What do I need to replace water heater anode?
If the water is clean, remove the rod to check its condition. To loosen the rod, you’ll need an air compressor, a 1/2-in.-drive impact wrench and a 1-1/16-in. socket. If you don’t have an impact wrench, go buy a cheap one for about $30. Even with a breaker bar, it can be nearly impossible to break the anode rod free.
Where is the anode rod on a hot water heater?
The rod may be under the water heater’s sheet metal top or connected to the hot water outlet nipple. (A few newer plastic-lined tanks have no anode rods to replace.) Before you get started, close the shutoff valve, turn on the hot water at a faucet to relieve pressure, and turn off the electricity or gas to the heater.
How do you change the rod on a 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 rod that prevents rust inside the tank. (See below for a shopping list and tools.)
Why does my water heater need to be replaced?
Since the lining eventually cracks, tanks have a second line of defense against rust: a long metal “anode rod” that attracts corrosive elements in the water. When the rod itself becomes so corroded that it can no longer do its job, the tank soon rusts out, leaks and needs replacement.
Where to buy anode rod?
Aluminum anode rods are a common type used in new water heaters. There are both health and performance concerns associated with aluminum anode rods. You can purchase an aluminum anode rod online, at plumbing and home supply stores for around $20 to $25.
Do powered anode rods work?
Powered anode rods are non-sacrificial rods (meaning they don’t degrade like a normal anode rod) which use electrical pulses to deal with corrosive elements in your water. These pulses scatter the harmful electrons, preventing them from accumulating along the lining of your tank. Overall, there are quite a few advantages to using powered anode rods.
What is an anode rod?
An anode rod is a component of a water heater that helps to prevent internal corrosion.
