Post By Admin
March 4, 2025Did you know that your hot water system has a hidden component that prevents rust and corrosion? That’s right—your sacrificial anode rod takes the hit so your tank doesn’t!
But over time, this rod wears out and in the end, it puts your system at risk of serious damage.
Don’t worry though, a simple anode replacement will extend your water heater’s lifespan and keep it running efficiently.
While hot water services can handle the job quickly, it doesn’t hurt to try it yourself first! This post will be your best guide—so keep reading!
How Often Should Hot Water Anodes Be Replaced?
Ever wondered how long your water heater’s anode rod actually lasts? Well, the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all.
On average, you should check it every three to five years even though it might have 10-12 years of shelf life.
Just to be sure, take a look at your manufacturer’s manual. Different types of hot water systems have different recommendations, and if your area has hard or chlorinated water, the anode rod might wear out even faster.
How Do You Know When Your Anode Needs Replacing?
Here’s an easy way to know if you need to replace the sacrificial anode—read further! Here’s what to look for:
1. Your Hot Water Smells or Looks Off
If your water starts smelling like rotten eggs, that’s a red flag. The anode rod reacts with certain minerals in the water, and once it’s too corroded, bacterias grows inside the tank and it causes that nasty smell. You might also notice rusty or discoloured water, which means your tank itself is starting to corrode.
2. Your Hot Water Runs Out Faster Than Usual
If you find your hot water running out quickly, your anode rod might be fighting for its life.
A failing anode allows sediment to build up at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and making your heater work harder. Less heat retention = less hot water for you.
3. The Anode Rod Looks Heavily Corroded
The most accurate way to check? Take a look at the rod itself. If it’s worn down to less than half its original size or coated in thick calcium deposits, it’s time for a replacement.
4. Your Water Heater is Making Strange Noises
Hearing popping or banging sounds? That could be sediment buildup caused by an old anode rod. This buildup forces your system to work harder and can even cause overheating.
If you use gas, this is a common issue since how a gas hot water works involves a burner heating the water at the bottom of the tank, where sediment tends to settle.
6 Steps to Replace Sacrificial Anode in Your Hot Water System
Replacing your hot water anode is not as difficult as you might suspect, trust us! Here’s what you need to do:
1. Turn Off the Power and Water Supply
Safety first! If you have an electric heater, switch off the power at the circuit breaker. If it’s gas, turn the thermostat to the “pilot” setting. Then, close the cold-water supply valve to stop new water from entering the tank.
2. Drain Some Water from the Tank
You don’t need to drain the entire tank, just enough to bring the water level below the anode rod.
Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank, open the valve, and let a few gallons flow out. This prevents water from spilling everywhere when you remove the rod.
3. Locate and Remove the Old Anode Rod
Now, find the anode rod’s hex head—it’s usually on top of the tank. You might need a socket wrench with a long handle (or a breaker bar) to loosen it since it’s often pretty tight.
If it won’t budge, a bit of penetrating oil can help. Once loosened, carefully pull it out. If it’s corroded or worn down to less than half its original size, it’s definitely time for a hot water anode replacement.
4. Install the New Anode Rod
Take your new rod and lower it into the tank. If your ceiling is low and the rod won’t fit, consider a segmented anode that bends for easier installation. Tighten it firmly but avoid over-tightening—you don’t want to strip the threads.
5. Refill and Restore the Power
Close the drain valve and turn the cold-water supply back on. Let the tank fill completely, then open a nearby hot water tap to release trapped air. Once water flows steadily, restore power or relight the gas burner.
Congrats! You’ve just completed a water heater anode rod replacement like a pro.
6. Don’t Forget to Maintain
Regular checks go a long way in helping you maintain the hot water system and extend its lifespan. If your area has hard water, consider checking the anode every two to three years instead of waiting for signs of trouble.
Changing the anode in a water heater before it’s fully corroded is a great way to save you a few dollars.
FAQ about Hot Water Anode Replacement
How much does it cost to replace an anode?
The cost varies depending on the type of anode rod and whether you DIY or hire a professional. A standard anode rod costs between $15 to $30, while a professional replacement can cost $150 to $300, including labour.
What causes anode rod to fail?
Anode rods break down over time because they are designed to corrode instead of your water heater’s tank.
Pay attention to hard water, high chlorine levels, and frequent water usage that can speed up corrosion and cause the rod to fail faster.
Can I replace an anode rod myself?
Yes! Replacing an anode rod is a simple DIY project if you have basic tools like a wrench and a socket set.
Just follow safety steps—turn off power, drain some water, and swap the old rod for a new one. If the rod is stuck or your ceiling clearance is low, you might need professional help.
Conclusion
Swapping out your anode rod isn’t as hard as it sounds! With this easy-to-follow guide, you can handle anode replacement yourself and keep your hot water system in top shape.
But if you’d rather leave it to the pros, Neighbourhood Plumbing is always ready to help—anytime you need it. Call us and we’ll get the job done without issue!
About the Author
From unclogging the toughest drains to repairing leaking toilets, Ricky is a seasoned plumber who has brought his craftmanship to homes across Melbourne. He is passionate about sharing plumbing tips just as much as he is about fixing your plumbing issues. So, when your taps or pipes begin leaking, you know who to call.
