Why You Should Flush Your Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters are increasing in popularity as they can provide a nearly endless supply of hot water. No more worrying about being the last one to shower or running your dishwasher and washing machine at the same time. They are a bit of an investment on the front end, so it is important to take steps to protect your investment. Flushing your water heater once per year is part of the recommended maintenance for all water heaters, including tankless. Many people ask us if they still need to flush their water heater after switching to tankless, and the short answer is yes. Even though there is no tank for water to sit in, sediment can still build up inside the unit and most manufacturers require an annual flush in order to keep the warranty valid. In this post, we will share some of the top benefits of an annual tankless water heater flush. 

Reduce Sediment Buildup

One of the main reasons we perform water heater flushes is to remove sediment buildup. As water flows through your tankless water heater, it will leave behind small amounts of minerals and sediment. Over time, this can create buildup within the unit that may negatively impact the heat exchanger and restrict water flow. This is especially true for areas with hard water, such as Austin, TX. 

Improved Efficiency

Removing the sediment that has built up will help improve efficiency by allowing for better heat transfer. When your water heater is functioning at optimal efficiency levels, it will use less energy to quickly heat water. This should result in lower energy bills as well. 

Help Prevent Malfunctions

When your water heater is well maintained and operating efficiently, the chances of malfunctions or breakdowns become less likely. Regular maintenance can also help you catch small issues before they turn into larger, more costly repairs. 

Maintain Warranty

Most manufacturers require regular maintenance on tankless water heaters in order to keep the warranty valid. When you flush your unit, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, you are protecting your investment and helping ensure you that you can utilize your warranty if needed. 

Extend Lifespan

Flushing your water heater regularly helps minimize damage that sediment can cause over time. It also helps keep the heat exchanger clean, which helps reduce the chance of component failure. Most tankless water heaters can last 15 to 20 years, and well maintained water heaters are much more likely to make it to the 20 year mark. 

Do I need to flush my tankless water heater if I have a water softener? 

Even if you have a water softener, you could still experience some sediment buildup. With a water softener, you may be able to get away with less frequent water heater flushes. However, each home and plumbing system is unique, so it is best to have a licensed plumber check the effectiveness of your water softener. Depending on the amount of minerals still in your water, your water heater may still need to be flushed each year. It is also important to note that if your water heater is under warranty, the warranty could get voided if you choose less frequent maintenance. 

Tankless Water Heater Flush in Austin, TX

Flushing a water heater may sound like a simple task, but it requires specific tools and expertise to execute the job properly. Most people do not have the proper plumbing tools on hand for a water heater flush, so it is much more convenient to hire a professional. Also, if the flush is not done correctly, you could risk damaging the unit and voiding your warranty. Stan’s plumbers have the experience, as well as the proper tools, to perform effective maintenance on your tankless water heater. We frequently offer discounts on water heater flushes as well! Check out our discount page for current promotions.

Contact Stan’s today to schedule your yearly tankless water heater flush in Austin, TX!