Mind-blowing Truth: Can Tankless Water Heaters Freeze? What You Need To Know!

Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency and space-saving design. However, one concern that homeowners have is whether tankless water heaters can freeze in cold climates. The answer is yes, tankless water heaters can freeze, but it is less likely than with a traditional water heater. In this blog post, we will discuss the factors that can cause a tankless water heater to freeze, how to prevent it from happening, and what to do if it does freeze.

Factors That Can Cause a Tankless Water Heater to Freeze

There are several factors that can contribute to a tankless water heater freezing, including:

• Low water flow: If the water flow through the tankless water heater is too low, it can cause the water to freeze inside the heat exchanger. This can happen if the water pressure is too low, if the water pipes are clogged, or if the water heater is not properly sized for the demand.
• Cold weather: Tankless water heaters are more likely to freeze in cold weather, especially if they are not properly insulated.
• Power outages: If the power goes out, the tankless water heater will not be able to operate, which can allow the water inside to freeze.
• Leaks: A leak in the water heater can allow cold air to enter and cause the water to freeze.

How to Prevent a Tankless Water Heater from Freezing

There are several things that you can do to prevent your tankless water heater from freezing, including:

• Insulate the water heater: Make sure that the tankless water heater is properly insulated, especially if it is located in a cold climate.
• Keep the water flowing: Even if you are not using hot water, keep the water flowing through the tankless water heater by running a faucet or shower for a few minutes each day.
• Install a freeze protection kit: Many tankless water heaters come with a freeze protection kit that can help to prevent the water from freezing inside the heat exchanger.
• Use a timer: If you are away from home for extended periods of time, you can use a timer to turn on the tankless water heater for a few minutes each day to keep the water flowing.

What to Do if a Tankless Water Heater Freezes

If your tankless water heater does freeze, there are a few things that you can do to thaw it out:

• Turn off the power: The first thing you should do is turn off the power to the tankless water heater. This will prevent any further damage to the unit.
• Open the faucets: Open all of the hot water faucets in your home. This will allow the warm water from the pipes to flow into the tankless water heater and help to thaw it out.
• Apply heat: You can use a space heater or a hair dryer to apply heat to the tankless water heater. Be careful not to apply too much heat, as this could damage the unit.
• Call a plumber: If you are unable to thaw out the tankless water heater yourself, you should call a plumber. A plumber will have the tools and experience to safely and effectively thaw out the tankless water heater.

Additional Tips for Preventing a Tankless Water Heater from Freezing

In addition to the tips above, there are a few other things that you can do to help prevent your tankless water heater from freezing:

• Make sure that the water heater is installed in a warm location. If possible, install the tankless water heater in a heated area of your home, such as a basement or garage.
• Keep the area around the tankless water heater clear of debris. This will help to prevent cold air from reaching the tankless water heater.
• Have your tankless water heater inspected regularly. A qualified plumber can inspect the tankless water heater for any problems that could lead to freezing.

The Verdict: Can Tankless Water Heaters Freeze?

Yes, tankless water heaters can freeze, but it is less likely than with a traditional water heater. By following the tips in this blog post, you can help to prevent your tankless water heater from freezing.

A Final Word

If you are considering installing a tankless water heater, be sure to talk to a qualified plumber about the best way to prevent the unit from freezing. With proper care and maintenance, a tankless water heater can provide you with years of reliable service.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

• Q: What is the best way to prevent a tankless water heater from freezing?

A: The best way to prevent a tankless water heater from freezing is to insulate the unit, keep the water flowing, install a freeze protection kit, and use a timer if you are away from home for extended periods of time.

• Q: What should I do if my tankless water heater freezes?

A: If your tankless water heater freezes, turn off the power, open the faucets, apply heat, and call a plumber if you are unable to thaw out the unit yourself.

• Q: Can I use a tankless water heater in a cold climate?

A: Yes, you can use a tankless water heater in a cold climate, but you need to take steps to prevent the unit from freezing. This includes insulating the unit, keeping the water flowing, and installing a freeze protection kit.