The hot water heater filter is typically located near the cold water inlet or on the side of the tank, depending on the model and installation.
Your water heater’s filter plays a crucial role in maintaining efficiency and water quality. Knowing where to find it and how to clean it can save you money on energy bills and prevent costly repairs. This guide covers all filter types and locations across different water heater models.
Where Is My Hot Water Heater Filter Located?
Water heater filters are typically found in one of these locations:
- Bottom of tank-style heaters: A black mesh ring circling the base
- Tankless units: Near inlet/outlet pipes or inside the access panel
- RV water heaters: Behind the exterior access door
- High-efficiency models: Integrated into the air intake system
For tankless models like the Rinnai RL94EN, filters are usually near the water inlet to catch sediment before it enters the heating system.
Tank Water Heater Filter Location
Traditional tank heaters have an air filter at the base that prevents dust from entering the combustion chamber. This black mesh ring is secured with a simple catch mechanism. According to plumbing experts, cleaning this filter when flushing your tank can improve efficiency by up to 15%.
Tankless Water Heater Filter Location
Tankless units often have finer mesh filters at both the cold water inlet and hot water outlet. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 places its filter behind the front cover, accessible after removing a few screws.
How to Clean Your Water Heater Filter
Follow these steps for proper filter maintenance:
- Turn off power/gas supply to the heater
- Locate and remove the filter (consult manual if needed)
- Use compressed air or rinse with water to remove debris
- Allow to dry completely before reinstalling
- Check for proper seating and gaps when replacing
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends cleaning filters annually, though homes with hard water may need quarterly maintenance. A clogged filter can reduce efficiency by up to 25% according to Central States Water Resources.
Signs Your Filter Needs Cleaning
| Symptom | Possible Filter Issue |
|---|---|
| Reduced hot water flow | Clogged inlet filter |
| Longer heating times | Restricted airflow (gas models) |
| Unusual noises | Sediment bypassing dirty filter |
| Error codes | Pressure drop across filter |
Specialty Water Heater Filter Locations
RV Water Heaters
RV units like the Suburban SW6DEL place filters behind the exterior access panel. These often combine sediment filtration with anode rod protection.
Point-of-Use Heaters
Small under-sink heaters typically have a simple screen filter at the inlet connection. These are especially important to check monthly as they have smaller capacity.
When to Replace Instead of Clean
While most filters are reusable, replace them if you notice:
- Visible tears or damage to mesh
- Plastic components that have become brittle
- Persistent flow issues after cleaning
- Corrosion that can’t be removed
For optimal performance, pair regular filter maintenance with other water heater care like checking the anode rod and flushing sediment from the tank.
