Preventing Scale Buildup in Your Tankless Water Heater: Tips for LA Homeowners

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As a homeowner in Los Angeles, you know that tankless water heaters provide efficient and endless hot water on demand. But one challenge you may face in this area is scale buildup. Los Angeles water is known for being hard, meaning it contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. Over time, these minerals can accumulate inside your tankless water heater, leading to scale buildup. This buildup can reduce your unit’s efficiency, cause it to work harder, and ultimately shorten its lifespan. In this blog, we’ll share essential tips to help prevent scale buildup and keep your tankless water heater running smoothly in Los Angeles.

1. Install a Water Softener

Hard water is one of the main contributors to scale buildup in tankless water heaters. By installing a water softener, you can significantly reduce the amount of minerals entering your system. A water softener works by removing calcium and magnesium, preventing them from forming scale in your water heater.

Tip: Installing a water softener can protect your water heater from mineral buildup and increase its efficiency.

2. Descale Your Tankless Water Heater Regularly

Even with a water softener, it’s still important to regularly descale your tankless water heater. Descaling helps remove any mineral deposits that may have accumulated inside the unit, ensuring it continues to function optimally. We recommend descaling your unit at least once a year, or more often if you have particularly hard water.

Tip: Descaling a tankless water heater requires special equipment and know-how.

3. Flush the System Annually

Flushing your tankless water heater is another key step in preventing scale buildup. Flushing the system involves running a cleaning solution (such as white vinegar) through the unit to dissolve mineral deposits. It’s an essential part of regular maintenance, as it helps maintain the efficiency of your heater and prevents clogging.

Tip: Flushing a tankless water heater may seem like a simple task, but it requires specific procedures to avoid damaging the system.

4. Check Your Water Temperature Settings

Keeping your water heater at a consistent and appropriate temperature can help prevent scale formation. If the water temperature is set too high, it can cause minerals to precipitate and form scale inside the heater. Ideally, the temperature should be set to around 120°F to ensure maximum efficiency and minimize scaling risks.

5. Inspect Your Unit for Early Signs of Scale Buildup

It’s essential to regularly check your tankless water heater for signs of scale buildup. If you notice a decrease in water flow or temperature, or if the heater starts to make unusual noises, these could be indications of scale accumulation. The sooner you address these issues, the less likely it is that you’ll face costly repairs or a complete system failure.

Conclusion: Professional Help When You Need It

Preventing scale buildup is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your tankless water heater in Los Angeles. By following these tips—installing a water softener, regularly descaling and flushing the system, adjusting your temperature settings, and inspecting for early signs of buildup—you can keep your water heater running smoothly for years.

If your tankless water heater is already showing signs of scale buildup or other issues, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals. USComfort has over 24 years of experience in tankless water heater service repair in Los Angeles. Whether you need a routine maintenance check or more extensive repairs, our expert team is here to help.

Contact USComfort today for all your tankless water heater needs in Los Angeles!