Water Heater Troubleshooting 101: 4 Common Problems & How To Fix Them

Tankless water heaters are an ideal option for many homeowners because they are energy efficient and have a long lifespan. 

However, like all appliances, tankless water heaters can experience problems from time to time. 

Let’s examine some of the most common problems with tankless water heaters and how to fix them. 

We will also answer the question: Is it time to replace your tankless water heater?

Common Problems with Tankless Water Heaters

There are a few common problems that can occur with tankless water heaters:

The most common problem would be the unit needing to start. The cause may be clogging on inlet screen, shower-head or fixtures. It could be due to lack of power. And it could be from an improper installation or malfunction.

1. Leaking or Dripping

Here are some possible causes and solutions for leaking or dripping:

• A loose pipe connection can cause leaking. Make sure all connections are tight.
• A broken seal can cause dripping. Inspect the seals and replace them if necessary.
• Freeze damage from exposure to low temperatures and backdrafts.

2. Poor Temperature Regulation

Does your tankless water heater need to provide more hot water, or does the water temperature fluctuate too much?

Here are a few things that could be causing this problem:

• Main gas valve is not opened – check the valve is fully opened. 
• Cold water supply is too high – adjust the cold-water supply valve. 
• Improper operation for water temperature adjusting – turn the water and gas valves to the correct position. 
• Flushing is recommended for the heat exchangers, not the pipes. Blockage may prevent units from starting a decrease in temperature.

If the problem persists, it might be a device malfunction. It may be time to contact the gas water heater’s customer service or replace your tankless water heater.

3. Loud or Strange Sounds

Is your tankless water heater making loud or strange noises? It may indicate a problem with the heating element, the igniter, or the gas pressure. 

Call for professional assistance immediately if you hear any of these noises from your tankless water heater.

4. Corroded Parts

Corrosion can cause severe damage to the unit and may even lead to failure.

Here are 3 things you can do to help prevent corrosion:

• Keep the unit clean and free of debris. This will help reduce the chances of corrosion.
• To properly maintain and clean your tankless water heater, flush those mineral deposits at least once a year to prevent the walls inside its heating chamber from corroding. 

• Make sure the unit is properly ventilated. Proper ventilation helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to corrosion.

Is It Time To Replace Your Unit?

If your tankless water heater is experiencing any of these common problems, it may be time to replace your unit. 

You can do a few things to prolong the life of your tankless water heater and avoid needing to replace it prematurely. 

• Make sure to descale it regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help prevent mineral buildup, which can lead to corrosion and other problems. 

• Flush the mineral deposits from your tankless water heater at least once a year to ensure proper maintenance and cleaning.

If you decide to replace your tankless water heater, choose a high-quality unit from a reputable brand.