Replace water heater anode rod

Why It Matters

The anode sacrificially corrodes to protect the tank. Once consumed, the tank itself starts rusting through. A new rod is far cheaper than a new heater.

Tools

• Socket wrench with 1-1/16" socket
• Garden hose
• Bucket

Materials

• Replacement anode rod (aluminum, magnesium, or powered)
• Thread seal tape

How to Do It

1. Shut off power to an electric heater at the breaker, or turn gas to the pilot position; close the cold water supply valve.
2. Connect a garden hose to the drain valve and drain a few gallons into a bucket or floor drain to lower the water level.
3. Locate the anode rod port on top of the tank; on some models it sits under a plastic cap or behind a sheet-metal panel.
4. Fit a 1-1/16" socket onto the hex head and unscrew the anode rod from the port.
5. Wrap the threads of the new rod with thread seal tape, hand-tighten it into the port, then snug it with the socket wrench.
6. Close the drain valve, reopen the cold water supply, and let the tank fill completely before restoring power or gas.

Related Tasks

• Clean tankless water heater inlet filter Once a year
• Flush and descale tankless water heater Once a year
• Flush water heater Once a year
• Lift and release water heater pressure relief valve Once a year