Tankless water heaters have become a standard for many households due to their reliability and substantial energy savings. However, they are not immune to problems that require professional service.
Unusual colors or tastes in your water could indicate mineral deposits in your tank. Metallic tastes may also mean that there is rust in your unit.
Inconsistent Hot Water Temperatures
When your water heater is experiencing problems, it can be difficult to determine the cause without professional help. However, some issues are easy to fix for the homeowner.
A common problem with tankless units is the varying temperatures of your hot water. If you constantly get hot and cold bursts while taking a shower, there could be several issues to blame.
You may need to install a recirculating system or add a buffer tank to your home to resolve these inconsistencies. Another potential issue is that your pipe size needs to be bigger and allow for adequate heating. A professional plumber can install larger pipes if necessary. It’s also possible that the temperature-regulating valve is faulty and requires repair or replacement.
Low Pressure Levels
A tankless water heater service San Ramon, CA is a great investment for saving money on energy costs, but only if it’s working properly. If you notice your energy bills are starting to spike, it could mean that the heater is struggling to keep up with demand.
This can be caused by a blockage in the vents, such as an animal’s nest or an object falling into the vent. It could also indicate an internal problem like heavy corrosion, a broken igniter, or a flame sensor.
Another common cause of low water pressure is a clogged filter that hinders the rate of water movement. If this is the case, it’s best to consult a professional to find a solution. This could include installing a pressure regulator valve designed to reduce excessive water pressure and protect your appliance from damage.
Strange Noises
Like any other mechanical device, a tankless water heater occasionally makes strange noises. While some of these sound normal, others are a sign that you need to call for professional repair services.
For instance, if you hear banging or knocking sounds coming from the heater itself, this is likely a sign that the unit is overheating. This can happen when sediment comes into contact with the heating element and causes a tiny explosion that sounds like banging or knocking. It is important to flush your system regularly to avoid this problem.
Other common tankless heater noises include crackling sounds and humming. Various issues, such as water hammer or pressure problems, can cause these. You can often fix these issues, such as tightening the clamps on pipes leading to your water heater or using dampeners.
Leaks Around the Base or Connection Points
Like any other piece of equipment, a tankless water heater will eventually need professional servicing. This is particularly true if there are visible signs of leaks around the unit’s base or its connections.
Leaks can be caused by various issues, from faulty water intake and output lines to corroded pipes. The best way to avoid these types of problems is through regular descaling.
Metallic or unusual tastes in your hot water may also indicate that the system has high iron levels, which is unsafe for consumption. In this case, you should immediately call a plumber to determine whether the problem lies in the water or the water heater itself. The sooner you take action, the less likely your home will experience extreme water damage.
Display Warnings
The digital screen on a tankless water heater is designed to alert you when an issue needs to be addressed. If you see any of these warnings, it is important to have a professional repair technician come out to take a look at the unit and determine the cause of the problem.
A sudden drop in your water pressure could be caused by sediment or rust buildup, while an unpleasant odor may indicate bacteria growth within the unit. A professional should flush the system according to its manufacturer’s guidelines to help eliminate these problems.
A display warning that reads “Combustion Shutdown” indicates that the venting of exhaust gasses is being impeded somehow, which is a serious safety concern. This will need to be addressed as soon as possible to avoid more costly repairs.
