Two Common Tankless Water Heater Issues and Solutions

Posted on: 12 February 2021

Share

Mineral buildup on plumbing and a tankless water heater and encountering cold water soon after turning on a faucet are two issues that you may experience after the installation of a new tankless water heater. Seeking solutions to these two problems will help you better acclimate to the use of the new heater model.

Water Testing and Using Softener

Hard water is water that contains a high mineral content. Water may form scales along plumbing and can eventually cause a blockage, which could minimize the amount  of water pressure or disrupt the flow of water. In addition, hard water deposits can be difficult to remove from plumbing or connector pieces that are located on the surface of your tankless water heater.

You can determine if hard water is present, by having the water tested. To remove the mineral content, a water softener may need to be connected to your water line. Since water comes directly from the water source, prior to entering a tankless water heater, any water that has been treated will not contribute to future buildup on plumbing or external parts of the heater. 

A water softener will make your water supply much more user friendly. Washing dishes will result in less spots on cookware or accessories and hot water that is used for bathing or showering won't be likely to leave your skin dry and itchy. A softener is also effective in treating water that will run through the heater and be used to launder clothing. Clothing may feel softer once water has been treated. 

Adapting to the Lapse in Heating

People often choose a tankless heater in lieu of a model that contains a tank because of its ability to heat up water on demand. Water needs to flow through plumbing when it is first turned on and this may result in the delayed heating of water. This can be especially apparent after hot water has been used for a bathing session.

After hot water is used, some water will remain in the pipes and this water will be released when the hot water is turned back on. The water may feel hot or very warm. Within a few seconds, the water may turn cold. Even though a tankless water heater works quickly, it will still take a little bit of time for water to heat up to a comfortable temperature.

If you and your loved ones have experienced the rapid cooling of water, take note of how long it takes for the water to heat up. Space out showers and baths and be prepared to wait a minute or two for the water to heat up to the desired temperature. Learn more by contacting companies that offer tankless water heater solutions.