Hybrid water heaters are known for their longer lifetimes. They can outlast a conventional tank style water heater by more than 5 years! But this is only true if you properly maintain your water heater. Here are a few maintenance tips from our master plumbers.
Flush Your Water Heater | Every 6 Months
The most important thing you can do to keep your water heater in great shape is to regularly flush it out. This should be done every 6 to 12 months, depending on how much your water heater is used. If you’re not sure, put it on your calendar for the same time every six months. Flushing your water heater helps to clear out all of the built up sediment in your water heater tank. Limescale from your water supply naturally builds up within your tankless water heater. If you don’t flush it out regularly, the limescale can get very thick and prevent your unit from heating properly. Built up sediment can also prevent the hot water from properly flowing out of your tank, which can result in water that doesn’t feel like it’s getting hot enough or even a low flow of hot water.
Clean the Filter | Every Quarter
Hybrid water heaters have a filter on the top of the heat pump that is very important for operation. Some units have filters that must be replaced every few months. The Rheem units that we recommend have a reusable filter instead. It’s important to remember to clean this filter periodically – every few months would be ideal. Clean this filter by washing with mild detergent and water. Dry it and place it back in the heat pump.
Clean the Consdensate Drain | Every Year
It’s also very important to clean your condensate drain so that it doesn’t get backed up and cause issues for your hybrid water heater. At least once a year, pour a cup of
bleach in the access opening of the condensate drain to kill any algae, mold, or mildew that has formed in the pipe. Ensure the condensate can flow freely and unclog if needed.
Check the TPR Valve | Every Year
The temperature pressure relief valve (TPR) is an important mechanism that keeps your water heater and your home safe. At least once a year, lift and release the lever handle on the
temperature pressure relief valve, located on the side of the water heater, to make certain the valve operates freely. Allow several gallons to flush through the discharge line to an open drain.