Storage tank water heaters are the conventional water heater, found in most homes throughout the country. They’re large, noticeable, and depending on their location can be pretty noisy too. That being said, it’s fairly easy to remember that this big system needs service and maintenance from time to time. During that maintenance, the water heater is often flushed, as mineral buildup (scaling) occurs and threatens the integrity of the system. Scaling is noticeable in a tank water heater because it leads to a clanging noise, and causes issues with pressure, temperature, and corrosion.
What many people don’t realize, is that tankless water heater models can experience this same problem, and therefore need maintenance just as much as their storage tank counterparts. If you haven’t scheduled tankless water heater maintenance in the past year, it’s time to give a professional Parker, CO plumber a call. In the meantime, read on to learn more about this problem.
The Problem with Tankless Water Heater Scaling
Scaling impacts a tankless water heater in such a way that it could lead to its early breakdown. That is, unless you schedule maintenance! You might be familiar with the concept of hard water. This describes water that has a buildup of the minerals calcium and magnesium. While harmless to ingest, hard water hurts your plumbing system, including your tankless water heater.
The impact hard water has on your water heater is what’s called scaling, and scaling effects the heat exchanger of the system. As you might already know, the heat exchanger is what heats up the water in the first place. You need it to be clean so that the water can be heated efficiently. Scaling can cause your burners to work harder, or can overwork a tankless water heater to the point that it breaks down.
Do I Really Need Maintenance Once a Year?
Yes, annual maintenance is pivotal for tankless water heaters, keeping them running smoothly throughout their lifespan. For others, maintenance can wait a year or two longer. How often you schedule maintenance mostly depends on how hard the water is in your area.
Our professional plumbers can test your water for hardness—and actually you may be able to detect it on your own with signs such as spotted dishware out of the dishwasher, or a funny taste to your water, among other signs. One more indicator is a chalky white or yellow buildup on your faucets—if you see it there it is more than likely in your water heater, too.
Can Scaling Be Repaired?
If caught early enough, through annual maintenance, this problem isn’t enough to render your tankless water heater irreparable. But given time, it certainly can lead to premature replacement.
Another thing to keep in mind that even a very well cared for tankless water heater is designed to last about 20 years. Keeping up with maintenance is the only way to ensure this is the case, but after 20 years you should definitely consider replacing it.
Contact Aurora Plumbing Company for your water heater needs. We have someone in your neighborhood today!
