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Richmond Encore Tankless Heat Exchanger

Heat exchanger in Encore Tankless — primary failure mode after 10-15 years on scaled units.

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Updated May 2026 · Richmond Water Heaters

Heat exchanger in Encore Tankless — same stainless construction as Rheem RTGH.

Failure modes

  • Scale insulation (#1 cause): triggers Code 14
  • Pinhole leak after 12-15 years
  • Freeze damage on outdoor units in power outages

Replacement cost

  • Parts: $700-1,400 OEM
  • Labor: $400-700
  • Total: $1,100-2,100

Warranty

12-year heat exchanger. Year-10 failure: Richmond ships part free; you pay labor. Heavy scale = denied. Keep descaling documentation.

Bottom line

Protect through annual descaling.