Replacing the anode rod extends the water heater's life by protecting the tank from rust. The walkthrough covers the removal and the install.
The why
The anode rod corrodes instead of the tank, and a spent rod leaves the steel exposed. freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older buildings have aging supply and drain lines In Trenton, the rod wears faster in hard water.
The prep
Turn off the water and the gas or the power, and drain a few gallons from the tank. freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older buildings have aging supply and drain lines In Trenton, the drain lowers the water level.
The access
Remove the top access or the hex head of the anode rod. freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older buildings have aging supply and drain lines In Trenton, the rod sits at the top of the tank.
The removal
Break the rod loose with the wrench and thread it out of the tank. freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older buildings have aging supply and drain lines In Trenton, a stuck rod takes a cheater bar.
The install
Thread the new rod in, with the plumber's tape on the threads, and tighten it. freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older buildings have aging supply and drain lines In Trenton, the new rod protects the tank.
The test
Refill the tank and check the top for leaks. freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older buildings have aging supply and drain lines In Trenton, the leak check is the final step.
The call
Replace the rod and protect the tank. Call 888-217-3585 and Trenton Plumbing Helpers will match you with a Trenton pro for the job.
Plumbing in Trenton: what to know
In Trenton, freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older buildings have aging supply and drain lines. Pros in our network know the local quirks and bring the right parts on the first visit.
Across Mercer County — from Bristol, Princeton and Burlington to ZIP codes like 08608, 08609, 08629 — homeowners deal with the same kinds of issues. The tips above apply locally, and when a job goes beyond a quick fix, a vetted local pro is only a call away.
Need a hand in Trenton?
If a plumbing issue is beyond a quick fix, don't wait for it to get worse. Call 888-217-3585 and Trenton Plumbing Helpers will match you with a vetted local pro — usually within minutes. Learn more about plumbing help in Trenton.