Why Tankless Water Heaters Require Regular Maintenance (And Why It’s Worth It)

April 9, 2025

When it comes to water heaters, you might have heard that tankless models are becoming more popular. These units provide hot water on demand without the bulky storage tank, making them an appealing option for many homeowners. However, while they offer several benefits, they also require regular maintenance to keep running efficiently. In this article, we’ll discuss why tankless water heaters are more expensive than traditional water heaters and why regular descaling is necessary for optimal performance.

Three Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

Endless Hot Water Supply
One of the biggest advantages of tankless water heaters is their ability to provide hot water on demand. Unlike traditional water heaters that store a limited amount of hot water, tankless units heat water as it passes through the system. This means you’ll never run out of hot water during a shower or when running multiple appliances at once. If you’ve ever had to schedule showers around the hot water supply, you know just how valuable this benefit can be.
Energy Efficiency
Tankless water heaters are generally more energy-efficient than traditional models. Since they only heat water when needed, you’re not wasting energy to keep a large tank of water hot all day long. Over time, this can result in significant savings on your energy bills. You may even notice a difference in your monthly utility costs after making the switch, which can help offset the higher initial cost of the tankless unit.
Compact and Space-Saving
Another perk of tankless water heaters is their compact size. Traditional water heaters are bulky and take up valuable space in your home, while tankless models are typically wall-mounted and require far less space. This is a huge benefit for homeowners with limited space or those who want to free up room in their utility areas or closets.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance

Despite the many benefits, tankless water heaters do require more maintenance than traditional water heaters. One key maintenance task is descaling, which is necessary to prevent mineral buildup in the unit. Over time, minerals from the water, like calcium and magnesium, can accumulate inside the heater, reducing efficiency and even causing damage.

Descaling is an essential part of tankless water heater maintenance, much like cleaning your espresso machine every so often. While this is a relatively simple task, it’s one that must be done every 1-2 years to keep the system running smoothly. Neglecting this can lead to reduced water flow, lower heating performance, and potentially expensive repairs down the line.

In my experience, homeowners often overlook the importance of descaling and other maintenance tasks. While a traditional water heater might not require as much attention, neglecting a tankless unit can lead to costly repairs or early replacement. In fact, the maintenance costs for a tankless water heater can be higher than traditional systems, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the added expense.

Tankless vs. Traditional Water Heaters: A Quick Comparison

Let’s break down the pros and cons of both types of water heaters to help you decide which is right for you.

Tankless Water Heaters:
- Pros:
  - Endless hot water
  - Energy-efficient
  - Compact design
- Cons:
  - Higher upfront cost
  - Requires regular maintenance (descaling)
  - May require upgraded plumbing for large households
Traditional Water Heaters:
- Pros:
  - Lower upfront cost
  - Less frequent maintenance
  - Easier to install in most homes
- Cons:
  - Limited hot water supply
  - Less energy-efficient
  - Takes up more space

Based on personal experience, while traditional water heaters are less expensive upfront and easier to maintain, the benefits of a tankless model—especially if you have a larger family or use hot water frequently—can make it worth the investment.

Conclusion

While tankless water heaters come with a higher initial cost and require regular maintenance like descaling, they can be a great choice for homeowners who want unlimited hot water and increased energy efficiency. If you’re considering a tankless water heater, remember that maintenance is key to keeping it running smoothly. If you’re not comfortable performing this task yourself, it’s always a good idea to call a professional plumber to help.

For those in Lemont, IL, and the surrounding areas, Demmis Plumbing is here to assist with your tankless water heater installation, maintenance, and repairs. Don’t wait until your system breaks down—schedule a maintenance check today!