Can you leave anode rod out of water heater?
No reason to not replace the anode after draining. Prevents things like misplacing it, rusted bung in the tank, damage to the anode… I leave mine unscrewed, but in the hole to keep bugs and rodents out, for a couple of weeks to let the water in the bottom of the tank evaporate, then screw it in until needed.
How long will water heater last without anode rod?
8-12 years
Diminished Water Heater Lifespan: Without a sacrificial anode rod replacement, the average tank water heater will last a maximum of 8-12 years. However, your water heater may start failing as early as 5 years old without this essential care.
Do all electric water heaters have anode rods?
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. Tankless water heaters don’t have anode rods, but all standard tank-style water heaters do.
Can an anode rod touch bottom of tank?
Also, if you buy the “linked” anode rod, and it turns out to be too long, you can always cut one of the links off. The important thing is that the anode rod does not touch the bottom of your water heater. Shorter is better than longer, in other words.
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. The diameter of residential water heater anode rods is universal at 3/4 inches.
Is the anode rod on the hot or cold side?
The anode rod in your Bradford White water heater is located at the hot water outlet of your tank.
Can anode rods be cut?
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 long should a water heater anode rod be?
It is usually about 4 feet long. It is screwed into the top of a water heater and protects the water tank from the formation of rust. It does this through a process called electrolysis. The anode rod is designed to be submerged in water to attract rust and contaminants.
Can I use a longer anode rod?
If six years old or more, chances are most of the anode rod has corroded away (which is the point). And it should be able to slide out at an angle. Same for putting a new one in. Putting in a shorter one is fine, you’ll just need to change it slightly more often.
Are anode rods standard size?
All anode rods are made to fit in a ¾” NPT socket. Some replacement rods might only come in one length, but if it’s too long, you can cut some off. You won’t hurt it a bit. If you are working on a newer water heater or one that’s 20 years old, the procedure is no different.
Which anode rod is better aluminum or magnesium?
Longevity of Water Heater Tank
Aluminum anode rods may not have the high-level corrosive properties to keep up with the needs of your water heater, leading to faster corrosion and deterioration of the tank. Magnesium anode rods protect against corrosion better, extending the life of your hot water tank.
What size socket do I need for an anode rod?
1 1/16-inch
4 Use a ratchet wrench and 1 1/16-inch deep socket to unscrew the anode rod from the heater.
Should you use Teflon tape on anode rod?
Yes, teflon tape may reduce the effectiveness of the anode rode by electrically insulating the rod from the water heater chassis. The chances of it completely isolating it are nearly impossible though. Use pipe joint compound if you have it, and use teflon tape if you don’t.
What type of anode rod does AO Smith use?
One of the commonly used zinc-aluminum anode rods our technicians install is an A.O. Smith KA-90 Anode Rod (100108571). This type of anode has helped many of our well water based customers rid their homes of the smelly water (see image slider).
How often should you change the anode rod in a water heater?
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 you check an anode rod?
Open the spigot and drain a little water to relieve some pressure and heat inside the tank before opening the top for the anode rod. Next, go to the top of your water heater and look for a hex head bolt. If you don’t see the hex head, it’s likely built into your water heater system.
Can anode rod causing rotten egg smell?
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.
