water heater anode rod
How often should I replace the water heater anode rod and are they pretty much all the same when it comes to purchasing one? Thanks
Forum Discussion
As luck would have it I had to have my small 6 gallon water heater, used to support the kitchen of my log cabin, replaced as the top rusted out. Here are some things I observed. One, is it lasted about 10 years with zero maintenance, never replaced the anode rod, never drained it. Never liked crawling under the house. When my friend the plumber removed the old unit, we drained it in the yard. Lots and lots of broken sludge, bits and pieces of metal, just basically a disgusting mess. After replacing this small one, we drained the main wh (40 g) for the house and it had some sludge but nothing like what the little one had. It too has had no maintenance until just now, but it’s still going.
Upon reading the manual for the new unit, I read that the anode rode is important to prevent the tank from rusting, and should be inspected every three years or so. In the same section the manual states that artificially soften water INCREASES the need for the anode rod due to the softening process.
So I guess I’m adding change the rod in more than just mh.
On another topic, I asked him about the relief valve/closed systems/ drip issue that many of us have with Suburban who’s. His first response was that I should put a small expansion tank on it. So he is going to get one and install it. BTW he mentioned that it is now code for new construction (at least here) that wh’s have an expansion tank.
Informative yet expensive morning
Upon reading the manual for the new unit, I read that the anode rode is important to prevent the tank from rusting, and should be inspected every three years or so. In the same section the manual states that artificially soften water INCREASES the need for the anode rod due to the softening process.
So I guess I’m adding change the rod in more than just mh.
On another topic, I asked him about the relief valve/closed systems/ drip issue that many of us have with Suburban who’s. His first response was that I should put a small expansion tank on it. So he is going to get one and install it. BTW he mentioned that it is now code for new construction (at least here) that wh’s have an expansion tank.
Informative yet expensive morning
