Table of Contents
Advertisement
Anode Rod Inspection
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 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 dissolved in
the water. IMPORTANT: Do not remove this anode rod
permanently as it will void any warranties. A special anode
rod may be available if water odor or discoloration occurs.
NOTE: This anode rod may reduce but not eliminate water
odor problems. The water supply system may require special
filtration from a water conditioning company to successfully
eliminate all water odor problems.
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 anode 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 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 14
Anode deterioration depends on the water conductivity, not
necessarily water condition. A corroded or pitted anode rod
indicates 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
calling Sears Service Center. At a minimum the anode(s)
should be checked annually after the warranty period.
In replacing the anode:
1.
Turn off power 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 (see
"Draining" section for proper procedures) Close drain
valve.
4.
Remove the 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 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 Repair Parts Illustration for anode rod location.
Temperature-Pressure Relief
Valve Operation
The temperature-pressure relief valve must be manually operated
at least once a year.
The temperature-pressure relief valve must be manually operated
at least once a year. Caution should be taken to ensure that
(1) no one is in front of or around the outlet of the temperature-
pressure relief valve discharge line, and (2) the water manually
discharged will not cause any property damage or bodily injury.
The water may be extremely hot.
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.
Failure to install and maintain a new properly listed temperature-
pressure relief valve will release the manufacturer from any claim
which might result from excessive temperature or pressure.
If the temperature-pressure relief valve on the appliance weeps
or discharges periodically, this may be due to thermal expansion.
Your water heater may have a check valve installed in the water
line or a water meter with a check valve. Consult your local
Sears Service Center for further information. Do not plug the
temperature-pressure relief valve.
15
FIGURE 15
Advertisement
Table of Contents
