Need Help? Start with These FAQs

A trained technician performs a visual inspection, cleans and services filters and the flame rod, cleans the condensate trap, performs a descaling flush, and evaluates combustion and performance.

A trained tankless water heater technician will perform a visual inspection of your unit to look for leaks or damage. This visual inspection will also include a visual assessment of both the indoor and outdoor air quality.

The visual inspection of the unit will look at the condition of the unit and check for physical damage, check pipes and drains for signs of leaks or blockage, confirm sufficient ventilation, and confirm connections are clean and tight. This is important, as minor corrosion or leaks that go undiagnosed could cause more damage and require additional repairs.

All consumable parts, such as the flame rod, gaskets, and O-rings, are replaced as needed or per manufacturer’s recommendation for an additional cost.

A descaling flush requires draining the unit and removing the scale, or mineral buildup, by flushing the unit with a non-toxic mild acid such as citric acid or white vinegar. Then, the unit will be refilled.

Leading manufacturers recommend residential tankless units under normal use be routinely serviced every 12 months. We often see residential units after 12 months and commercial units every six months.

At Blue Conservation, we tailor our recommendations to the customer’s unique usage patterns, and the location and environment of the water heater. However, usage and environmental concerns may result in the unit needing to be serviced more or less often. The average time between servicing may be modified depending on variables such as water quality, air quality, and degree of use.

For example, areas with low or fluctuating gas pressure and especially hard water require more frequent water heater maintenance. For units in these areas, every 12 months is common. It is important to conduct descaling of these units to prevent mineral buildup and to clean clogged filters to keep the equipment functioning optimally. Recommendations may vary from neighborhood to neighborhood depending on if they are using hard water, which is common in urban areas, or soft water, common in rural areas.

For a regularly maintained tankless unit, a maintenance service call takes approximately 90 minutes.

This time includes the visual inspection, cleaning and service of filters and flame rods, and a descaling flush.

However, if it has been longer than 18 months since your last service, or if an equipment performance issue is discovered, additional time may be required. A trained service technician will clearly communicate the issue, provide options for resolving the issue, the additional time required, and any additional costs, if needed, so that you may make an informed decision on how best to proceed.

Performance will diminish over time, you may not have hot water when you need it, and the manufacturer’s warranty often requires proof that proper periodic maintenance was performed.

The newest units from top manufacturers are designed to last for 20 to 25 years. Proper maintenance will aid in getting the most life out of your unit.

Tankless water heater longevity is based on usage and the environment the units are in. Poor air quality, hard water, and power surges can lead to part failure and performance issues. Consumable parts that wear out over time and other connectivity and performance issues are identified in a timely manner during periodic maintenance.

To get the most out of your residential tankless water heater, schedule required routine maintenance such as descaling, flushing, and inspection every 18 months. Commercial units should be scheduled for service every 12 months. Cleaning the air intake and water filters as well as the condensate trap and inspecting parts for wear will keep your system running at peak efficiency. NOTE: Actual usage and the environment may result in the unit needing to be serviced more or less often.

Yes, it is important that the unit gets serviced, and if you are mechanically inclined, you can do this work yourself. Document the service and contact the manufacturer so the warranty stays intact.

Many of the manufacturers have instructions and videos showing the proper way to service the systems. However, when the work is complete, it is important to document the service and contact the manufacturer to let them know that the unit has been serviced. Having a documented service history with the manufacturer is often required to preserve the warranty.

Some tasks such as cleaning filters and air intakes are relatively easy to perform by the homeowner, a nearby relative, or a friend you can recruit for the task. However, thorough flushing and descaling will take more time and requires the correct tools and cleaning products.