A.O. Smith Electric Water Heater 0200

Check for signs of a depleted anode rod

Does the anode rod show signs of depletion?

Turn OFF electric supply to the water heater

Shut OFF the water supply and open a nearby hot water faucet to depressurize the water tank

DANGER! Burn hazard. Keep clear of drain valve discharge outlet.

Turn OFF the electrical supply to the water heater at the breaker or disconnect switch.

Ensure the cold water inlet valve is open.

Open a nearby hot water faucet and let the water run until the water is no longer hot, then close the hot water faucet.

Connect a hose to the water heater drain valve and terminate it to an adequate drain.

Ensure that the drain hose is secured before and during the entire flushing procedure.

Open the water heater drain valve to flush the storage tank.

Flush the water heater storage tank to remove sediment and allow the water to flow until it runs clean.

DANGER! Burn hazard. Keep clear of drain valve discharge outlet.

Lift the lever at the top of the valve several times.

Ensure the valve seats properly and operates freely.

Is the valve operating condition satisfactory?

Describe any issues found during the check.

CAUTION: Water Heater Leakage Risk

Ensure adequate drainage is in place before inspection

Anode Rod Inspection Guidelines

Factors that may increase anode rod depletion

Is the water artificially softened?

Enter the number of years since the last anode rod inspection

Inspect the condition of the anode rod

Does the anode rod need replacement?

Ensure no one is in front of or around the outlet of the temperature-pressure relief valve discharge line.

Verify that the discharge pipe terminates at an adequate drain.

Manually operate the temperature-pressure relief valve.

Did the valve reset completely and stop releasing water?

Close the cold water inlet to the water heater if the valve fails to reset.

Follow the draining instructions in the manual.