February 21, 2017
The Anode Rod: How to Keep Your Water Heater Working for Longer
What’s worse than running out of hot water during your morning shower? Taking a shower in hot water that’s dark brown or rusty in color! Not only is it gross, but it has the potential to become drastically more problematic. However, there’s a good chance that the anode rod is your water heater’s secret weapon to fixing this problem.
Rusty, brown water can be a warning that your water heater is rusting from the inside out. An even bigger problem could be lurking right around the corner: the water heater could burst. There’s a simple way to save yourself a lot of anxiety and expense… and that’s replacing your anode rod.
How to keep your water heater working properly
The best way to give your water heater a longer life is to stay proactive with water heater inspection.
Another great way to keep your water heater working properly is to replace the anode rod periodically.
What is an anode rod?
Anode rods are thin metal rods that screw into the top of your water heater to help protect the tank from rusting. Just like your furnace or air conditioner, your water heater needs regular maintenance and the anode rods may need periodic replacement.
What does an anode rod do?
There are many corrosive elements in water that cause rusting of the water heater’s internal glass liner. The anode rod was developed to take one for the team by attracting rusting chemicals to it rather than the heater’s lining.
How to tell if an anode rod needs replacement
- The average anode rod lasts between 3 to 5 years. If the rod is much older than this, it is probably in need of replacement.
- If the water is rust-colored, there are leaks in the tank, the water in your home has a metallic taste, or decreasing water temperatures, you probably need to replace the anode rod.
- Signs of corrosion on the anode rod? It needs to be replaced. There are ways to do this yourself, however, a variety of tools are required and a knowledge of water heaters is recommended. Applewood Plumbing can send a plumber your water to check this out in just a few short minutes!
Do you need help with water heater repair or replacement? Do you have questions about the anode rods? Get in touch with Applewood Plumbing today! We’re open from 6am to 10pm, 7 days a week… with no overtime charges! Our pros are ready to solve the problem as soon as you need us.