Change Water Heater Anode

Natural micro organisms and sulfates that exist in some water can react to the aluminum or magnesium anode rods in the hot water tank creating a rotten egg smell.

Change water heater anode.

When the anode rod is depleted it no longer offers corrosion protection for the tank. It will cost you much less to replace the anode rod than your water heater. However if you replace your water heater anode rod before it fails about every five years you can double the life of your water heater. Aluminum replacement rods are sold at home centers.

Many people are unaware of just how much the water heater s anode rod does in order to protect the lining of your heater s tank. Inside every water heater is a long metal rod called an anode rod made of. How to change a water heater anode rod protect the lining and extend the life of your water heater by replacing the sacrificial anode. Top 10 reasons to replace your anode rod.

In this video this old house plumbing and heating contractor richard trethewey explains how to change a water heater anode rod. In rare situations you may have to cut a pipe in order to change the anode rod. Rods are made from magnesium aluminum or aluminum zinc alloy. An anode rod is a special metal element that s meant to slowly dissolve so that the tank itself doesn t corrode.

3 locate the anode rod on the water heater. You want to extend the lifespan of your water heater. 1 turn off water and fuel supply gas or electricity to water heater. It is a good idea to have a helper hold the tank while removing and installing the anode rod as twisting the water heater could lead to leaks or broken pipes.

2 partially drain the water heater. As long as anode rods are regularly checked and replaced your water heater tank will be protected from corrosion. In most cases the hexagonal head of the rod is visible on the top of the water heater. If you have limited clearance it may be necessary to bend the rod to get it out.

If necessary unscrew and lift off the cover from the top of the heater. Replacing your anode rod at regular intervals may increase the life of your water heater saving you money time and the inconvenience of having to replace your water heater one of the most important considerations in having a normal life span for your water heater is whether the anode rod is performing it s job to divert corrosive action away from the tank walls to the anode rod. Changing the anode rod every four years is a great way to extend the life of your water heater.