Whirlpool 318686-000 Operational Conditions, Anode Rod/Water Odor, Water Heater Sounds, Stacking

Operational Conditions

Anode Rod/Water Odor

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 de- vices, 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 sulfide gas dis- solved in the water. CAUTION: Do not remove this rod permanently as it will void any warranties. A special anode rod may be available if water odor or discoloration occurs. NOTE: this rod may reduce but not eliminate water odor problems. The water supply system may require special filtration equipment from a water conditioning company to successfully eliminate all water odor problems.

Artificially softened water is exceedingly corrosive be- cause the process substitutes sodium ions for magne- sium 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. NOTE: artificially 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”.

•Significant 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 (see Figure 11). NOTE: Whether re-installing or replacing the anode rod, check for any leaks and immedi- ately correct if found.

Figure 11

Anode Rod

PITTED

ANODE

ROD

EXPOSED

SUPPORT

WIRE

EXPOSED

SUPPORT WIRE

See “Replacing the Anode Rod” in the maintenance section page 15.

Water Heater Sounds

During the normal operation of the water heater, sounds or noises may be heard. These noises are common and may result from the following:

1.Normal expansion and contraction of metal parts during periods of heat-up and cool-down.

2.Sediment buildup in the tank bottom will create varying amounts of noise and may cause premature tank failure. Drain and flush the tank as directed under “Draining and Flushing”.

Stacking

Certain water usage patterns can cause the water tem- perature to exceed the thermostat setting. This is known as “Stacking”.

Stacking occurs when a series of short draws of hot water (3 gallons or less) are taken from the water heater tank. This causes increased cycling of the heater ele- ments and can result in increased water temperatures at the hot water outlet. An anti-scald device is recommended in the hot water supply line to reduce the risk of scald injury. Use of a mixing valve is encouraged.

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