Signs Your Water Heater Anode Rod Needs Replacement

The inside of a water heater is composed of several parts, with one of the most important being the anode rod. Also known as a sacrificial anode, this metal rod is responsible for preventing rust and corrosion inside the tank, making sure that your appliance lasts for a long time and maximizes its lifespan.

With time, however, the anode rod will naturally degrade and wear out from constantly attracting the corrosive elements in the water. This will simply warrant a replacement, but this task must not be overlooked. If the anode rod is not replaced in time, your unit may start to experience problems that could eventually lead to costly water heater repair in Simi Valley, CA.

Roberts Plumbing Hydro Jet & Rooter discusses when it’s time to replace the anode rod and maintain the health of your water heater.

Water Has a Metallic Smell or Taste

Are you noticing a strange smell or taste coming from your hot water? This unpleasant characteristic often results from corrosion inside the water heater tank, where the anode rod no longer effectively attracts rust-causing elements. Metals from the corroded anode can leach into the water supply, leading to poor water quality. No one wants to use or consume water that tastes or smells odd, so if you encounter this issue, immediately investigate to confirm if the anode rod has already become depleted. Letting the problem go unresolved for an extended period will eventually lead to further corrosion in the tank, eventually causing it to leak or fail.

During water heater installation, our technicians typically inform our clients of the expected lifespan of their anode rod. Depending on the type and quality of water supply you have, it may last anywhere from 3 to 5 years. It’s important to take note of this estimated timeframe and have your anode rod checked periodically.

Hot Water Appears Discolored

An aging anode rod will not only affect the smell and taste of hot water but may also cause it to have a rusty or brownish color. This discoloration is indicative of excessive corrosion within the tank, which compromises the integrity of the water heater. If the rod is failing, it can no longer prevent rust from forming on the interior surfaces, allowing iron and other metals to enter the water supply.

Residents may notice this issue particularly when first using hot water after it has been sitting for a while. This is because the sediment and rust particles have settled at the bottom of the tank, which then gets stirred up once the water starts flowing.

If only your hot water appears discolored while the cold remains clear, it’s best to turn off your water heater and call our experts immediately for a professional diagnosis. Continuing to use the unit in this state can accelerate corrosion and may even lead to a complete hot water heater replacement.

Unusual Noises Coming from the Water Heater

Popping, cracking, or hissing noises from your water heater are not normal and should be investigated immediately. These noises can indicate excessive sediment buildup in the tank, which can happen more rapidly when the anode rod is no longer functional.

As the sacrificial anode gradually deteriorates over time, more and more mineral deposits will fall to the bottom of the tank. When this sediment gets heated, it can create pockets of air that burst, leading to the noises you hear. If left unaddressed, the sediment layer can become so thick that it creates a barrier between the heating element and the water, making it less efficient and costing you more on energy bills. In severe cases, the sediment can also cause damage to the tank and lead to leaks.

What if you own a tankless water heater? While these units do not have anode rods, they are not immune to sediment buildup. Instead of an anode rod, tankless water heaters have heat exchangers that can accumulate scale, which can also cause unusual noises and reduce efficiency. Regular maintenance is essential for all types of water heaters.

Reach Out to Us Today

Roberts Plumbing Hydro Jet & Rooter is the local team you can turn to for reliable water heater services, including anode rod replacement. Our technicians have years of experience working with different types of water heaters and can handle any issue that may arise. Contact us today or fill out our online form to schedule your appointment.