Do About It).”
2: Your tankless water heater is set to a high temperature
- If the temperature of your water heater is set too high, you run the risk of scale building, which is especially dangerous if you reside in an area with hard water.
- As you may be aware, heat has the ability to cause many substances to dissolve more quickly.
- As a result, the higher the temperature of your water heater, the faster limescale accumulates around the heating components.
So, here’s what you should do: Check the temperature setting on your tankless water heater’s thermostat to see what it is currently set at.Is the temperature on your thermostat higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit?After that, it’s time to call in a professional to do routine maintenance on your tankless water heater and remove mineral buildup from the heat exchanger.
Need to schedule your annual water heater maintenance?
Contact George Brazil Plumbing to arrange up a water heater maintenance appointment with one of our experienced technicians.
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4 Simple Tips for Tankless Water Heater Maintenance
- The technology of tankless water heaters is based on heated coils that heat water as it is required, rather than depending on a constant supply of water stored in a tank.
- The use of tankless water heaters is an excellent choice for busy families and small companies who want a consistent supply of hot water on demand while minimizing energy-related expenditures.
- Take a look at some of the most significant advantages of ditching the tank: They consume 40% less energy than standard tank water heaters and may survive for more than 20 years if properly maintained.
They are also small, adaptable, and energy-efficient in their design.Tankless water heaters, like all other plumbing fixtures and appliances, require routine maintenance to ensure maximum performance and efficiency over time.Owners of tankless water heaters are recommended to follow these four basic guidelines for maintaining their units.1) Flushing is a term used to describe the process of cleaning a surface.
By doing this easy maintenance task, you will be able to decrease mineral build-up in your water heater.Minerals will build in the tank’s heating chamber over time and begin to have a negative influence on the efficiency of the water heater, as well as harming the heat exchanger and shortening the heater’s overall lifespan.Flushing or descaling the tankless water heater on a regular basis will eliminate limescale build-up and help to avoid this problem in the future.If you intend to flush or descal the tankless water heater yourself, you will require a number of equipment, as well as the necessary time and knowledge, in order to thoroughly clear all of the deposited materials out of it.
Descaling kits are available for purchase on the internet, and the manufacturer’s handbook should provide full installation instructions.If you’d like to leave it to the professionals, a plumber can properly cleanse and descale the water heater in a short amount of time for you.2) Cleaning of the water filter The performance of the heater will be adversely affected if the water filter becomes clogged.It is critical to keep the in-line water filter clean in order to avoid this.Some water heaters are equipped with a screen that helps to catch debris, and these screens are simple to remove and clean.Then, cut off the water supply to the device, take out the filter, and wipe or rinse it clean under running water.
More information may be found in the owner’s handbook for your tankless water heater, or you can consult a local plumber for guidance on the best approach to clean the water filter in your tankless water heater.3) Cleaning of the air filter A clean air filter helps to ensure that air is properly circulated into the water heater.It is required to remove the air filter and clean it on a regular basis.
- After removing the air filter, completely cleaning it with soapy water and a soft-bristled brush before thoroughly washing it with clean water and drying it thoroughly before reinstalling it is recommended.
- Consult a professional if you are unclear of the location of your tankless water heater’s air filter or would want assistance cleaning it.
- 4) Check your water heater on a regular basis.
- While flushing the water heater and cleaning the filters will maintain it in excellent working order, it is still necessary to examine all of the pipes, heating components, and valves on a regular basis to ensure that they are in proper working order.
- Experts should be called in to repair or replace any damaged or broken parts as soon as possible.
- Tankless water heater maintenance should be left to the professionals.
Engaging the services of a professional plumber for tankless water heater maintenance can significantly improve its performance and ensure that the complete system remains damage-free and functional for a longer period of time.For water heater repair, replacement, or maintenance, Jones Excavating & Plumbing is the company to call.They provide excellent service.Every project will be completed correctly the first time by our team of pros at a reasonable fee.Call us now at 970-532-2620 for a free consultation, or use our online scheduling tool to arrange your tankless water heater maintenance appointment.
Tankless Water-Heater Maintenance
Plumbing
A little cleaning can help tankless water heaters perform like new.
Periodic maintenance is required for a tankless water heater to ensure that it continues to operate efficiently. Here are three jobs that are simple to complete.
Clean the air filter
- Remove the front cover after turning the item off and unplugging it.
- Locate and remove the air filter from the system.
- A clogged filter might cause performance to suffer, so give it a thorough cleaning.
If cleaning is required, use a soft-bristled brush and a moderate solution of dish soap and water to gently scrub the surface.Reinstall it after rinsing it well with clean water and drying it with a lint-free cloth.
Clean the in-line water filter
- The in-line water filter should be installed at the cold-water input.
- A blocked water filter might also have a negative impact on the heater’s effectiveness.
- Close the cold-water supply valve on the unit before removing the filter to ensure that the water supply to the unit is turned off.
Clean the filter by tapping it, running it under water, or cleaning it with a cotton swab to remove any dirt or debris from it.Replacing the filter as well as reopening the cold-water supply valve are recommended.
Flush the unit
Mineral deposits from hard water can also have a negative impact on the functioning of a tankless water heater. The process of removing these deposits is a little more time-consuming.
- Starting with the water heater, disconnecting it from the wall and closing the shutdown valves on both the hot and cold water lines
- In order to use the cold-water service valve, you must first connect a hose from the output of the circulation pump, and then connect the hot-water service valve.
- Empty a clean 5-gallon bucket and fill it with 4 gallons of undiluted food-grade white vinegar. Insert the drain hose from the hot-water service valve, along with the pump supply line (which should be attached to the pump’s outlet) into the vinegar
- Open the service valves on both the hot and cold water lines to allow the water to flow.
- In order for the vinegar to flow through the system at a rate of 4 gal. per minute, turn on the pump.
- After at least an hour, rinse the system with cold water to eliminate the vinegar and any loose minerals that may have accumulated.
- The free end of the drain line should be routed to a drain or outside the bucket.
- After you have closed the cold-water service valve and opened the cold-water supply valve, allow the water to run through the heater for five minutes.
- Closing the cold-water supply valve and cleaning the in-line water filter at the cold-water inlet on the heater to remove any loose deposits that were picked up during the operation should be done once this is completed.
- Cleaning the filter can be accomplished by tapping it, running it under water, or cleaning it with a cotton swab.
- Replace the filter after it has been cleaned.
- Close the hot-water service valve and then open both the cold-water and hot-water supply valves, as necessary.
- All of the hoses should be disconnected before re-plugging the device and turning it on.
Check your vehicle’s make and model for particular requirements before doing any of these or any other maintenance regimens. Sign up for Fine Homebuilding’s e-newsletters today to receive the newest how-to information as well as exclusive discounts. Connecting to an Existing Drain Line was the previous step. Working with Cast-Iron and Galvanized Pipe is the next step.
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Water Heater Maintenance – Clean The Filter
- The Filter Should Be Cleaned During Water Heater Maintenance Most property owners are familiar with the fundamentals of water heater maintenance, which include cleaning the tank twice a year, inspecting the anode rod, and doing additional checks as needed.
- Many property owners, on the other hand, are either unaware of or have forgotten about the air filter, which is often a black mesh ring that round the bottom of your water heater.
- This air filter will aid in the prevention of dust and other debris from entering the heating system of your heater.
However, dust will accumulate on this filter, reducing the air flow to your heater and, as a result, making your heater less effective because your heater requires air to ‘breathe,’ you will have a less efficient heater.Each time you flush your water heater’s tank, you should clean the filter in the tank.Cleaning your filter takes only a few minutes and does not necessitate the use of any special gear.Follow these simple steps to complete your project.
Turn off the gas and the pilot light.You don’t want any dust to be blown into your heater while you’re cleaning, so turn off the gas supply first.Remove the filtering system.The filter is held in place by a simple catching mechanism that is easy to use.
Locate the catch mechanism and undo it before removing it from the bottom of your heater.Clean To clean your filter, use compressed air to blast away any extra dust that has accumulated.Instead of using an air compressor, spread your filter out on the ground and sprinkle it with water until all of the dust is eliminated.Dry If you use water to clean your filter, hang it to dry or wipe it down with a clean towel when you are finished.Replace the filter in its original location.Once your filter is completely dry, reinstall it below your water filter by extending it around the bottom and then using the grip mechanism to keep it in position.
Check your filter from all angles to ensure that it is well seated and that there are no holes allowing dust to pass through.We are committed to upholding the word and spirit of United States policy in order to promote equal housing opportunities throughout the country.For further information, please see the Equal Housing Opportunity Statement.
Get the Neighborly App
- Additionally, you may take use of Neighborly’s other brands to maintain and improve your home in addition to the expertise of Real Property Management in terms of rental property management.
- You can get in touch with local home service experts by downloading the Neighborly App.
- Download the App and take advantage of exclusive discounts that are only accessible through the App.
Some of the services listed in this post may not be offered in your region, depending on the current health and safety standards in effect in your area.The most recent health and safety requirements supplied by the local and state governments shall be followed by neighborly service providers.You should verify with your local Neighborly service provider for specific information at the time you want service (s).
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Consult with the Real Property Management office in your area for an evaluation.
How to Flush a Tankless Water Heater
- As a rule of thumb, you should clean your tankless water heater once a year (or more frequently if you have hard water or bad water quality).
- Not only does this remove calcium and other hard water mineral buildups, but it also has the potential to boost the efficiency and durability of the system.
- Using this method, you will be able to correctly flush a tankless water heater in a short amount of time while maintaining safety standards.
Gather Plumbing Supplies
- For example, these are some of the items you will need to accomplish a tankless water heater flushing project: Tools: a screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, and needle nose pliers are all recommended.
- Hose: Approximately 6 feet of washing machine hose is required.
- Electrical Tester: A voltage tester that does not make contact with the circuit.
- You’ll need a submersible pump for this project.
- A 5-gallon container to collect any extra water is provided.
- Vinegar (four gallons): virgin, food-grade vinegar or commercial deliming solution
Preparing to Flush a Tankless Water Heater
- Turn off the gas feed to your tankless water heater if it is powered by gas. Disconnect electrical power from electric water heaters by turning off the appliance and turning off the circuit breaker for the circuit
- Make use of the non-contact electrical tester to ensure that there is no electrical current flowing into the device after opening the access panel
- Next, find the shut-off valves for the hot and cold water. These should be closed in order to prevent water from entering the water heater. A pressure relief valve is installed on the hot water supply pipe. Using caution, open it to release any pressure that has built up
- avoid contact with boiling water.
- You may now connect hoses to both the cold-water port and the hot-water port on the faucet. Place the submersible pump in the five-gallon bucket and fill it with water.
- Next, connect the cold-water line to the pump and insert the other end of the hot-water hose into the bucket to complete the installation. Fill the bucket halfway with the white vinegar that you’ve set aside earlier.
Flushing Your Tankless Water Heater
- When you’re ready to start flushing, open both the hot and cold water ports on the faucet, switch on the pump, and let the vinegar circulate for roughly an hour. It is necessary for any mineral scale in the copper lines to break down and for sediment to be cleaned away
- Remove the vinegar from the bucket and shut off the cold-water supply port to complete the task.
- Remove the hose and turn on the cold water shut-off valve to flush any residual vinegar out of the system.
- Allow it to run for approximately 10 minutes before shutting off the valve.
Once the water finishes draining:
- The second hose should be disconnected and closed, and then the cold-water input filter and, if your tankless water heater has one, the hot-water in-line filter should be removed.
- Using the sink, flush out the sediment.
- Replace the filters, reinstall the access panel, and reconnect the gas or electricity supply, depending on the unit
- reinstall the access panel.
Note: When you need to flush a tankless water heater that’s electric, you’ll also need to remove the heating elements.
To Remove Heating Elements:
- To do this, unscrew the screws that are holding the wires to them and spin the hexagonal brass top of the heating element in a counterclockwise direction to release it.
- When you have finished examining the heating components for damage, place them in the copper chambers and let them soak in vinegar for 90 minutes to two hours
- Afterward, drain the vinegar out of the system and reconnect the heating elements and cables
- Start by turning on a couple hot water faucets and letting them run for about five minutes to flush the system of vinegar and air pockets
- then switch off the water shut-off valves.
- Prior to removing/cleaning the cold-water input filter, turn off all faucets and shut off the cold-water supply valve.
- Replacing the filter, closing the access panel, and re-energizing the unit are all recommended.
Contact Home X Plumbing & Rooter
If you want assistance when flushing a tankless water heater, we are available to assist you. We’re also known for our water heater repair services in Anaheim and throughout Southern California. To make a service request, please contact us through the online or by phone at 714-515-7588.
How to Flush a Tankless Water Heater in 7 Simple Steps
- Have you noticed that your tankless water heater is no longer providing you with hot water?
- Did you notice a decrease in the amount of water that was flowing from your water heater as well?
- If you understand how to flush a tankless water heater, you can take care of these problems.
Hard water minerals can accumulate on the heating elements and other components of the water heater, lowering the efficiency with which the water is heated.Tankless water heater manufacturers recommend flushing and cleaning your tankless hot water heater at least once a year, which is why you should do so.Additionally, you may learn more about water heaters that are specifically built for hard water by visiting this page.This post will show you how to flush your tankless water heater and maintain it operating at peak performance.
Things You Need for This Tutorial
The process of flushing a tankless water heater is not difficult if you prepare the necessary supplies before beginning the real process. Here is a list of the supplies you will need to clean a tankless water heater:
Owner’s Manual
- When it comes to cleaning and flushing their equipment, tankless water heater manufacturers offer specific suggestions.
- They also have preferences when it comes to the cleaning solution that may be used on the water heating system.
- I recommend that you read the maintenance recommendations in your handbook before flushing the device.
Also included are the tools required for such an activity as well as the safety considerations that must be adhered to during the process.
Cleaning Solution
- When it comes to cleaning the tankless water heater, several manufacturers only advocate pure, undiluted, virgin, and food-grade white vinegar as a solution.
- This vinegar-based product eliminates mineral deposits and limescale accumulation without endangering the health of your family.
- Some tankless water heater manufacturers, on the other hand, advocate using a specialized cleaning for their products.
Because of this, it is always a good idea to consult the owner’s handbook for detailed instructions and suggestions.
Other Tools
- For a gas tankless water heater, you’ll need a big bucket, a submersible pump, and water hoses to connect the water heater’s service ports to your home’s plumbing system.
- The use of a screwdriver is also required for opening and shutting the access panel on the water heater.
- Additionally, a non-contact voltage detector will be useful in confirming that your water heater is entirely turned off before cleaning it.
Steps for Flushing a Tankless Water Heater
Step 1. Read the manual.
- The cleaning technique for tankless water heater systems differs from manufacturer to manufacturer.
- For example, Rinnai may have a different technique of cleaning its tankless water heaters than Rheem or other models, and this may differ from other brands.
- As a result, I always recommend consulting the owner’s handbook for precise cleaning recommendations pertaining to the device you wish to clean before beginning.
Step 2. Disconnect the tankless water heater from its power source.
- Contrary to popular belief, even a gas tankless water heater includes an electrical connection that powers the electronic components within the unit’s construction.
- Because of this, I recommend that you unplug the gadget from the electrical outlet.
- It would be better if the tankless water heater’s power source was disconnected from the circuit breaker panel before continuing.
This technique is for an electric tankless water heater, which you will be installing.Make sure the electrical current in your system is safe by opening the access panel and using a non-contact voltage tester to examine it.When it comes to determining whether or not voltage is present in a water heater, the Fluke 1AC-A1-II VoltAlert is a dependable instrument that homeowners may utilize.
Step 3. Close the gas valve, the water supply line, and drain the water.
- Locate and turn off the water shutoff valves on the tankless water heater if necessary.
- It is recommended that you close the shutdown valve on the main water supply line if your device does not have these measures.
- If you have a gas tankless water heater, I also recommend that you close the gas isolation valve on the water heater before turning off the water supply.
Open all of the faucets in order to drain the water from the supply line.In addition, I recommend that you carefully open the hot water pressure release mechanism in order to alleviate pressure from the system.
Step 4. Prepare the tankless water heater.
- If you have a gas tankless water heater, you may be able to skip this step.
- Remove the heating elements from the electric water heater by releasing the screws that hold the wires in place and unscrewing the hexagonal brass cap from the element.
- Cracks and other symptoms of deterioration should be looked for on the water heater components.
After you have cleaned your tankless water heater, you may replace the heating element with a new one.It is possible to clean the water heater components in the copper heating chamber if they are placed in the chamber.
Step 5. Set up the flushing system.
- The cold and hot water service ports on the tankless water heater should be located, and the flexible tubings should be connected to both.
- Get a huge bucket and put a submersible pump in the center of the bucket.
- Afterwards, connect the cold water line to the pump.
The free end of the hot water line should be placed in the container or bucket.Fill it with four gallons of a tankless water heater cleaner or four gallons of pure, food-grade, virgin white vinegar, if needed.Some water producers give suggestions for descalers or cleaners, although the majority do not.The majority of corporations, on the other hand, solely prescribe white vinegar.
Open the copper heating chamber and fill it with pure, food-grade virgin white vinegar before putting it back together.You may also use a tankless water heater descaling solution that