Table of Contents
An anode rod is a steel wire surrounded by either zinc, aluminum, or magnesium. It is usually about 4 feet long. It is screwed into the top of a water heater and protects the water tank from the formation of rust. It does this through a process called electrolysis.
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.
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 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 often should you replace anode rod in hot 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.
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 long will hot 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.
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.
Do Bradford White water heaters have anode rods?
The anode rod in your Bradford White water heater is located at the hot water outlet of your tank. Unfortunately, it is not easily accessible. You must remove the hot water outlet to access it.
Should you use 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 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.
How do I test my water heater anode?
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.
Do stainless steel water heaters have anode rods?
Unlike glass lined water tanks, stainless steel tanks do not need a “sacrificial anode” in order to prevent corrosion on its surface. This means there is no need for inspection or replacement of anodes, saving time and cost in maintenance over the life of the water heater.
Do glass lined water heaters have anode rods?
Anode Rod. Built into all A. O. Smith glass-lined tank water heaters will be an anode rod to protect the tank and extend its life. The anode rod produces a low resistance electrical current to establish an electrical circuit in the water heater that controls corrosion through cathodic protection.
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.
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 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.
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 I know if my 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.
