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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.
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.
Should you remove the anode rod in water heater?
Some water heaters have two anodes. Not only is it important to put an aluminum/zinc anode into the heater; it’s also important to remove all previous anodes or the hot water will still smell.
Are anode rods 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.
Do all water heaters come with an anode rod?
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 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.
How do you know when to replace an anode rod?
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 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.
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 long does 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.
Does a gas 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.
Where is the anode rod located on a water heater?
Locate the anode rod. Most will be located on top of the water heater, though some may have the anode located on the side. On most it will look like a hexagonal plug screwed into the heater.
Can anode rods be cut?
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. In confined spaces, cutting the anode rod technique is often used.
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 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 too late to replace anode rod?
Anode rods are relatively cheap, usually costing between $30 and $40, and a plumbing pro can install them safely and quickly. The downside is that if you wait too long to replace the anode rod, it may be too late. If more than five years has passed, it may be too late to save the water heater.
How do 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.
Do electric anode rods work?
Powered anode rods work well at protecting the water heater tank against corrosion as well as controlling the bacteria inside your water heater tank. Powered anode rods are excellent at removing the sulfur-like “rotten egg” smell coming from your water heater tank.
