Keeping the Heat Flowing: Essential Maintenance Tips for Your Tankless Water Heater in Connecticut

As a Connecticut homeowner, you’ve made a smart investment in a tankless water heater. These innovative systems offer endless hot water, energy efficiency, and space-saving benefits. But like any home appliance, your tankless water heater requires regular maintenance to keep performing at its best. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about maintaining your tankless water heater, ensuring it continues to provide reliable hot water for years to come.

Understanding Your Tankless Water Heater

Before diving into maintenance tips, let’s briefly explore how these remarkable systems work.

Space hog and eyesore no more! Modern, external continuous flow gas water heaters can be easily mounted on any house wall.

Unlike traditional water heaters that store and continuously heat large volumes of water, tankless water heaters heat water on demand. When you turn on a hot water tap, cold water travels through a pipe and is instantly heated by a gas burner or electric element. This technology offers significant advantages, including:

• Continuous hot water supply
• Lower energy consumption
• Longer lifespan compared to traditional water heaters
• Reduced risk of water damage from tank failures
• Compact design saving valuable space in your home

Annual Maintenance: Your Tankless Water Heater’s Wellness Check

1. Flush the System Annually

Mineral buildup is the primary enemy of tankless water heaters, especially in areas with hard water like Connecticut. Calcium and magnesium can accumulate in the heat exchanger, reducing efficiency and potentially causing damage.

• Use a pump and white vinegar to flush the system
• Disconnect power and water supply
• Connect flush kit to the service valves
• Circulate vinegar through the system for about 45-60 minutes
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water

Schedule a professional maintenance service if you’re uncomfortable with this “DIY” process.

2. Clean or Replace Water Filters

Most tankless water heaters have inlet water filters that prevent debris from entering the system. These filters should be:

• Checked every 6 months
• Cleaned or replaced as needed
• Inspected for any signs of wear or damage

3. Inspect the Ventilation System

Proper ventilation is crucial for gas-powered tankless water heaters. Annually:

• Check for any blockages or obstructions
• Ensure vent pipes are securely connected
• Look for signs of corrosion or damage
• Clear any debris around external vent openings

4. Check Water Connections and Pressure

• Examine all water connections for potential leaks
• Test water pressure (ideal range: 40-80 PSI)
• Tighten any loose connections
• Consider installing a water pressure regulator if needed

Warning Signs: When to Call a Professional

Some issues require immediate professional attention. Red flags to watch for:

• Inconsistent water temperature
• Reduced hot water flow
• Error codes on the unit’s display
• Strange noises during operation
• Visible corrosion or leaks
• Unexplained increases in energy bills

Seasonal Considerations for Connecticut Homeowners

Connecticut’s diverse climate presents unique challenges for tankless water heater maintenance:

Winter Preparation

• Insulate pipes to prevent freezing
• Ensure proper ventilation during snow and ice conditions
• Keep exterior vents clear of snow and ice buildup

Make sure all your pipes are insulated as needed.

Summer Efficiency

• Clean external unit from dust and debris
• Check for any insect nests around vents
• Consider shade placement to reduce heat stress

DIY Maintenance Tips

While professional servicing is recommended, homeowners can perform some simple maintenance tasks:

1. Keep the area around the unit clean and unobstructed
2. Check error codes and consult the manual
3. Monitor water quality and pressure
4. Listen for unusual sounds during operation

Cost of Neglect: Why Maintenance Matters

Skipping regular maintenance can lead to:

• Reduced system efficiency
• Higher energy bills
• Premature system failure
• Void of manufacturer’s warranty
• Costly emergency repairs

Estimated maintenance costs:

• DIY Annual Flush: $20-$50 in supplies
• Professional Service: $150-$300
• Potential Repair Costs without Maintenance: $500-$1,500

How Valiant Energy Solutions Can Help

Maintaining a tankless water heater can seem overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Valiant Energy Solutions, we specialize in comprehensive tankless water heater maintenance for Connecticut homeowners. Our expert technicians offer:

• Thorough system inspections
• Professional flushing and cleaning
• Detailed performance assessments
• Personalized maintenance plans
• Energy efficiency consultations

We understand the unique challenges of Connecticut’s climate and can provide tailored solutions to keep your tankless water heater running smoothly. Save time, reduce stress, and extend the life of your investment with our professional maintenance services.

Ready to protect your tankless water heater? Contact Valiant Energy Solutions today for a complete system evaluation and maintenance plan!