A tankless water heater is a fantastic investment for any home, providing endless hot water and energy efficiency. But to keep it running smoothly, regular maintenance is essential—including a tankless water heater flush.
If you’re wondering what happens during a flush, why it’s necessary, and whether you can do it yourself, you’re in the right place!
Even though tankless water heaters don’t store water, they still experience mineral buildup, especially in homes with hard water. Over time, calcium and scale can clog the heat exchanger, leading to:
✔ Reduced efficiency – The heater has to work harder, increasing energy costs.
✔ Lower water pressure – Scale buildup restricts flow.
✔ Inconsistent water temperature – Hot water may fluctuate or stop completely.
✔ Shortened lifespan – Excess mineral deposits can damage internal components.
Flushing your tankless water heater removes scale buildup and ensures it operates at peak performance.
A tankless water heater flush involves running a descaling solution through the unit to break down mineral deposits and prevent costly damage. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
For safety, the power supply (electricity or gas) must be shut off before beginning the flush.
To isolate the heater, the hot and cold water valves are turned off.
A submersible pump is connected to the heater’s service ports, along with hoses to circulate the cleaning solution.
A tankless water heater flush kit uses a mixture of white vinegar or a specialized descaling solution to dissolve mineral buildup inside the unit.
✅ The pump circulates the solution for 30 to 60 minutes to break down limescale.
✅ This process cleans the heat exchanger, pipes, and valves, improving efficiency.
After descaling, the system is flushed with fresh water to remove any remaining solution.
Once the system is flushed, the valves are reopened, and power is restored. A test run ensures the heater is working properly.
During a test the vents are also checked and cleaned and the system iteself is checked for any error codes. All of the components of the water heater are checked to make sure they are running as optimal as they should be.
The recommended frequency depends on water hardness and usage:
🔹 Once a year – If you have normal to hard water.
🔹 Every 6 months – If you have very hard water or high usage.
🔹 Every 2 years – If you have a whole-house water softener.
Skipping maintenance can lead to performance issues, clogs, and even premature failure of your unit.
🚨 Incorrect Valve Handling – Mishandling valves can lead to leaks or damage.
🚨 Using the Wrong Solution – Harsh chemicals can damage the heat exchanger.
🚨 Incomplete Flushing – If not flushed thoroughly, scale deposits may remain.
🚨 Leaks or System Errors – Improper reassembly can cause leaks or ignition failure.
💡 For peace of mind, a professional plumber can handle the flush safely and efficiently!
Regular maintenance keeps your tankless water heater running smoothly, saving you money on repairs and energy bills. At LGE Prime Plumbing, we provide expert water heater flushing services to keep your unit in top shape!
