: George:–blm189 (the previous poster) has a good point, there have been quite a bit of problems associated with defective dip tubes in heaters recently, and is certainly worth checking out. : If you live in a hard water locale, and the problem is actually the accumulation of precipitated mineral deposits collecting in the bottom of your heater, you might wish to try this. : It will require shutting down the heater for a breif time. Before doing this, purchase a brass 3/4 nipple 3 long..a 3/4 FIP brass full flow ball valve…and a 3/4 MIP X 3/4 male hose thread adapter. If you can obtain a main burner orifice that is sized for approximately 60 to 75% of the rated firing capacity. (the firing rate is found on the rating plate on the heater..if it says 40,000 BTUs, get an orifice sized for 30,000 BTUs. : Shut the gas and water off. the tank(this may take quite a while if the bottom of the tank is loaded with mineral debris). Unscrew the mickey mouse drain cock that came with the heater and throw it away. With a wet vacuum and a small tube taped to the hose, try to suck as much of the accumulated crud out as possible. When you have done your best, installd you opt to buy a new one…do the same thing to the new one, and double the life of the heater while doing away with the rocks in your water. : Lots of luck, and Merry Christmas…Bud light…
