Tankless water heaters are the standard in water heating technology. While they are superior to tank water heaters in most situations, they do require professional installation and regular maintenance to ensure peak performance. Occasionally, the need arises for tankless water heater service. When this need arises, a certified tankless professional, like those of the Aaron Services: Plumbing, Heating, Cooling team, are the best choice for the job.
Tankless water heaters are growing in popularity, and for good reason. They provide homeowners with endless hot water on-demand, increased energy efficiency, cost savings, and a significantly longer lifespan than traditional tank-style water heaters. Plus, their compact and sleek design saves valuable space, while reducing the risk of leaks and water damage.
Advanced Technology for Modern Comfort
Today’s tankless water heaters feature advanced digital controls, precise temperature settings, and innovative safety mechanisms. Unlike traditional storage tank heaters, tankless systems offer superior performance by providing endless hot water while while being extremely energy efficient.
Tankless water heaters only heat water on demand, rather than around the clock. This advanced technological product offers a superior experience, but requires professional maintenance and installation to ensure longterm comfort and performance.
Why a Homeowner Could Need Tankless Water Heater Service
When properly installed with a suitable gas supply and regular professional maintenance, tankless water heater systems rarely experience issues. The most common sources of problems with tankless water heaters come from:
Improper Installation
When tankless water heaters were first introduced, they were almost always only installed by professional plumbers, as the leading manufacturers had strong relationships directly with plumbing companies. When the manufacturers expanded access to tankless water heaters to builders and in big box stores, the need for tankless water heater service drastically increased. We now often see problems caused by improper installation—often by builders, handymen, or plumbers without specialized training. Tankless water heaters, compared to traditional tank water heaters, are new technology. This means that a plumber could have 30 years of experience, but still be unfamiliar with tankless models. Be sure to find a plumber certified in tankless for service and installation.
Forgotten Maintenance
Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to performance issues and frequent service calls. For optimal performance, homeowners should schedule tankless water heater flushes annually to remove mineral deposits. Manufacturers require this regular maintenance in order to honor the warranty on their units. If your home has a properly installed whole-house water filtration system, this maintenance may be required less frequently.
Other Complications
Beyond those two leading causes of trouble, age, gas supply, and problems with the plumbing system are the other main tankless culprits we see. With proper maintenance, a tankless water heater could last up to 25 years. In reality, though, we rarely see the early tankless models live quite that long. The good news is that if an older unit begins to fail, replacing it with a new tankless is a relatively straightforward process. Plus, swapping out an old tankless model for the newest technology means a major technological upgrade, as the units and design have drastically improved over the years.
We do occaisionally encounter issues with the city gas supply, but this is less common. A plumber can test the gas pressure of the home to determine whether there are issues with the supply. This could come up if other appliances are added to the home, increasing the demand for natural gas in the home. Oftentimes the municipality providing your gas will upgrade your gas meter at little or no charge to you.
Recirculation issues could also cause performance issues with a tankless. These are generally difficult to pinpoint and correct by a layperson. If you’re experiencing inconsistent hot water, or even only hot or only cold water throughout the home, it’s best to have a tankless certified plumber visit your home to investigate.
The Easiest Tankless Water Heater Brands to Service
When selecting a tankless water heater, choosing reputable brands like Rinnai and Navien is crucial. If you find yourself in need of tankless water heater service and you have a leading brand, you’ll be in good hands. Off brands that are available online can be extremely difficult to find parts for and generally do not offer technical support.
Rinnai
Rinnai is an industry leader known for reliable, innovative, and high-quality products. Their models range from compact residential units to powerful commercial options. Rinnai’s proven track record, exceptional warranty support, widespread availability of parts, and excellent technical support make it a preferred brand among professionals and homeowners alike.
Navien
Navien is recognized for its environmentally friendly, energy-efficient units. They excel in advanced technology features, such as recirculation systems and condensing technology, further enhancing energy efficiency and comfort. Like Rinnai, Navien also provides robust warranty coverage, readily available replacement parts, and responsive technical support, making them a reliable and cost-effective long-term choice.
Choosing a reputable brand ensures ease of maintenance, availability of parts, and dependable customer support, all of which protect your investment.
Regular Maintenance Avoids the Need for Tankless Water Heater Service
Routine maintenance is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and longevity of your tankless water heater. Regular check-ups prevent minor issues from becoming costly repairs, keep efficiency at peak levels, and help you avoid unexpected breakdowns. Professional maintenance typically involves cleaning components, inspecting for leaks or corrosion, calibrating temperature settings, and verifying safety functions.
During a tankless maintenance service, your technician will flush your water heater to avoid scale build up. They’ll also check the history of your water heater to see if any error codes have been triggered so that those can be addressed proactively.
Why You Need a Specialized Tankless Plumber
Tankless systems require expertise beyond basic plumbing knowledge. The advanced digital controls, heating elements, and intricate components necessitate precise, knowledgeable servicing. DIY attempts or hiring a general plumber unfamiliar with tankless technology can result in reduced performance, voided warranties, and potential damage. A specialized plumber ensures your tankless system operates safely and efficiently, preserving your investment and providing peace of mind.
Our Technicians are Trained by Rinnai and Navien
At our company, we prioritize continuous technician training. Our professionals receive certification and ongoing training directly from Rinnai and Navien. This specialized training equips them with advanced diagnostic skills, familiarity with the latest technologies, and expert troubleshooting techniques, guaranteeing high-quality service and accurate repairs.
Common Service Needs and Error Codes
Understanding common issues and error codes helps homeowners identify problems early and seek timely repairs. Common error codes include:
Rinnai
- Error Code 11: Indicates ignition failure and is frequently encountered. Causes range from gas supply issues and dirty burners to igniter malfunctions. Accurate diagnostics from a trained technician are essential.
- Error Code 12: Flame failure, often due to airflow or gas supply issues.
- Error Code 25: Condensate drain blockage, common in condensing models.
Navien
- Error Code E003: Ignition failure, often due to gas supply issues or igniter problems.
- Error Code E110: Indicates an exhaust blockage, requiring immediate professional attention.
- Error Code E438: Abnormal circulation detected, often due to air in the system or blocked heat exchangers.
Prompt professional diagnosis and repair of these issues keep your tankless system functioning effectively, prolonging its lifespan and preserving its energy efficiency.
Expert Tankless Water Heater Service
Contact us today to schedule your maintenance visit and protect your tankless water heater investment!
