Installing a tankless water heater is a big step toward enjoying energy efficiency, endless hot water, and lower utility bills. But installation is only half the journey—proper upkeep ensures your unit runs smoothly for years to come. Whether you’re a new owner or looking to improve performance, following the right tankless water heater maintenance practices is essential.
At Michigan HVACR, we’ve seen how regular care can extend the life of these systems, prevent costly repairs, and keep your hot water flowing without interruption. In this guide, we’ll share practical tankless water heater care tips every homeowner should know.
Why Tankless Water Heater Maintenance Matters
Tankless water heaters may last up to 20 years, but only if they’re properly maintained. Skipping care can lead to:
- Reduced energy efficiency
- Scale buildup inside the heat exchanger
- Inconsistent hot water supply
- Expensive breakdowns or early replacement
By learning how to maintain a tankless water heater, you’re not just protecting your investment—you’re also ensuring peace of mind every time you turn on the tap.
Tankless Water Heater Cleaning Guide
Cleaning is one of the most important tankless water heater maintenance tasks. Over time, minerals in hard water can create scale inside the system, reducing efficiency.
Here’s a simple tankless water heater cleaning guide:
- Turn Off the Unit – Shut down the power supply and close water valves.
- Attach Hoses to Service Ports – Connect to the cold-water inlet and hot-water outlet valves.
- Circulate Vinegar or Descaling Solution – Use a submersible pump to flush the system for about 45–60 minutes.
- Rinse with Clean Water – Flush the system again with fresh water to remove residue.
- Restart the Unit – Turn everything back on and check for normal operation.
This process should be done at least once a year, or more frequently in areas with very hard water.
Tankless Water Heater Flushing Tips
Flushing is key to preventing scale buildup. Here are some tankless water heater flushing tips to make it easier:
- Use white vinegar as a cost-effective descaling agent.
- Install a water softener if you live in a hard-water region.
- Schedule professional flushing if you’re not comfortable with DIY methods.
- Keep isolation valves installed for quick and safe flushing.
Following these tips can significantly improve performance and extend the system’s lifespan.
Annual Tankless Water Heater Service
Just like a car needs yearly checkups, a water heater benefits from an annual tankless water heater service. A professional technician can:
- Inspect the heat exchanger for scale buildup
- Check for gas or water leaks
- Test temperature sensors and safety components
- Ensure venting is clear and secure
- Calibrate the system for efficiency
Scheduling routine service with experts like Michigan HVACR ensures small issues are fixed before they become major repairs.
Extending Tankless Water Heater Lifespan
Want your unit to last 15–20 years? Follow these tankless water heater efficiency tips:
- Flush annually to prevent mineral buildup.
- Clean the air filter every few months.
- Check the venting system for blockages.
- Inspect water lines for leaks or corrosion.
- Keep surrounding space clear for ventilation.
Small steps can go a long way in extending tankless water heater lifespan and maintaining performance.
Tankless Water Heater Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Even with proper care, you may encounter common issues. Here are quick tankless water heater troubleshooting and maintenance solutions:
- No Hot Water? Check if the power or gas supply is on.
- Fluctuating Temperatures? Could be due to scale buildup—flush the system.
- Error Codes? Refer to the manual or call a professional for diagnosis.
- Strange Noises? This often indicates mineral buildup or venting issues.
If troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the problem, it’s time to contact a professional service provider.
Professional Tankless Water Heater Maintenance Services
While DIY maintenance is helpful, some tasks are best left to the experts. Professional tankless water heater maintenance services offer benefits like:
- Thorough system inspections
- Advanced descaling methods
- Gas line and venting checks
- Safety and performance testing
- Warranty protection
At Michigan HVACR, we provide comprehensive care to ensure your unit operates at peak efficiency year-round.
Final Thoughts
Your tankless water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. By following a regular tankless water heater maintenance schedule—cleaning, flushing, annual servicing, and troubleshooting—you can maximize efficiency, reduce repairs, and extend your system’s life.
Whether you prefer DIY care or professional servicing, staying proactive is the best way to protect your investment. And when you need expert help, trust Michigan HVACR to keep your home’s hot water reliable and efficient.
Read More: Key Tankless Water Heater Installation Requirements Explained
FAQs
Q1: How often should I flush my tankless water heater?
At least once a year, though every 6 months may be necessary in hard-water areas.
Q2: Can I use vinegar to clean my tankless water heater?
Yes, white vinegar is a safe and affordable descaling solution.
Q3: Do tankless water heaters need professional service?
Yes, an annual tankless water heater service helps identify issues early and ensures efficient performance.
Q4: How do I extend the lifespan of my tankless water heater?
Flush regularly, clean filters, inspect venting, and schedule annual professional maintenance.
Q5: What’s the most common issue with tankless water heaters?
Mineral buildup from hard water, which can be resolved through regular flushing.