Troubleshooting Tankless: Water Heater Issues at Home
Tankless water heaters are known for their energy efficiency and long-term reliability, but like any home appliance, they can occasionally experience issues. Fortunately, many of the most common problems have simple solutions. By knowing what to look for, you can often resolve minor issues on your own—or at least understand when it’s time to call a professional.
Here are some common tankless water heater problems and how to troubleshoot them:
1. No Hot Water
If you’re not getting hot water, the first step is to check the power source. For electric models, ensure the unit is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. For gas units, check that the gas valve is open and that the ignition system is functioning.
Also, make sure your unit isn’t being overwhelmed. Running too many hot water appliances at once can exceed the heater’s flow rate, resulting in lukewarm or cold water.
2. Fluctuating Water Temperature
Inconsistent water temperature is often due to scale buildup, especially in areas with hard water. This buildup reduces the unit’s efficiency and causes heat transfer problems. If you notice temperature swings, it may be time for a system flush or descaling.
Another cause could be a clogged inlet filter or improper settings on the thermostat.
3. Low Water Pressure
If your tankless water heater suddenly produces low water pressure, check the input and output valves for blockages. Sediment or scale buildup in the pipes can also restrict flow.
Cleaning the unit’s inlet screen filter can often resolve this issue. If the pressure doesn’t improve, there may be a plumbing issue unrelated to the heater itself.
4. Error Codes on the Display
Most modern tankless water heaters include a digital display that shows error codes when something is wrong. Consult your user manual to decode the message. Common errors relate to ignition failures, sensor malfunctions, or blocked vents.
If you’re unsure how to respond, ProTech can help quickly diagnose and fix the issue.
Need Help? Call ProTech!
While many minor issues can be handled at home, ProTech Tankless is here when the problem goes beyond DIY. Our trained technicians provide fast, professional service to keep your hot water flowing.
📞 Contact ProTech today for expert troubleshooting and maintenance support!