How To Remove Rust From Your Hot Water

Does your hot water have the smell or taste of rust? If so, chances are that your water heater is in need of a new anode rod. Chances are, that sounds like a challenging proposition, but the good news is that it is not near as hard as it sounds.

Replacing your hot water heater is an easy and affordable job easy for any licensed plumber. However, if you want to DIY the job, this is also possible, and here is how.

What Is an Anode Rod?

An anode rod is a positively charged electrode through which electrons exit. In the case of your water heater, this rod serves to attract undesirable particles that can corrode the inside of your tank. This positively charged electrode draws these corrosive particles in keeping them away from your tank, but in the act, it sacrifices itself.

This means that your anode rod will need to be replaced regularly as it corrodes. Most manufacturers recommend that the anode rod be inspected and replaced roughly every one to three years. It should be replaced whenever more than 50% of the rods have been consumed.

Steps To Replace an Anode Rod

Your water heater’s anode rod will be located within its tank. This means that it will be necessary to access the interior of your tank. Depending on the exact model of the water heater, you will need to either partially or fully drain the tank of water, so ensure you familiarize yourself with how to drain the tank on your model before starting and then follow these steps.

  1. Shut off the power to your water heater. For gas systems, turn the dial on the term out to the off position, and for electric models, turn the circuit breaker for the water heater to the OFF position.
  2. Determine the location of the anode rod. The exact location of the anode rod will depend on the model, but in most cases, it will be located on the top of the unit underneath a plastic cap. In some cases, this will be disguised by insulating material.
  3. Drain the tank. The tank will need to be at least partially drained, and the exact procedure will vary. But, in most cases, you will want to turn the supply valve clockwise to close it and then attach a garden hose to the drain valve on the bottom of the tank and run it to a place where the water can drain without causing damage. Open the drain valve and then open up a hot water faucet elsewhere in the home in order to allow air to enter the tank. Be cautious because the water is likely to be scalding hot.
  4. Remove the anode rod. This will generally require an 11/16-inch socket wrench, and you will need to handle the rod with caution because it may be extremely hot.
  5. Install the new anode rod. Now install the replacement anode rod by wrapping the threads with Teflon tape and tightening it down with an 11/16-inch socket wrench.
  6. Turn the water heater back on. Now you can restore the water supply and power to the system and ensure everything is in working order.

Final Thoughts

Your water heater’s Andre rod is a crucial part of preventing corrosion and the rust, taste, and odor associated with it. Though calling a licensed plumber is generally the best option, particularly if you are not comfortable working with plumbing, you can DIY it by following the steps above.

Contact Us

For help with anode rod replacement or any plumbing issue, contact J Griffin Heating & Plumbing. With more than 30 years of experience with heating and plumbing services, we are ready to help with all of your plumbing needs.Call us at 781-520-1212 and connect with us on Facebook.