Tankless water heaters are one of those modern home upgrades that really do pay off. You get endless hot water, better energy efficiency, and a unit that typically lasts longer than a traditional tank. But here’s the thing: just because it can last longer doesn’t mean it will—not without a little attention.
We’ve seen a lot of homeowners get tripped up by this. They install a tankless system, assume it’s maintenance-free, and then a few years down the road, they’re calling us because their hot water’s acting up. So let’s talk about what it actually takes to keep your tankless water heater running strong for the long haul.
Why Maintenance Matters (Even If It Seems Like Nothing’s Wrong)
Unlike a traditional tank system that’s constantly heating and storing water, a tankless heater only kicks in when you need it. That’s part of what makes it efficient, but it also means any buildup or blockage has a direct impact on performance. And if your home has hard water, that buildup happens faster than most people realize.
Neglecting routine maintenance might not cause a major problem overnight, but over time, it puts extra strain on the system. Eventually, it leads to slower heating, inconsistent temperatures, or even total failure. None of that’s fun to deal with—and most of it can be avoided.
Simple Ways to Keep Your Tankless Water Heater in Good Shape
You don’t need to be a plumber to take care of your system, but knowing what to look out for (and when to call in help) makes a big difference.
Flush it regularly to clear out mineral buildup
This is the big one. If your home has hard water—and most do—you’ll need to flush your unit about once a year to prevent calcium and lime from clogging things up. This involves circulating a vinegar solution through the unit using a small pump. Some homeowners handle this themselves with a kit, but if you’re unsure, it’s worth having a plumber do it right.
Clean the filter screen
Your tankless water heater has a small inlet filter that catches debris before it gets inside the system. Over time, that screen can get gunked up. Pulling it out, rinsing it, and putting it back in is usually a simple task, but it’s often overlooked. We’ve shown plenty of homeowners how to do it once so they can stay on top of it going forward.
Keep vents and air intake clear
If your system has a vent or uses outside air for combustion, make sure the area stays clean and free of dust, lint, or spider webs. It sounds minor, but airflow issues can cause the unit to shut down or throw error codes. Just take a quick look every month or so, especially if your unit is in the basement or a storage closet.
Watch for error codes and don’t ignore them
Most tankless systems have a digital display that shows error codes if something isn’t working right. Don’t just reset it and hope for the best. If that code keeps coming back, call a plumber who’s familiar with your system. A small issue now could save you from a major one later.
Know When to Call in a Plumber
Even if you’re doing all the right things, there are times when a professional needs to step in. If your hot water pressure suddenly drops, your unit starts making odd noises, or you notice fluctuating temperatures, don’t wait. A licensed plumber can diagnose the issue quickly and prevent further damage.
A Little Care Goes a Long Way
Tankless water heaters are built to last, but only if you treat them right. A few simple habits, like regular flushing and filter checks, can add years to the life of your unit and keep your hot water running smoothly. And if something doesn’t feel quite right, don’t wait until you’re standing in a cold shower. Get a second opinion, and make sure your system’s getting the attention it deserves.
At Anytime Plumbing, Sewer, Drain & Heating, we don’t just fix plumbing problems—we help you prevent them. Whether it’s time for annual maintenance, a quick repair, or a full system check, we’ve got the tools and the experience to keep your tankless water heater in top shape. Give us a call, we’re always just around the corner when you need us.
