Since many old rods are difficult to remove having the extra weight in the tank will prevent the entire water heater from rotating as you attempt to loosen the rod.
Can t remove anode rod from water heater.
If the water is clean remove the rod to check its condition.
Drain some water from the tank to check for rust.
Unscrew the flex supply to the hot water outlet which should enable you to unscrew the anode rod and pull it out to check.
How do i know when to change mine.
Remove a seized hot water anode rod with a strap and block to prevent the tank from rotating.
Of course that means the insulation is thinner on the right front than the left rear you can t extract the anode rod and the inlet outlet nipples rub against the top cover but so what.
I ve got a ge 40 gal.
Smith water heater 1.
With a water heater that sounds like it is over 20 years old it might make sense to simply replace it.
Turn off the gas to the hot water heater or turn off the breaker at the main electrical panel for electric water.
This is typically located just above the water heater and is marked as.
To loosen the rod you ll need an air compressor a 1 2 in drive impact wrench and a 1 1 16 in.
Gas water heater about 2 years old.
You have certainly given it the effort to remove that stubborn anode rod.
More intensive effort could very well damage the unit.
It s recommended to let the tank water cool off a bit before removing the anode rod.
Problem is that i can t get enough torque to turn the rod out of there even with a breaker bar and extension pipe and a lot of cussing.
If your water heater doesn t have a separate hole for your anode rod it is most likely attached to the hot water outlet.
Shut off the cold water supply to the tank.
How to remove an anode rod from an a o.
Remove a seized hot water anode rod with a strap and block to prevent the tank from rotating.
It s time for a new water heater if you see rusty flakes not just orange water which can come from corroded pipes or well water.