Anode Rod; Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve Operation; Draining - A.O. Smith Power Direct ventedGasModels Instruction Manual

anode rod

Each water heater contains at least one anode rod, which will slowly
deplete while protecting the glass-lined tank from corrosion and
prolonging the life of the water heater. Once the anode is depleted,
the tank will start to corrode, eventually developing a leak. Certain
water conditions will cause a reaction between this 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 dissolved in the water. IMPORTANT: Do not remove this rod
permanently as it will void any warranties. The parts list includes
a special anode that can be ordered if water odor or discoloration
occurs. NOTE: This rod may reduce but not eliminate water odor
problems. The water supply system may require special aeration
or chlorination equipment from a water conditioning company to
successfully eliminate all water odor problems.
The use of a water softener may decrease the life of the water heater
tank. The anode rod should be removed from the water heater tank
every 3 years for inspection. The following are typical (but not all)
signs of a depleted anode rod:
• The majority of the rod's 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 shows 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. In situations where
clearance above the water heater is limited it may be necessary to
bend the anode rod for removal. Flexible anode rods are available
for replacement.
In replacing 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 the tank (Refer to
the "Draining and Flushing" section for proper procedures). Close
drain valve.
4. Remove old anode rod.
5. Use Teflon tape or approved pipe sealant on threads and install
®
new anode rod.
6. Turn on water supply and open 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 under the "Operating Your
Water Heater" section. See the "Repair Parts Illustration" section
for anode rod location.
teMperature-pressure
relIef valve operatIon
The temperature-pressure relief valve must be manually operated
at least once a year.
When checking the temperature-pressure relief valve operation,
make sure that (1) no one is in front of or around the outlet of the
temperature-pressure relief valve discharge line, and (2) that the
water discharge will not cause any property damage, as the water
may be extremely hot, see Figure 33.
If after manually operating the valve, it fails to completely reset and
continues to release water, immediately close the cold water inlet
to the water heater, follow the draining instructions, and replace the
temperature-pressure relief valve with a new one.
If the temperature-pressure relief valve on the appliance weeps or
discharges periodically, this may be due to thermal expansion. You
may have a check valve installed in the water line or a water meter
with a check valve. Consult your local water supplier or service
agency for further information. Do not plug the temperature-pressure
relief valve.

draInInG

27
fIGure 33.