Tankless Water Heater Installation & Repair Services

We understand it can be frustrating when you’re greeted with lukewarm or cold water showers. Yet, even the most energy-efficient water heaters require a little TLC from time to time.

Smedley Plumbing’s qualified technicians specialize in quick and effective solutions when it comes to troubleshooting tankless water heaters.

The average tankless water heater repair ranges from $100 to $650, with most homeowners paying around $375. High-end tankless system repairs can cost up to $1,300.

Repair costs also vary depending on the fuel type you choose:

• Electric models = $100 – $600

• Propane/gas units = $150 – $650

• Oil types = $150 – $650

• Solar units = $200 – $700

Now we’ll cover five common tankless water heater issues.

1. Ignition failure

• Symptoms: No hot water, error codes (E11 on Rheem models)

• Solution:

  • The pilot light is the flame that ignites the heater’s burner to heat water. If it goes out, components around the light might need to be readjusted or re-lit by a professional. Do not attempt to fix this yourself.

  • Our team will check that the power supply is stable (either gas or electric) and ensure all valves and pipes are free from blockages.

2. Intermittent heating

• Symptoms: Little to no hot water

• Solution:

  • This issue can arise due to various factors like faulty flow sensors, low water pressure, excessive hot water usage, faulty thermostats, or mineral buildup.

  • First, try to reduce simultaneous hot water use.

  • Should the issue persist, contact Smedley Plumbing. Our team will conduct a full analysis of the system to pinpoint the underlying issue.

  • We will test flow sensors, and pressure valves, and regulate the thermostat. If these solutions prove unsuccessful, replacement parts may be needed.

Read more about why your water isn’t as hot as it used to be, next.

3. Air supply or exhaust blockage

• Symptoms: Reduced water flow, insufficient heating

• Solution:

  • Blockages in the air intake or exhaust lines can impact performance and must remain clear to safely remove byproduct gases (e.g. water vapor, carbon dioxide). This prevents overheating and an increase in system pressure.

  • Do not attempt to clear these yourself as improper handling can worsen the problem and pose safety hazards. Reach out to Smedley Plumbing and we’ll address the issue immediately.

4. Pressure relief valve issues

• Symptoms: Leaking water, unusual noises from the heater unit, low water pressure

• Solution:

  • This can be caused by fluctuating temperatures or increased system pressure. It can be a potential safety concern and professional plumbers are required.

  • Our team will do a thorough inspection of your heater system, ensuring there are no signs of corrosion, cracks, or damage.

  • Next, we’ll reset the thermostat to the desired temperature ranging between 120°F and 125°F and reset your tankless water heater.

  • Should the problem persist, a pressure relief valve replacement may be needed ($75 – $150).

5. Mineral buildup

• Symptoms: Gradual decrease in system efficiency

• Solution:

  • Hard water can lead to mineral deposits in the system. Sludge is an accumulation of corrosion (rust), limescale, and debris that clogs up water heater units.

  • Our team will first run an inhibitor (clean) through your tankless water heater to remove/loosen the mineral buildup. Magnetic filters will also be used to catch any suspended debris particles before they cause any blockages.

  • If the sediment buildup or corrosion damage is excessive, our team will suggest the best solution – usually a full replacement instead of a repair.

Here’s a quick guideline for various component replacement/repair costs*:

• Fuse = $50 – $75

• Thermostat = $75 – $150

• Pressure relief valve = $75 – $150

• Pilot light = $100 – $175

• Element = $200 – $750

• Pipes = $150 – $800

*Including labor

Interested in knowing if cold weather can affect your water heater? Read more about it here.