wrote in message
ups.com...


I thought the sludge was mostly dissolved minerals in the water,
and
that the tank is glass-lined and didn't rot? No?


its rust the glass lining isnt perfect and fails over time which is
why tanks leak.

the fact the anode is eroded away is another indicator that tank is
old and on its last legs.

I love reusing stuff and saving money but this one is a loser....
sorry.


My understanding is that periodically replaceing the anode can
significantly increase a wateh heaters life.

Bob