Water Heater

While winterizing, after taking out the plug, like you did Bll stick the water hose in the anode hole a few times to "flush" out the hot water tank. You will notice a lot of white chunk come out. I use a mixture of baking soda and water with a toothbrush to clean out the threads of the tank. I do this both winter and spring. I leave my anode rod out over winter BUT place a large plastic bag behind the compartment door as the last thing to do for the hot water tank. So far (fingers crossed) no unwanted guests come spring time sanitizing.