Change Water Heater Anode Rod

The anode rod will be located on the top side of the unit.

Change water heater anode rod.

How to replace an anode rod 6 steps step 1 shut off the power and water. Most will be located on top of the water heater though some may have the anode located on the side. Change your anode rod right away if any of the following apply to your situation. 5 types of water heater anode rods explained.

2 partially drain the water heater. If your hot water begins to smell bad replace the anode rod with a less reactive zinc aluminum rod to help combat the smell. 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. You notice a slimy gel substance when cleaning out faucet.

The water heater is more than 5 years old and you ve never changed it before. 4 use a ratchet wrench and 1 1 16 inch deep socket to unscrew the anode rod from the heater. If necessary unscrew and lift off the cover from the top of the heater. Prepare the threads to the replacement anode rod with teflon tape.

Protect the lining and extend the life of your water heater by replacing the sacrificial anode. Rods are made from magnesium aluminum or aluminum zinc alloy. Before performing any work on a water heater you should always turn off the. Receipt the new anode rod and tighten thoroughly.

In some cases it may be. In this video this old house plumbing and heating contractor richard trethewey explains how to change a water heater anode rod. Locate the anode rod. How to replace your water heater anode rod.

Wrap six or more turns. The anode rod helps prevent tank corrosion. Turn off the power supply to the heater. In most cases the hexagonal head of the rod is visible on the top of the water heater.

Natural micro organisms and sulfates that exist in some water can react to the aluminum or magnesium anode rods in the hot water tank creating a rotten egg smell. Step 3 drain some water. 3 locate the anode rod on the water heater. If space above your water heater is tight a flexible replacement anode rod makes the installation easier.

Step 2 locate the anode rod. 1 turn off water and fuel supply gas or electricity to water heater. The water heater makes loud or multiple popping noises when heating up. How to get rid of sulfur smell in a jacuzzi tub.

Aluminum replacement rods are sold at home centers. Winterize a home on a budget. On most it will. If you don t see the hex head check your owner s manual.