Service and Maintenance (cont’d)
Anode Rod Inspection
The anode rod is used to protect the tank from corrosion. Most hot water tanks are equipped with an anode rod. The submerged rod sacrifices itself to protect the tank. Instead of corroding the tank, water ions attack and eat away the anode rod. This does not affect the water’s taste or color. The rod must be maintained to keep the tank in operating condition.
Anode deterioration depends on water conductivity, not nec- essarily water condition. A corroded or pitted anode rod indi- cates high water conductivity and should be checked and/or replaced more often than an anode rod that appears to be intact. Replacement of a depleted anode rod can extend the life of your water heater. Inspection should be conducted by a qualified service technician, and at a minimum should be checked annually after the warranty period.
Element Cleaning/
Replacement
NOTE: These instructions are written for element cleaning and element replacement for the lower element. If it is nec- essary to clean or replace the upper element, then repeat these instructions.
To remove the element from your tank in order to clean or replace it:
1.Before beginning turn “OFF” the electric power supply to the water heater.
2.Turn off the water supply to the water heater at the water shutoff valve or water meter.
3.Attach a hose to the water heater drain valve and put the other end in a floor drain or outdoors. Open the water heater drain valve. Open a nearby hot water faucet which will relieve pressure in the water heater and speed draining.
WARNING
The water passing out of the drain valve may be extremely hot. To avoid being scalded, make sure all connections are tight and that the water flow is directed away from any person.
4.Remove the two screws securing the access panel, and remove panel.
5. Remove the insulation pad to expose the opening.
WARNING
HAZARD OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK! Before removing any access panels or servicing the water heater, make sure the electrical supply to the water heater is turned “OFF”. Failure to do this could result in
DEATH, SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
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