How much does tankless water heater maintenance cost?
How much does tankless water heater maintenance cost?
$150 – $350 average cost (routine flush)
$300 – $1,300 average cost (repair)
Average tankless water heater annual maintenance cost
Tankless water heater maintenance costs $150 to $350 for routine service with a standard flush. Minor tankless water heater repairs cost $50 to $300 on average, while more extensive repairs range from $300 to $1,300 depending on the issue and parts involved. The cost for a maintenance visit varies by region and complexity.
| Service type | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Routine flush / descaling | $150 – $350 |
| Minor repair (fuse, vent, light) | $50 – $300 |
| Major repair (heat exchanger, circuit board) | $300 – $1,300 |
Routine flush
Flushing a tankless water heater costs $150 to $350. Regular flushing can help maximize its efficiency and lifespan. During a flush, the plumber attaches hoses and circulates a descaling or cleaning agent through the system, then flushes it again with clean water. Then they check for leaks and any irregularities.
During a routine maintenance visit, the technician may also replace filters, check temperature settings, and inspect for corrosion or worn parts.
Tankless water heater repair cost
A tankless water heater repair costs $300 to $1,300 for major or multiple repairs, or $50 to $300 on average for minor jobs. The table below shows the cost of some common repairs:
| Part or service | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Fuse replacement | $50 – $200 |
| Pilot light replacement | $100 – $300 |
| Pipe replacement | $200 – $500 |
| Pressure relief valve | $80 – $150 |
| Burner or heating element | $400 – $800 |
| Circuit board | $400 – $800 |
| Heat exchanger | $600 – $1,300 |
Fuse replacement
Fuse replacement for a tankless water heater costs $50 to $200. When a fuse blows, it interrupts the electrical supply and causes the unit to stop working. Replacing the fuse is a straightforward repair, often completed quickly by a professional, and restores power to the heater.
Pilot light replacement
Tankless water heater pilot light replacement costs $100 to $300, with most of the cost attributed to labor. If the pilot light fails to ignite or stay lit, a technician will replace the assembly or thermocouple, ensuring the burner can operate safely.
This repair is common in gas-powered tankless water heaters and is essential for safe operation.
Pipe replacement
Pipe replacement costs $200 to $500, influenced by the length and type of pipe required. Leaking or damaged pipes can cause water loss and reduce efficiency. A plumber will remove the faulty section and install new piping, ensuring the water heater system remains leak-free and functional.
Pressure relief valve
Pressure relief valve replacement averages $80 to $150, though the part itself may cost as little as $20. The pressure relief valve is a safety device that prevents dangerous pressure buildup. Replacing it is a relatively quick job, but hiring a professional ensures proper installation and system safety.
Burner or heating element
Replacing the burner or heating element in a tankless water heater costs $400 to $800. The burner or heating element is responsible for heating the water, and when it fails, the unit can't provide hot water. This repair involves sourcing the correct part and safely installing it, which requires technical expertise.
Circuit board
Circuit board replacement for a tankless water heater costs $400 to $800, reflecting the complexity and importance of this component. The circuit board controls the electronic functions of the heater, and if it malfunctions, the entire unit may stop working. Technicians must carefully replace and program the new board to restore operation.
Heat exchanger
Heat exchanger replacement is one of the most expensive tankless water heater repairs, ranging from $600 to $1,300. The exchanger transfers energy from the heating source to the water. If it leaks or fails, the heater loses efficiency or stops working altogether. This repair requires significant labor and a specialized part.
If the repair is too complex or costly, your technician may recommend replacing it instead. A new tankless water heater costs $1,400 to $3,000 for electric heaters or $2,100 to $5,600 for natural gas.
If you need a replacement water heater and aren't sure which option is right for you, check out our guide on tankless water heater pros and cons.
Tankless water heater maintenance cost by fuel type
Electric tankless water heaters are less expensive to maintain than gas, propane, oil, or solar units because they have fewer complex components. Electric and natural gas tankless heaters are the most common options, so their parts are easier to find.
| Fuel Type | Average annual maintenance cost* |
|---|---|
| Electric | $150 – $600 |
| Gas | $150 – $650 |
| Propane | $150 – $650 |
| Oil | $150 – $650 |
| Solar | $200 – $700 |
*Includes flushing, filter replacements, and minor repairs if necessary
Tankless water heater service cost factors
The cost of servicing a tankless water heater depends on several factors:
Brand and model: Some brands have pricier parts or require specialized service, which can increase costs. Premium brands like Rinnai or Noritz often have higher repair bills.
Size: Larger, more powerful tankless heaters sometimes cost more to repair or flush.
Accessibility: If your heater is in a hard-to-reach area like a crawl space, your plumber may charge more in labor fees to service it.
Local labor rates: Plumber rates vary by location, with charges ranging from $45 to $200 per hour depending on the city and the technician's experience.
Severity of the problem: Minor issues, such as cleaning filters or fixing a pilot light, are quick and inexpensive. Major leaks, rust, or scale buildup can require more time and expensive parts.
Frequency of maintenance: Regular annual maintenance can prevent costly repairs by catching issues early and keeping the system clean.
Tankless water heater maintenance FAQs
How long does a tankless water heater last?
A tankless water heater lasts 15 to 20 years, with some models reaching up to 25 years if you perform regular maintenance and use quality water. This lifespan is nearly double that of traditional tank water heaters, making tankless systems a long-term investment for most households.
How often do I clean a tankless water heater?
You should clean and flush your tankless water heater at least once every year to remove mineral buildup and keep the system running efficiently.
If you have hard water, consider cleaning it every 6 to 9 months, as mineral deposits can accumulate more quickly and impact performance. Always check your manufacturer's guidelines for specific recommendations.
How do I know if a tankless water heater needs a repair?
If your tankless water heater needs a repair, you'll notice changes in water temperature, pressure, or quality, or hear unusual noises from the unit. If you see any of the following symptoms, contact a professional plumber for diagnosis and repair:
Inconsistent water temperatures, such as sudden bursts of cold or lukewarm water
A noticeable drop in hot water pressure
Randomly shutting off or displaying error codes
Leaks or visible water pooling beneath the unit
Strange noises like banging, popping, or hissing
Changes in water quality, such as cloudy, rusty, or foul-smelling hot water
Other appliances like dishwashers or washing machines not working properly
How long do tankless water heaters take to heat up?
Tankless water heaters deliver hot water almost instantly, within a few seconds after you turn on the tap. Because they heat water on demand, you won't experience the long wait times associated with traditional tanks, though there may be a brief delay as hot water travels through your pipes.
If your tankless water heater is taking longer than normal, consider calling your plumber or service technician to troubleshoot and figure out what's wrong.
Getting estimates for tankless water heater service
Finding the right tankless water heater repair service near you can be easy if you follow these suggestions:
Check plumbing services for strong reviews on HomeGuide and Google to ensure you choose a reputable provider.
Have details about your water heater's type and location ready so you can receive a more accurate estimate from the plumber.
Confirm the plumber is available to handle any necessary repairs during their visit.
Request a thorough inspection to identify any hidden or potential issues with your tankless water heater.
Ask specifically about the plumber's experience with tankless water heaters to make sure they have the right expertise for your system.
Questions to ask a technician
Ask a technician or licensed plumber these questions before scheduling a tankless water heater maintenance service:
What specific maintenance or repair tasks will you perform during this visit?
How much experience do you have working with tankless water heaters?
Are you familiar with my unit's brand and model?
Can you provide an upfront estimate for the cost of the repair, flush, or maintenance?
Will you inspect the filters, valves, and venting for potential issues?
What should I do to prepare my tankless water heater for your visit?
Are you able to complete any necessary repairs during the same appointment, or will we need a follow-up visit?
How long will the maintenance or repair process take?
What signs of wear or damage should I watch for in between professional visits?
Do you offer any maintenance plans or recommendations for ongoing care?
Will your work affect my manufacturer's warranty, and do you provide a service guarantee?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.