Water heaters are a necessary part of life. They keep us warm and dry, but it can be a serious problem when they stop working. You might have to call the plumber or spend hours waiting for the water to get hot again.
If your tankless water heater is not working, don’t worry! You are not alone. In fact, many people have the same issue with their tankless water heaters.
According to a survey, 85% of US households have experienced Tankless Water Heater Not Working issues.
A faulty tankless heater can be caused by a variety of factors, and it’s important to consider all of them before you begin to troubleshoot the problem.
In this article, we will help you understand why your tankless water heater is not working and how to fix it. We’ll also discuss some factors you should consider when installing a tankless water heater in your home for the first time.
Keep reading!
10 Causes of Tankless Water Heater Failure
When you hear the word “tankless,” what comes to mind?
– A water heater that never runs out of hot water, even if you’re using it constantly (and we all know how much we love for our showers to be hot enough to make us feel like we’re melting into the floor).
– An efficient way to heat your home.
– A way to save money on your utility bill.
What a tankless water heater does is provide instant hot water by heating it as it’s used—no tank required! It’s not just for saving money; tankless water heaters are also safer than traditional ones and more efficient in most cases. But sometimes, things go wrong with these amazing devices, and when they do, it can be devastating (especially if there’s no hot water in sight). So what causes tankless water heater failure?
Here are ten possible causes of tankless water heaters not working:
Sediment buildup.
As water travels through a tankless heater, minerals can build-up and cause severe damage to the unit. This is especially true if you have hard water or live in an area with high mineral content in the water supply.
Scale formation.
Over time, calcium from your water may build up on the water heater’s interior, which can lead to clogs and poor performance of the heater itself.
Corrosion from hard water.
If you have hard water in your house or apartment building, it can lead to corrosion on the internal parts of your tankless system—which will also cause reduced performance and increased energy consumption over time (and potentially more expensive repairs).
Inadequate ventilation.
Tankless water heaters can be installed in virtually any location, but they need to be vented properly in order to function correctly. Installing a tankless unit without proper ventilation can cause back pressure on your system and result in failure.
Gas supply issues.
The gas supply line is critical for the proper operation of a tankless unit. If there is not enough pressure, the pilot light will not stay lit, and your unit will not operate. If there is too much pressure, the pilot light may go out while you’re showering or bathing.
Overheating.
Overheating can cause damage to your tankless water heater, leading to the unit’s premature failure. If your tankless water heater overheats, call a professional tankless water heater repair plumber immediately, as this could cause more damage than necessary if left unchecked for too long. Possible causes for overheating include poor ventilation; a clogged vent stack; insufficient airflow over the unit; or an electrical short within the system itself, causing excessive heat build-up within the burner chamber housing assembly (burners).
Ignition failure.
Ignition failure can occur when there is a problem with the pilot light or the thermocouple. If you notice that your water heater’s pilot light isn’t staying lit, or if it keeps going out, it’s possible that you have ignition failure.
Electrical problems.
Electrical problems are one of the most common causes of tankless water heater failure. The unit may have an electrical problem that can be repaired easily by a licensed technician. However, if there is an electrical problem with your tankless water heater and it is not repaired quickly, you may experience a number of issues with your hot water delivery system.
Electrical problems can cause your tankless water heater to fail because they will cause fluctuations in pressure and temperature. These fluctuations can cause damage to your plumbing system and make it difficult for you to get hot water on demand.
Electrical problems can also cause heaters to fail because they will start operating when there is no need for them to operate, which will cause them to overheat and gradually break down completely.
Pressure fluctuations.
Another common cause of tankless water heater failure is pressure fluctuations from your home’s main supply line. When there are too many people using hot water in your home at once, this can cause pressure to drop below what’s necessary for the proper functioning of your tankless system. This could lead to problems such as gurgling sounds or leaks coming from under your sink faucet when using hot water—neither of which are very pleasant!
Improper installation
One of the most common causes of tankless water heater failure is improper installation. If you’re installing a tankless water heater yourself, make sure that you have all the tools and knowledge necessary to do so properly. Or if you don’t want to go through the process alone, then hire a professional electric tankless water heater installation plumber in Stafford, Va.
Manufacturer defects.
Another common cause of tankless water heater failure is manufacturer defects. If you think your tankless water heater may have been damaged during shipping or installation, contact the manufacturer immediately to see if they can help you resolve the issue.
How to fix the tankless hot water heater not working issue?
The tankless water heater is an amazing invention, and it’s one of the most common types of water heaters in use today. But that doesn’t mean it’s always easy to maintain or repair.
If you’re having trouble with your tankless water heater, here are a few things you can do to get started with troubleshooting:
Check the power supply.
First, make sure that your home has enough electricity to power the unit. If it doesn’t have enough juice, you’ll need an electrician to install an additional circuit for you.
Check the water supply.
Next, ensure enough water pressure is coming through your pipes to feed the unit properly. If not, check with your local plumber about installing a booster pump or increasing pressure in your lines by drilling holes in them (this is called “hydrojetting”).
Inspect the venting system.
Make sure it’s not clogged with debris or other obstacles, and check for leaks. If you know where the leak is coming from, you may be able to fix it yourself quickly and easily.
Clean the intake screen/filters.
If your tankless hot water heater has an intake screen or filter, clean it off regularly so it doesn’t get clogged with debris or parasites. This will help keep it running smoothly and efficiently!
Flush the system.
If there are error codes, then you need to flush your tankless hot water heater’s system. This simple process involves turning off your power and flushing out the cold lines with water until they’re clear of debris or sediment buildup (this will take about 5 minutes). Then turn the power back on and see if it works!
Check the error codes.
If you can’t get your tankless hot water heater to work, you next should check the error code by pressing the corresponding button on the side of your tankless hot water heater. The error code will tell you what’s wrong so that you can fix it accordingly.
Inspect the ignition system.
Another thing you should do is inspect your ignition system. Make sure that there are no loose connections, and check to see if any wires have been damaged or corroded by water. If you find a problem, you’ll need to replace or repair the ignition system as needed.
Contact a professional.
If you’ve checked all of these things (or if none of them apply to your situation) and still aren’t able to get your tankless hot water heater to turn on, then look for a tankless water heater installation near me who can help diagnose and fix whatever issue may be preventing it from working properly.
Factors to consider when considering tankless hot water heater installation
Tankless hot water heaters are the future of energy efficiency. In fact, these heaters are more efficient than tank-type heaters by as much as 50%. This means that you will save money on your utility bills while also doing your part to help the environment.
Whether you’re looking to save money or simply want to do your part in helping the environment, installing a tankless hot water heater is a great idea. But when your old tankless water heater is not working, how do you know which one is right for your needs?
Here are some things to consider when choosing a tankless hot water heater:
Water demand.
Determine your household’s hot water demand. Tankless water heaters are rated by their flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM). Calculate the total GPM required to meet your simultaneous hot water needs, such as showers, laundry, and dishwasher. Choose a tankless heater that can provide the necessary GPM for your household.
Fuel type.
Tankless hot water heaters can use either electricity or natural gas to heat the water. If you are looking for an environmentally friendly option, then electric may be a better choice than gas. However, gas might be more cost-effective in the long run if you want something with fewer moving parts that will last longer than electric systems.
Space availability.
Tankless heaters are much smaller than traditional storage tank heaters so they can be installed almost anywhere. However, if you want to install a tankless heater in an area that is already crowded with other things, such as a closet or cabinet, you may run into space issues.
Installation requirements.
Tankless hot water heaters require electricity to power and pump water through the device. If your home’s electrical system isn’t well-designed or up to code, there may be issues with getting the necessary wiring into place. Also, if you do have an existing electrical system that doesn’t have enough capacity for a tankless heater installation (which could happen if you’re installing one of these devices in an area that currently only has one circuit), then installing one will likely require an upgrade of your electrical system before it can be done.
Maintenance and lifespan.
Tankless heaters have no moving parts in the system, which makes them much easier to maintain over time. They also have a longer lifespan than traditional tank-type heaters—typically lasting between 15 and 20 years before needing replacement or servicing.
Energy efficiency.
Energy-efficient tankless hot water heaters use less energy than traditional tank-type models do. This means you’ll save money on your utility bills each month and help reduce your carbon footprint by using a more eco-friendly appliance.
Upfront cost and long-term savings.
Tankless water heaters usually have a higher upfront cost compared to tank-style heaters. However, they can provide long-term savings through energy efficiency and reduced standby heat loss. Evaluate the initial investment and weigh it against potential energy savings over a couple of years.
DIY Vs. Professional tankless water heater installation
When it comes to installing a tankless water heater, there are two options: DIY and professional installation.
DIY tankless water heater installation is far less expensive than hiring a professional. You can save up to 50% of the cost of hiring a professional by installing your own tankless water heater. If you have experience working with plumbing and know what you’re doing, this can be an easy process. You will need to know how to install a gas line and hook up the water lines from your home’s main supply line to the tankless heater.
Here’s a detailed comparison table highlighting the differences between DIY (Do-It-Yourself) and professional tankless water heater installation:
| Factors | DIY Installation | Professional Installation |
| Skill and Expertise | Requires plumbing, electrical, and gas knowledge | Professionals have specialized skills and training |
| Safety | Potential safety risks if not properly installed | Installation follows safety protocols |
| Warranty | The manufacturer’s warranty may require professional installation. | The professional installation often extends warranty coverage |
| Permits and Codes | Responsibility for obtaining permits and following local codes | Professionals are knowledgeable about permits and codes |
| Equipment and Tools | Need to acquire necessary tools and equipment | Professionals come equipped with the required tools |
| Time | DIY installation may take longer due to the learning curve | Professionals complete installation efficiently |
| Cost | Lower upfront cost as you save on labor charges | Higher upfront costs due to professional fees |
| Potential Mistakes | Higher risk of errors or improper installation | Professionals ensure correct installation |
| Maintenance and Support | Responsible for ongoing maintenance and troubleshooting | Professionals may offer maintenance packages |
| Insurance Coverage | Potential impact on insurance coverage if self-installed | Professional installation may maintain coverage |
FAQs
Is it worth it to invest in a tankless water heater?
The short answer: yes! Tankless water heaters are more expensive than traditional ones, but they’ll save you money over the long term. The longer answer: tankless water heaters provide instant hot water and don’t waste energy by heating extra gallons of water that aren’t being used. This means you’ll use less energy and save money on your monthly bills!
How much does a tankless water heater cost?
The average cost of a tankless water heater installation is $2,000-$3,000. The exact cost will depend on the size of your home and how many people need to be served by the heater.
How long does it take to install a tankless water heater?
The installation time for a tankless water heater is usually around 3 hours. However, this is an estimate and may vary depending on your home’s layout and other factors.
How do I install a tankless water heater?
Installing a tankless water heater is generally easier than installing a traditional boiler. There are no tanks for you to fill with fuel or store in another location, and many models are small enough to fit just about anywhere. If you’re upgrading your current system, though, some additional steps will be involved in removing and replacing your old one with your new one. This process can take up to two days for larger systems but usually takes less time for smaller ones.
Let Professionals Install a Tankless Water Heater Installation At Your Home in Stafford, VA!
If you are tired of waiting for the hot water to arrive after turning on the shower, you need to consider installing a tankless water heater at your home. Tankless water heaters are energy-efficient and cost-effective. They also save you money on your monthly utility bill by producing hot water as needed. You will never have to wait for a tankless water heater to produce hot water again!
Haynes Plumbing Services is a locally-owned business that has been serving the community of Stafford, VA, for more than 25 years. We offer professional plumbing services at affordable rates so everyone can access quality plumbing care.
Our team has an unmatched level of experience and expertise that will ensure that you receive the best service possible.
Our Tankless Water Heater Solutions in Stafford include:
– Tankless hot water heater installation
– Tankless hot water heater maintenance
– Tankless hot water heater repair
Our trained and licensed professionals will help you every step of the way so that you know exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing it.
We’ll even make sure that we keep our work area clean during our installation process so that there isn’t any risk of contaminating your home with lead paint or other toxins from old plumbing equipment.
We’ll also take care of all permits and paperwork so that nothing gets held up while we’re working on your new tankless water heater installation project in Stafford, VA!
However, we offer free estimates over the phone or via email so that we can discuss your needs with you before coming out to perform any work on your property. Our plumbers are friendly and knowledgeable about all types of plumbing issues, such as boiler repair, leak detection, drain installation/repair, and more!
So, if you’re looking for tankless water heater installation in Stafford, VA, call us today at (540) 659-3295!