Descaling is the most important Richmond Encore Tankless maintenance task. Same procedure as Rheem RTGH.
Tools needed
- Submersible pump kit ($40-60)
- Two 5-gallon buckets
- 4 gallons of white vinegar OR 1 gallon of commercial descaler
- Two ¾" garden hoses
- Crescent wrench
Prep
- Turn off gas
- Close cold and hot isolation valves
- Open hot tap to release pressure
- Wait 10 minutes for cooling
Connect pump
- Hose to cold-side service port; drop into bucket with descaler
- Hose to hot-side service port; drop into same bucket
- Submersible pump in bucket; connect to cold-side hose
Run the descale
- Open service ports; verify main valves closed
- Plug in pump; circulate 45-60 minutes
Rinse
- Unplug pump; close cold-side service port; disconnect cold hose
- Open cold main valve briefly to flush 5-10 gallons through and out hot-side hose
- Close hot-side service port; disconnect
- Open both main valves
Restart
- Open hot tap; run until steady flow
- Turn gas back on
- Power-cycle if needed
How often
Hard water — annually. Soft water — every 2 years. With softener — every 3 years.
Bottom line
Document with dated photos for 12-year heat exchanger warranty defense.