Forum Discussion

Lemonhead78's avatar
Lemonhead78
Explorer
Mar 01, 2018

Suburban hot water heater threads

My water heater has only been used for one season. The anode rod was pretty bad so I ordered the replacement. I noticed the threads in the tank were nasty looking. And when I put the new rod in , it didn't want to go that far. I hope I didn't damage the threads. I can't test it for leaks for another month because it's winterized right now and the suspense is killing me. So in the meantime I've seen 2 separate articles saying I should buy a 3/4inch npt thread chaser ( different from a thread tap ) . This will clean the threads out ( as long as I didn't damage them ) . The thing is I'm pretty sure this size chaser Dosent exist. I searched amazon, checked Home Depot and even a plumbing supply store. Can anyone give me any advice on this . It would be greatly appreciated.

The reason I may have damaged threads is because the weight of the anode rod made it really awkward pitting the plug in correctly. I'm hopeing threads weren't damaged and it got tight from the build up on the threads not from crossing.
  • BFL13's avatar
    BFL13
    Explorer II
    Mar 01, 2018
    I have read here at times that you should not use tape because the anode needs to be touching the metal. I don't know if that is true.

    On mine, when I used tape before, the metal threads cut the tape so there was some contact. I don't know if that was what kept it working.

    Anybody know the truth about that? Thanks.
  • sch911's avatar
    sch911
    Explorer
    Mar 01, 2018
    It's a tapered pipe thread which makes it easy to connect. You do need to use Teflon tape on the threads too when installing the new part. Tighten until snug, it will not bottom out since the threads are tapered.
  • jkwilson's avatar
    jkwilson
    Explorer III
    Mar 01, 2018
    I'd just go with a tap. Just be aware that pipe threads are tapered so you have to stop when the tap reaches the end of the threads or you will start damaging the outer threads.

    But I wouldn't do anything until you can test to see if it works as is. NPT is designed to seal well.
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Mar 01, 2018
    Yes, those anode rods can be tough to line up. It does help to clean up the threads. I use a wire brush in my drill to clean threads, before reinstalling anode. Using pipe thread sealing tape helps to seal, and keep the threads cleaner, easier to remove the next time. The anode does not turn in very far, and does not need to be super tight.

    Jerry

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