How To Do A Hot Water System Anode Replacement In 6 Easy Steps
Are you one of the millions of Australians with a storage tank-based hot water system? Yes, tankless hot water systems don't have one, and tanks made of high-quality materials like stainless steel might not have one either. We're talking about your hot water system's anode rod - and why you should know all about checking on and replacing it.
Everything you need to know about hot water anodes
Without getting into the technical details, a hot water system anode is a rod made of special metal-based materials that are specifically designed to corrode inside your storage tank. Why would it be designed to do that? Because by directing the inevitable corrosion to the sacrificial rod, your tank will be much less likely to rust, corrode and decay from the inside.
Your local Gold Coast plumbers recommend you get your hot water heater anode checked once a year or so, and replaced about every 3 or 4 years (which is ideal to prolong the hot water system's lifespan). Remember, once that rod has attracted all the corrosion it can, the nasty minerals and contaminants in your water supply will start eating into your precious tank instead.
Are we getting you in the mood to check on and replace your hot water anode? First, let's run through what plumbing tools you'll need:
- A new water heater anode
- Wrenches and sockets (and a cheater bar)
- Screwdrivers
- Plumbing tape
- Garden hose
Got all of that? Now let's roll up our sleeves and learn how easy an anode replacement can be:
1. Power down
For electric systems, disconnect the power to your hot water system. If yours is powered by gas, you'll need to shut the gas supply off too. Next, close the cold water inlet valve, and then dash inside to switch on a hot water tap to relieve the tank pressure.
2. Partially drain the tank
Next up, connect the garden hose to the system's drain valve, and direct the other end into a drain or somewhere else that can handle a significant quantity of water. Remember to wait a little while before doing this so that the water isn't scorchingly hot. Now, drain approximately 10 litres of water from the tank.
3. Find the hot water system anode
The anode rod is positioned directly below the very top of your tank, secured by a visible cap. It should be quite straightforward to remove the cap and reveal the rod. Removing it will require you to use your socket set, and you may need to use the cheater bar to get enough force into it.
4. Remove the rod
It now shouldn't be too difficult to simply lift the hot water heater anode out. Be careful, because it may be hot, but what you're really looking for is evidence of serious corrosion. If it appears to be in rough shape, all chewed up and a state of obvious deterioration, don't worry - because your hot water anode has done exactly what it was designed to do.
If it looks brand new, though, put your new anode away for another day and power the system back up.
5. Replace the rod
However, if the water heater anode does need replacing, let's proceed with the job. Start by getting the replacement rod and applying some of that plumber's tape to the thread before securing it in place. Make sure it's nice and tight.
6. Check your work
Power the hot water system back up, restoring the water supply and allowing the tank to automatically re-fill. While it's doing that, check that your anode replacement isn't leaking at all.
Woohoo! You've successfully replaced your hot water system anode, providing protection for your investment for more years to come. Remember, though, to inspect the rod at least every year, because differences and fluctuations in water supply quality will affect how long the new one will last.
In Deep Plumbing can help with your hot water system anode
Are you having trouble inspecting and replacing hot water anodes, or are you worried about damaging your system or affecting the warranty? That's no sweat - because we can help with hot water repairs Gold Coast wide at In Deep Plumbing! We offer all hot water system checks, repairs, replacements and installations - and much more. Drop a line to the reliable team at In Deep Plumbing today.
