Table of Contents
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.
Is it hard to replace anode rod?
Even with a breaker bar, it can be nearly impossible to break the anode rod free. Turn off the power or gas. Then close the cold-water valve at the top of the tank and drain off several gallons. Turn on the water, the power or gas, and burp the air from the system.
How much does it cost to replace a water heater 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 long does 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 what size anode rod to buy?
As a rule you want the anode to be “tip to toe” running the full height or length of the tank. If you cant see your brand on the chart then just measure the length of the tank and pick the closest length of anode. If the anode is too long they can be simply cut to length with a hack saw.
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.
Does a gas hot water heater have an anode rod?
Inside the Tank In glass-lined tanks, there will be a metal rod in the tank, usually magnesium or aluminum, called a sacrificial anode. The anode rod is bolted and fastened to the top of the tank and extends deep into the tank.
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.
What size socket do you need to remove an anode rod?
4 Use a ratchet wrench and 1 1/16-inch deep socket to unscrew the anode rod from the heater.
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.
What happens if you don’t replace anode rod?
The anode rod is “self-sacrificing” and will continue to corrode until eventually it must be replaced. When there’s no sacrificial metal left on the anode, the tank can rust out, eventually causing it to burst.
Are anode rods standard size?
The diameter of residential water heater anode rods is universal at 3/4 inches. However, the length and type of the anode rod may not be the same. Also, some anode rods are attached to the top of the water heater, while others are connected to the hot water outlet.
Which anode rod is better aluminum or magnesium?
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 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.
Can anode rod causing rotten egg smell?
The most common cause of smelly water is anaerobic bacteria that exist in some water and react with the magnesium and aluminum sacrificial anodes that come with most water heaters to produce hydrogen sulfide gas, making the classic rotten egg odor.
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.
What is the best anode rod for a water heater?
Magnesium is a leading anode material given its ability to best protect the steel tank. It “gives up” electrons more freely than aluminum. In some situations where water is more conductive, i.e. softened water or lower pH levels, this sacrificial process is accelerated; in those cases, aluminum is a better choice.
Is longer anode rod better?
soupmaster666 wrote: A longer anode may have more material and more surface area. That might or might not make it more effective, and might or might not make it last longer.
