Imagine stepping into a refreshing shower, only to be met with a lukewarm drizzle that leaves you shivering. If your Bosch tankless water heater is failing to deliver the hot water you need, it’s time to get to the bottom of the issue. You’re not alone – many homeowners have faced similar problems, and the solution often lies in a few simple troubleshooting steps. Let’s plunge into the most common issues and get your hot water flowing again.

Contents
No Hot Water
When a Bosch tankless water heater fails to deliver hot water, the issue often lies in a simple misconfiguration or malfunction that can be resolved with a few straightforward troubleshooting steps.
First, verify the power selector screw is set to “Hi” with a screwdriver.
Next, check the flow switch; if it doesn’t activate, call for service.
Then, inspect the water supply and connect the supply line to the blue inlet on the water heater.
Finally, reset the high-temperature thermal cutout by disconnecting the power and removing the cover.
This should resolve any issues with your hot water supply.
Problems With Water Flow
When you’re experiencing problems with water flow in your Bosch tankless water heater, you’ll want to inspect your plumbing restrictions, as they can significantly reduce water flow rate.
Make sure to check for any kinked or pinched pipes, as well as undersized piping, which can cause flow restrictions.
Additionally, verify that all shutoff valves are fully open, as partially closed valves can also restrict water flow.
Inspect Plumbing Restrictions
Inspecting plumbing restrictions is essential to identifying problems with water flow in a Bosch tankless water heater system.
| Possible Issue | Causes | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Low water pressure | Clogged aerator, kinked hoses, or faulty pressure-regulating valve | Check and clean aerator, inspect hoses, and replace pressure-regulating valve if necessary |
| Insufficient water flow | Closed valves, low water supply, or faulty flow restrictor | Check and open valves, guarantee adequate water supply, and replace flow restrictor if faulty |
Open Shutoff Valves
Because your Bosch tankless water heater relies on a consistent water flow, it’s imperative that you verify all shutoff valves are fully open.
Check the shut-off valve near the water tap to guarantee it’s not restricting water flow. If you find a valve partially closed, fully open it to restore proper flow.
Remember to inspect all valves, including those on the cold water line, as even a slight restriction can impact your heater’s performance. By doing so, you’ll guarantee your Bosch tankless water heater operates efficiently and effectively.
Temperature of Water Fluctuates
How consistently do you get hot water from your Bosch tankless water heater? If the temperature of the water fluctuates, it may be due to a malfunction in the temperature control unit.
This malfunction can be caused by a faulty temperature sensor or a clogged flow restrictor.
Insufficient water flow rate can also cause temperature fluctuations, as the heater may not maintain a consistent temperature with low flow rates.
Certify your Bosch PowerStar AE115 meets the minimum flow rate requirement of 0.4 gallons per minute.
Regular back-flushing of the heat exchanger and proper calibration of the temperature control unit can help restore consistent water temperature.
Water Temperature Too Hot
While maintaining a consistent water temperature is vital, the opposite issue can also arise – the water temperature being too hot. This can be caused by restrictions in the plumbing, inlet water temperature that is too warm, or water flow that is too low.
| Symptom | Solution |
|---|---|
| High water temperature | Adjust the temperature dial counterclockwise to lower the temperature |
| Overheating | Check for restrictions in the plumbing, inlet water temperature, and water flow |
| Thermal cut-out tripped | Check the temperature setting and adjust according to the user manual and local plumbing codes |
| Consistently high water temperature | Consider replacing the anode rod or having the heat exchanger cleaned or replaced |
| Scalding risk | Verify the heater’s temperature setting is adjusted according to the user manual and local plumbing codes |
Water Temperature Too Cold
If your Bosch tankless water heater is dispensing water at a temperature that’s too cold, you’ll need to check a few key areas.
First, guarantee the temperature dial on the bottom of the unit is set correctly; a clockwise turn will increase the temperature.
Additionally, verify that the inlet water temperature is within the recommended range and that the heating module thermal cut-outs haven’t tripped, which can be checked by locating the cut-outs on the top of each heating module.
Temperature Dial Adjustment
When your Bosch tankless water heater fails to deliver the expected warmth, adjusting the temperature dial is often the simplest solution.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Check if the temperature dial is set to the desired level |
| 2 | Certify the dial is turned clockwise to increase temperature |
| 3 | Verify if the dial has reached its maximum temperature setting |
Adjusting the temperature dial on your Bosch tankless water heater can resolve issues with water temperature. Guarantee the dial is set to the desired level and turned clockwise for warmer water.
Inlet Water Temperature Check
How cold is the water entering your Bosch tankless water heater?
Check the inlet water temperature to guarantee it’s at a minimum of 34°F (1°C). If the temperature is too cold, the unit won’t heat water efficiently.
Try increasing the temperature of your water supply or using a water heater booster. Check the inlet water temperature gauge, usually located on the unit or in the installation manual.
Compare the reading to the minimum recommended temperature. If still too cold, consult a professional to address any issues with your plumbing system.
Adjust as needed to guarantee performance.
Heating Module Thermal Cutouts
Your Bosch tankless water heater’s heating module thermal cutouts are designed to prevent overheating, but they can also be triggered by water that’s too cold.
If the thermal cutouts have tripped, you’ll need to reset them. First, verify the unit is powered off. Then, press and hold the reset button for 5 seconds.
If the issue persists, check your inlet water temperature – it should be above 40°F (4°C) for proper operation. If it’s too cold, consider installing a pre-heating system or insulating your pipes to keep the water hot and prevent future thermal cutouts.
Cold Water Only
If your Bosch tankless water heater is producing only cold water, it’s essential to identify and address the underlying issue promptly.
First, verify that the flow rate out of the fixture is at or above the minimum 0.8 GPM required for the unit to activate.
Check that the water supply isn’t connected to the outlet of the unit and guarantee plumbing connections are correct according to the TWH E2-01 guide.
You should also inspect the heating module thermal cut-outs, check for a plumbing crossover, and verify the flow transducer is spinning properly.
Water Flow Too Low
When you’re experiencing a water flow too low issue with your Bosch tankless water heater, it’s essential to identify the root cause.
You’ll need to investigate potential restrictions in your plumbing system, which can lead to low water flow, as well as verify that your water supply pressure meets the minimum requirement of 30psi.
Additionally, you should check that your outlet shut-off valves are set correctly and that the flow rate meets the minimum 0.8GPM required for the unit to activate.
Low Flow Rate Causes
A properly functioning Bosch tankless water heater relies on a consistent water flow rate to operate efficiently.
If you’re experiencing a Water Flow Too Low error, it’s likely due to a low flow rate.
Check your plumbing for restrictions, such as obstructions in the water path, which can restrict water flow through the heater.
Guarantee your water supply pressure is above 30psi, as low pressure can also cause issues.
Additionally, verify that outlet shut-off valves are set correctly, as restricting water flow can cause malfunctions.
Restricted Water Supply
How does your Bosch tankless water heater’s performance fare when faced with a restricted water supply? If the flow of water is too low, your unit may not heat water or malfunction altogether.
Guarantee your incoming water supply pressure is at least 30psi to maintain a sufficient flow rate. Check for restrictions in the plumbing, such as obstructions in the water path, which can lower the flow rate. Also, verify that your outlet shut-off valves aren’t set too low, as adjusting them can help resolve the issue. A flow transducer that doesn’t spin when water is turned on may indicate a flow rate problem.
Clogged Plumbing System
Your Bosch tankless water heater relies on a steady flow of water to function properly, and a clogged plumbing system can severely impede its performance.
Check for restrictions in the plumbing, such as obstructions in the water path or kinks in the supply line, which can limit flow.
Guarantee the outlet shut-off valve is set correctly, as a low setting can restrict water flow.
Verify the flow rate is at least 0.8GPM and the water supply pressure is above 30psi.
If the flow transducer isn’t spinning, inspect the plumbing system for clogs, such as a clogged filter or kinked supply line, and adjust the valve accordingly.
Unit Stopped Heating
Since its installation, you’ve been relying on your Bosch tankless water heater to provide a steady supply of hot water, but suddenly it’s stopped heating altogether.
First, check if the unit is receiving power; guarantee the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped or a fuse hasn’t blown. Next, verify that the hot water faucet is fully open, as restricted flow can prevent the water heater from functioning.
Also, inspect the unit’s temperature setting, as it may have been inadvertently adjusted. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s likely a more complex problem with your water heaters requires professional attention.
Water Leaking From Heater
Water leaking from your Bosch tankless water heater can be a more pressing concern than a unit that’s stopped heating, as it may indicate a more serious issue that requires immediate attention.
Check the unit’s connections and fittings for signs of wear or damage, as loose or corroded connections can cause water to leak. Also, guarantee the cold water supply lines aren’t restricted, as this can lead to excessive pressure and subsequent leaks.
Inspect the heater’s drain valve and condensate drain line for blockages or kinks, which can cause water to back up and leak out.
Water Discolored or Smells
How often do you inspect the water coming from your Bosch tankless water heater?
Discolored or smelly water can be a sign of a problem. Check the water quality when both hot and cold water is turned on.
If the issue persists, inspect the inlet filter for debris or mineral buildup. Clean or replace it as needed. Also, verify the water heater is properly vented to prevent combustion byproducts from contaminating the water.
If the problem persists, consult your user manual or contact a professional for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is My Bosch Tankless Water Heater Not Heating?
You’re wondering why your tankless water heater isn’t heating, but have you checked if the cold inlet water supply is restricting flow or if scale buildup is blocking heat exchangers, preventing proper function?
How Do You Reset a Bosch Tankless Water Heater?
When you encounter error codes, start the reset process by switching off the power, removing the cover, and locating the thermal cutouts to reset them; if issues persist, check the flow switch and high-temperature thermal cutout before seeking professional help.
Why Does My Bosch Tankless Water Heater Go Cold After a Few Minutes?
Congratulations, you’ve mastered the art of taking lukewarm showers! But seriously, you’re experiencing cold water intervals due to temperature fluctuations. Check your water flow rate, temperature dial, and heating module thermal cut-outs to resolve the issue and enjoy a hot shower again.
Why Is My Tankless Water Heater Not Getting Hot Water?
You’re not getting hot water because scale buildup in your pipes or tankless unit is restricting water flow, or piping issues like undersized pipes or incorrect installations are limiting heat transfer, preventing the water from reaching desired temperatures.
Conclusion
You’ve now mastered the art of troubleshooting your Bosch tankless water heater! With these steps, you can tackle even the most frustrating issues, from no hot water to discolored water, and have your system running like a well-oiled machine in no time. Remember, a few simple checks can save you a world of trouble – and a small fortune in repair bills. By following these troubleshooting tips, you’ll be enjoying piping hot showers and steaming clean dishes in a flash!