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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 should an anode rod last?
When 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 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 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.
Should you replace water heater anode?
Check The Anode Rod Once a Year & Replace It Every 5 Years As a general rule, anode rods need to be replaced about every 4-5 years. Your plumber can check and replace the anode rod, drain sediment from your hot water heater, and make sure your unit is operating properly.
How often should you flush a water heater?
Tip: To maintain the upkeep of your water heater, flush your water heater every six months or so. If you have harder water, or water that contains more minerals, you may want to flush it more often.
How do you test an anode rod?
Open the spigot and drain a little water to relieve some pressure and heat inside the tank before opening the top for the anode rod. Next, go to the top of your water heater and look for a hex head bolt. If you don’t see the hex head, it’s likely built into your water heater system.
What happens if you don’t change your anode rod?
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.
Are anode rods universal?
In most cases, water heater anode rods are universal. The only exceptions are : Buderus : They use another type of threading to install the magnesium anode. All other water heater brands use a regular magnesium anode with 3/4 ” NPT threads.
Is it OK to remove anode rod?
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.
Can a water heater last 20 years?
Tank water heaters will last an average of 8 to 12 years, while tankless water heaters can last even longer, up to 20 years. There are also electric and gas water heaters that will vary in lifespan, but in general gas ones last 8-12 years, while an electric heater could last upwards of 10-15 years.
Should I replace my 15 year old water heater?
Anyway, you should consider replacing your water heater if it’s about 6-12+ years old and when you start running out of hot water faster. However, age and lack of hot water aren’t everything. You could have a 15-year-old water heater that works just fine and wouldn’t need replacing.
How long do AO Smith water heaters last?
A. O. Smith is dedicated to making water heaters that are built to last. While all A. O. Smith tank water heaters have a limited warranty lasting between 6 to 10 years, it is not uncommon to find water heaters that are still properly functioning well over a decade or more.
How much does it cost to replace an anode rod?
An anode rod costs about $50. Some homeowners may feel comfortable replacing it themselves. If not, call a professional plumber, who can assist. The cost of having it replaced professionally may be around $250 or $300.
How often should Boat anodes be replaced?
Why Anodes Need Replacing You should change your anode at least every 12 months or when it has corroded to half its original size to ensure it is working to its optimum level.
Which is better aluminum or magnesium anode rod?
For harder water an aluminum anode rod is the best choice for your heater and if you live in an area with soft water then a magnesium anode rod is your best choice. Aluminum anodes tend to be cheaper than magnesium anode rods. A magnesium rod will generally last less than an aluminum rod.
How much does it cost to have a water heater flushed?
How much does it cost to flush a water heater? If you’re not confident doing the job yourself, expect to pay around $100. This is really a minimal expense considering how damaging sediment can be for your water heater.
How do I know if my water heater needs to be flushed?
Here are a few warning signs that you need a water heater flush. No Hot Water. When your unit stops producing hot water, there is either a large amount of sediment buildup or a faulty burner. Funny Smells. Strange odors from your hot water is a sign of bacteria in your tank. Strange Noises. Rust Colored Water.
