How to Replace a Water Heater Anode
- 1). Determine if the anode needs to be replaced. According to the experts at This Old House, the best way to do so is to remove the anode and check it for damage. A rotten-egg odor may also be present in the hot water if the anode needs to be replaced.
- 2). Measure the space above the water heater. The experts at Popular Mechanics say that many people install water heaters in places that allow only a few inches to spare above the top plate of the water heater. You can easily bend the worn out anode to remove it, but if there is not much space, the new anode will need to be a flexible model.
- 3). Disconnect the water heater from its power source and water intake pipe. The experts at Popular Mechanics recommend turning on a hot water faucet elsewhere in the home to relieve the pressure inside the tank.
- 4). Locate the water anode on the top of the water tank. Use the 1-1/16-in. socket and ratchet wrench to loosen the hex head that holds the anode in. The experts at Popular Mechanics say that if the anode is degraded enough to replace, you should be able to bend it easily as it comes out of the tank.
- 5). Wrap the threads of the new anode rod with Teflon tape. This should help create a tight seal and prevent leaks without interfering with the anode's function, according to the experts at This Old House.
- 6). Insert the new anode rod into the tank. Use the ratchet wrench to tighten the hex head.
- 7). Turn on the water and power supply. The experts at This Old House recommend watching the tank for leaks, especially around the anode port.
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