Do You Need An Anode Rod?

Anode rods are an essential component of tank-style water heaters . Most anode rods are sacrificial, meaning they are designed to corrode (instead of your water heater lining). Because they are meant to break down, they wear out every few years and need to be replaced.

Is an anode rod necessary?

Yes, an anode rod is necessary . It protects your water heater from corrosion and extends its life. However, once the magnesium or aluminum from your anode is dissolved, the steel walls of your water heater will start to rust.

Can a water heater work without an anode rod?

Without a working anode rod, your water heater tank will be vulnerable to rust, corrosion , and other damaging effects of chemicals and minerals in your water supply.

Is it OK to remove anode rod?

Yes, you can cut your sacrificial anode rod , whether it is magnesium or aluminum, to replace it. To do this, use a pair of gloves and a saw and cut as you remove the old anode.

How do I know if my anode rod is bad?

A bad anode rod can cause discolored water , a rotten egg smell, air in the lines and intermittent hot water. The anode rod protects the tank of electric water heaters & signs it should be replaced are a rotten egg smell, no heat & strange sounds.

Can anode rod causing rotten egg smell?

The most common cause of smelly water is anaerobic bacteria that exist in some water and react with the magnesium and aluminum sacrificial anodes that come with most water heaters to produce hydrogen sulfide gas , making the classic rotten egg odor.

What happens if you don’t change your anode rod?

When the rod itself becomes so corroded that it can no longer do its job, the tank soon rusts out, leaks and needs replacement . 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.

How much does it cost to replace anode rod?

An anode rod costs about $50 . Some homeowners may feel comfortable replacing it themselves. If not, call a professional plumber, who can assist. The cost of having it replaced professionally may be around $250 or $300.

Do home water heaters have anode rods?

Most water heater tanks are steel with a thin glass lining to protect the metal from corrosion. ... (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.

When should anode rods be replaced?

Most water heater manufacturers will recommend inspecting the condition of the sacrificial anode every one (1) to three (3) years and replacing it when it has been consumed more than 50%. This is especially true if you have hard water or use a water softener.

How do I know what size anode rod to buy?

As a rule you want the anode to be “tip to toe” running the full height or length of the tank . If you cant see your brand on the chart then just measure the length of the tank and pick the closest length of anode. If the anode is too long they can be simply cut to length with a hack saw.

Is it too late to replace anode rod?

The downside is that if you wait too long to replace the anode rod, it may be too late . If more than five years has passed, it may be too late to save the water heater. Before changing the part, a plumbing professional can drain the water heater to gauge the extent of corrosion inside the tank.

Why does my hot water tank smell like rotten eggs?

The most common odor problem from water heaters is a rotten egg smell that comes out of your faucets and fixtures when running water. This smell is typically caused by sulfate bacteria that can develop within the tank . ... The soft water breaks down the magnesium and creates sulfate gas within the water heater.

Will a bad anode rod make water smell?

Problem #2: Corroded magnesium or aluminum anode rod

Many anode rods are made of magnesium or aluminum. When these rods corrode, the metals react with the sulfates in the water, turning the sulfate into stinky hydrogen sulfide.

Are anode rods universal?

Anode rods are not universal . Anode rods vary in length and material. Some anode rods are installed at the top of the water heater tank, while others are attached to the hot water outlet. ... However, the length and type of the anode rod may not be the same.

How much is an aluminum anode rod?