Bosch Tankless Water Heater Leaking: Causes and Solutions

Bosch tankless water heaters are designed to provide hot water on demand, without the need for a storage tank. They are energy-efficient, space-saving, and environmentally friendly. However, like any appliance, they can develop problems over time. One of the most common issues is water leaking from the unit.

Water leaking from a Bosch tankless water heater can be a sign of a serious problem that needs immediate attention. If left untreated, it can damage the heater, the plumbing system, and the surrounding area. It can also pose a safety hazard and increase your water bills.

In this blog post, we will explain the possible causes of water leaking from a Bosch tankless water heater and how to fix them. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about this topic.

Causes of Water Leaking from a Bosch Tankless Water Heater

There are several reasons why a Bosch tankless water heater may leak water. Some of them are:

Improper installation

If the tankless water heater is not installed correctly, it can cause leaks from the fittings, valves, or pipes. For example, if the stud finder in the heater is not one inch per distance from the wall, or if the outlet pipe is not connected securely to the heater pipeline, it can result in water leakage.

The unit lines should also have shut-off valves installed close to ¼ inches. For an electric tankless water heater, check the electric valve instead of the shutoff valve.

Heavy rust deposit

Over time, rust or sediment can accumulate inside the main pipes of the heater. This can form a layer of calcium carbonate that narrows the pipes and reduces the water flow. The heater has to work harder to heat water and bring it through the lines.

This can cause leaks from the pressure/temperature relief valve or the element gasket. The common symptoms are water heating taking longer than usual and leaking.

Poor water condition

The quality of the water that flows through the tankless water heater can affect its performance and lifespan. If the water is too hard, acidic, or contains high levels of chlorine or minerals, it can corrode the pipes and fittings of the heater. This can lead to leaks and cracks in the unit. The pH level of the water should be between 6.5 and 8.5 for optimal operation.

Faulty venting system

The venting system of a gas tankless water heater is responsible for removing the exhaust gases from the combustion process. If the venting system is not installed properly or is damaged, it can cause condensation inside the unit.

This can result in water dripping from the vent pipe or leaking from other parts of the heater. The venting system should be inspected regularly for any signs of wear and tear.

Blocked inlet and outlet pipes

The inlet and outlet pipes of a tankless water heater are where cold water enters and hot water exits the unit. If these pipes are blocked by debris, dirt, scale, or other obstructions, it can prevent water from flowing smoothly through the heater. This can cause pressure buildup inside the unit and lead to leaks from various components.

High water flow rate

A tankless water heater can leak if the water flow rate exceeds its capacity. The flow rate is measured in gallons per minute (GPM) and indicates how much hot water the heater can produce at a given time.

If more than one faucet or appliance is using hot water at once, it can overload the heater and cause it to leak. The maximum flow rate of a Bosch tankless water heater depends on its model and size.

Solutions for Water Leaking from a Bosch Tankless Water Heater

Depending on the cause of the leak, there are different ways to fix it. Some of them are:

Replacing or repairing

If you notice any signs of water leaking from your Bosch tankless water heater, you should take immediate action to repair it. If you think the problem is severe enough, you may need to replace the entire unit or some parts of it.

Installation of drain pan

As a precautionary measure, you can install a drain pan under your tankless water heater to catch any leaks that may occur. The drain pan should have a drain line that leads to a safe location outside your home.

Contacting the manufacturer

Every Bosch tankless water heater comes with a warranty that covers certain defects and malfunctions for a specified period of time. You can contact the manufacturer or the authorized dealer to check if your heater is still under warranty and if you can get a free repair or replacement. You can also check the warranty documents online for more information.

Regular maintenance

To prevent water leaks and other problems with your Bosch tankless water heater, you should perform regular maintenance on the unit. This includes flushing the heater at least once a year to remove any sediment or scale buildup, replacing the filters and valves as needed, inspecting the venting system for any damage or blockage, and checking the water pressure and flow rate.

Conclusion

Water leaking from a Bosch tankless water heater is a common problem that can have serious consequences if not addressed promptly. You should always inspect your heater for any signs of leakage and take action to fix it as soon as possible. You should also follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your heater.

 FAQs

Here are some common questions and answers about water leaking from a Bosch tankless water heater:

Why is my tankless water heater leaking?

A tankless water heater can leak for various reasons, such as improper installation, heavy rust deposit, poor water conditions, faulty venting system, blocked inlet and outlet pipes, or high water flow rate. You should identify the source and cause of the leak and fix it as soon as possible.

How long does a Bosch tankless water heater last?

A Bosch tankless water heater can last up to 20 years or more if it is installed correctly and maintained regularly. However, the actual lifespan of a tankless water heater depends on several factors, such as the quality of the water, the frequency of use, the model and size of the heater, and the environmental conditions.

Does Bosch water heater have a pump?

Some Bosch tankless water heaters have a built-in recirculation pump that circulates hot water through the pipes to reduce the waiting time for hot water at the faucet. This can save water and energy and increase comfort. However, not all Bosch models have this feature, so you should check the specifications of your heater before buying.