Magnesium anode rods are expected to work better in a home with soft water. Aluminum anodes are appropriate for homes with hard water and a high PH. Zinc anodes work best if a home is starting to smell like rotten eggs and is best for replacing water heaters that already dissolved.
What is best material for anode rod?
Magnesium is a leading anode material given its ability to best protect the steel tank. It “gives up” electrons more freely than aluminum. In some situations where water is more conductive, i.e. softened water or lower pH levels, this sacrificial process is accelerated; in those cases, aluminum is a better choice.
What is better zinc or magnesium anode rod?
Magnesium rods are excellent sacrificial rods, used to protect the inside metal surface of your water heater tank. ... Magnesium anode rods tend to be consumed quicker than Aluminum or Aluminum/Zinc/Tin anode rods due to the higher voltage they create during the sacrificial process.
How do you pick an anode rod?
Selecting your new anode rod should be based on your water’s condition and your budget. For example, to get rid of bacteria causing your water to smell foul, go with a zinc/aluminum or electric anode rod . For the most economical choice, magnesium is the way to go – but be ready to replace it again in a few short years.
Are all water heater anode rods the same?
All anode rods have essentially the same design , namely a steel core wire surrounded by a sacrificial metal. Different types of rods use different types of metals for different purposes and benefits: Magnesium: This is probably the most common type of anode rod.
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.
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.
How often should you replace your anode rod?
As a general rule, anode rods need to be replaced about every 4-5 years . However, this can vary depending on how much water flows through your gas water heater or electric water heater. Very large families, for example, may use a lot more hot water, and may need more frequent anode rod replacement intervals.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Why does my hot water smell like rotten eggs?
The reason your water probably smells like rotten eggs is because it contains some traces of hydrogen sulfide . ... In most cases this smell occurs due to a build-up of hydrogen sulfide in your hot water heater. If you haven’t used your hot water heater in quite some time, this could be the cause of your odor.
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.
