Annual Maintenance for Tankless Water Heaters: Importance and Benefits
Tankless water heaters, known for their energy efficiency and longevity, are a popular choice for homeowners. However, while these water heaters are generally low maintenance, they benefit from regular servicing to ensure optimal performance and a long lifespan. This article explores the importance of annual maintenance for tankless water heaters, especially in areas with hard water, and highlights the benefits of professional servicing.
The Importance of Regular Servicing
It is essential to understand that although tankless water heaters require less maintenance compared to traditional storage models, they still benefit from annual servicing. For areas with hard water, where calcium and magnesium deposits can accumulate and impact the heating process, regular maintenance is even more crucial. This service can help prevent efficiency loss, extend the lifespan of the unit, and identify potential issues before they escalate into major problems.
What Does Annual Maintenance Entail?
Annual maintenance for tankless water heaters typically includes a range of tasks designed to keep the system in optimal working condition. These tasks may include:
Descaling: This involves removing mineral buildup, which can insulate heat exchanger surfaces and reduce efficiency. Filter Cleaning: Regularly checking and cleaning filters can ensure they do not restrict water flow or affect efficiency. Electrical Component Inspection: Checking the electrical components ensures that the control system and heating elements are functioning correctly.These tasks are crucial for preventing inefficiencies and potential damage. For instance, calcium deposits can insulate the heat exchanger surfaces, leading to efficacy loss and potentially damaging the heat exchanger. While most of the time, the controller only sees leaving water temps below set-point and compensates by adding more fuel, knowing how hard your water is can make a significant difference in how often you need to service the tankless water heater.
Regional Differences in Maintenance Needs
Water hardness can vary widely depending on the region. In areas with hard water, such as a resort town with notoriously hard water from the municipal water authority, the need for regular servicing is more pronounced. This is because hard water can quickly insulate the heat exchanger surfaces, leading to inefficiencies and potential damage to the controller.
On the other hand, in regions with soft water, or private wells with nearly perfect water, the need for yearly cleaning might be minimal. However, even in such cases, it is still advisable to consult with a tankless water heater specialist to determine the appropriate maintenance schedule for your specific model.
A Real-Life Example
To illustrate the importance of regularly scheduled maintenance, consider a real-life example. Last year, a professional service was performed on an instantaneous open-flued gas water heater that had been in place for 22 years without any intervention beyond some surface cleanings and the removal of expired insects. The water heater was found to be in excellent condition, just as it was the day it was installed, demonstrating the effectiveness of regular maintenance.
Professional servicing not only enhances the longevity of your tankless water heater but also helps in identifying and addressing potential issues early on. This proactive approach can save you money by preventing costly repairs or replacements in the future.
If you're unsure about the maintenance needs of your specific tankless water heater, consulting with a tankless water heater specialist in Marietta can provide you with a tailored maintenance schedule and expert advice on keeping your system running smoothly. This ensures that your tankless water heater continues to provide reliable and efficient hot water for years to come.