While switching to a modern on-demand system offers incredible efficiency, we know that technical hitches can still disrupt your home’s comfort. Understanding why your unit might be underperforming is the first step toward a permanent fix. At George's Plumbing Inc, we have identified the most frequent issues our residential and commercial plumbing clients face to help you keep your hot water flowing.
Most Common Problems With Tankless Water Heaters
Mineral and Scale Buildup
In many areas we serve, hard water is a primary concern for high-efficiency appliances. Over time, calcium and magnesium deposits accumulate within the heat exchanger, restricting water flow and forcing the unit to work harder. We recommend regular professional descaling and flushing to prevent these minerals from causing permanent damage and to maintain your system’s peak energy efficiency.
System Overload and Capacity Issues
We often see "no hot water" calls caused simply by exceeding the unit’s flow rate. If you are running the dishwasher and a high-flow shower simultaneously, an undersized heater may struggle or shut down. We can help you calculate your household’s peak demand and determine if you need a higher-capacity model or a secondary unit to handle your needs.
Ignition Failures and Flame Issues
Your tankless unit requires a precise balance of fuel, air, and electricity to ignite successfully. If you experience an ignition failure, it could be due to a closed gas valve, an undersized gas line, or even a dirty flame sensor. We specialize in diagnosing these technical electrical and gas-related components to ensure your system ignites reliably every single time.
The Dreaded Cold Water Sandwich
This phenomenon occurs when a burst of cold water follows a few seconds of hot water during back-to-back use. While often considered a design quirk, we can mitigate this by checking your internal sensors or installing a small buffer tank. Our team ensures your plumbing configuration is optimized to provide a seamless transition between uses, eliminating those uncomfortable temperature fluctuations.
Whether you're dealing with scale buildup or inconsistent temperatures, we are here to provide the expert residential and commercial plumbing support you deserve. At George's Plumbing Inc, our priority is your comfort and peace of mind. Give us a call today to schedule a maintenance check or to learn more about our tankless installation services.