Replacing Anode Rod In Hot Water Heater

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

Replacing anode rod in hot water heater.

In most cases the hexagonal head of the rod is visible on the top of the water heater. 3 locate the anode rod on the water heater. Before performing any work on a water heater you should always turn off the. 5 if the anode rod won t budge slip a steel pipe onto ratchet wrench handle for extra leverage.

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. Rods are made from magnesium aluminum or aluminum zinc alloy. Step 3 drain some water.

Step 2 locate the anode rod. In some cases it may be. Aluminum replacement rods are sold at home centers. 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 to replace an anode rod 6 steps step 1 shut off the power and water. The anode rod will be located on the top side of the unit.