How to Change an Anode Rod in a Water Heater
A water heater uses an anode rod to help protect the inside of the tank from rust and corrosion. The anode rod is also known as a sacrificial rod because it attracts the deteriorating particles onto itself. One way to extend the life of a water heater is to replace the rod. Changing an anode rod in a water heater is necessary when the rod is covered in sediment or the core has become exposed. Check the anode rod once every three years. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Socket wrench with a 1 1/16-inch socket
- Helper
- Plumber's tape
- Phillips screwdriver
Instructions
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1
Turn off the power to the water heater. Turn the circuit breaker off for electric water heaters. Turn the gas valve to the "Off" position on gas water heaters. Turn off the cold water supply to the heater. Turn on a hot water faucet nearest to the water heater. Allow the water to run for five minutes. This will drain some of the water from the tank. Turn off the hot water faucet.
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2
Find the hex nut that is flush on top of the water heater. This is the anode rod. Some water heaters have a thin metal cap covering the top of the water heater. Remove the screws securing the cap to the water heater with a Phillips screwdriver. Lift the cap up to find the anode rod hex nut.
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3
Place a socket wrench with a 1 1/16-inch socket onto the anode rod hex nut. Ask a friend to hold the water heater steady as you loosen the hex nut. Turn the hex nut counterclockwise to loosen it from the tank. If necessary, use a breaker bar over the socket wrench handle for extra leverage.
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Continue turning the hex nut counterclockwise until it is free from the water tank. Lift the anode rod out of the tank by the hex nut.
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Wrap the threads of the new anode rod with plumber's tape. Insert the rod into the water tank and thread the hex end into the top of the tank until it is hand tight. Tighten the hex nut with the socket wrench.
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Turn on the cold water supply and turn on the circuit breaker. If you have a gas water heater, light the pilot according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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