Winter in Louisville and Cincinnati can bring freezing temperatures that put home plumbing systems at risk. While most homeowners worry about frozen pipes, outdoor or garage-installed tankless water heaters can also freeze.
Louisville winters typically bring average lows of 27 degrees in January, with several nights dipping into the teens. Cincinnati experiences similar cold snaps, with January lows averaging 25 degrees and multiple days each year when temperatures fall below 20.
If a tankless water heater is exposed to the elements or in an unheated garage, it could freeze during these cold spells, leaving your home without hot water when you need it most.
Why Do Tankless Water Heaters Freeze?
Tankless water heaters can freeze when it gets too cold outside, especially if installed outdoors or in an unheated garage. If the water inside the unit or pipes turns to ice, it can block the water flow and cause damage.
Many modern tankless water heaters have freeze protection but can still freeze in extreme cold, especially if the power goes out or they aren’t properly maintained.
Lasting Effects of Frozen Tankless Water Heaters
A frozen tankless water heater can do more than stop your hot water — it can cause long-term damage. When water freezes inside the unit, it expands and can crack pipes, valves, or even the heat exchanger.
In Louisville and Cincinnati, where winter temperatures can dip into the teens, repeated freezing and thawing can wear down essential parts, leading to leaks or system failure. If the damage is severe, you may need to replace it sooner than expected, turning a preventable issue into an expensive problem.
How to Thaw a Tankless Water Heater
If your tankless water heater freezes, don’t panic; there are steps you can take to thaw it safely. Here’s how you can thaw your unit:
- Turn off the power to the water heater and the water supply to prevent further damage.
- Open the hot water faucets to relieve any pressure inside the pipes.
- Start from the outside with a hairdryer or heat lamp to gently warm the unit and the pipes. Avoid using a direct heat source like a torch, which can damage the unit.
- Check for leaks once it’s thawed to ensure no cracks or damage were caused during the freeze.
If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself or the unit doesn’t seem to thaw appropriately, call a professional plumber to inspect the water heater and ensure it works safely.
How to Prevent a Frozen Tankless Water Heater
There are several ways to protect your tankless water heater from freezing during winter:
- Leave a dripping faucet: Let a small stream of hot water run to keep pipes from freezing.
- Insulate the unit: Wrap pipes and the water heater with insulation to keep the cold out.
- Regular maintenance: Have a professional check your water heater to ensure it’s running correctly and identify any issues before they get worse.
- Keep it warm: Use a space heater to warm the area around the unit.
- Cover vents and openings: Seal any gaps, vents, or cracks around the area where the water heater is to keep cold air out.
By taking these steps, you can help prevent your tankless water heater from freezing and avoid costly repairs.
Choose Tom Drexler Plumbing, Air & Electric
At Tom Drexler Plumbing, Air & Electric, we make sure your home stays comfortable year-round. Our friendly, reliable technicians are licensed, insured, and background-checked. We offer upfront pricing and free estimates on replacements to guarantee your satisfaction.
With over 40 years of experience, you can trust us to care for your plumbing, HVAC, and electrical needs, just like we’ve done for thousands of other customers.
Do you need help repairing a frozen pipe or tankless water heater? Contact us today to schedule fast, reliable service in Cincinnati and Louisville.
