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The depth of the buildup should be measured periodically. Water heaters will have about 3 inches of lime buildup when the
level of lime has reached the bottom of the cleanout opening or about 1 inch of lime buildup if it has reached the drain
valve opening. A schedule for deliming should be set up, based on the amount of time it would take for a 1/2 inch buildup
of lime.
Example 1: Initial inspection shows ½ an inch of lime accumulation. Therefore, the water heater can be delimed once a
year.
To remove sediment and lime scale
1. Drain the heater. Refer to DRAINING THE WATER instructions in this section.
2. Remove outer cover plate from lower side of water heater jacket.
3. Remove cover and gasket from cleanout opening.
4. Remove lime, scale or sediment using care not to damage the glass-lining.
5. Inspect cleanout plate gasket: Replace gasket if necessary (Contact Bradford White Local Distributor for correct
part number).
6. Install gasket and cleanout plate. Be sure to draw plate up tight by tightening screws securely.
7. Close the drain valve. Open a hot water fixture to allow air to escape. Open the cold water supply to water heater
and allow the tank to fill. Follow the lighting instructions.
8. Check for water leakage.
9. Install outer jacket cover plate.
ANODE INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT
This water heater is equipped with multiple sacrificial anodes. Anodes protect the glass-lined tank from corrosion by
sacrificing themselves through electrolysis. When the anode material is consumed, there is no more protection and
corrosion of the tank accelerates.
Inspection of the anode every 6 months allows you to identify the rate of anode degradation. The anode should be
replaced when its diameter is 3/8 of an inch, or annually whichever is first. Aggressive, very hot and softened water causes
rapid consumption of the anode requiring frequent inspections. The replacement anodes rods are available from your
plumbing professional.
To inspect or replace an anode
The anodes on this water heater are easily accessible from the top of the water heater making replacement simple and
quick. Use the following procedure to remove and inspect the anodes.
1. Drain the heater. Refer to DRAINING THE WATER HEATER instructions in this section.
2. Flush the heater. Refer to FLUSHING THE WATER HEATER instructions in this section.
3. Remove the plastic plug covering the anode.
4. Remove the anode using a socket of the appropriate size. Sometimes a breaker bar will need to be used. Do not use
an impact wrench.
5. Inspect and replace the anode as required. Use pipe tape or sealant when reinstalling the anode.
6. Close the drain valve. Open a hot water fixture to allow air to escape. Open the cold water supply to water heater and
allow the tank to fill.
7. Check your anode and drain valve for leaks.
8. Replace the plastic cover that covers the anode.
9. Follow the lighting instructions.
DRAIN VALVE AND TANK ACCESS PANEL
The water heaters are equipped with a ¾ inch drain valve.
An access panel covers the cleanout opening in the tank, which is sealed by a gasket and cover.
RELIEF VALVE
At least twice a year, the temperature and pressure relief valve should be checked to ensure that it is in operating
condition. To check the relief valve, lift the lever at the end of the valve several times. The valve should seat properly and
operate freely.
If water does not flow, remove and inspect for obstructions or corrosion. Replace with a new valve of the recommended
size as necessary. A thorough inspection of the valve should be performed at least every three years by removing the
temperature and relief valve from the tank. Do not attempt to repair the valve, as this could result in improper operation
and a tank explosion. In areas with poor water conditions, it may be necessary to inspect the T&P valve more often than
the recommended maintenance schedule
