Water Heater Anode Rod Replacement

The anode rod absorbs the corrosive effects of hot water to extend the life of your water heater s tank.

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. Turn the cold water supply to the heater back on and let the tank fill. 1 turn off water and fuel supply gas or electricity to water heater. 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. Most water heaters come with an aluminum rod as standard equipment. An anode rod will corrode and deteriorate over time until it s no longer capable of functioning and has to be replaced. 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.

Remember to replace worn anodes to insure consistent protection. Suburban s magnesium anode rod is perfect for use in rv water heaters. Rods are made from magnesium aluminum or aluminum zinc alloy. 3 locate the anode rod on the water heater.

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. If space above your water heater is tight a flexible replacement anode rod makes the installation easier. Next turn on a hot water faucet somewhere in the house. Need to hire a plumber.

If necessary unscrew and lift off the cover from the top of the heater. Water heaters use an anode rod to attract and remove sediments from the water being heated. In most cases the hexagonal head of the rod is visible on the top of the water heater. Find anode rod water heater parts at lowe s today.

We recommend that you keep a spare on hand. This is a common problem with older water heaters and in certain parts of the country.