How often should I change a water heater anode rod?
Top 5 reasons to replace the anode rod:
- You want to extend the lifespan of your water heater and maintain your manufacturer’s warranty.
- You want to avoid water heater leaks.
- Your water heater is making popping and banging noises when heating, potentially signaling tank corrosion.
- It’s been 3 or more years since you’ve checked or changed the anode rod.
Is it worth it to replace anode rod?
Without an anode rod , your water heater will degrade in only a few years. Despite its benefits, a rod is not eternal; you must occasionally check and replace it every few years. While tankless water heaters lack an anode rod by design, normal tank water heaters need one.
How often to replace anode rod?
How to Change an Anode Rod
- Beginning Considerations. Before we get started, it’s important to note that this is a general guide. ...
- Power and Water. Now we’re getting started. ...
- Drain Water Heater. Since we’re working with the interior components of the water heater, it will need to be partly drained beforehand.
- Locate and Remove. ...
- Install New Rod. ...
Why do water heaters need an anode?
- Zinc
- Magnesium
- Aluminum
Is replacing anode rod worth it?
When the rod itself becomes so corroded that it can no longer do its job, the tank soon rusts out, leaks and needs replacement. 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.
Can I replace anode rod myself?
You can replace the anode, but it's not easy. Most tanks are located somewhere without enough headroom to easily remove the old rod or insert a new one. To begin the process, turn off the electricity (or gas) to the heater, shut its water supply, and open a hot-water faucet to relieve pressure inside the appliance.
How often should you replace the anode rod in a water heater?
Most water heater manufacturers will recommend inspecting the condition of the sacrificial anode every one (1) to three (3) years and replacing it when it has been consumed more than 50%. This is especially true if you have hard water or use a water softener.
How long does an anode rod last in a hot water heater?
about three to five yearsWhen there's no sacrificial metal left on the anode rod, your water heater tank can rust out, eventually causing it to burst. Anode rods generally can last about three to five years but it really depends mostly on the quality of your water and how much water travels through your water heater.
How long will water heater last without anode rod?
The longevity of water heaters without anode rods is about: 5-8 years. The actual lifespan depends on water hardness, water heater type and quality, when the anode rod was removed, and how hot the water is. In extreme cases, the water heater may only last 3-5 years without an anode rod.
Should you use Teflon tape on anode rod?
Teflon tape is safe to use on anode rods to establish a watertight seal, some manufacturers even recommend it. It should not interfere significantly with the electrical contact between rod and tank.
Which is better magnesium or aluminum anode rod?
However, aluminum rods are the better choice for a water heater that heats up sulfate-tinged water. Sacrificial anodes change sulfates into hydrogen sulfides. When a magnesium anode rod is used, the level of hydrogen sulfide can get too high and cause a rotten-egg stench in your hot water.
Can anode rod causing rotten egg smell?
Many anode rods are made of magnesium or aluminum. When these rods corrode, the metals react with the sulfates in the water, turning the sulfate into stinky hydrogen sulfide.
How much is an aluminum anode rod?
Compare with similar itemsThis item Aluminum Zinc Water Heater Anode Rod; Hex Head; 3/4 NPT x 44-inch; Stops Sulfur/Rotten Egg Smell (Solid)Reliance 9001829005 32-Inch Magnesium Water Heater Anode RodCustomer Rating4.5 out of 5 stars (472)4.7 out of 5 stars (292)Price$5200$4197Sold ByWater ConnectionThe Factory Depot2 more rows
How do I know if my hot water heater anode is bad?
A bad anode rod can cause discolored water, a rotten egg smell, air in the lines and intermittent hot water. The anode rod protects the tank of electric water heaters & signs it should be replaced are a rotten egg smell, no heat & strange sounds.
How do you check an anode rod?
Pull the rod out of your water heater and remember to use caution because it's probably very hot. Your anode rod should be around ¾ inch thick. If it's corroded down to less than ½ inch thick or coated with calcium, it needs to be replaced.
Can you clean an anode rod?
You cannot clean your anode rod in your water heater . However, it is important to inspect the sacrificial anode rod every 1 to 3 years and replace it after more than 50% of its wear and tear to avoid corrosion of your tank.
What Is a Water Heater Anode Rod?
An anode rod is a metallic rod 3 or more feet long and about 1 1/4 inches in diameter that sits immersed in the water inside the water heater tank. It has a screw cap on one end that fits the threads of an opening in the top of the tank.
How to Know You Need a New Anode Rod
There's no outward indication of a depleted anode rod, so after about five years, you should simply assume you need one. If necessary, you can perform a visual inspection by following the procedure for removing it without actually doing so.
How to Replace a Water Heater Anode Rod
The anode rod is inserted through an opening in the top of the water heater tank. On most models, a cap with a hex head nut is plainly visible, but some manufacturers hide this nut underneath a plastic cap that you have to first remove.
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Heater
If you have an electric water heater, shut off the breaker in the home's service panel. If you have a gas water heater, turn off the gas control on the water heater and then shut off the valve on the gas supply line.
Step 2: Partially Drain the Tank
Open the drain valve on the bottom of the hot water tank and drain about 5 gallons of water. Don't drain any more than this because the weight of the water will help stabilize the tank while you unscrew the anode rod.
Step 3: Unscrew the Anode Rod
This is the toughest part of the procedure, and there are two ways to do it. If you have an impact wrench, use that along with a 1 1/16-inch socket. Place the socket over the hex nut and operate the wrench in reverse to loosen it.
Step 4: Pull Out the Old Anode Rod
Once the screw connection is loose, you should be able to lift the old anode rod right out of the tank. If there isn't enough clearance above the tank to get it all the way out, cut it with a hacksaw. When cutting, be sure to hold the lower half securely to prevent it from falling back into the tank.
How much does it cost to fix an electric water heater?
If you have a problem with your element, it will probably cost between $200 and $300 to fix it. Most electric water heaters come with two heating elements. One is at the bottom of the tank. The other is positioned at the top of the tank. An electrical current run through each element.
How much does it cost to replace a dip tube on a heater?
A faulty dip tube may cause your heater to stop working. Replacing one yourself may cost as little as $10. If you have it done by a professional plumbing company, you can expect to pay around $150.
Why is my water heater not getting hot enough?
One possible reason is that the unit is undersized. Hot water heaters come with different tank sizes to accommodate different sizes of house/family. If you consistently have too little hot water, it may be because your heater is just too small. Replacing it with a larger unit may be the best way forward.
What to do if your water heater is not working?
If your gas heater is not working, you may want to hire a professional plumber. Your plumber will be able to accurately diagnose the underlying issue.
How long does a water heater last?
A good rule of thumb is that water heater’s life expectancy is 9 years. Without draining, water heaters that receive heavy use may not last quite as long. But 9 years is a good number to keep in mind.
What happens if your water heater goes out?
The bottom line: Homeowners depend on functional water heater units. If your water heater goes out, it diminishes your quality of life considerably. Prompt water heater replacement or repair is a must.
Why does my heater fail?
Sometimes, heaters fail due to mechanical issues. But sometimes, it’s simple wear and tear. Over time, units become corroded. If your unit is visibly corroded, it may be too late to save it. You may need to go ahead and spring for a replacement.
What is an Anode Rod in a Hot Water Heater?
An anode rod is a metal rod the goes down the middle of your water heater’s tank. Its purpose is to minimize rusting to (A) prevent rust from getting into the water supply or (B) shorten the life of your water heater.
Aluminum vs Magnesium Anode Rod
When considering a water heater anode rod replacement, it’s good to know the difference between the two types of materials used.
How Much Does an Anode Rod Cost?
Most homeowners should expect to spend between $20 to $50 for their water heater anode rod replacement.
How-to: Water Heater Anode Rod Replacement
Replacing a water heater anode rod is straightforward and won’t take much of your time.
Final Thoughts
A water heater anode rod replacement is as easy as buying an anode rod, removing the old one, and putting in the new one.
Call 1-Tom-Plumber
Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need help with a water heater anode rod replacement.
1. Water Heaters Last Longer With Anode Rods
Corrosion is the natural enemy of metal. Since the tanks of water heaters consist primarily of this material and are continuously in touch with water, they are very likely to rust over time.
2. Prevent Bursting Water Tanks and Water Damage
Here we are beginning to touch on some of the more serious problems that corroded water tanks can cause you. If the water tank does not have an anode rod, it will eventually rust out, which often leads to pinholes that will cause water leaks, but in the worst case, the corrosion can get so bad that it will cause the tank to burst completely.
3. Rust-Containing Water Is Not Healthy for People
Rusty water is not only undesirable due to its tendency to stain sinks, toilets, bathtubs, or freshly washed laundry, but because it downright poses a danger to your health.
4. Water Smells Like Rotten Eggs (Well Water)
If the water starts being smelly, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have a worn-out anode rod, you just may have the wrong type, and thus you need to change it.
How Often Should You Replace an Anode Rod?
The precise time frame for changing the anode rod will differ from case to case. It is good to check the anode every once in a while to know how much of it dissolved over time.
Sources
https://www.nebraskyplumbing.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-a-water-heater-anode-rod/
How to Know If the Anode Rod Is Bad
Ideally, an anode rod should be replaced every 3 to 5 years. If you live in an area with high water hardness, you’ll want to do this more often. If you aren’t sure when it was last replaced, there are some ways to tell that it’s gone bad.
Magnesium Vs. Aluminum Anode Rod: Which Is Better?
You have two popular options when buying an anode rod — magnesium or aluminum rods.
Step 1: Turn Off Power or Gas Supply and Water
For safety purposes, you should turn off the power at the circuit breaker if you have an electric heater. If you have a gas heater, then turn off the gas supply. You should also turn off the water supply valve.
Step 2: Locate the Old Anode Rod
While it depends on your water heater model, most anode rods are located at the top of the tank. You might be able to see its visible head under a plastic cap. If you still have the water heater manual available, it will tell you the exact place where the anode rod is located.
Step 3: Drain Water From the Tank
To make the old anode rod easier to remove, empty some of the water in the tank. As a rule of thumb, empty either 2 gallons (7.5 liters) or 10% to 15% of what the tank holds. To drain it, add a garden hose to the valve at the bottom of the heater and run the other end to another place where you can safely dispose of the water.
Step 4: Remove the Old Anode Rod
Find the anode rod’s exact positioning at the top of the tank. Specific tank models, like Rheem, will have a plastic covering. If necessary, use a screwdriver to remove the covering and any insulation that covers its head.
Step 5: Install the Replacement Rod
Once the old rod has been removed, you can now replace it with a new anode rod. Place it back into the same spot and turn it with your hand just as when you removed it. Then, once you can no longer turn it further, tighten it with the socket again and install a new plastic cap on top of it.