Water Heater Anode Rod Replacement

Replacing your anode rod at regular intervals may increase the life of your water heater saving you money time and the inconvenience of having to replace your water heater.

Water heater anode rod replacement.

We recommend that you keep a spare on hand. This old house plumbing and heating contractor richard trethewey shows a simple way to add years to your water heater by swapping out the sacrificial metal. There are several options for replacing your anode rod with magnesium aluminum or a combination of aluminum zinc and tin being the most common anode rod materials. 3 locate the anode rod on the water heater.

Most water heaters come with an aluminum rod as standard equipment. If necessary unscrew and lift off the cover from the top of the heater. 1 turn off water and fuel supply gas or electricity to water heater. In most cases the hexagonal head of the rod is visible on the top of the water heater.

The anode rod absorbs the corrosive effects of hot water to extend the life of your water heater s tank. Find anode rod water heater parts at lowe s today. Need to hire a plumber. Turn the cold water supply to the heater back on and let the tank fill.

Aluminum replacement rods are sold at home centers. 4 use a ratchet wrench and 1 1 16 inch deep socket to unscrew the anode rod from the heater. 2 partially drain the water heater. Suburban s magnesium anode rod is perfect for use in rv water heaters.

An anode rod will corrode and deteriorate over time until it s no longer capable of functioning and has to be replaced. This is a common problem with older water heaters and in certain parts of the country. If space above your water heater is tight a flexible replacement anode rod makes the installation easier. Water heaters use an anode rod to attract and remove sediments from the water being heated.

Remember to replace worn anodes to insure consistent protection. Rods are made from magnesium aluminum or aluminum zinc alloy.