Replacing Anode Rod In Hot Water Heater

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.

Replacing anode rod in hot water heater.

Aluminum replacement rods are sold at home centers. This diy repair guide explains how to replace the anode rod in an electric water heater. 2 partially drain the water heater. In most cases the hexagonal head of the rod is visible on the top of the water heater.

If necessary unscrew and lift off the cover from the top of 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. Before performing any work on a water heater you should always turn off the. 3 locate the anode rod on the water heater.

Step 3 drain some water. Step 2 locate the anode rod. The anode rod will be located on the top side of the unit. 4 use a ratchet wrench and 1 1 16 inch deep socket to unscrew the anode rod from the heater.

5 if the anode rod won t budge slip a steel pipe onto ratchet wrench handle for extra leverage. Rods are made from magnesium aluminum or aluminum zinc alloy.