How to Change an Anode Rod
Extend the life of your water heater by changing the anode rod. The anode rod sits inside the water heater and protects it from corrosion. It does so by attracting certain elements inside the water so that the rod will corrode before the water heater does. Replacing the anode rod every four to five years will prevent your water heater from corroding. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Turn off the water and fuel supply to the water heater. Water heaters are either gas or electric. When in doubt, turn off both.
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2
Open the drain and allow several gallons of water to flow out. You do not need to drain the entire tank.
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3
Locate the anode rod. It is usually on top, sticking down into the heater. Take the top off of the tank if necessary to locate the anode rod.
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4
Unscrew the anode rod with a ratchet wrench and 11/16-inch socket. Lift it out of the water heater once it's unscrewed and throw it away.
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5
Take the new anode rod and wrap Teflon tape around the threads to prevent leaks.
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6
Place the new anode rod in the water heater and use the ratchet and 11/16-inch socket to tighten.
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7
Turn on the water supply to the water heater and inspect it for leaks. If there are none, turn the gas or electric back on to the tank.
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Tips & Warnings
Check the anode rod every couple of years to make sure it's not corroding.
References
- Photo Credit tools image by Greg Pickens from Fotolia.com
