draining the hot water heater

Hi. The anode rods are usually standard stuff you can get at any home improvement store. Not sure of the socket size, I think they are generally either 7/8" or 15/16", if I remember correctly. Maybe even 1 1/16" now that I'm thinking about it. A tape measure should tell you what you need to know if you don't have sockets that big to try.

Once you get the plug out, you'll know if you need to replace it, or if it even needs one. Some of the newer tanks do not use anode rods.

Thanks and good idea on the cleaning rod. Appreciate the info. Tough being new at this with a used KZ. Ed

Thx and just got a 1 1/16 and worked like a charm. So much easier than a crescent wrench. Thx for the advice. Ed

With a 1-1/16" socket fitting the item in question, he most likely has a Suburban water heater and the anode rod is the "plug." If you have at Atwood heater, it had a nylon plug and no anode rod. The nylon was used so that it would not corrode fast to the tank. If you had an anode rod, it needs to be re-installed.

Around the water heater opening, you will probably find that it was never caulked and water will seep inside the wall when draining and flushing. A petcock would need to be removed for a proper flush.

Ok so I have had the Atwood and never a Suburban. Do you carry a spare rod? How often can I expect to change it?

Guess I'll get one and put it in the basement until I need it.

I have a Suburban water heat and the diode connected to the drain nut was completely corroded so a quick trip to Camperworld and got a replacement. Very easy replacement. Thx for all the help. Ed

Hot water heaters fulfill a great need for homeowners! It is very important to maintain it properly. My uncle faced the same issue and then decided to consult plumbing repairs Morris county NJ professionals. They fixed the issue very well and didn't cause any mess.