What size anode rod do I need for my water heater?
On the other hand, smaller water heaters tend to be shorter, so the anode rod won’t need to be as long. Essentially, the most important thing to remember is that the length of the anode rod will ultimately be determined by the water heater’s size.
Are anode rods Universal?
Anode rods are not universal. Anode rods vary in length and material. Some anode rods are installed at the top of the water heater tank, while others are attached to the hot water outlet. The diameter of residential water heater anode rods is universal at 3/4 inches.
How long do anode rods last?
Anode rods have a life expectancy of about five years, but as always it really depends on the quality of your water and how much of it travels through the heater. When sodium is added to the water (like when a water softener is used), anode rods can corrode more quickly: in as little as six months if the water is over-softened!
Can you use a magnesium anode rod with hard water?
Magnesium rods are not recommended to be used in homes with hard water as they will corrode quickly, reducing the effectiveness of the anode rod to almost nothing in a short time. If you live in an area with hard water and your water heater has a magnesium anode rod, you should check your water heater lining to be sure it is not corroded.
Does the anode rod screw all the way in?
The Anode is a pipe fitting and will not (and does not need to) go all the way in. The anode just needs to be tightened just enough to be watertight. Use a wire brush to clean the rust off the threads and using Teflon Tape (or Teflon white pipe dope - its OK), put a couple of wraps of tape over the anodes threads.
Do you need Teflon tape on anode rod?
Yes, teflon tape may reduce the effectiveness of the anode rode by electrically insulating the rod from the water heater chassis. The chances of it completely isolating it are nearly impossible though. Use pipe joint compound if you have it, and use teflon tape if you don't.
Does the length of an anode rod matter?
The length of the anode rod is important in the case of a sacrificial anode. Indeed, as its name suggests, it sacrifices itself to protect your tank from corrosion. As a result, the more magnesium or aluminum there is on the anode, the longer the protection time of your water heater will be.
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.
How do you seal an anode rod?
5:067:29How to Replace the Anode in a Water Heater - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipRod. You to get a good seal it's best to clean up the threads with a wire brush. Next apply theMoreRod. You to get a good seal it's best to clean up the threads with a wire brush. Next apply the teflon tape. This will help seal the threads.
Should I use Teflon tape on water heater connections?
Use stick pipe dope (not Teflon tape) on gas connection threads. Don't use oil-based compounds. Double-check to see that the type of gas you have is suited to the new heater. Allow the required clearances between the heater and combustible materials, according to the owner's manual for your new heater.
Which anode rod is better aluminum or magnesium?
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 you cut an anode rod to fit?
Yes, you can cut your sacrificial anode rod, whether it is magnesium or aluminum, to replace it. To do this, use a pair of gloves and a saw and cut as you remove the old anode.
How long is an anode rod for a 40 gallon water heater?
Some anode rods are 33 inches in length, while others are 44 inches in length. You may need to cut it down to fit your water heater if you have a smaller unit (often referred to as a 'low boy' or 'stubby') that is only 30 or 40 gallons.
How do you know anode rod 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 long will water heater last without anode rod?
Diminished Water Heater Lifespan: Without a sacrificial anode rod replacement, the average tank water heater will last a maximum of 8-12 years. However, your water heater may start failing as early as 5 years old without this essential care.
How often should you replace the anode rod in a water heater?
By replacing your anode rod every 3-5 years, your water heater can last well over 20 years without any risk of leaks and resulting water damage. Unfortunately, if you ignore this important water heater maintenance task, you may need to replace the entire water heater after only 10 years of use.
How do I replace an anode rod in my water heater?
Turn Off Water and Fuel Supply (Gas or Electric) Locate the gas line near the bottom of your water heater. ... Drain Some Water. ... Locate Anode Rod. ... Loosen the Hex Head and Remove the Anode Rod. ... Install New Sacrificial Anode Rod. ... Turn Off Water and Fuel Supply (Gas or Electric) ... Drain Some Water. ... Locate Anode Rod.More items...•
Is the anode rod on the hot or cold side?
The anode rod will be located on the top side of the unit. In some cases, it may be directly connected to the hot water outlet line on top of the heater.
How do you remove a seized anode rod?
0:432:38How to remove a seized hot water heater anode rod - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSuper thick cutting board it's probably 3/8 or maybe half an inch. And I also turned it lengthwiseMoreSuper thick cutting board it's probably 3/8 or maybe half an inch. And I also turned it lengthwise here so that it's applying all of its pressure onto the corner here where I know there's a stud.
How does a water heater anode work?
The sacrificial anode is an essential component of your water heater. It's a long metal rod, made of magnesium or aluminum, which extends through the tank's interior. It attracts particles of iron, limestone or other minerals present in the water through an electrochemical process and corrodes in place of the tank.
What size are anode rods?
Some anode rods are installed at the top of the water heater tank while others are attached to the water heater hot water outlet. The diameter of residential water heater anode rods is universal at 3/4 inches.
How long is an anode rod?
Some anode rods are 33 inches in length while others are 44 inches in length. You may need to cut it down to fit your water heater if you have a smaller unit (often referred to as a ‘low boy’ or ‘stubby’) that is only 30 or 40 gallons.
Why are aluminum anode rods used?
Aluminum anode rods were more commonly found in older water heaters. They are no longer commonly used due to the risk of metal poisoning in the hot tap water supply. This is the cheapest and longest-lasting type of anode rod available. Aluminum anode rods can be easily identified because it is very flexible.
What is a combination anode rod?
The combination anode rod is a typical anode rod that is attached to the hot water outlet. Most water heaters do not have this setup as it's difficult to access and service. The combination anode is installed inside the pipe which makes it hard to reach. Often times you have to break the pip to access and remove it for replacement.
Where is the anode rod on a water heater?
The anode rod is located on the top of the water heater. You can identify it by the hex head bolt top. You’ll need a 1-1/16 inch socket to remove the anode rod. As stated earlier, some anode rods are connected to the hot water outlet. If this is the case, you'll need to disconnect the hot water supply to access the anode rod for replacement.
Why do anodes use pulses?
Powered anode rods use electrical pulses to remove corrosive electrons from the water inside the tank and prevents it from attaching to the inner lining which will eventually rust the tank from the inside out causing it to leak. Powered anode rods are not sacrificial and do not require replacement.
Do water heaters need anode rods?
A powered anode rod is well worth the cost, particularly if your water heater is newer and the inner lining of the tank is still in good condition. However, I do not recommend them for older water heaters. If your water heater anode rod has never been replaced, the inner lining has likely already started to corrode.
Annual RV Water Heater Maintenance
It’s generally accepted that you should inspect your Suburban water heater once a year. This involves draining all of the water out, flushing it thoroughly, and replacing the anode rod if needed.
Inspecting Your Suburban Water Heater
With all of the preparation done, open the pressure relief valve at the top of the water heater. Just pull it straight out. Let the water that escapes drip out until there is no more coming out of the tank.
Replacing The Water Heater Anode Rod
After the tank is completely flushed, you can re-insert the old anode rod if it is not badly corroded. If it is in bad shape, just replace it with a new one.
