Do you want to learn how to replace anode rod in Rheem water heater? To replace the anode rod, first, prepare the tools that you will need to turn off the gas supply if you are using a gas water heater or turn off the power if using an electric water heater.
Once the water in the tank has cooled down, drain around two gallons of water. After locating the anode rod, remove the plastic cap covering it if there is one. Once the anode rod is exposed, you can lift it out and put in your new replacement anode rod.
Keep on reading to know the purpose and function of an anode rod and how to replace it in a Rheem water heater.
What Is An Anode Rod?
Before we talk about how to replace an anode rod, let us talk about its function. An anode rod is a vital part of a water heater placed in the middle of the water tank. It can be made of magnesium or aluminum with zinc and steel. With the help of the anode rod, electrons are released in the water tank, which prevents corrosion despite the heat, water, and metal being in the same place. Instead of the water tank corroding, the anode rod takes its place and corrodes.
Elements and minerals can slowly eat your water heater tank, corrode, and damage it without the anode rod. Be sure to replace the anode rod at least once every four years to ensure that your water heater lasts long and performs at its best. The types of anode rods include an aluminum anode, magnesium anode, zinc anode, impressed current rods, and combination anode. For the steps on replacing the anode rod in the Rheem water heater, read this article until the end.
Steps To Replace Anode Rod In Rheem Water Heater
Now that you know what an anode rod is and how it works. You are ready to learn how to replace the anode rod in your Rheem water heater. These steps apply to water heaters of other brands. Ensure that you read the owner’s manual of your water heater and have an overall idea of its structure. It doesn’t matter whether you have an electric water heater or a gas-powered one. The steps by step process on how to replace anode rod in Rheem water heater are elaborated below.
Step #1. Tool preparation
Before replacing your anode rod, it is wise to prepare the tools that you will need. The tools that you will need include a socket wrench, 1inch and 1/16-inch socket, Teflon tape, hose, hacksaw, and a 24-inch cheater bar. You also need your replacement anode rod ready. The specific tools you will need will depend on your situation, with your water heater model and brand. Having the proper tools on hand will make it easier to replace the anode rod without any problems.
Step #2. Draining the water tank
The next step is to turn off the power or gas supply depending on whether your water heater is electric or gas-powered. Allow the water to cool down a bit, and then drain two gallons of water from the water heater’s tank from the drain valve using a hose.
Make sure that you open a hot water faucet first to relieve pressure inside the water tank. After locating the anode rod, remove the plastic cap covering it and use the tools to remove the anode rod. Beware of hot water that might leak once you have successfully broken the seal. You may also be interested to know about common problems with water storage tanks.
Step #3. Anode rod replacement
After the anode rod is exposed, you can replace the anode rod. Gently pull the anode rod out, and as you do, you might see its deteriorated and corroded appearance. Its appearance will show that it has been working and doing its purpose.
Be careful because the anode rod might be hot. Wrap the threads at the top of the replacement anode rod with Teflon tape for a tighter seal. You can then proceed and open a hot water faucet and let the water tank fill up.
Close the hot water faucet after a minute and check if there are any water leaks on the newly replaced anode rod. If no leaks are seen, you can place the plastic cap (if there are) back on to cover the anode rod. After this, you can turn the power around or the gas supply. Continue to observe the anode rod area for leaks for another day or two. Do you know how to fix water heater leaks?
It’s A Wrap!
Congratulations on reading this article until the end. We hope you have learned a lot regarding the function of an anode rod in a water heater and how to replace anode rod in Rheem water heater. Be sure to replace the anode rod at least once every four years for a long-lasting water heater. If you are not confident with doing the anode rod replacement yourself, you are free to contact a professional to do it for you. Thank you for trusting the information we give. Your time and effort are very much appreciated.
Take care, and see you next time. You may also want to read about how to dispose of a water heater and how to test an electric water heater.