JohnB61
New Member
I have a Whirlpool gas water heater that is 3 1/2 years old. This area tends to get a buildup in the bottom of the water heater, because of iron in the water, I guess. I try and flush it every few months and I decided to check and probably replace the anode. It is in so tight that I was turning the water heater. I don't want to break the gas or water line connections, so I tried an impact wrench, both the hammer and air styles. No luck. So I borrowed a Proto torque multiplier and braced the legs with a 2x4 so the water heater wouldn't turn. The torque multiplier is also braced against a cabinet with a wooden rod. The anode is still not loosening and I am afraid of breaking the feet off the water heater. They are only sheet metal installed with sheet metal screws. The torque multiplier is wound up tight and won't reverse so I can't get it off. Does anyone have any ideas other than call a plumber? My wife has already suggested that and it is my next option if I can't get this figured out. Thanks in advance.