SteveB wrote:
"Ed Pawlowski" wrote in message
...
"Salmon Egg" wrote in message
While I do believe that a new anode could greatly extend life. As was
mentioned removal could be difficult. I once tried to remove an anode
from a used up heater. I was totally unsuccessful. I would be even less
ready now even if the heater were not in a confined space.
You'd really be PO'd to pull the anode rod, find it is only about half
gone, but the water heater is now damaged from the removal and has to be
replaced.

Always listen to your gut, Eggie. I'd be reluctant to pull it, as right now
it doesn't leak, but you don't know it's condition. You pull it, but booger
a thread or something, and the anode is still in decent shape, now you have
to replace. I agree with Ed.

Let sleeping dogs lie. If you do not have a pan under it now, you MAY be
able to cobble something together to protect yourself. They always go out
at 3AM, and usually when someone's out of town. When and if you DO replace
it, do NOT cheap out and not put a pan under it with a good drain. BTDT
with two heaters I inherited. Well, I didn't cheap out, but the previous
owners did, and that much water plus a lot that comes in to fill the leak
wets a lot even if you find it quick. Can lead to mold, too.

Steve


Hmmm,
Ditto here. In my local area, I never saw a worn out(disappeared) anode.