Do Tankless Water Heaters Need To Be Flushed?

Prevent Expensive Repairs by Clearing Build-up

While many homeowners know that they need to flush their traditional storage-tank water heaters annually to clear out sediment, many aren’t sure if they need to do the same for a tankless water heater. After all, there’s no tank for sediment to collect in.

It’s still a good idea to flush your tankless water heater, and we can walk you through exactly how to do it.

Why Should You Flush A Water Heater?

Over time, your tankless water heater’s heating chamber will accumulate mineral deposits. This build-up can erode the walls of the heating chamber if left unattended. Every year, it’s a good idea to clean your water heater by flushing out the mineral deposits.

How To Flush A Tankless Water Heater

Here’s a general rundown of how to flush a tankless water heater. You should still check your model’s manual and follow the instructions. If you’re not sure about the process, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Poore’s Propane to help!

This is the process for flushing a tankless propane water heater:

1. Turn off power to the water heater.
2. Shut the gas valve.
3. Close the water valves attached to the water heater to stop water from going into or out of the unit while you clean it.
4. Carefully remove the purge port valve caps from the purge valves on each of the cold and hot water valves. These valves may be pressurized, so remove them carefully.
5. Attach hoses to each of the valves. Hoses might have come with the tankless water heater. If they didn’t, go to a home store to purchase them. They must be long enough to reach a bucket or drain.
6. Open the purge port valves.
7. Using 4 gallons of undiluted white vinegar — not a chemical cleaner — flush and drain the water heater according to your owner’s manual.
8. After flushing, close the purge port valves.
9. Disconnect the hoses from each valve.
10. Replace and tighten the purge port valve caps.
11. Restart your water heater, following your owner’s manual instructions.
12. Open a hot water tap and let any air pass through until you have a steady flow of hot water.

If your tankless water heater isn’t functioning at peak efficiency, Poore’s Propane can provide assistance. Contact us today for service.*

*Water heating service and repairs available within our Delaware HVAC service territory only. Please speak to a customer service representative for details.