Diy winterization made easy: a comprehensive guide to winterizing your girard tankless water heater

Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your Girard tankless water heater, leading to costly repairs or even a complete replacement. Winterizing your unit is essential to protect it from the elements and ensure its longevity. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of winterizing your Girard tankless water heater, giving you peace of mind during the cold months.

Understanding the Importance of Winterizing

Tankless water heaters, unlike traditional water heaters with storage tanks, do not have a large reserve of hot water to prevent freezing. As a result, it’s crucial to winterize them before the onset of cold weather to prevent damage to the heat exchanger and other components.

Preparation and Materials

Before you begin winterizing, gather the necessary materials:

• Shut-off valve wrench
• Phillips screwdriver
• Bucket or drain pan
• Compressed air (optional)

Step-by-Step Winterization Instructions

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the shut-off valve that controls the water supply to the water heater and turn it off.

2. Open the Hot Water Taps

Open all the hot water taps in your home to drain any remaining water from the pipes. Leave the taps open until water no longer flows out.

3. Drain the Water Heater

Locate the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater and place a bucket or drain pan underneath it. Slowly open the valve and allow the water to drain out.

4. Purge the Air from the Heat Exchanger

Once the water has drained, turn the drain valve back off. Attach a compressed air hose to the drain valve and gently blow air into the heat exchanger until no more water comes out.

5. Remove the Burner Assembly

Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the burner assembly in place. Carefully lift out the burner assembly.

6. Clean the Burner Assembly

Inspect the burner assembly for any debris or obstructions. Clean it using a soft brush or cloth.

7. Reinstall the Burner Assembly

Once the burner assembly is clean, reinstall it into the water heater. Tighten the screws securely.

8. Close the Hot Water Taps

Close all the hot water taps in your home to prevent air from entering the system.

9. Turn On the Water Supply

Slowly turn on the shut-off valve that controls the water supply to the water heater. Check for any leaks and tighten the valve as necessary.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues during the winterization process, here are some common problems and solutions:

• No water drains from the drain valve: The valve may be clogged. Try using a small wire to clear the obstruction.
• Water continues to flow from the drain valve: The shut-off valve may not be fully closed. Check the valve and tighten it as necessary.
• Air escapes from the heat exchanger when blowing compressed air: This is normal. Continue blowing air until no more water comes out.

Final Note: Protecting Your Investment

Winterizing your Girard tankless water heater is a crucial step to protect it from damage and ensure its optimal performance throughout the cold months. By following these instructions carefully, you can prevent costly repairs or replacements and enjoy the warmth and comfort of hot water all winter long.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. How often should I winterize my Girard tankless water heater?
Every year before the onset of cold weather.

2. Can I winterize my water heater myself?
Yes, if you have basic plumbing knowledge and tools. However, if you are not comfortable performing the steps yourself, it’s best to contact a qualified plumber.

3. What happens if I don’t winterize my water heater?
The water in the heat exchanger and pipes can freeze and expand, causing damage to the components. This can lead to costly repairs or even a complete replacement.