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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.
Do all water heaters have anode rods?
Anode rods are an essential component of tank-style water heaters. Most anode rods are sacrificial, meaning they are designed to corrode (instead of your water heater lining). Tankless water heaters don’t have anode rods, but all standard tank-style water heaters do.
What is the purpose of anode?
You might be wondering, what does an anode rod do that makes it such an important component of a water heater? The purpose of an anode rod is to attract the sediment and corrosive elements (like minerals in the water) so that they corrode the anode rod rather than the inside of your water heater tank.
How does anode rod work?
An anode rod is a long metal rod, usually formed of magnesium or aluminum around a steel wire core. This is accomplished through a process called electrolysis, by which the metals in the anode rod attract ions that normally cause rust in iron and steel. These ions are what cause the anode rod to degrade over time.
Is an anode rod necessary?
Yes, an anode rod is necessary. It protects your water heater from corrosion and extends its life. However, once the magnesium or aluminum from your anode is dissolved, the steel walls of your water heater will start to rust.
Can you run a water heater without an anode rod?
Without a working anode rod, your water heater tank will be vulnerable to rust, corrosion, and other damaging effects of chemicals and minerals in your water supply.
How long will a water heater last without an anode?
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.
Do you need anodes in freshwater?
ONLY USE MAGNESIUM ANODES IN FRESH WATER! The salt content found in brackish or salt water dramatically increases the rate of corrosion. If a magnesium anode is used in salt/brackish water it will corrode very quickly, possibly lasting only a very short time thus leaving your hull and drive completely unprotected.
How do you check an anode rod?
Turn Off Water and Fuel Supply (Gas or Electric) Locate the gas line near the bottom of your water heater. Drain Some Water. Drain a couple gallons of water—about 10% of the tank’s volume. Locate Anode Rod. Now, try to find the anode rod. Loosen the Hex Head and Remove the Anode Rod. Install New Sacrificial Anode Rod.
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 often should anode rods be replaced?
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 do you flush a hot water tank?
How to Flush Your Hot Water Heater Turn the Knob on Your Hot Water Heater’s Thermostat to “Off” Turn Off Gas to Hot Water Heater. Turn Off the Cold Water Supply to Hot Water Heater. Turn on the Hot Water in a Sink or Tub. Connect Garden Hose to Drainage Spigot. Turn on Spigot and Drain. Flush.
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.
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.
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.
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. However, the length and type of the anode rod may not be the same.
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.
