Tankless Water Heater Systems And Common Issues To Note
If you have recently had a plumber convert your home's hot water system to a tankless water heater system, it's important that you understand how to maintain it. While tankless water heaters don't have the same containment system that standard water heaters do, they are still prone to some potential problems. Here's a look at some of the times when you should be prepared to reach out to a plumber for help with your on-demand water heating system.
Low Water Flow
If you start to notice a reduction in the water flow from your tankless water heater system, it's important that you reach out to a plumber. There's a good chance that your home's water supply is hard water, which means it has a higher concentration of minerals in it than necessary. Those minerals will form deposits inside your tankless water heater, which can gradually restrict the water flow.
Your plumber will flush the minerals out of your tankless water heater, clearing the flow restriction. Then, your plumber will add a water softener to your home's incoming water lines to reduce the long-term effects of the hard water on your plumbing.
Inconsistent Temperatures
If your on-demand water system is producing hot water, but the water temperature is inconsistent, you'll want to have a plumber evaluate it right away. There are a couple of components that could be causing the problem.
A faulty thermostat could result in unpredictable temperatures. Your plumber may test the thermostat to ensure that it works as it is supposed to. If the thermostat is faulty, it can easily be replaced. If the thermostat isn't to blame, however, your water heater system may be improperly ventilated. When the system isn't ventilated properly, the unit can overheat rapidly, causing it to shut down faster than it should. This results in inconsistent temperatures.
Inefficient Operation
Your on-demand system should only operate when necessary, and it should operate consistently when you need it. If your water heater system is running more than it needs to, isn't running as well as it used to, or seems unpredictable, you may need to have a plumber check for any corrosion in the unit. Over time, corrosion can lead to flaking and chips that will block the fuel flow, preventing your water heater's burner from effectively warming the water. You should have the unit cleaned out periodically to help avoid this, and call a plumber right away if you suspect it to be a problem.
For more information about what a plumber can do to improve the water from your tankless heater, or other plumbing services, contact a local plumbing company.