A: The bottom part of this gas water heater shows the gas control for temperature and the pilot light. It controls gas to the heating element, note the discoloring of the blue cover. The heating element, and the pilot light are located behind this door. The drain valve connection is located just to the right.

B: The large pieces of calcium buildup weighing approximately three pounds each, were attached to the flue, note the flue was solid with calcium buildup.

C: This is a safety relief valve which releases pressure, note the buildup on the probes is extensive.

D: This is the bottom portion of the tank. The Safety valve connection is located at the far left. Notice the height of the drain valve connection and the welded bead. About 4 to 6 inches below them you will see the depth of the sand in the tank. Locate the white pipe (which is half way up on the left), this is the cold water input. The flue is in the center and runs from the bottom to the top of the tank.

E: This is the flue baffle which is in the center of the flue and serves to prevent heat from escaping too quickly. Note the lower portion of the baffle is melted away, this is probably caused by extreme heat.