Water Heater Anode Rod Replacement – How Often Should I Replace the Anode Rod?
Corrosion is the number one cause of water heater failure. It is possible for even the highest-quality water heater to fail prematurely if it is not properly maintained and protected against rust. And replacing the anode rods on your heater on a regular basis is the most effective method to safeguard it, keep it in good working order, and get the most out of your investment. More information is provided below, as well as how frequently you should change the anode rod in your gas or electric water heater.
What Is a Water Heater Anode Rod? Why Is Anode Rod Replacement Important?
The anode rod is a metal rod that is generally no longer than 44 inches (but can be as much as 53 inches) in length and is responsible for protecting your water heater against rust and corrosion. A zinc, magnesium, or aluminum alloy or a mixture of these metals is typically used in its construction. The anode rod’s goal is to be more reactive to corrosion than the steel of your hot water tank, which is what it is designed to do. Anode rods are made from a variety of metals, including zinc, magnesium, and aluminum.
So long as your anode rod is in excellent shape, it will corrode before your steel water tank does.
The steel tank, on the other hand, will begin to rust after the anode rod has completely corroded.
Check The Anode Rod Once a YearReplace It Every 5 Years
Anode rods should be changed every 4-5 years, on average, according to industry standards. It is possible that this will change depending on how much water is flowing through your natural gas or electricity hot water heater. Very big families, for example, may use significantly more hot water and may require anode rod replacement intervals that are more frequent. Annual water heater maintenance by a plumber is the most effective method of ensuring that your anode rod is in good working condition.
Need A New Anode Rod or Hot Water Heater? Contact G C Plumbing!
G C Plumbing is available to assist you in Bellingham, Massachusetts, whether you believe you require a new anode rod or a total water heater replacement. Our plumbers are always willing to help you since they are honest, professional, and respectable. Get in touch with us online or give us a call at (508) 541-8783 if you want more assistance.
Extend the Life of Your Water Heater by Replacing the Anode Rod
Mr. Fix-It-Up-For-The-Family Replacing the anode rod in a water heater before it breaks may considerably increase the life of the water heater, sometimes even doubling it, by slowing down corrosion inside the tank and increasing the temperature of the water.
Remove the old anode rod
Short bursts from your impact wrench are all that is needed to loosen the hex head. Once it’s free, you may unscrew it by hand.
Photo 2: Install the new water heater anode rod
Pipe dope should be applied to the threads before inserting the new rod into the tank. Tighten with a socket and ratchet by hand to get the desired tension. The majority of water heater tanks are made of steel with a thin layer of glass on the inside to prevent corrosion. Because the lining ultimately fractures, tanks have a second line of defense against rust: a long metal rod known as a “anode rod,” which attracts corrosive substances in the water and draws them into the tank. When the rod itself becomes so corroded that it is no longer able to perform its function, the tank rusts out, leaks, and eventually needs to be replaced.
You may, on the other hand, double the life of your water heater if you replace the anode rod before it fails, which should be done approximately every five years. Magnesium, aluminum, and aluminum/zinc alloy are the materials used to make rods. Replacement aluminum rods are available.
Tips for buying an anode rod
Anode rods are intended to attract corrosive elements in the water, so reducing corrosion in the steel liner, which is particularly prone to corrosion.
- Anode rods made of magnesium are more effective at protecting your tank, but they do not last as long as rods made of aluminum or zinc. Anode rods made of aluminum or zinc are less expensive and are advised if your water smells. However, before making the conversion to an aluminum rod, contact with a water treatment professional.
Required Tools for this Project
Make a list of all of the equipment you’ll need for this DIY project before you begin; you’ll save both time and frustration this way.
Required Materials for this Project
Preparing all of your stuff ahead of time can save you time and money on last-minute buying visits. Here’s a list of things to do.
How to Inspect and Replace a Sacrificial Anode Rod (Every 3-5 Years)
A rusted anode rod on your water heater tank might eventually cause the tank to explode since there is no sacrificial metal left on the anode rod anymore. Anode rods typically have a lifespan of three to five years, however this is highly dependent on the quality of your water and the amount of water that passes through your water heater during that time. Every three years, you should inspect the condition of your anode rod in order to lessen the likelihood of a leak, enhance the quality of your water, reduce water heater wear and tear, and save a significant amount of money.
How Do Sacrificial Anode Rods Work?
The sacrificial anode rod is the most critical component of a water heater’s design. It absorbs all of the damage so that your tank and pipes don’t have to deal with it. Additionally, a healthy anode rod helps to limit the amount of silt that accumulates at the bottom of your tank, which can cause your energy expenses to rise over time. Sacrificial anode rods are available in three different materials: A more reactive (i.e., least noble) metal is used for the sacrificial rod because water is attracted to steel-lined water tanks and metal pipes in your home.
As long as the anode rods in your water heater tank are examined and changed on a regular basis, your tank will be safe against corrosion.
Top 10 reasons to replace your anode rod
- You’d like to extend the life of your water heater as much as possible. It will cost you far less to replace the anode rod than it will to replace your water heater. When the water heater pan starts collecting water, it is considered a problem. Anode rod corrosion can be accelerated by the use of water softeners. Corrosion of anode rods can be hastened by acidic water. When the water heater is heating up, it creates loud or numerous popping noises, which indicates that there is probable corrosion in the tank liner. It’s been three years since you last checked/replaced the anode rod in your vehicle. Aerators on faucets appear to be clogging up more regularly
- When you clean the faucet aerator, you notice a slimy gel material on the surface. Water that is gritty, sandy, or has a terrible odour
- Water heater expenses that be too high. Old anode rods contribute to the accumulation of dirt at the bottom of the tank, which reduces heat transfer.
How to Replace a Sacrificial Anode Rod
Learn how to replace the anode rod on your water heater in order to keep it from corroding further.
Materials:
- Drain the water from the bucket or the hose using the appropriate tools. An impact socket with six points and a 1-1/16″ diameter
- Perhaps a second (or two) pair of hands
- Replacement anode rod for sacrificial anode
Steps:
You should be able to find the gas line around the bottom of your hot water heater. Gas should be turned off by moving the valve clockwise; the valve should be perpendicular to the pipe. If you have an electric water heater, locate the breaker that corresponds to it in the main service panel and turn that breaker off. After you’ve turned off the gas or electricity, turn off the cold water supply, which is often located on the right side of the unit at the very top. A ball valve (with a handle that runs parallel or perpendicular to the pipe) or a gate valve can be installed in the cold water supply line (handle that you have to spin).
Drain a couple of liters of water from the tank, which is approximately 10% of its total content.
How Do Sacrificial Anode Rods Work?
The sacrificial anode rod is the most critical component of a water heater’s design. It absorbs all of the damage so that your tank and pipes don’t have to deal with it.
Additionally, a healthy anode rod helps to limit the amount of silt that accumulates at the bottom of your tank, which can cause your energy expenses to rise over time. Sacrificial anode rods are available in three different materials:
A more reactive (i.e., least noble) metal is used for the sacrificial rod because water is attracted to steel-lined water tanks and metal pipes in your home. In most cases, the steel water tank will be totally destroyed before the sacrificial anode rod corrodes away completely. As long as the anode rods in your water heater tank are examined and changed on a regular basis, your tank will be safe against corrosion.
Top 10 reasons to replace your anode rod
- You’d like to extend the life of your water heater as much as possible. It will cost you far less to replace the anode rod than it will to replace your water heater. When the water heater pan starts collecting water, it is considered a problem. Anode rod corrosion can be accelerated by the use of water softeners. Corrosion of anode rods can be hastened by acidic water. When the water heater is heating up, it creates loud or numerous popping noises, which indicates that there is probable corrosion in the tank liner. It’s been three years since you last checked/replaced the anode rod in your vehicle. Aerators on faucets appear to be clogging up more regularly
- When you clean the faucet aerator, you notice a slimy gel material on the surface. Water that is gritty, sandy, or has a terrible odour
- Water heater expenses that be too high. Old anode rods contribute to the accumulation of dirt at the bottom of the tank, which reduces heat transfer.
How to Replace a Sacrificial Anode Rod
Learn how to replace the anode rod on your water heater in order to keep it from corroding further.
Materials:
- Drain the water from the bucket or the hose using the appropriate tools. An impact socket with six points and a 1-1/16″ diameter
- Perhaps a second (or two) pair of hands
- Replacement anode rod for sacrificial anode
Steps:
You should be able to find the gas line around the bottom of your hot water heater. Gas should be turned off by moving the valve clockwise; the valve should be perpendicular to the pipe. If you have an electric water heater, locate the breaker that corresponds to it in the main service panel and turn that breaker off. After you’ve turned off the gas or electricity, turn off the cold water supply, which is often located on the right side of the unit at the very top. A ball valve (with a handle that runs parallel or perpendicular to the pipe) or a gate valve can be installed in the cold water supply line (handle that you have to spin).
Drain a couple of liters of water from the tank, which is approximately 10% of its total content.
Winter Drain Problems And How To Avoid Them
The anode rod in your water heater, often known as “the sacrificial helper,” is a hidden and forgotten component that sacrifices its body in return for your water heater tank. The absence of an anode rod may cause your steel water tank to rust and corrode, causing leaks and bursts as a result of the corrosion. Analog rods also aid in the reduction of silt that accumulates at the bottom of a tank’s water column. Anode rods for water heaters are often constructed of metal (magnesium, aluminum, or zinc) and are screwed into the top of the tank to prevent corrosion.
Because the metal in the anode rod is more reactive than the surrounding metal, the water corrodes the anode rod.
How often do I need to replace the anode rod?
Anode rods typically have a lifespan of three to five years, although this is highly dependent on the manufacturer, the quality of your water, and the amount of water that passes through your water heating system. Soft water will cause the anode rod to decay at a far faster pace than hard water. The anode rod should be inspected every two years, according to the majority of manufacturers. We recommend that you examine the anode rod once a year, which we will take care of for you during our annual plumbing examination.
Professional Anode Rod Inspection and Replacement
When replacing the anode rod, we recommend that you call a plumbing specialist, such as Fix-It 24/7 Plumbing. To remove the present anode rod, you will most likely require the assistance of at least two individuals. In addition, you want to be certain that you have the correct anode rod and that it is correctly put in your system. Consider the following scenario: if your ceiling is too low, you’ll need to replace it with a flexible (collapsible) rod.
If the water heater is installed in such a manner that removing the corroded anode rod is difficult, you may be forced to relocate the storage tank to a different location. Watch this video to learn more about anode rods and how to replace them from This Old House’s Richard Trethewey:
Top 5 reasons to replace the anode rod:
- Ideally, you’d like to extend the life of your water heater while still keeping your manufacturer’s guarantee in effect. You want to keep water heater leaks to a minimum. During the heating process, your water heater is emitting popping and banging noises, which might indicate tank deterioration. It’s been three or more years since you’ve examined or replaced the anode rod on your vehicle. The water coming out of your faucets is gritty, sandy, stinky, or discolored
Nobody likes to deal with a burst water heater, which may cause significant damage to their house and possessions. As soon as you believe there is an issue with your water heater, call a professional for assistance. Fix-It 24/7 has experience with a wide range of water heaters, including tankless (on-demand), solar, heat pump, and gas water heaters, amongst others. If you have a water leak, we may even install leak monitoring technology to notify you to the problem before it does any harm.
How often should you change the anode rod in a hot water heater?
Asked in the following category: General The most recent update was made on April 16, 2020. How often should I replace the anode rod in my water heater? In most circumstances, you will need to replace your water heater’s anode rod about once every 6 years if it is used under typical operating conditions. It is possible, however, that you will need to change the anode rod more regularly, depending on the makeup of your water. about three to five years Furthermore, how tight should the anode rod be?
Then, using the socket wrench, tighten it a little further, perhaps half a turn in either direction.
Taking all of this into consideration, how much does it cost to repair anode rod?
The majority of tanks are equipped with one anode.
Water Heater Maintenance: Flushing and Replacing the Anode Rod
Hot water heaters are frequently tucked away in a corner, where they may be seen silently going about their business. It’s easy to forget about them, but there are a few maintenance activities that should be completed on a regular basis to ensure that they continue to operate at peak performance. When properly maintained, a tank-style water heater may have a service life of 8 to 10 years, which is significantly longer than the industry average. This post will go through the preventative maintenance procedures that should be performed on a regular basis to maintain your water heater operating smoothly.
Water Heater Maintenance Schedule
If you want to guarantee that the following water heater maintenance jobs are done on time, we propose that you put them on your calendar:
Every Two Months
Getting into the habit of monitoring your water heater every couple of months will help you spot subtle changes in your water heater. Here’s what you should be looking for:
- Make that there are no water leaks, either at the plumbing connectors or in the tank itself. Excessive or unusual corrosion should be checked on all plumbing joints. Check the condition of the flex hose and any connections (including sniffing for gas leaks) on gas-powered heaters, and ensure that no flammable items are in close proximity to the region of combustible material. Turn on a nearby hot water faucet and keep an ear out for any strange sounds (especially hammering or crackling). Unusual noises might suggest a more significant problem with your water heater.
Every 6 Months
Then discharge a few liters of water from the tank through the drain valve to flush out the water heater’s tank. This will get rid of any sediment that has accumulated within the tank over time. Here’s how to do it.
Every Year
Check to verify that the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve is in proper functioning condition before using it. Here’s how to do it.
When the water heater is two to three years old, it is time to remove and examine the anode rod. However, if you notice significant chunks of metal plating disappearing from the surface of the anode rod, this is a good indicator that the rod needs to be replaced. Here’s how to do it.
How to Flush Your Water Heater
One of the most critical preventative maintenance activities is to clear out any sediment that has accumulated in your water heater. When cleansing your tank, we recommend doing it every six months, especially if you reside in an area where hard water is prevalent. It is possible that some locations will be able to get away with only a yearly flushing. It is necessary to flush out your water heater’s tank by dumping a couple of liters of water through the drain valve. Minerals and other minute solids found in all water systems, such as silt, will be drawn away from the bottom of the tank as a result of this action.
Flushing the heater on a regular basis, on the other hand, has been shown to significantly increase the heater’s service life.
Step-by-Step Flushing Procedures
First, cut off the water heater’s power (gas at the on/off control knob, electric at the circuit breakerbox). Keep in mind that the water within the tank is extremely hot and will continue to be so for a considerable amount of time after the power has been shut off. To save time and energy, it is preferable to utilize part of the hot water or to wait several hours for the water in the tank to cool completely before continuing. Reduce Water Pressure- Once the water has cooled, reduce the pressure in the system by closing the coldwater shutdown valve.
As the tank empties, air will be able to enter via the opening.
Watch the Video
We strongly advise you to put a sediment filter on your incoming water line to prevent silt from entering your home. It will filter the water before it is allowed to enter the tank of your water heater. Even though these filters will not completely remove the need to flush your tank, they will allow you to go longer periods of time between flushes. Although the focus of this essay is on tankless water heaters, sediment filters are also advantageous for traditional tank-style water heaters.
How to Replace an Anode Rod
A vital component of doing water heater maintenance is checking and replacing the anode rod. When metal and water are combined, the water always comes out on top; and when the water is heated, the process is sped up even further. Metal corrodes and continues to break down the steel tank over time, eventually causing it to seep out of the bottom. A water heater that has developed a leak cannot be repaired; the only option is to purchase a new water heater to replace it. By sacrificing itself, the anode rod contributes to the protection of the tank.
Aluminum, magnesium, zinc, or a mixture of these metals are the most common materials used in its construction. Every one of the three metals is particularly vulnerable to the corrosive process. Anode rods are effective because corrosion has a tendency to occur.
Step-by-Step Anode Replacement
First and foremost, you must switch off the electricity to the water heater. To do so, follow the instructions below: Gas is controlled by the on/off control knob, while electricity is controlled by the circuit breaker box. Then, you’ll need to close the cold water shutoff valve and open a nearby hot water faucet to enable the pressure within the tank to equalize, which you may do by turning off the water at the main valve. To empty any residual water from hot water pipes that are higher than the level of the tank’s top, use the drain valve to draw a few liters of water from the tank and drain it.
For more information, please see the instructions above.
Locate and loosen the anode rod by turning it clockwise.
Watch the Video
Sacrificial anode rods in a water heater are metal rods that are normally inserted into the top of the tank and are designed to attract corrosive substances in the water. They are “sacrificed” in order for your steel-lined water heating tank to have a long and healthy life. Generally speaking, magnesium anode rods outperform aluminum/zinc anode rods in terms of performance, although they are not as durable. The anode rods in your water heater are vital for preserving your tank from corrosion, but they gradually wear out after 3-5 years, depending on a variety of factors such as the hardness or softness of your water.
Here’s a schematic of the interior of your storage water heater for your convenience.
How Does a Sacrificial Anode Rod in a Water Heater Work?
When used in a water heater, the anode rod must have a lower, more negative electrochemical potential than the steel composition of the water heater being protected in order for the anode rod to function properly. The negative voltage of all metals is the same; nevertheless, the lower the voltage (i.e., the greater the negative voltage), the more active the metal is thought to be. A larger voltage is generated between the anode rod and the steel tank, causing the anode rod to corrode rather than the steel water heater tank or other exposed metals such as electric parts.
What Metals Are Used in Sacrificial Anode Rods?
A typical sacrificial anode is composed of a reasonably pure active metal such as magnesium, aluminum or zinc. These more active metals (anodes) oxidize and corrode at a rate that is significantly quicker than that of the less active metals (cathodes).
- Magnesium creates about -1.6 volts
- Aluminum generates approximately -1.1 volts
- Zinc generates approximately -1.05 volts
- And copper generates approximately -1.6 volts.
As a result, magnesium anode rods tend to perform better (although they succumb to corrosion more quickly) than other metals, but they do not last as long. The anode rod is a “self-sacrificing” component that will continue to corrode until it is finally removed from service.
When there is no sacrificial metal left on the anode, the tank can corrode and finally explode due to the pressure of the water within. Tips Consider these suggestions: Should I repair or replace the sink in my bathroom?
How Long Do Water Heater Anode Rods Last?
At some point, the anode rod will become fully degraded, at which point you should have it replaced. When your water heater tank “dies,” it will be subjected to direct attack from all of the corrosive substances present in the water. When the temperature is high, corrosion is aggravated even more than it already is. Anode rods typically have a lifespan of three to five years, however this is highly dependent on the quality of your water and the amount of water that passes through your water heater during that time.
How to Check the Sacrificial Anode Rod in Your Water Heater
It is strongly advised that you test the anode rod of your water heater on a regular basis. This may be done during your yearly plumbing inspection. By doing a visual inspection of your anode rod every 2-5 years, you can determine whether it is necessary to replace the rod before it fully degrades. First and foremost, make sure that the water supply and electricity (via the circuit breaker) are turned off before doing any checks on the anode rod in your water heater. In order to obtain particular instructions, refer to the user/manual.
For any queries you may have, please do not hesitate to call your skilled plumbers at Gold Medal Service.
Top 10 Signs You Should Replace Your Anode Rod
- It allows you to get more use out of your storage water heater. It is far less expensive to replace one anode rod than it is to replace a whole water heater
- Water softeners can hasten anode rod degradation. If you have a water softener, you should inspect your anode rod more often (about once a year). As an alternative to sacrificial anodes, speak with your plumber about non-sacrificial electrical anode replacements. Corrosion of anode rods can be accelerated by using acidic water. If you have acidic water, you should inspect your anode rod more often (at least once a year). When the water heater is heating up, it generates a loud or numerous popping noises, which indicates the presence of corrosion and hardened mineral silt. Your water heater has been in use for more than 5 years. You can find out what type of water heater you have by looking at the label on the side of it.
Burst water heaters may create a sloppy mess to clean up, and the water can cause water damage to the interior of your home. By changing your anode rod every 3-5 years, you may extend the life of your water heater to well over 20 years without the risk of leaks and associated water damage to your home or business. The unfortunate reality is that if you fail to do routine water heater maintenance, you may find yourself having to replace your entire water heater after only ten years of service!
Contact Gold Medal Service to have your water heater’s anode rod inspected and/or replaced.
Preventative maintenance is the key to keeping a house in good condition for a long time.
How and When to Change Your RV Water Heater Anode Rod
The convenience of having hot water in your RV is appreciated whether you’re cleaning dishes or taking a shower. The cost of replacing a water heater in an RV can range from $800 to $1000. You’re probably want to avoid taking a significant damage to your money account as much as possible. As a result, today we’ll look at how an RV water heater anode rod may save you money by preventing an expensive repair. Let’s get this party started!
What Does a Water Heater Anode Rod Do?
An anode rod is a device that draws silt and other corrosive particles that find their way into a water heater’s tank. The anode rod gives up its life in order to preserve your water heater from corrosion and to extend the life of the water heater’s components. Because of the erosion of the magnesium anode rod by the elements, electrons are released into the water.
In the tank, these electrons prevent corrosion from occurring and eventually cause the anode rod to break down. By examining your anode rod on a regular basis, you may enhance the likelihood of having it replaced before any harm is done to your water heater.
How Often Should You Check Your RV Anode Rod?
You should inspect the anode rod of your recreational vehicle at least twice a year. Because you should fully empty out your water heater tank before winterizing your RV, now is a good time to inspect the anode rod on your water heater. For those who live in a place where it is not necessary to winterize an RV, it is recommended that you do it at least once every six months. This illustration depicts how a new water heater anode rod should seem.
How Do I Know If My RV Anode Rod Is Bad?
Many RVers make the mistake of updating their anode rod too soon after purchasing their vehicle. These rods have an average lifespan of two to three years, depending on how you utilize your recreational vehicle. A shorter lifetime is likely to be experienced by those who travel full-time in their RVs as opposed to those who travel seasonally in their RVs. If more than 75% of the rod has disintegrated, you’ll know your RV anode is in horrible condition. If this has happened, you’ll want to get a new one.
When an anode rod reaches the end of its useful life, it will begin to take on the appearance seen below.
Here are five examples:
How to Replace Your RV Water Heater Anode Rod
First and foremost, you’ll need to find the water heater door in order to replace the anode rod. It should have been pointed out to you by your RV dealer when you purchased the vehicle, but it is normally a black metal door on the side of the vehicle. Open the door and look for a hexagonal bolt on the other side of it. By unscrewing this hexagonal bolt, you will be able to quickly pull out the anode rod and inspect it, as well as replace it if required. However, don’t get ahead of yourself too much.
Look locate the pressure release valve on the tank once the water has had a chance to cool.
Are RV Anode Rods Standard Size?
RV anode rods are usually of a set length. They’re most usually 9.25″ long and have 3″ threads, which require a 1-1/16″ socket to be used. However, it is essential to check with the manufacturer of your water heater for any particular regarding your water heater.
Buying a New Anode Rod
Anode rods for recreational vehicles may be purchased online or at a variety of RV and camping retail locations. Anode rods for RV water heaters are available from a variety of sources, including Camping World, Gander Mountain, Home Depot, and Lowe’s. Pro Tip: Take a look at these RV accessories that you may not have realized were available at Lowe’s.
RV Anode Rods Don’t Have to Be Complicated
Maintaining your anode rod is not a tough task when it comes to protecting your water heater. Keep a few tools on hand, as well as a backup anode rod, just in case something goes wrong.
One of the most essential things to remember is to unplug the water heater, allow the water to cool down, and release the pressure before removing the hexagonal bolt from the faucet. Serious harm might happen if this is not done correctly. Have you replaced your anode rod in the recent past?
How To Replace an Anode Rod
Previous PostNext PostWhen was the last time you had your water heater’s anode serviced or replaced? Are you unfamiliar with the term “water heater anode”? You’ve come to the correct place! The specialists at Aire Serv will teach you all you need to know about water heater anode replacement in the next section of the article.
What Is an Anode Rod?
An anode rod for a water heater is a steel rod that has been coated with a second type of metal, which is often zinc, aluminum, or magnesium. The rod, which is fastened into the top of the tank, is responsible for reducing corrosion within the tank’s interior. In order for a water heater to work properly, the anode, also known as a sacrificial anode, must be present. This is because the anode protects the water-soaked walls of the tank from corrosion. The rod acts as a decoy for corrosive substances, causing corrosion to occur on the rod rather than on the tank’s interior surface.
How Often Should You Replace a Hot Water Heater Anode?
Water heater anode rod replacement intervals can range from six months to six years in the most extreme conditions, depending on the nature of the water you are using. A water softener or unusually hard water might cause your anode to degrade more quickly than normal. Our recommendation is that homeowners plan on changing their water heater anode every two to four years as a general rule of thumb. When a new homeowner takes ownership of their house, they should enquire as to when the water heater was last professionally serviced.
How to Remove a Water Heater Anode Rod
The replacement of the anode in a water heater can be done by the homeowner. If you want to examine or replace the anode in your water heater, you should follow these steps:
- In the case of electric water heaters: Turn off the water heater and turn off the electricity to the unit at the main circuit breaker.
- If you have a gas water heater, turn it into “vacation mode” so that you don’t have to worry about re-igniting the pilot light.
- Immediately turn off the water supply
- Drain the water heater with the help of the water heater drain, a short hose, and a bucket for general use
- Using a socket wrench, remove the anode rod from the top of the water heater tank and set it aside. Remove the anode rod from the tank with care by raising it straight up from the tank. Take care not to hit the anode on the tank or cause it to ring or rattle. This has the potential to break the rod or cause harm to the tank’s inside. Examine the anode rod for damage. Reinstall the rod if it still appears to be in good condition. If it has been extensively corroded, has been decreased in size, or has been somehow damaged, it should be replaced. Install the new water heater anode rod into the tank’s top by screwing it in place. Reconnect the water supply and electrical connections to the tank.
How to Remove a Stubborn Anode Rod
While it may be tempting to try to loosen a difficult anode rod connection using lubricant or solvent, you should refrain from doing so! Chemicals that penetrate the tank’s walls, like WD-40, can pollute the water and create more serious, long-term problems. An electric impact wrench may be required to remove a recalcitrant water heater anode on your own. You may purchase or rent an impact wrench online. The water heater in your house is a critical, if expensive, component of your home’s infrastructure.
Our professionals are equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to remove even the most tenacious of anodes from your water heater with ease.
How to Tell If Your Anode Rod Is Bad
Over time, the anode rod in a water heater will rust, exposing the tank’s steel to corrosive conditions. As the anode rod deteriorates, the effectiveness of the device decreases.
To establish if it is necessary to replace your water heater’s anode rod, the most reliable method is to remove it according to the instructions provided above. However, there are several symptoms of anode rod degeneration that homeowners should be aware of, including:
- An increase in the amount of money you spend on utilities
- In the water heater pan, there is a buildup of water
- Aerators on faucets that are clogged
- Noises emanating from the water heater when it is first turned on or when it is heating up
- Water that is sandy, gritty, or stinky
Call Aire Serv for All Your Water Heater Maintenance Needs
Our company may be called Aire Serv, but our specialists are concerned with much more than simply the temperature and quality of the air in your house. We’re here to make it easier for you to breathe by providing experienced HVAC and water heater services. To learn more about our water heater services, you may make an appointment online or call a technician in your neighborhood. Is there no hot water? If your water heater is fueled by gas, this might simply be a case of the pilot light having gone out completely.
Rooter, a brand that is part of theNeighborlyfamily of companies.
Hot To: How To Replace a Hot Water Anode
An anode rod, also known as a sacrificial anode, is a component of a hot water tank that protects your water system against rust. It is an essential component of hot water systems, as it helps to extend the life of the tank. It is positioned on the top of water heaters and is made out of a steel rod that is surrounded by metals such as magnesium, aluminum, or zinc. It operates by the use of an electrolysis process. Rather of corroding the steel of the water heater, the sacrificial anode will do so, sparing the water heater system from producing rusty water and exploding.
How often should you replace the anode rod in a water heater?
Many individuals are not aware that the anode in a water heater should be updated on a regular basis. If a tank generates hot water, they think that everything is in working order. Understanding what is going on behind the scenes and inside the unit, on the other hand, is critical. Your hot water system, whether it is electric, gas, or solar, has a shelf life of around 10-12 years, depending on the state of the unit. It is possible that they will experience leaks, temperature fluctuations, and low water pressure from time to time.
It is advised that you replace the anode rod in your hot water tank every 3-4 years.
- If it has been more than three years since you last changed your anode rod, you should consider replacing it. When your hot water tank is heating up, you may hear a popping sound. Ideally, you would like to extend the life of your water tank. You notice that the water has a terrible odor
- You have a higher-than-usual water bill to contend with
How do you change an anode rod in a hot water heater?
A replacement sacrificial anode, a bucket, and an impact socket will be required. Make sure you have all of the necessary items on hand. Step 1: Disconnect the water heater’s power supply from the mains. Then turn off the cold water supply valve, which is situated on the side or on the top of the appliance. Step 2: Remove the water from the tank. You will be able to drain around 10% of the water in the tank. Make sure you have a bucket or garden hose nearby in case the water has to be diverted.
Step 3: Locate the cathode.
Step 4: Removing the rod may prove to be challenging.
Make use of the appropriate socket wrench to loosen the hex head bolt.
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