Maintenance Checklist for Tankless and Storage Water Heaters

_{| Thursday February 29, 2024}

Water heaters have been an important appliance for numerous properties in the Philippines, giving people a sense of comfort for every shower. Similar to you, who work hard every day, your water heating units, especially storage heaters, work day in and day out to provide your needed hot water for everyday life. This is why they also need some TLC through regular maintenance, giving them the needed care to stay in peak condition in any season. 

 

Routine upkeep is the unsung hero of heater care, making the appliance a reliable source of cozy and toasty showers. A well-maintained bathroom heater will operate like a finely-tuned orchestra, providing the optimal energy efficiency and longevity that would benefit homeowners in the long run. This can mitigate the need for costly repairs and replacements, allowing for long-term cost savings that individuals can use for other expenses. 

 

So, if you are ready to elevate your comfort game, here is a maintenance checklist that can help you ensure that your storage or tankless instant water heater is in its A-game for a long time. 

 

Tankless Heaters: Maximizing Efficiency and Functionality

 

As life gets busier in the modern world, the expectations for on-demand warm water have also increased, leading to tankless instant heaters becoming more popular. This heating unit type provides an on-demand supply of hot water, eliminating the need for electric kettles or waiting for traditional heaters to warm the stored water. 

 

Here are some things you can do to ensure that your electric tankless water heaters will give optimal efficiency and functionality. 

 

· Flush Mineral Buildup

 

One of the most common issues with any heater is mineral buildup, especially if the area the property is in has a hard water supply. Over time, the minerals in this water will start to accumulate in the unit’s heat exchanger, significantly reducing its capability to transfer heat to the passing water. This can also corrode the pipes, which can lead to leaks and further damage to other components. 

 

Think of regular flushing as a proactive process in extending the lifespan of the unit, helping maintain a consistent and controlled temperature for a long time. It can also guarantee consistent warm water flow, which prevents cold spots when showering and fosters excellent energy efficiency. 

 

· Test the Functionality of Pressure Relief Valve

 

Apart from reliable performance, safety is another critical aspect of maintaining a water heater. One of the most essential ways to ensure the heater’s safety is by testing its pressure relief valve. This is responsible for releasing excess pressure within the heater so that it won’t reach unsafe levels that could cause accidents. 

 

Regular testing of this valve helps owners verify its ability to alleviate excessive pressure and maintain the structural integrity of the whole unit. The safety assurance gives homeowners peace of mind, knowing that their heaters are operating safely. 

 

· Inspect and Clean Inlet Water Filters 

 

No one likes to bathe in dirty and contaminated water, which is why inlet water filters serve a very valuable purpose in a heater’s functionality and longevity. Not cleaning the filters can obstruct water flow, reduce water pressure, and increase strain on internal components. It can also lead to overheating, which can damage some of the most critical parts of the unit.

 

To ensure that the filter is cleaned, you can rinse it under running water to remove the accumulated debris. You can also use a soft brush or toothbrush if there are more stubborn deposits in the filter. This can help restore the filter’s efficiency in blocking contaminants from entering the heater. 

 

Storage Heaters: Reliability at Its Finest

 

In contrast with a tankless heater’s compact design and on-demand functionality, electric storage water heaters work by storing a particular amount of water in the tank at a predetermined temperature. And since they keep warm water for a prolonged period, they are more susceptible to mineral buildup and corrosion, compromising efficiency and functionality. 

 

Here is how you can take good care of your storage heater, ensuring that it can be a guardian of warmth on your property. 

 

· Turn Off Heater

 

Storage heaters work round the clock to maintain the temperature of the stored water. This is why turning it off during maintenance days is crucial, allowing the components to take a breather from constantly working. Think of it like you going to sleep after a long day at work, finally resting so that you won’t get sick. 

 

· Check the TPR Valve

 

It is also important to check the valves of a storage heater to ensure its safety over time. The temperature and pressure release valves are crucial in preventing overheating, so it is vital to thoroughly check them before proceeding with other maintenance work. This can be done by gradually lifting the lever until water flows into the drainpipe.

 

· Look for Leaks

 

One of the early signs that there are possible leaks from the heater’s tank or tubes is if there’s a puddle below the unit. But if there is no puddle, you can inspect the tank and the pipes by using a mix of warm water and dish soap and applying it to the components. If bubbles are forming, chances are there’s a leak that needs to be taken care of. 

 

· Flush Sediment Buildup

 

It is also important to flush away any accumulation of debris and minerals inside the tank to prevent scale buildup. You can do this by connecting a hose to the drain valve and letting water flow for several minutes to wash away the sediments. Continue flushing until the water runs clear, indicating that the contaminants are already gone. 

 

· Inspect the Anode Rod and Replace if Necessary

 

One crucial component of water heaters is the anode rod, a sacrificial part whose job is to attract corrosive elements and block them from damaging the tank itself. As time goes by, the anode rod will corrode instead of the tank, so it is crucial to check whether the current rod can still do its job or if replacement is necessary. 

 

Conclusion

 

Water heaters are more than just an appliance; they are a steadfast companion in one’s pursuit of a new degree of comfort. Giving it the proper love and care it deserves ensures that cozy moments aren’t only a dream but a reality you’ll live in. Regular maintenance for either tankless or storage water heaters can fill homes with warmth and joy from hassle-free hot showers. 

 

If you are looking for top-notch, energy-efficient water heaters for your property, you should check out Rheem, one of the best water heater brands in the Philippines. With almost 100 years in the water heating industry, we have constantly focused on innovating and creating more advanced, high-quality water heating solutions to suit our customers’ unique needs. 

 

You can browse our extensive range of tankless and storage water heaters on our website. For any inquiries or more information about our products, you can also talk to one of our representatives at www.rheemphilippines.com/contact. 

 

Read More: The Benefits of Investing in Enamel-Coated Water Heaters