What To Do When Your Tankless Water Heater Stops Working

A tankless water heater is a great investment for any home in Hudson Valley, providing on-demand hot water and energy efficiency. However, like any appliance, it can occasionally stop working unexpectedly. If your tankless water heater has suddenly stopped providing hot water, don’t panic! There are several common reasons for this issue, and many of them can be fixed quickly.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the troubleshooting steps to identify and resolve the problem.


Check for Power or Gas Supply Issues

For Electric Tankless Water Heaters:

  • Check the circuit breaker: A tripped breaker could be the reason your heater isn’t working. Reset the breaker and see if the unit turns back on.
  • Inspect the power cord: Ensure the heater is plugged in securely and there are no visible damages to the cord.

For Gas Tankless Water Heaters:

  • Confirm gas supply: Make sure the gas valve is fully open. A closed or partially closed valve will prevent your unit from heating water.
  • Check the gas line: If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the gas immediately and call a professional for repair.
  • Restart the unit: If your heater has a reset button, press it and see if it resolves the issue.

Check for Error Codes on the Display

Most modern tankless water heaters have a digital display that shows error codes when something goes wrong. Common error codes include:

  • Code 11: Ignition failure (check gas supply)
  • Code 16: Overheating (descale the unit)
  • Code 29: Water drain issue (clean the drain valve)
  • Code 99: Flue blockage (check for obstructions in the vent system)

Refer to your unit’s manual to decode the error message and follow the recommended steps for fixing the issue.


Inspect the Water Supply

If your tankless water heater is running but no hot water is coming out, there may be a water flow issue.

Steps to Check Water Flow:

  • Turn on multiple taps: If you have very low water pressure or no water at all, check if the issue is affecting the entire house. If so, it may be a plumbing or municipal water supply problem.
  • Check for frozen pipes: During cold Hudson Valley winters, pipes can freeze, preventing water from reaching the heater. If you suspect frozen pipes, try warming them with a space heater or warm towels.
  • Inspect the inlet filter: A clogged filter can restrict water flow. Turn off the water supply, remove the filter, and clean out any debris.

Clean and Descale the Unit

Mineral buildup from hard water can block the heating elements and cause your tankless water heater to stop working.

How to Descale Your Tankless Water Heater:

  1. Turn off power and gas: Ensure the unit is completely off before starting.
  2. Shut off water supply valves: Locate and close the hot and cold water valves.
  3. Connect a descaling kit: Use a tankless water heater descaling kit with a pump, bucket, and descaling solution.
  4. Flush with vinegar or descaling solution: Run the solution through the system for at least 45 minutes to remove mineral deposits.
  5. Rinse with clean water: Flush out any remaining solution before reconnecting the system.

Doing this once a year can prevent future issues and keep your water heater running efficiently.

Reset the Unit

Sometimes, a simple reset can fix minor glitches in the system.

How to Reset Your Tankless Water Heater:

  1. Turn off the power or gas supply.
  2. Wait for a few minutes.
  3. Turn the power or gas back on.
  4. Press the reset button (if available) on the unit.

Check if the unit starts working again. If the problem persists, you may need professional help.


Call a Professional If Needed

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your tankless water heater still isn’t working, it’s time to call a professional. A certified technician can diagnose and repair complex issues such as:

  • Faulty heating elements
  • Damaged sensors
  • Gas valve malfunctions
  • Internal wiring problems

If you need expert tankless water heater repair in hudson valley, look for a licensed and experienced plumber to get your system back up and running.


Conclusion

A sudden failure of your tankless water heater can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting steps, many problems can be fixed quickly. Start by checking power, gas, water supply, and error codes. If necessary, clean and descale your unit to remove mineral buildup. If the issue persists, don’t hesitate to call a professional tankless water heater repair service in Hudson Valley.

Keeping up with regular maintenance can also prevent breakdowns and extend the lifespan of your unit. Need professional help? Contact a trusted water heater repair specialist in Hudson Valley today!

January 30, 2025