Sunny Windows, Shady Trees and Other Non-Electrical Supports to HVAC

Anode rods are used as a sacrificial metal in your hot water tank. The rod attracts the impurities and minerals that can rust the metal in the liner and base of the hot water tank. When the anode rod breaks down because of the minerals and impurities, the inside of the tank will start to rust - especially the bottom of the tank. In time, the tank will start to leak and you'll need to replace it with a new one. The anode rod should be checked about once a year in old hot water tanks and replaced if necessary. This is something the average homeowner can do in a few minutes. Here is how you can check the anode rod in your hot water tank and replace it if necessary.

Turn off Utilities

The first thing you should do is turn off the electric, gas, and cold water going to the tank (an electric hot water tank won't have gas going to it).

Relieve Pressure

Go to a hot faucet in the house and open it up. This will relieve the pressure in the tank.

Drain Tank

Connect a regular garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. Set the other end of the hose by a floor drain and open the valve. Let about 2-3 gallons of water drain out of the tank. Shut off the valve and disconnect the garden hose.

Remove Anode Rod

The anode rod is under a round plastic or rubber cap at the top of the tank. Remove the cap by prying it up with a flat head screwdriver. . There might be insulation under the cap. Remove the insulation by breaking it up with the flat head screwdriver and remove it. On older hot water tank models, the head of the rod may stick out of the top of the tank

The head of the anode rod will be exposed once you remove the insulation. Insert a 1 1/16" socket connected to a ratchet over the head of the rod and turn the head counter clockwise. You might need to put a pipe or a cheater bar on the ratchet to give you enough leverage to loosen the head. Lift the anode rod straight up out of the tank. Be careful as the rod will still be hot from the heat of the water. If it's pitted and worn, or if there is only a little bit left, you need to replace it.

Insert New Rod

Wrap plumber tape on the threads on the anode rod. Apply the tape in a clockwise motion. Insert the rod into the tank and tighten it with the socket and ratchet.  Turn on the cold water and the utilities. If you have a gas hot water tank, you may have top re-light the pilot light. For more information about water heater repair, contact a professional contractor in your area.