A tankless water heater is a great alternative to a traditional unit, as it doesn’t need to run all day to maintain a hot water supply. These water heaters are convenient, cost-effective, and take up very little space in your home. However, like all heating and cooling systems, tankless water heaters wear down and may need repairs or replacement.
At DirectBuy Furnance, we provide top-tier installation for Rinnai and Nortiz-brand tankless water heaters, which are ideal for a brand-new unit. Below are a few signs to look out for that indicate whether your tank requires a complete replacement, so keep reading to learn more!
Sub-par Water Pressure
Low hot water pressure is a key indicator that your heater is wearing down. When buildup collects in the intake and outtake lines of a water heater, the lines begin to clog and create a pressure drop.
If your cold water pressure is normal while your hot water is low, your heater isn’t working correctly. Replacing your whole unit rather than calling for repairs will provide a greater guarantee of consistent water pressure for each tap.
Drop in Water Temperature
If the water coming from your heater is lukewarm or even cold, this may indicate that your heater is no longer working at full capacity. This issue can be caused by malfunctioning burners, internal corrosion, or sediment build-up in the heat exchangers.
If you consistently receive lukewarm water from your heater and repairs haven’t solved the issue, it may no longer be capable of producing hot water.
Change in Water Quality
When water heaters fail, the quality of your water, in addition to the temperature, can be affected. If your water is rust-coloured or has a metallic smell, the heater may be rusting from corrosion of the steel lining or the anode rod. If you’re receiving cloudy water, there may be sediment build-up in the heater.
Water of such low calibre can be dangerous to consume or use and can damage your plumbing. If this is a consistent problem, your heater may be worn out and due for a replacement.
Water Heater Keeps Turning Off
If a water heater becomes overheated, tankless units have built-in safety switches that automatically shut it off when it reaches a dangerous temperature.
An overheated heater is usually caused by sediment build-up in the filter. However, if you’ve changed the filter and this problem persists, there may be another issue that warrants a replacement.
Leaks
Unlike standard tank water heaters, tankless water heaters don’t leak very often. However, if you notice a leak around the surface of your heater, this may indicate a loose or broken valve. While a leak can generally be repaired, if the problem continues, it may indicate that your heater is wearing out.
Hot Water Appliances Aren’t Working
Tankless water heaters are connected to other appliances in your home that use hot water, such as the dishwasher and laundry machine.
If your dishes aren’t coming out totally clean or the soap in your washing machine isn’t dissolving, this could indicate that the water isn’t hot enough to complete these tasks.
Replacing your water heater will better guarantee clean clothes and dishes, preventing the need to do your chores over again.
Strange Noises
If you hear screeching, hammering, hissing, humming, and other similar noises coming from your tankless water heater, this is an indication that something isn’t working properly.
Generally, these sounds are caused by loose parts or insecurely attached pipes, among other potential issues. If the damage is irreparable, the unit should be replaced.
Need To Replace Your Tankless Water Heater? Call DirectBuy Furnace for Installation
Are you ready to replace your tankless water heater? Choose quality with DirectBuy Furnace! We supply and install state-of-the-art tankless water heaters from brands like Rinnai and Noritz, ensuring our fellow Lower Mainlanders receive heaters that will last. Contact us today to learn more about our installation services and the products we offer!