Care and Cleaning
Routine Preventative Maintenance
Anode Rod
Anode rods are designed and installed to protect and
extend the life of residential water storage tanks.
The anode rod must be removed from the water heater's
tank and inspected annually, and replaced when more
than 6" (15.2 cm) of core wire is exposed at either end of
the rod.* NOTE: Artificially softened water will cause the
anode rod to consume more rapidly.
Due to shock hazard and to prevent accidental water
leaks, this inspection should be done by a qualified
servicer or plumber, and requires that the electric power
and cold water supply be turned off before servicing the
anode rod.
NOTICE: Do not remove the anode rod from the water
heater's tank except for inspection and/or replacement,
as operation with the anode rod removed will shorten
the life of the glass-lined tank and will void warranty
coverage.
Some areas have water conditions that may cause
an odor to develop in the water heater. Special alloy
replacement rods are available to address the condition.
*NOTE: Failure to replace the anode rod when
consumed voids the warranty for the tank. Warranty
coverage for all other components remains intact,
and is unaffected by this maintenance requirement.
The replacement anode rod, and the inspection for
consumption are not covered by warranty.
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49-50336 Rev. 1