Whirlpool 188414 User Manual

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Operation Conditions
Anode Rod/Water Odor
Each water heater contains at least one anode rod, 
which will slowly deplete while protecting the glass-lined 
tank from corrosion and prolonging the life of the water 
heater. Certain water conditions will cause a reaction 
between this rod and the water. Once the anode is 
depleted, the tank will start to corrode, eventually 
developing a leak. 
The most common complaint associated with the anode 
rod is a “rotten egg smell” produced from the presence 
of hydrogen sulfide gas dissolved in the water. Do not 
remove this rod permanently as it will void any 
warranties, stated or implied.
The parts list includes a special anode that can be 
ordered if water odor or discoloration occurs. This rod 
may reduce but not eliminate water odor problems. The 
water supply system may require special filtration 
equipment from a water conditioning company to 
successfully eliminate all water odor problems. 
Artificially softened water is exceedingly corrosive 
because the process substitutes sodium ions for 
magnesium and calcium ions. The use of a water 
softener may decrease the life of the water heater tank. 
The anode rod should be removed from the water 
heater tank every 3 years for inspection. If the rod is 
more than 50% depleted, the anode rod should be 
replaced. (See “Replacing the Anode Rod” in the 
maintenance section.)
Water Heater Sounds
During the normal operation of the water heater, 
sounds or noises may be heard. These noises are 
common and may result from the following:
1.
Normal expansion and contraction of metal parts 
during periods of heat-up and cool-down.
2.
Sediment buildup in the tank bottom will create 
varying amounts of noise and may cause 
premature tank failure. Drain and flush the tank as 
directed under “Draining and Flushing”.
Stacking
Stacking occurs when a series of short draws of hot 
water (3 gallons or less) are taken from the water 
heater tank. This causes increased cycling of the heater 
elements and can result in increased water 
temperatures at the hot water outlet. An anti-scald 
device is recommended in the hot water supply line to 
reduce the risk of scald injury.