I Need to Flush My Tankless Water Heater? Yes, You Do

When scale builds up, it blocks the heat exchanger, which is the part that heats your water. This makes the system work harder to heat the water, resulting in higher energy bills and less hot water when you need it. If it continues for too long, the system can overheat or shut down, and that’s when you’ll need to call for water heater repair quickly.

How Often Should You Flush It?

Good question! Most experts recommend flushing your tankless water heater once a year. If you live in an area with hard water—or if your household uses a lot of hot water—you may need to flush the system more frequently. Think of it like going to the dentist. Regular checkups help prevent bigger problems from occurring later.

If you're not sure when your system was last flushed, it’s a good idea to schedule it now. High Speed Plumbing recommends not waiting until there’s a problem. A small bit of care now can save you from a major headache later.

Can I Flush It Myself?

It’s possible to flush your tankless water heater on your own, but you’ll need some special tools and a good set of instructions. You’ll also need to be comfortable working with water lines and a minimal amount of electricity. If that sounds like a lot, it’s okay to call a plumbing service and let the pros handle it.

Here’s a quick idea of what’s involved:

• Shut off the power and water to the heater
• Disconnect the hot and cold water lines.
• Attach hoses and run a descaling solution through the system.
• Rinse everything out with clean water.
• Reconnect and restart the system

If any of that sounds confusing, don’t worry. A professional plumber has the right equipment and can usually flush your heater in under an hour.

Signs Your Heater Needs a Flush

You might not always know when it’s time to flush your tankless water heater, but there are a few signs to watch for:

• Your hot water takes longer to arrive
• Water doesn’t get as hot as it used to
• You hear strange noises from the unit.
• Your utility bill has jumped.
• The unit gives you an error code or shuts off.

If you notice any of these, it’s a sign your heater may already be dealing with mineral buildup. In some cases, flushing can resolve the issue. Otherwise, you may need a more serious water heater repair to get things working again.

Why a Professional Plumber is a Smart Call

Sure, DIY is tempting—but when it comes to something as important as your hot water, don’t take chances. A professional plumber can inspect the system, flush it correctly, and identify early warning signs of other potential issues. They’ll also ensure that everything is put back together correctly, so you’re not left with leaks or other problems.

High Speed Plumbing has helped tons of homeowners keep their systems running like new. Whether you’re on your first flush or just trying to avoid an emergency plumbing service call, it pays to have a pro you can trust.

Keep Your Water Hot and Your Wallet Happy

Regular maintenance, such as flushing your tankless water heater, helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and keeps your water clean, hot, and flowing smoothly. Skipping it can lead to trouble, like calling High Speed Plumbing for an unexpected plumbing service visit or paying for costly parts down the line.

Don’t wait until your water runs cold or your heater shuts down in the middle of a shower. Stay ahead of the game with a regular flush.

Don’t Wait for a Breakdown

Your tankless water heater works hard every day, and it deserves a little attention. Flushing it each year helps it run better, last longer, and keep your home comfortable. If you're unsure how to do it—or if it's been a while—now’s the perfect time to call a trusted plumber.

High Speed Plumbing has the expertise to handle your system effectively and keep things flowing smoothly. Whether it's a routine flush or a quick water heater repair, they're ready to help.

Keep your hot water steady. Keep your energy bills low. And most of all, keep those cold showers far, far away.