Is it Time to Replace Your Water Heater’s Anode Rod?
Your home’s water heater gets a lot of use. Over time, this use can take its toll on a water heater. The various components inside your water heater can begin to fail, creating all kinds of problems. A corroded anode rod is one of the most common causes of water heater issues.
What is an Anode Rod?
Home water heaters have many components. In addition to the healing element and storage tank, one of the most important components of a water heater is the anode rod. The anode rod is crucial in preventing corrosion to your water heater’s storage tank.
An anode rod is a metal rod made from aluminum, magnesium, or a combination of metals. Its main purpose is to attract corrosive elements in the water. By attracting these corrosive elements, the anode rod protects the storage tank from rust and other corrosion-related damage.
The anode rod is installed inside the water heater, usually near the top. As water flows through the tank, the anode rod attracts and absorbs corrosive materials, preventing them from reaching the water heater’s steel storage tank. The anode rod sacrifices itself to protect the integrity of the storage tank.
How Often Should You Replace Your Water Heater’s Anode Rod?
Over time, the anode rod corrodes and degrades, becoming less effective at protecting the storage tank. For instance, sediments in the water can settle around the anode rod, impairing its function. As the anode rod deteriorates, it can leave your water heater’s storage tank vulnerable to rust and corrosion.
Regular inspection and replacement of the anode rod are essential to ensure the longevity and efficiency of a water heater. Without regular maintenance, an anode rod can become corroded and fused to the tank, making it more challenging to replace it.
How often should you replace your water heater’s anode rod? The frequency of replacement depends on many factors, including water hardness, tank size, and usage patterns. Here are some signs that your anode rod may need replacement:
- Not getting enough hot water to keep up with demand
- Hot water that isn’t the right temperature
- Strange noises coming from your water heater
- Foul-smelling hot water
- Hot water that is rusty or discolored
If you’ve been experiencing any of the problems, call the water heater specialists at 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration. We provide complete water heater repair and maintenance services in Vista, CA, and surrounding communities. Regularly replacing your anode rod can greatly extend the useful life of your water heater.
The First Choice for Water heater Repair and Maintenance in Vista, CA
1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration has been offering reliable, affordable plumbing services to home and business owners in Vista, CA, since 2012. Our team of licensed Vista plumbers possesses the experience and expertise to tackle just about any plumbing problem, including replacing a corroded anode rod. If it’s time for a new water heater, we can remove your old one and install a replacement.
You can schedule a visit from a Vista plumber using our website or by calling us at 866-437-0205. Experiencing a water heater-related plumbing emergency in Vista, CA? We’re available 24/7 whenever you need us.
