Texas summers push everything to the limit—including your water heater. When triple-digit heat rolls in and daily showers, laundry, and dishwashing pile up, your tankless water heater ends up working overtime. It doesn’t just need attention—it needs real seasonal care. At Radiant Plumbing & Air Conditioning, we’ve worked on thousands of systems across Greater Austin and San Antonio. We’ve seen firsthand what keeps a tankless water heater running reliably through a Texas summer.
1. Regularly Flush and Descale Your Tankless Water Heater
Calcium and magnesium from hard water tend to build up inside a tankless water heater. That buildup clogs the system, slows down water flow, and puts more wear on the heater’s components. In Central Texas, where hard water is common, skipping this maintenance step shortens the life of your system and makes it less efficient.
A flush clears out sediment before it causes damage. Descaling goes further by breaking down mineral deposits inside the unit. A professional plumber uses safe, approved solutions to get the job done right and restore peak performance.
Plan on flushing your system at least once a year. If you notice slower hot water delivery, inconsistent temperatures, or lower pressure, those are signs your heater needs service. Keeping the system clean helps it perform better and can lower your utility bills during the hottest months.
2. Inspect and Clean the Water Inlet Filter
Tankless water heaters include a small filter near the cold-water connection that blocks sediment from entering the unit. When that filter fills with debris, water flow slows down, and pressure and temperature can become uneven.
To clean the filter, start by turning off the heater and the water supply. Then remove the filter, rinse it under clean water, and reinstall it carefully. For anyone unsure about doing this safely, a Radiant plumber can help or handle it completely. A clean filter keeps water flowing strong and supports overall system performance.
3. Monitor and Adjust Temperature Settings
With outdoor temperatures soaring, your water heater doesn’t have to work as hard to provide hot water. That makes summer a smart time to check your temperature settings.
Most manufacturers recommend setting the unit to 120°F. That’s warm enough for showers and cleaning but low enough to avoid burns and cut energy use. Higher settings waste energy and wear out components faster. On the flip side, lower temperatures can create a risk for bacteria inside the lines.
If water feels too hot or cooler than usual, check the thermostat or control panel. A quick adjustment can improve comfort and efficiency—especially when the system is running more frequently.
4. Check and Maintain Ventilation Systems
Tankless water heaters rely on proper airflow for safe and efficient operation. Air intake and exhaust vents can get blocked by dust, debris, or even insects, especially during the busy summer months.
Make sure both vents are clear and free of obstructions both inside and outside the home. Look for dirt buildup, signs of pests, or moisture around any vent connections. Problems with ventilation can cause overheating, carbon monoxide risks, or unexpected shutdowns.
If there’s any doubt about how well your ventilation system is working, a licensed technician from Radiant can check everything and make sure airflow meets safety standards.
5. Install Float Switches and Leak Detection Systems
Unnoticed leaks can cause serious damage, especially when you’re away for a few days. A float switch or leak detection system adds a layer of protection that can catch problems early.
Float switches detect water around the base of the unit and shut the system off before more water flows in. Advanced systems go a step further and send alerts directly to your phone, so you’re always aware of what’s happening, even if you’re not at home.
During summer, when water usage is higher or travel plans take you out of town, leak detection gives you peace of mind and helps prevent costly damage.
6. Schedule Professional Water Quality Testing
Water quality has a major impact on how well your tankless unit works. Hard water is common in Central Texas, and it causes mineral buildup that affects performance and longevity.
A professional test identifies what’s flowing through your pipes and whether your home could benefit from a filtration or softening system. Both options reduce stress on your tankless water heater and help it last longer.
If you’ve seen chalky residue around faucets, white spots on dishes, or noticed your skin feels dry after a shower, your water may be harder than expected. Radiant offers water testing and custom solutions that match your household’s needs.
7. Inspect for Signs of Wear and Leaks
Spotting a small issue early can prevent a much bigger repair down the road. That’s why it helps to take a close look at your tankless water heater from time to time.
Check for moisture around the base, rust stains on nearby walls or floors, or corrosion on pipes and fittings. Listen for odd noises—like clicking or hissing—while the system runs. Those sounds often point to a clog, failing part, or leak inside the unit.
Even if hot water is still flowing, those signs mean it’s time to bring in a technician. Fixing the problem early avoids bigger disruptions and repairs when you need your system most.
8. Insulate Exposed Pipes and the Unit
Even during the summer, insulation helps your system run more efficiently. It keeps water temperatures stable and cuts down energy use. It also protects the unit from sudden temperature swings caused by outdoor exposure.
Look for any uncovered water lines around the heater, especially in garages, crawl spaces, or attics. Foam pipe insulation is inexpensive and easy to install. For outdoor heaters, weatherproof covers or jackets shield the unit from heat and storms.
An insulated system requires less energy and handles seasonal changes more smoothly, keeping performance steady no matter the weather.
9. Adhere to Manufacturer Maintenance Guidelines
Tankless systems are built to last, but they only perform well when maintenance stays on schedule. Manufacturers like Navien and Rheem provide detailed instructions in their manuals—and following those steps protects your warranty.
Those recommendations include regular flushing, filter cleaning, part inspections, and keeping records of professional service. Skipping these steps can shorten the system’s lifespan and lead to more repairs down the line.
Radiant technicians follow those maintenance guidelines exactly. We’re trained to work on all major brands, and we document every visit to keep your warranty intact. Sticking to the plan helps keep your system running like it should.
Just Call Radiant!
Tankless maintenance goes beyond just avoiding breakdowns—it’s about making sure hot water is always there when you need it. Radiant Plumbing & Air Conditioning has supported homeowners across Austin and San Antonio since 1999. Our licensed pros handle everything from descaling and filter cleanings to leak protection and temperature checks.
We offer 24/7 service with upfront pricing and no surprises. Whether your water heater needs a tune-up or is showing signs of trouble, Radiant is ready to help.
Call today to join the Care Club and book your water heater maintenance appointment. We’re proud to serve Austin & San Antonio homeowners with reliable, expert care—because your home deserves the best.
