Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, have gained popularity due to their efficiency and convenience. Unlike traditional water heaters that store hot water, tankless water heaters heat water only when needed, which saves energy and reduces utility bills. However, maintaining these systems is crucial to ensure their longevity and optimal performance. One key aspect of maintenance is regular cleaning. Here’s why you should clean your tankless water heater.
By Conner Cunningham, Arrow Sales, Inc. Westfield, IN
1. Enhanced Efficiency and Performance
Over time, minerals like calcium and magnesium from your water supply can build up in the heater’s system, leading to scaling. This buildup can obstruct water flow and reduce the efficiency of the heat exchanger, causing the unit to work harder and consume more energy. Regular cleaning removes these deposits, ensuring that your water heater operates efficiently and maintains its performance.
2. Prolonged Lifespan
A well-maintained tankless water heater can last over 20 years. However, neglecting regular cleaning can significantly shorten its lifespan. Scale buildup and other residues can cause parts to wear out faster, leading to frequent repairs or even premature replacement. By regularly cleaning your unit, you help ensure it remains in good working condition for many years.
3. Improved Water Quality
When minerals accumulate in your tankless water heater, they can affect the quality of the water that flows through it. This can lead to cloudy or hard water, which may not be pleasant for bathing, cooking, or drinking. Regular cleaning helps maintain better water quality, ensuring you have clear and clean water.
4. Consistent Hot Water Supply
A dirty tankless water heater may struggle to deliver hot water consistently. You might experience fluctuations in water temperature or even a complete loss of hot water during peak usage times. Regular cleaning ensures that your water heater can consistently provide hot water when you need it.
5. Cost Savings
While tankless water heaters are generally more efficient than traditional models, a dirty unit can negate these savings. Increased energy consumption due to scale buildup means higher utility bills. Moreover, frequent breakdowns and repairs can add to your costs. By keeping your tankless water heater clean, you can save money on energy bills and avoid costly repairs.
6. Prevention of System Failure
Neglecting to clean your tankless water heater can lead to serious issues such as system failure. If the heat exchanger becomes too clogged with scale, the unit may overheat and shut down, leaving you without hot water. Regular cleaning helps prevent such failures, ensuring reliable operation.
How to Clean Your Tankless Water Heater
Cleaning your tankless water heater involves descaling the system to remove mineral buildup. This process typically includes:
1. Turning off the power and water supply to the heater.
2. Connecting a hose to the cold water inlet and another to the hot water outlet.
3. Using a descaling solution to flush the system, usually with the help of a submersible pump. A recommended descaling solution is Blue Monster® Velocity™ - Tankless Water-Heater Flush.
4. Rinsing the unit with clean water to remove any remaining solution.
For specific instructions, consult your unit’s manual or consider hiring a professional to ensure the job is done correctly.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning of your tankless water heater is essential for maintaining its efficiency, performance, and longevity. By preventing scale buildup and ensuring consistent hot water supply, you can enjoy the full benefits of your tankless water heater. Incorporate this simple maintenance task into your routine to save money, improve water quality, and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
