At Noble Plumbing, we’ve seen firsthand how proper maintenance can make or break a tankless water heater. These units deliver endless hot water and save energy, but they’re more sensitive to hard water and mineral buildup than traditional tanks. Skipping maintenance is the fastest way to shorten their life and spike your repair bills.
Just like your vehicle, here is why annual maintenance is essential and what it does for you:
1. Extends Lifespan & Prevents Costly Repairs
Hard water causes scale to build up inside the heat exchanger, reducing efficiency and eventually causing cracks or failure. Regular descaling keeps the unit running smoothly and can help it last 20–25 years instead of 10–12.
2. Saves Energy & Lowers Bills
A clean heat exchanger heats water faster and uses less energy. Neglected units can be 20–30% less efficient, adding to your annual utility costs.
3. Keeps Water Flow Strong
Scale buildup restricts water flow, leading to weaker pressure at your faucets and showers. Annual flushing restores full performance.
4. Protects Your Warranty
Most manufacturers (Rinnai, Navien, Rheem, etc.) require annual maintenance to keep the warranty valid. Skipping it can void coverage and leave you paying out of pocket.
5. What Professional Maintenance Includes:
- Flushing with a descaling solution
- Cleaning the inlet filter screen
- Checking vents, burner and igniter
- Testing pressure and flow
- Spotting potential issues early
We recommend annual or semi-annual maintenance to stay on top of and extend your unit’s lifespan.
Bottom Line
Your tankless water heater is a great investment, but it’s not maintenance free. A quick annual service saves you money, keeps hot water flowing strong, and protects your warranty.
Need a service appointment? Contact Noble Plumbing today. We’ll get your unit flushed and running like new.
“From Drips to Drainage” is a blog series sponsored by Noble Plumbing.
