Everything a Homeowner Should Know About Tankless Water Heaters

If you live in Gettysburg or Adams County, you’ve likely heard the buzz about tankless water heaters. They are efficient, compact, and promise the luxury of endless hot water. But are they right for your home? And once you have one, how do you keep it running for the next 20 years?

At Wenger Services LLC, we believe an educated homeowner is a happy homeowner. Whether you are looking to install your first unit or need maintenance on your existing Rinnai system, this guide covers everything you need to know about water heater services.

How Tankless Water Heaters Work (and Why It Matters)

Unlike traditional water heaters that keep 50+ gallons of water hot 24/7 (wasting energy while you sleep or work), tankless units heat water on demand. Cold water travels through a pipe into the unit, where a gas burner or electric element heats it instantly.

The Result: You don't pay to heat water you aren't using, and you never have to worry about being the last person to shower and getting stuck with the cold water.

The Efficiency Advantage

• Lifespan: A traditional tank lasts 10–12 years. A well-maintained tankless unit can last 20+ years.

• Energy Savings: According to the Department of Energy, tankless units can be 24%–34% more energy-efficient than storage tank water heaters.

• Space Saving: Wall-mounted units free up valuable floor space in your basement or utility closet.

Maintenance: The Key to Longevity in Gettysburg

We recently received a question from a local Gettysburg resident that highlights the most critical aspect of tankless ownership:

"Hello. I live in Gettysburg. I’m looking for someone to flush my Rinnai tankless water heater for routine maintenance. Do you provide this service? What solution do you use? And approximate cost?"

The short answer is: YES. At Wenger Services, we specialize in maintaining tankless water heater brands like Rinnai, Navien, Rheem, and other major brands.

Why You Must Flush Your System

Gettysburg and Adams County are known for having moderately hard to hard water (averaging 7–9 grains per gallon). Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium. When this water is heated, these minerals settle inside the narrow heat exchanger of your tankless unit.

If ignored, this scale buildup leads to:

1. Error Code "LC" or "00": On Rinnai units, this code specifically signals that scale buildup is preventing the unit from working efficiently.

2. Longer Wait Times: The unit struggles to heat water, taking longer to reach the tap.

3. Premature Failure: The heat exchanger can overheat and crack, leading to costly replacements.

Our Professional Flushing Process

For our Gettysburg customers, we recommend a professional flush once a year.

• The Solution: We strictly adhere to manufacturer guidelines. For Rinnai units, we typically use food-grade white vinegar or manufacturer-approved descaling fluids (like Flow-Aide) depending on the warranty requirements. Rinnai often recommends vinegar because it is safe for your home’s potable water lines and gentle on the internal components.

• The Service: We isolate the unit from your home’s water supply, circulate the cleaning solution for 45–60 minutes to dissolve mineral deposits, clean the inlet water filter, and flush the system with fresh water.

• The Cost: While prices can vary based on the specific model and accessibility, a professional flush in our area typically ranges between $150 and $300. This is a small investment to protect a unit that costs thousands to replace.

Common Repairs and Error Codes

Even the best machines need attention. Modern tankless units are smart—they will tell you exactly what is wrong using error codes.

Decoding the Dashboard

• Code 11 (Ignition Failure): The unit isn't lighting. This is often a gas supply issue or a dirty igniter.

• Code 10 (Air Supply/Exhaust Blockage): Common in autumn! Check your exterior vent—leaves, bird nests, or even spider webs can block the airflow.

• Code 90 (Combustion Abnormality): The fuel-to-air mix is wrong. This requires a professional technician to adjust the gas pressure or clean the burner.

If you see an error code, contact our water heater services team immediately. Resetting the unit without fixing the root cause can damage the computer board.

Installation: Gas vs. Electric

If you are considering switching to tankless, the biggest factor is your power source.

Gas Tankless (Recommended for most families)

Gas units provide a higher "temperature rise," meaning they can heat very cold groundwater (common in PA winters) to 120°F quickly.

• Pros: Can handle multiple showers running at once.

• Cons: May require upgrading your gas line size or installing new venting.

Electric Tankless

• Pros: No venting required; cheaper upfront unit cost.

• Cons: Requires significant electrical amperage (often 3 or 4 dedicated 40-amp breakers). In older Gettysburg homes, this often necessitates an expensive main electric panel upgrade.

Why Choose Wenger Services for Your Tankless Needs?

We understand the unique plumbing architecture of Gettysburg. From the limestone-heavy water affecting your pipes to the venting challenges in historic homes, we have seen it all. We don't just install boxes on walls; we engineer solutions that ensure you have hot water when you need it most.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I install a tankless water heater in an older historic home?

Yes, but venting can be tricky. We often use high-efficiency condensing models that use PVC venting, which can be run through existing chimneys or smaller sidewall penetrations, preserving your home's aesthetic.

2. What is the "Cold Water Sandwich"?

This happens when you turn the hot water off and back on quickly (like while rinsing dishes). You might get a burst of cold water sandwiched between hot water. Modern units with a "recirculation pump" solve this issue almost entirely.

3. How often should I flush my tankless heater in Gettysburg?

Due to local water hardness, we recommend annually. If you have a water softener installed, you may be able to extend this to every 2 years.

4. Will a tankless heater work during a power outage?

No. Unlike old tank heaters, tankless units use electricity to ignite the burner and control the digital board. However, we can install a battery backup system for gas units to keep them running during storms.

5. Is the water really "instant"?

"Tankless" does not mean "instant." It means "endless." You still have to wait for the water to travel from the heater to your faucet. A recirculation pump can be added to provide near-instant hot water.

6. Does Wenger Services offer warranty support?

Yes. As professional installers, we can handle warranty claims for major brands like Rinnai and Navien, ensuring parts are covered if something goes wrong.

7. My Rinnai is flashing code "LC". Can I still use it?

The unit may still run, but it is warning you that it is clogging up. Ignoring it will eventually cause the unit to shut down completely or fail. Schedule a flush as soon as possible.

Do you have an error code flashing, or are you ready to upgrade to endless hot water? Contact Wenger Services today to schedule your maintenance or consultation!