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328767-001
ANODE ROD MAINTENANCE
Each water heater contains at least one anode rod,
which will slowly deplete (due to electrolysis) prolonging
the life of the water heater by protecting the glass-lined
tank from corrosion. Adverse water quality, hotter water
temperatures, high hot water usage, hydronic heating
devices, and water softening methods can increase
the rate of anode rod depletion. Once the anode rod
is depleted, the tank will start to corrode, eventually
developing a leak.
Certain water conditions will cause a reaction between the
anode rod and the water. The most common complaint
associated with the anode rod is a “rotten egg smell”
produced from the presence of hydrogen sul
fi
de gas
dissolved in the water.
Important:
Do not remove this rod permanently as it will
void any warranties. A special anode rod may be available
if water odo r or discolo ration occurs.
Note:
This rod may reduce but not eliminate water odo r
problems. The water supply system may require special
fi
ltration equipment from a water conditioning company to
successfully eliminate all water odo r problems.
Arti
fi
cially softened water is exceedingly corrosive because
the process substitutes sodium ions for magnesium and
calcium ions. The use of a water softener may decrease
the life of the water heater tank.
The anode rod should be inspected after a maximum of
three years and annually thereafter until the condition of
the anode rod dictates its replacement (see Figure 49).
Note:
Arti
fi
cially softened water requires the anode rod to
be inspected annually. The following are typical (but not
all) signs of a depleted anode rod:
•
The majority of the rods diameter
is less than 3/8” .
•
Signi
fi
cant sections of the support
wire (approx. 1/3 or more of the
anode rod’s length) are visible.
If the anode rod show signs of either
or both it should be replaced.
Note:
Whether re-installing or
replacing the anode rod, check for
any leaks and immediately correct
if found.
Figure 49
To replace the anode:
1. Turn off gas supply to the water heater.
2. Shut off the water supply and open a nearby hot water
faucet to depressurize the water tank.
3. Drain approximately 5 gallons of water from tank. (Refer
to “Draining And Flushing” for proper procedures).
Close drain valve.
4. Remove old anode rod.
5. Use
Te
fl
on
®
tape or approved pipe sealant on threads
and install new anode rod.
6. Turn on water supply and open a nearby hot water
faucet to purge air from water system. Check for any
leaks and immediately correct any if found.
7. Restart the water heater as directed in this manual.
See the “Reference Parts Listing” for anode rod
location.
Figure 50
EXPOSED
SUPPORT
WIRE
PITTED
ANODE
ROD
EXPOSED
SUPPORT
WIRE
