Change Water Heater Anode Rod

This diy repair guide explains how to replace the anode rod in an electric water heater.

Change water heater anode rod.

Before performing any work on a water heater you should always turn off the. Prepare the threads to the replacement anode rod with teflon tape. The anode rod will be located on the top side of the unit. You notice a slimy gel substance when cleaning out faucet.

If space above your water heater is tight a flexible replacement anode rod makes the installation easier. In this video this old house plumbing and heating contractor richard trethewey explains how to change a water heater anode rod. The water heater is more than 5 years old and you ve never changed it before. How to eliminate smoke odors from a newly purchased house.

1 turn off water and fuel supply gas or electricity to water heater. How to get rid of sulfur smell in a jacuzzi tub. On most it will. If your hot water begins to smell bad replace the anode rod with a less reactive zinc aluminum rod to help combat the smell.

Most will be located on top of the water heater though some may have the anode located on the side. Protect the lining and extend the life of your water heater by replacing the sacrificial anode. 4 use a ratchet wrench and 1 1 16 inch deep socket to unscrew the anode rod from the 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.

Change your anode rod right away if any of the following apply to your situation. Aluminum replacement rods are sold at home centers. The water heater makes loud or multiple popping noises when heating up. Wrap six or more turns.

Turn off the power supply to the heater. Step 2 locate the anode rod. 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. Locate the anode rod.

If necessary unscrew and lift off the cover from the top of the heater. How to replace an anode rod 6 steps step 1 shut off the power and water. How to replace your water heater anode rod. In some cases it may be.

3 locate the anode rod on the water heater. Rods are made from magnesium aluminum or aluminum zinc alloy. The rod may be under the water heater s sheet metal top or connected to the hot water. Winterize a home on a budget.

In most cases the hexagonal head of the rod is visible on the top of the water heater. The anode rod helps prevent tank corrosion. Step 3 drain some water. If you don t see the hex head check your owner s manual.