A.O. Smith Electric Water Heater 0500 Horizontal

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.

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

Drain the tank according to the Draining and Flushing procedures

Close the drain valve after draining

Describe any signs of leakage or corrosion observed

Check water conditions that may affect anode rod depletion

Is the water artificially softened?

Inspect the anode rod for depletion

Does the anode rod need replacement?

Ensure adequate drainage is in place

Turn OFF the electrical disconnect switch

Close the cold water inlet valve to heater

Open a nearby hot water faucet to vent the system

If the heater is being drained for an extended shutdown, leave the drain valve open during this period

Describe any drainage provisions in place

Check the following conditions that may affect anode rod depletion

Is the water artificially softened?

Inspect the anode rod for depletion

Document the condition of the anode rod