It’s not always obvious when your tankless Hot Water Now CO heater needs a repair. Here are some signs you need to call in a plumber:
Like any appliance, your tankless water heater requires regular maintenance to function properly. Our experts can establish a maintenance schedule for you that maximizes its life.
When a tankless water heater provides low hot water pressure, it can be a sign that something is wrong. If you notice this problem, addressing it immediately before it worsens is important. The good news is that many issues with tankless water heaters can be fixed without the help of a professional. Here are a few common problems and simple solutions that can save you the time and expense of calling a plumber.
All tankless water heaters have an inlet filter to catch debris and prevent it from entering the heater. Over time, depending on the quality of your water, this filter can get clogged with sediment. It is recommended to clean the inlet filter about once per month to ensure proper function. You can do this by turning off the water and removing the filter to check for obstructions. You can then clean it with vinegar or a calcium and lime rust remover.
Low Water Pressure
If the problem with your tankless water heater is low water pressure, there could be a number of reasons for it. First, you should determine if the issue is limited to one or more faucets and fixtures, or if it affects the entire house. This will help narrow down the cause of the problem.
Another possible reason for low water pressure is that the gas pressure is too low in your home. If this is the case, you should contact your utility company to see if they can help.
Finally, you should also look for obstructions in the water filters, pipes, and fixtures that may be causing the low water pressure. You can have technicians clear out any obstructions or install a water softener in your home to avoid future problems.
If the issue is not related to your home’s plumbing, it could be that the shut off valve on the water heater is partially closed. This is a safety feature that is designed to shut off the flow of water if there is a problem with the water heater, but it can be accidentally closed by children or pets. To resolve this, you will need to have a plumber open the valve all the way.
Ignition Failure
If your tankless water heater keeps cycling, indicating that it is trying to ignite and heat the gas but failing to do so, there may be a problem with the fuel supply. A common cause of ignition failure is a gas line that is either closed or disconnected from the unit. Inspect the line and ensure it is open and free of blockages. You should also check if other gas appliances in your home are functioning correctly to determine if this is a specific water heater issue or an overall gas supply problem.
When you see the error code 11, it indicates that your system is unable to ignite the pilot flame. This can be caused by a number of issues including insufficient gas supply, airflow issues or a debris-clogged pilot flame sensor. If this is the case, you should call a licensed contractor to inspect and repair the water heater.
If you see the error code 12, it indicates that your tankless water heater cannot create a continuous current to ignite the burner. This can be caused by a number issues including low voltage, mechanical problems or a malfunctioning electronic board.
In many cases, you can fix this problem by resetting the water heater. This typically involves turning off the power to your unit, draining it of any sediment and flushing the unit according to its manufacturer instructions. You should also make sure that the unit has adequate gas pressure to avoid over-fueling it and causing a fire.
Your circuit breaker is constantly tripping. If this is a consistent issue, you should start by checking all other electrical devices and appliances to ensure they are turned off. You should also ensure the circuit breaker that corresponds to your tankless water heater is in the on position.
Moisture causes corrosion and other issues in tankless water heaters, so it is important to keep them clean. Inspect the heat exchanger and burner for any signs of moisture or condensation. You should also check to ensure the gas valve is in the on position and that the venting is clear of obstructions (inside and outside your home) and complies with the manufacturer’s specifications regarding bends, lengths and clearance requirements.
Frozen Pipes
It’s fairly common for the pipes around your tankless water heater to freeze, especially in cold climates. You may be able to defrost your tankless water heater frozen pipes by applying heat to them with electric space heaters or hot towels, but you’ll want to hire a plumber if the problem has gone on for a long time. Frozen pipes are dangerous, and they can burst and cause flooding throughout your home.
The first step in dealing with a frozen tankless water heater is to turn off the electricity and gas supply. Once that is done, the next step is to locate the frozen pipes. Use your hand to feel around the outside of the pipe and find a spot that is ice cold. This will help you determine whether the pipes are frozen or if your tankless water heater is actually frozen.
After locating the frozen pipe, you should apply heat directly to it with hot towels or space heaters. You can also try running a faucet to release pressure, but make sure that the faucet is turned off as the pipes begin to thaw. Once the ice has melted, you can then close all of the valves to your tankless water heater and turn it back on.
You should always prevent freezing in your tankless water heater by properly insulating your house’s plumbing system. You can use heat tapes, lagging foams, and other insulation to prevent your pipes from freezing in the cold weather. You should also keep your water heater at least 20 feet away from any exposed flammable objects and place it somewhere that isn’t in a drafty area. Taking these precautions can prevent your tankless water heater from freezing in the winter and help you avoid costly repairs. A professional plumber can give you additional advice on how to prevent your tankless water heater from freezing in cold temperatures. They can also inspect your system for any signs of damage caused by a frozen water heater. They can recommend the best solution for your situation.
Rotten Egg Smell
The rotten egg smell emanating from your tankless water heater is not only unpleasant, but it can also be a sign of dangerous bacteria. This problem is typically caused by hydrogen sulfide gas, which can occur from corrosion or from naturally occurring sulfur bacteria in well water. If hydrogen sulfide is found, the water needs to be flushed and cleaned. This process is fairly easy and can be done by shutting off the power to the unit, disconnecting a hose from the unit, turning on the water, and following the manufacturer’s instructions to flush the unit. This should be a part of your regular maintenance schedule, as it will help prevent more serious issues in the future.
In some cases, the rotten egg odor may be present only in hot water, suggesting that there is a chemical reaction taking place within your water heater. This can be the result of a magnesium rod installed to inhibit corrosion, which can produce hydrogen sulfide by chemically reducing sulfates in the water. In these instances, removing the magnesium rod can solve this issue. However, doing so will likely reduce the lifespan of your tankless water heater.
The odor can also indicate a sewer leak, particularly when the smell is strongest during heavy rainfall. If you suspect this is the case, you will need to consult a plumbing professional.
If you’re experiencing any of these problems with your demand water heater, it’s important to call a qualified plumber right away for a quick diagnosis and repair. Different plumbers charge different rates, so it’s wise to find several and compare their rates before making a decision. You can also try to troubleshoot on your own before calling a plumber, such as ensuring the breaker hasn’t tripped (for electric units) or that the gas valve is fully open (for gas-powered units).