Is it too late to replace an anode rod?

Author: Rigoberto Kunze I  |  Last update: Sunday, October 5, 2025

Your sacrificial anode may last longer, but if it's been more than 5 years since a human being even set eyes on it then you're long overdue for an inspection. That's because, in some cases in particularly mineral-rich water, the anode rod will last less than a single year – although 3-5 years of life is about average.

What happens if the anode rod is not replaced?

Anode rods require routine inspection and replacement, approximately every three to five years. Without proper maintenance, the anode rod loses its ability to divert damaging particulates from your tank and can accelerate rust and corrosion from chemical reactions, excessive heat, and imbalanced pH levels.

How much does a plumber charge to replace an anode rod?

An important part of your water heater, it moves cold replacement water to the bottom of the tank when you use hot water; otherwise, both will mix and reduce the water temperature. Anode Rod Replacement: While an anode rod costs between $20 and $50, a plumber can replace it for $50 to $150.

How do you know if an anode rod needs replacing?

Remove it from the tank and check its condition. A corroded anode rod may look pitted; in serious cases, sections of the rod may be missing altogether. If the anode rod is corroded, it's time for a replacement.

What is the life expectancy of an anode rod?

In any case, water heater anode rods are essential for protecting your tank from corrosion, but they eventually wear out after around 3-5 years, depending on many factors including the hardness or softness of your water.

How to Replace ANODE ROD on WATER HEATER: 2-Minute Tutorial Ep.11

Is it too late to replace anode rod?

Your sacrificial anode may last longer, but if it's been more than 5 years since a human being even set eyes on it then you're long overdue for an inspection. That's because, in some cases in particularly mineral-rich water, the anode rod will last less than a single year – although 3-5 years of life is about average.

Can you run a hot water heater without an anode rod?

They protect the tank by attracting corrosive elements, ensuring the integrity of the water heater's interior. Even in areas with soft water, the presence of oxygen and other natural elements can lead to corrosion, making the anode rod indispensable.

Can I replace an anode rod myself?

Most often, there will be a flexible connection from the hard plumbing to the anode's nipple. In this case, simply loosen the nut of the flex line attached to the nipple. You will then be able to remove this type of anode with a pipe wrench and replace the anode as described in the above instructions.

How often should I flush my water heater?

Most homeowners should flush their water heaters every 6 months or so, but if you have extremely hard water, you may want to do it more often. Flushing your hot water heater could be necessary as often as every few months depending on the mineral content of your local water supply.

How long does it take for an anode rod to deteriorate?

The rods can deteriorate in as little as 3 to 5 years, depending on many factors, including the hardness or softness of the water. Without a working anode rod, the water heater tank will be vulnerable to rust, corrosion, and other damaging effects of chemicals and minerals in the water supply.

Do you have to drain a water heater to replace an anode rod?

Step 3: Drain Water From the Tank

To make the old anode rod easier to remove, empty some of the water in the tank.

What happens to water heater when anode rod goes bad?

If your tank-style water heater can't maintain a steady supply of hot water, it might indicate the rod is bad. A deteriorating anode rod cannot manage the electrolysis process in the tank effectively, causing uneven heating of the cold water entering the tank.

Do water heaters have 2 anode rods?

All water heaters have a minimum of one anode rod. Some water heaters have longer warranties because they have two anode rods. If there are two anode rods, that is because one is attached to a hex head at the top and the other is a combination anode attached to the hot water outlet.

Can I use an impact wrench to remove an anode rod?

The Impact Wrench: An Effective Tool for Anode Rod Removal

This tool stores energy in a rotating assembly. Then releases it to the output shaft, enabling it to remove even the most stubborn anode rods.

Why must the electrode anode be continually replaced?

The oxygen reacts with the carbon in the electrodes, forming carbon dioxide which bubbles off. Carbon is therefore lost from the positive electrodes, so they must be replaced frequently.

Will a bad anode rod make water smell?

While sacrificial anode rods are critical to the health of your water heater tank, they can sometimes create issues with smelly water. For example, a corroded aluminum or magnesium sacrificial anode rod is a common cause behind water having a rotten-egg smell.

Should I flush a 15 year old water heater?

If neither you nor a professional have flushed your water within the last five years, Water Heaters Now recommends not flushing it yourself.

Is it better to flush or drain your water heater?

It is recommended that you flush your water heater at least once per year. Doing so will help to prevent the potential problems that sediment can bring over time. Typically, it takes one to two hours to flush a water heater. The size of your tank will impact the amount of time it takes to drain.

How much does a water heater tune up cost?

Flushing and cleaning the tank is a common service that can cost $75 to $250, while flushing/descaling a tankless water heater can run up to $300. But a tune-up, which can also prevent major repairs, goes from $100 to $500.

How do I know when my anode rod needs replacing?

Water Quality Issues: If you notice rust-colored water or sediment particles in your taps, you may have a depleted anode rod and corroded tank. Age of the Water Heater: If your water heater reaches the 10-year mark or beyond, consider replacing the anode rod, even if no apparent signs of corrosion are present.

Which is better, magnesium or aluminum anode rod?

Magnesium rods offer better protection and water quality, while aluminum rods are more durable and ideal for hard water. Powered anode rods are the very best option for those seeking a long-term, low-maintenance solution.

How to know if an anode rod is bad?

Top 3 Signs of Anode Rod Failure
  1. Rusty or Disintegrating Anode Rod. Regular inspection of the anode rod is crucial to identifying signs of failure. ...
  2. Foul Smell or Discolored Water. Another sign of anode rod failure is foul-smelling water or discolored water, often appearing brownish or rusty. ...
  3. Noisy Water Heater.

What happens if you don't replace anode rod?

Over time, the metal in the anode rod will corrode away itself, leaving only a protective coating around the metal walls and bottom of your hot water tank.

Should I use zinc or aluminum anode rod in a water heater?

Aluminum and aluminum/zinc anode rods are used in similar ways as magnesium sacrificial rods. However, aluminum rods are the better choice for a water heater that heats up sulfate-tinged water. Sacrificial anodes change sulfates into hydrogen sulfides.

Does a tankless water heater have an anode rod?

Tankless water heaters don't have anode rods, but all standard tank-style water heaters do. Read on to learn how to troubleshoot anode rod issues and replace bad anode rods, if needed. If you need help now with a water heater issue, call your local Mr.

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