Quck answer
Cleaning a hot water heater with vinegar is a simple and effective method. Follow these steps:
1. Turn off the power to the heater and allow it to cool down.
2. Drain the water from the heater by attaching a hose to the drain valve and opening it.
3. Close the valve and pour white vinegar into the tank until it is half full.
4. Let the vinegar sit in the tank for a few hours or overnight to dissolve mineral deposits.
5. Open the drain valve and flush out the vinegar.
6. Refill the tank with water and drain it again to remove any remaining vinegar.
7. Turn on the power to the heater and it’s ready to use.
Regular cleaning with vinegar helps to maintain the efficiency and lifespan of your hot water heater.
Water spots or mineral deposits can reduce the efficiency and life of a tankless water heater over time. Vinegar is an effective solution to remove these deposits. However, the cleaning and flushing process may vary depending on the type of tankless water heater you have. It is recommended to download the owner’s manual online, which will provide specific instructions for your system. Cleaning the tankless water heater at least once a year is necessary, depending on the hardness of your water supply and household usage.
What You Will Need
You will need a submersible pump, preferably 1/6-horsepower to prevent damage to the heater’s inner workings. Food-grade white vinegar (3 gallons) is recommended for this job as it is gentler on gaskets and seals. You will also need a 5-gallon bucket and two rubber hoses (2-4 feet long) for the pump.
Steps to Descale a Tankless Water Heater
Step 1: Preparation
Shut off the gas or circuit breaker for the heater, remove the access panel as directed in the owner’s manual, and shut off the water supply. Release the pressure valve.
Step 2: Set Up the Pump
Attach a hose to the cold-water service port and connect it to the submersible pump. Set the pump inside the 5-gallon bucket filled with 3 gallons of undiluted distilled vinegar.
Step 3: Attach the Second Hose
Connect the second hose to the hot-water service port and place the other end into the bucket filled with vinegar.
Step 4: Start Pumping Vinegar
Turn on the sump pump and open the hot and cold-water service ports. The pump will push vinegar into the system, remove the scaling, and continue the cycle for at least an hour.
Step 5: Turn Off the Pump
After an hour, turn off the pump and remove the two hoses from the water heater. Return the hot and cold-water hoses to their service ports. The vinegar can now be disposed of.
Step 6: Rinse with Water
The next step will vary depending on your unit. Usually, you will need to open the cold-water shutoff valve and close the cold-water service port to flush out any remaining vinegar. Once done, close the valve and let the water drain completely before closing the hot-water port.
Step 7: Clean the Filter
If your unit has a filter, make sure to clean it. Soak an in-line filter in a vinegar solution or rinse it under running water to remove any buildup. Once cleaned, put it back in place before turning on the system for household use. Set a reminder to repeat this process in a year or include it on your annual fall maintenance checklist.
FAQ
1. Can I use vinegar to clean my hot water heater?
Yes, vinegar can be used to clean a hot water heater. Vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that can help remove mineral deposits and sediment buildup inside the tank. To clean your hot water heater with vinegar, first turn off the power and water supply to the heater. Drain the tank partially and then pour a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water into the tank. Let it sit for a few hours to dissolve any buildup. Finally, drain the tank completely and flush it with clean water before refilling.
2. Is it safe to use vinegar in my hot water heater?
Yes, it is safe to use vinegar in your hot water heater. Vinegar is a non-toxic and natural cleaning agent that is commonly used for household cleaning purposes. It is safe to use in hot water heaters as it does not contain any harsh chemicals that can damage the tank or heating elements. However, it is important to properly follow the cleaning instructions and ensure that all vinegar is rinsed out of the tank before turning the heater back on.
3. How often should I clean my hot water heater with vinegar?
The frequency of cleaning your hot water heater with vinegar depends on the water quality in your area. If you notice a decrease in the heater’s performance or if there is sediment buildup in the tank, it is recommended to clean the heater with vinegar. As a general guideline, it is advisable to clean the hot water heater at least once a year to prevent mineral deposits and sediment from affecting its efficiency.
4. Can vinegar help remove bad odors from my hot water heater?
Yes, vinegar can help remove bad odors from your hot water heater. Over time, bacteria can grow inside the tank, causing unpleasant smells. Vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant and can kill these bacteria, thus eliminating the odor. By following the cleaning process mentioned earlier and using vinegar, you can effectively get rid of any foul smells coming from your hot water heater.
5. Are there any alternative cleaning solutions to vinegar for my hot water heater?
Yes, there are alternative cleaning solutions to vinegar for your hot water heater. Some people prefer using citric acid or hydrogen peroxide as they also have cleaning properties that can dissolve mineral deposits and sediment. However, it is important to note that these alternatives may be stronger and should be used with caution. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consult a professional if you are unsure about which cleaning solution to use for your specific hot water heater.