Unraveling the Mysteries of Tankless Water Heaters: A Guide to Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Are you the proud owner of a tankless water heater in Red Deer, Alberta, reveling in the joy of endless hot water and lower energy bills? While these marvels of modern plumbing technology offer numerous advantages, they're not completely immune to the occasional hiccup. In this guide, we'll explore common tankless water heater issues and share valuable insights on maintenance to keep your system running smoothly.

1. Cold Showers: An Unwelcome Surprise

Picture this: you turn on the shower, expecting a cascade of warm water, but instead, you're greeted with an icy blast. What could be the culprit? A sudden lack of hot water could indicate issues with the heater's heating elements, venting, ignition, water flow, or even a malfunctioning thermostat.

Solution: Begin your water heater troubleshooting by checking for any error codes on your unit's display. This can often help you locate the source of the problem. If you're unable to identify the issue, it's time to call in the professionals. Regular maintenance by a licensed plumber can prevent such surprises and ensure your tankless water heater stays in top-notch condition.

2. Mineral Buildup: The Silent Saboteur

Hard water is the nemesis of tankless water heaters, leaving behind mineral deposits inside the heat exchanger that can reduce efficiency and lead to issues. Red Deer and Central Alberta water is especially notorious for it's high hardness levels. Over time, this buildup can impede water flow, resulting in restricted hot water flow rates, decreased heating capacity, and higher energy bills.

Solution: Get your water tested. If your water is on the hard side, (which it probably is) invest in a water softener to minimize mineral deposits in your water heater. Also, regular descaling of the heat exchanger is crucial to remove existing buildup. This can be a DIY task, but it's advisable to consult your unit's manual or seek professional assistance for a thorough cleaning. If you do opt for a water softener system, this will decrease the frequency necessary for heat exchanger flushes, while also protecting your entire system. Over time, this upgrade will pay for itself.

3. Intermittent Hot Water: You're Hot Then You're Cold

Tankless water heaters have one unfortunate flaw in their design. Since they only run when they sense water flow, this can sometimes lead to what is referred to in the industry as the "cold water sandwich." If hot water comes on, then off, then on again, so will the burner. It takes a couple of seconds for the burner to reignite, so there will be a small amount of cold water that will sneak through without being heated fully. This will be felt as a short blast of cooler water.

This is the most common cause of intermittent hot water in on-demand water heaters. Of course, another potential cause is a failure of an essential component inside the unit. Since the burner only comes on when it detects adequate flow, a malfunctioning flow sensor or pressure sensor could also be the culprit.

Solution: If the cold water sandwich appears to be your issue, try to avoid rapidly cycling the hot water on and off. You can also have a small additional storage tank installed into your hot water system after the tankless unit. This will dilute the cold water sandwich enough to be noticeable no longer. However, if your water temperature is continually fluctuating, then you may need professional help.

4. Hot Water Takes Longer: So Much for On-Demand

If you've recently upgraded from a traditional hot water tank to a tankless water heater, it is normal to notice a slight increase in the amount of time it takes hot water to reach your taps. Water must pass through the entire heat exchanger to reach full temperature, adding another few feet extra to your hot water system. Many of the newer tankless models have addressed this issue by including a pre-heat option to reduce this wait time.

Solution: Check the user manual of your on demand water heater for a pre-heat option. Additionally, the installation of a recirculation line can greatly reduce your hot water lead times. Consult with a plumbing professional to see if a recirculation loop is the right option for you.

Tankless Water Heater Maintenance Checklist: Ensuring Years of Endless Hot Water

Regular maintenance is key to the longevity and efficiency of your tankless water heater. Follow this comprehensive checklist to keep your system running smoothly and enjoy a continuous supply of hot water.

1. Monthly Tasks: Quick Checks for Optimal Performance

• Check for Leaks: Inspect all connections and valves for any signs of leaks. Address even minor leaks promptly to prevent water damage.

• Monitor Water Temperature: Confirm that the water temperature is consistent with your settings. A simple meat probe can give a sufficiently accurate measurement. Sudden fluctuations may indicate an issue with the heating elements or thermostat.

• Clear Debris from Air Intake and Exhaust: Ensure the air intake and exhaust vents outside are free from debris, dust, snow, ice, or obstructions. This helps maintain proper combustion and ventilation.

2. Quarterly Tasks: Keeping Things Flowing Smoothly

• Check for Error Codes: Familiarize yourself with your unit's display panel and address any error codes promptly. Refer to the manufacturer's manual for guidance on troubleshooting.

• Inspect the Pressure Relief Valve: Test the pressure relief valve by lifting the lever and allowing some water to discharge. Ensure it operates smoothly and reseals tightly.

• Examine the Condensate Drain: If your unit has a condensate drain, inspect it for any blockages. A clear condensate drain prevents potential issues with the exhaust system.

3. Biannual Tasks: Going a Step Further for Efficiency

• Descale the Heat Exchanger: Depending on your water hardness, descale the heat exchanger every six months to a year to prevent mineral buildup. Use a descaling solution recommended by the manufacturer.

• Check Gas Connections: Inspect gas connections for leaks. If you detect any gas odor or suspect a leak, shut off the gas supply immediately and contact a professional.

4. Annual Tasks: Professional Inspection for Peace of Mind

• Schedule a Professional Inspection: Arrange for an annual inspection by a licensed plumber or qualified technician. They can identify potential issues, check gas combustion efficiency, check the ignition assembly, and ensure all components are functioning correctly.

• Evaluate Water Quality: Assess the quality of your water supply. If you have hard water, consider installing a water softener to reduce mineral deposits in the system.

• Review Venting System: Inspect the venting system for any signs of blockages or damage. Proper ventilation is crucial for the safe operation of your tankless water heater.

By following this maintenance checklist, you'll not only maximize the efficiency of your tankless water heater but also extend its lifespan. Regular attention to these tasks ensures that you can continue to enjoy the benefits of on-demand hot water without interruption.

Visit our website at www.otterguys.ca or give us a call at 403-872-6378.