Proper maintenance is essential for every home system. It can extend the lifespan and efficiency of your systems and prevent unexpected emergencies. Like other systems, proper maintenance is vital for tankless water heaters and plumbing. A tankless water heater can reduce the total cost of your utility bills and provide hot water. Conversely, a well-functioning plumbing system is a proactive approach that can save you from unforeseen emergencies. So, without proper maintenance, these systems can develop issues that may disrupt your daily routine.
To prevent these problems, you must follow these important maintenance tips.
Maintenance Tips for Tankless Hot Water Heater System
Inspect The Tankless Hot Water Heater for Installation Issues and Repair Damaged Parts
Detecting and repairing damages is crucial before commencing the cleaning process. Start by conducting a comprehensive visual inspection of the tank, first on the outside and then on the inside (by removing the cover). If you see any corroded valves, change them immediately.
Without an anode rod, the valves inside the heater are highly corrosion-resistant. You may even notice rusty flakes on additional areas, so clean them carefully with a soft brush or clean towel.
However, you may need professional services if you encounter issues like corroded casing or leaks during the Tankless Hot Water Heater Installation.
Flush The Unit
Continuous use of a tankless water heater can accumulate water minerals in the heating chamber, potentially damaging the heat exchanger. To prevent this, flush your unit once or multiple times annually, depending on the type of water used in your area.
If you have hard water, you should flush the unit twice a year or more. If you have soft water, it’s enough to flush your heater once a year. Furthermore, flushing helps to ensure reliable performance and prolongs its lifespan.
Flushing a tankless water heater differs significantly from flushing a regular tank heater. Hiring a qualified HVAC technician when flushing your tankless water heater is better.
Clean the Air Filter of Your Water Heater
After flushing your tankless water heater, clean its air filter to ensure its performance and efficiency. If left unchecked, a dirty filter can slow airflow and cause system failures. Therefore, it’s vital to clean your filter regularly.
Here’s a simple guide on how to accomplish it:
Step 1:
- Remove the filter
- Loose the screws
- Carefully extract the filter
Step 2:
- Wash and dry the filter
- Rinse the filter under running water
- Let it dry completely
Always refer to your user manual whenever you need more specific instructions. Regular maintenance is essential for the longevity and optimal functioning of your heater.
Maintenance Tips for Plumbing System
Inspect Your Pipes to Prevent Plumbing Emergencies
Regularly inspect your pipes for leaks and indications of corrosion, wear and tear, and cracks. Remember that if you discover any issues, 24/7 emergency plumbing services are available to address repairs immediately. Pay particular attention to the joints, connectors, and valves since these are commonly weak points and may be prone to leaks.
During this examination, you should also look for signs of shifting or settling in your home’s foundation, which may result in damaged or dislodged pipes. Make sure to thoroughly inspect any exposed pipes, including those found under your home, in attics, or crawl spaces. After inspections, if you find any issues, 24/7 emergency plumbing services are available to address repairs promptly.
Be Aware of Your Home’s Water Pressure
Every home has slightly different pressure levels, but if your pressure drops significantly during showering, bathing, or washing dishes, it’s time to investigate the cause. If the low pressure originates from a faucet or shower head, clean the aerators, as sediment can accumulate.
A water pressure gauge is a tool for measuring water pressure. If you can’t find the cause of the problem, a water main leak can also reduce pressure. If that’s the case, call a plumber immediately!
Routine Professional Service
Routine plumbing maintenance, similar to regular oil changes for cars, can prevent costly repairs in the future. Hydro-jetting is a crucial plumbing service that can help prevent future plumbing disasters. This service is similar to having your pipes’ oil changed. This procedure involves high-pressure water shot through your pipes to remove oil, hair, food particles, and all other materials that cause obstructions. This water jetting process is safe for your pipes and the atmosphere.
Unlike a snake, this technique entirely cleans your pipes of grease and oil to avoid debris build-up. Investing in this service once a year may provide benefits.