If you have space to remove the 16-1/8" anode rod without rotating the water heater it isn't hard. If the water heater isn't on, i.e. the water isn't hot, you can turn off the water to the water heater, drain the water heater (which takes 20-30 minutes), then remove the outlet water line at the top of the water heater (on your left as you look in from the passenger's side bay door), unscrew the fitting from the water heater and slide the anode rod out. Take the outside fitting off the old anode rod and using plumber's tape, attach it to the new anode rod. Reinstall the anode rod into the opening near the top of the water heater and screw the fitting in to tighten it. Reattach the water outlet line and you are done. A LARGE crescent wrench is invaluable in the removal and installation process. CAUTION: Having the water heater element on without water in the tank will result in the destruction of the heating element.
Since my water was hot, Georgia and I shut off the water heater and each took a shower. We then ran the hot water until it was about 90 degrees. I then drained the water heater. After the water heater was drained, the whole process didn't take more than about 25 minutes.
After you refill the water heater, open up a hot water faucet inside and start refilling the water heater to get the air out of the tank. That will take close to 10 minutes. After you are certain that the tank is full of water, then you can turn the water heater back on.
I would allow about 1 to 1-1/2 hours for the entire job, including draining and refilling assuming the tank is cold.
You didn't ask, but the cheapest price, including shipping, I found on the anode rod (Raritan part #1790010) was from Boater Barn (boaterbarn.com).
|