Why a written log helps
Hard water does not build scale at a steady, predictable rate. It depends on how much hot water your household uses, the temperature setting, and whether you have any water treatment. A log turns guesswork into a pattern you can see.
The log is also useful paperwork. If a warranty question comes up, or you sell the house, a dated record of maintenance shows the unit was looked after. Tape a copy near the heater and keep a photo of it on your phone.
Flushing record
| Date | Done by | Descaler and time | Inlet filter condition | Codes before | Notes after |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Write these down after each flush
- Whether the inlet filter had grit, rust flakes or white mineral bits
- How cloudy or discolored the descaling solution looked at the end
- Whether the service valve caps were retightened and dry afterward
- Hot water flow and temperature at one shower compared with before
- Any code that appeared on restart, and whether it cleared
Between flushes, watch for
- Weeks after a flush
- Steady temperature and normal flow are a good sign the flush was effective.
- Mid-interval
- Gradual flow loss or temperature drift may mean your interval should be shorter.
- Before the next flush
- Maintenance reminder or overheat codes suggest scale is building again.
Share the log with your plumber and ask
- Based on these entries, is our flushing interval about right?
- Would water treatment reduce how often we need to flush?
- Do the filter notes suggest a problem with our supply pipes?
Common questions
What if I do not know when the unit was last flushed?
Start the log now and have the next flush done soon, with a note that the prior history is unknown.
Should I log filter cleanings separately?
Use the same table and note that only the filter was cleaned. It still tells you how much debris is arriving.
Does the log replace the manual?
No. The manual sets the procedure and interval; the log records what actually happened.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.