Water Heaters - Hot Water Heater Anode removal

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View Full Version : Hot Water Heater Anode removal

dskowron
06-27-07, 05:58 PM
I have a relatively new (2 months) Rheem HG 50 gallon water heater and due to odor problems, I need to replace the anode with an aluminum one. I drained it, disconnected it and tried to unscrew it but the thing wouldn't budge. I have practically sheered the head off the anode. I let it cool and even iced it but no luck. Am I doing something wrong? Are these things reverse-threaded? Any hints or tricks are appreciated.

594tough
06-28-07, 06:46 PM
You will need a 3/4" drive or 1" drive socket, with at least a 3 foot breaker bar on it. You will also need a gorilla to hold the heater as you try to turn the wrench. They are VERY tight.