Navien Water Heater : How to Replace Dual Venturi Motor

Posted: July 11, 2024

In commercial and residential settings, Navien water heaters have gained popularity for their energy efficiency and reliable performance. As with any complex appliance, regular maintenance is essential to ensure optimal functionality and longevity. Among the various components of a Navien water heater, the dual venturi motor plays a crucial role in the combustion process, making its maintenance and occasional replacement a critical task to achieve peak performance. This guide will explore the essential steps to replace the dual venturi motor in a Navien water heater. From understanding the function of the dual venturi motor to the step-by-step process of replacing it, we will provide valuable insights to empower owners and technicians with the knowledge needed to effectively maintain and troubleshoot this integral part of Navien water heater systems.

What is a dual venturi motor?

The dual venturi motor is a critical component in Navien tankless water heaters, playing a central role in the unit's combustion process and overall efficiency. This motor is responsible for facilitating the flow of air and gas into the burner assembly in a precise and controlled manner. By regulating the air-to-fuel ratio, the dual venturi motor ensures optimal combustion, maximizing energy efficiency and minimizing harmful emissions.

Function and importance in the overall operation of dual venturi

The dual venturi motor's function is essential for maintaining the balance between air and gas, ultimately leading to clean and efficient combustion within the water heater. Its precise operation directly impacts the heater's ability to deliver consistent and reliable hot water while minimizing energy consumption. The motor's role in controlling the mixture of air and gas is paramount to the heater's safety and environmental impact, making it a critical component of the overall operation.

Tankless water heater dimensions

Navien tankless water heaters generally have compact dimensions, making them suitable for space-saving installations. The standard dimensions of the Navien, for example, typically measure approximately 17.3 inches in width, 27.4 inches in height, and 13.2 inches in depth. These dimensions make it conducive for installation in a variety of settings, whether it's a utility closet, garage, or dedicated mechanical room.

Safety precautions for dual venturi replacement

  • Shutting off power and gas: Before beginning the process of replacing the dual venturi motor in a Navien water heater, it is crucial to prioritize safety by disconnecting the power and shutting off the gas supply. This is imperative to prevent the risk of electrical shock, gas leaks, or combustion-related accidents during the maintenance procedure.
  • Protective gear: Wearing appropriate protective gear is essential when performing maintenance on a Navien water heater. Recommended safety gear includes sturdy work gloves to protect hands from sharp edges, hot surfaces, and potential contaminants. Additionally, safety glasses or goggles provide eye protection from debris, chemicals, and any unexpected releases of material during the maintenance process.

How to replace Navien dual venturi?

Accessing the motor

  • Begin by ensuring that the power supply to the water heater is deactivated, and the gas supply is turned off.
  • Locate the access panels on the water heater that cover the dual venturi motor and carefully remove them using the appropriate tools, such as screwdrivers or wrenches.
  • Once the panels are removed, you should have clear access to the existing dual venturi motor.

Removing the old dual venturi motor

  • Before removing the old dual venturi motor, take note of its position and the orientation of the components to aid in the installation of the new motor.
  • Disconnect any electrical connections, such as wires or plugs, leading to the motor. It's important to exercise caution, especially when dealing with electrical components.
  • Unscrew and detach any mounting brackets or fasteners securing the old dual venturi motor in place. Carefully remove the motor from its position, ensuring no remaining connections exist.

Installing the new dual venturi motor

  • Align the new dual venturi motor in the correct position, ensuring it matches the orientation observed with the old motor.
  • Secure the new motor in place using the appropriate mounting brackets and fasteners, ensuring a snug fit but avoiding over-tightening.
  • Reconnect any electrical components, ensuring a secure and correct connection per the manufacturer's specifications.
  • Replace the access panels and ensure they are tightly fastened to complete the installation.

Checkout: How to Install a Tankless Water Heater

How to flush a Navien tankless water heater? 

Regularly flushing a Navien tankless water heater is essential to maintaining its efficiency and preventing the buildup of mineral deposits and sediment that can compromise performance. Flushing helps to clear out any debris or scale that may have accumulated inside the system, ensuring optimal operation and extending the lifespan of the heater. To flush the system:

  • Turn off the power and gas supplies to the water heater.
  • Connect a pump and hoses to the service valves on the water heater, ensuring proper connections are made.
  • Fill a bucket with a descaling solution or a vinegar-water mixture.
  • Open the isolation valves and activate the pump to circulate the cleaning solution through the system for the recommended duration.
  • Once the flushing process is complete, close the isolation valves and disconnect the pump and hoses.
  • Flush the system with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution.
  • Restore the power and gas supply to the water heater and check for proper operation.
  • Water Heater Cleaning Solution: The recommended solution for Cleaning Tankless Water heaters includes a mixture of white vinegar and water. A common ratio is one part vinegar to three parts water, but this can vary depending on the severity of scaling. Vinegar is a mild acid that helps dissolve mineral deposits and scale without causing damage to the internal components of the heater.

Refer: How to Clean Tankless Water Heater

Additional maintenance tips for dual venturi

Maintenance Tip

Description

Navien tankless troubleshooting

Common issues include water flow, ignition, or pressure problems. Troubleshooting steps include:

- Checking for proper gas supply

- Ensuring adequate water flow

- Inspecting the venting system for obstructions

- Verifying that the unit's filters are clean

Refer to the user manual for specific error codes and troubleshooting steps.

Seek assistance from a qualified service technician if issues persist.

Navien check valve replacement

To replace a check valve:

- Turn off the water supply to the heater.

- Disconnect the inlet and outlet connections to access the check valve.

- Remove the old check valve and install the new one, ensuring proper orientation and secure connection.

- Test the system for proper water flow and check for any leaks.

Where to put tankless water heater

Considerations for installation location:

- Proper ventilation

- Access to utilities (gas, water, and electricity)

- Sufficient space for maintenance and service

- Proximity to primary hot water demand areas to minimize heat loss

- Avoid areas prone to freezing temperatures

- Compliance with local building codes and manufacturer's recommendations

Understanding how to replace the dual venturi motor in a Navien water heater is an invaluable skill for homeowners and professionals alike. By following the step-by-step instructions outlined in this guide, individuals can effectively maintain the functionality and efficiency of their water heaters. It is important to remember to prioritize safety, carefully follow manufacturer guidelines, and seek professional assistance if needed. PartsHnC offers a variety of heat pump parts, including heaters and coils. Get them now for all your needs! We provide the best quality replacement parts and accessories.

FAQs

What is the purpose of the dual venturi Navien in water heater? 

The dual venturi in a Navien water heater regulates the air and gas mixture for efficient combustion.

How does a tankless water heater Navien work? 

Navien tankless water heaters heat water on demand, providing endless hot water and saving space compared to traditional water heaters.

How much vinegar to clean tankless water heater? 

Use a mixture of one part vinegar to three parts water for cleaning a Navien tankless water heater.