Thanks. If you see water around your water heater, contact a professional plumber ASAP. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. In this case, simply reinstall the existing anode rod. With proper maintenance, a quality water heater typically lasts about 15 to 20 years, but if the water heater anode rod is not regularly inspected and replaced, the tank might rust out before it reaches 10 years of service. An anode rod is a not-so-well-known tool that plays a very critical function for your water heater. Getting rid of sulfur-scented water from your well can be tricky, but can also help prevent other common plumbing problems. Number 10 One obvious sign of a problem with your water heater is simple you see a leak, cracks, and corrosion. I'm having a very similar problem. His years of experience and wealth of knowledge. and I was very satisfied with it. A zinc anode rod is an aluminum anode rod containing one part zinc and 10 parts aluminum. If you live out in the country or in rural areas then you probably use well water as your primary water source. Number 5 Your water heater is more than 5 years old. Many factors can contribute to bad odors in a water tank. However, removing the magnesium anode rod, in theory, removes the source of the smelly water problem. Remove the anode rod: Use a 1-1/16-inch socket and cheater bar to remove the anode rod. To be more specific, your hot water smells like rotten eggs. If you have a gate valve, turn the . seven hours away and at a disadvantage in not being able to be on site and look closely ourselves. But so many people do it incorrectly, we thought wed review the right way to use it. Anode replaced, but hot water still smells. If youre not inclined to invest in the powered anode rod, I would much rather replace a zinc anode rod every 1-3 years to protect the integrity of the water heater and my investment. If you are handy and are the type of person who will actively check and perform needed maintenance on your water heater, then the zinc anode rod is the best option. I was having issues with a rotten egg smell in my hot water and replaced the anode rod. Join my 9,000+ member Facebook group for homeowners and inspectors. We would recommend him highly and without reservation to any prospective home purchaser. Powered anode rods are the best option for controlling smelly water. The first option is to replace the water heaters anode rod. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice or consultation. After draining and refilling the heater twice, I still have hot water that smells like sulfur. He had very detailed reports which outlined what the house needed. Gary gives Attention To Detail, what we in the military call ATD. We have a detailed DIY guide to water heater maintenance in our article Water Heater Maintenance Tips to 2X Your Tanks Lifespan. I am on a well system. We really liked the house and were anxious to close, however Gary's eagle eye pointed out several significant issues that gave us pause. If this is whats going on in your situation, the quickest and most convenient way to address this problem is to have a plumber come to your home, as you may need to have your anode rod replaced and your water heater flushed. You might want to clean the entire bathroom to remove any lingering odors. #1 I was having issues with a rotten egg smell in my hot water and replaced the anode rod. Adjusting an electric water heater is more complicated. Sometimes, a simple drain and rinse can remove odors. When you have hydrogen sulfide in your water heater, it will cause your homes water to have a rotten egg smell that youll likely want to get rid of as fast as possible. Todays hot water heaters generally provide years of trouble-free service as long as you conduct regular water heater maintenance. There are a few different reasons why your water smells like rotten eggs and depending on the cause, the water may or may not be safe to use, and you may or may not be able to fix this problem yourself. Conducting this test and determining which desulfurization method to use is beyond the scope of this article, but you can use this excellent guide on treating sulfur odors in well water if you need additional information. Here are the steps involved: While replacing your anode rod may fix your problem in the long run, you still have to do something about the smelly water sitting in your water heater and any leftover bacteria clinging to the sides. States like California, Massachusetts, and Texas restrict the use of saltwater softeners because they damage the environment. Afterward, clean out your water heater. By switching to a rod that doesnt produce hydrogen sulfide, youll prevent bad-smelling water, even when the sacrificial anode rod is corroded and close to needing a full replacement. Bad-smelling water from the water heater is typically caused by a magnesium or aluminum anode rod. Gary is so professional and thorough. A powered anode protects like magnesium or better, and it does not facilitate H2S production. But, as you can see, this is a project any homeowner can take on with relative ease and little plumbing knowledge. We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Sediment will prevent your water heater from doing its job making hot water. Test the tanks water content to see if you have hard or soft water, and check the pH level to determine if it will be best to install an aluminum or magnesium anode rod. Keep the faucet open until all the air is expelled from the water tank. I know, it sounds difficult, right? As the tank fills, remove air from the supply lines by opening the hot water tap at the sink. Super easy to set up appointment. The solution is to use one made with a different metal, or condition your water to enable the 'standard' one to work without problems. He is professional and easy to work with. After locating the anode rod, use a pipe wrench or a socket wrench to loosen the anode rod. Gary did a very thorough and professional inspection. You dont want to wait until the tank bursts to seek professional help! We're currently experience problems with our call center phone lines. In this case, you can usually solve the problem yourself using our tips. Check the water heater for any leaks, then turn the power back on for an electric water heater or set the gas control back to the original temperature on a gas water heater. There is a chance of harmful contamination in the water, so its better to be safe. The longer you wait to get your water heater cleaned, the more sediment could be sitting at the bottom of your tank. Once I installed the rod, the smell went away for a while but not it's back even stronger. Number 6 Your faucet aerators appear to clog more frequently, or you notice a slimy gel substance when cleaning the faucet aerator. Tankless units require flushing every few years to remove buildup on the burners. If you notice banging noises, tinted hot water, poor water temperatures, leaks, or smells that wont disappear, it might be time to replace the water heater. Of course, there are a few minor but important details in between. I recently replaced my anode rod about three weeks or so. Once the anode rod is loosened, remove it from the tank. Ultimately, which option is best depends on you. By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine Remove the old anode rod Photo 1: Remove the old water heater anode rod Pumps and Tanks Well Forum & Blog. 1. Removing the rod altogether is that your water heater elements will fail quicker. Sulfur in water is most often found in well water, as opposed to city or municipal water. A water quality specialist suggested that he remove the sacrificial anode. For more detailed instructions on how to relight the pilot light, follow the manufacturers directions on the water heater or in the operation manual. If that doesnt work, replace the anode rod. You can usually tell if an anode rod is bad by looking at it. Install the new anode rod. However, because youll need to drain all of the water out of your water heater, you will need to add a hose to your arsenal. Its job is to attract corrosive elements in your water. The water then enters your well water system, carrying the sulfur. Heres how: Before opening the drain valve, ensure nobody is around, as the water will be very hot. Since the elements are not lined, the elements will fail before the water heater tank does. Raise the anode rod as far as possible with the socket wrench, then unscrew the last few inches by hand. personality and how quickly he was able to inspect my new home. When you run the faucet for a few minutes and the odor goes away, the source is likely in the overall plumbing system not the water tank. Tankless hot water heater maintenance is different from tank water heater maintenance. Explanation of how to remove and replace the original magnesium anode rod from your water heater. However, if you find that the rod is still too thick to remove, then there likely is enough of the anode material left that the rod does not need replacing just yet. Fit the socket wrench over the anode plug and apply strong, even pressure to turn the ratchet counterclockwise. Number 4 When heating water, the water heater makes loud or multiple popping or crackling noises. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Keep in mind that you may need to completely replace your water heater even after installing a new water treatment system because the rotten egg smell might linger in your old heater. After the liquid exits the septic tank, pollutants and other impurities must be, Youd think knowing how to use plumbers tape (also called Teflon tape) is easy. The problem I'm having is primilary with my upstairs, which I never go or use (teenager does). Refill the tank. To replace the water heater anode rod, you only need to drain about a gallon of water, but this is a good opportunity to flush the water heater tank. When it rains, the groundwater that accumulates dissolves the sulfide ores and other sulfur minerals. If there is sulfur bacteria in your water which then comes in contact with the corroded magnesium anode rod, it will react and create hydrogen sulfide. You might want a rag nearby to clean up water seepage. Find out more about sacrificial anode rods and why they might be causing your water to smell bad. Instead of using an anode rod made out of one of these materials, you can prevent the bad smell from returning by having a plumber install a new zinc or aluminum-zinc alloy anode rod. Hit the jackpot with Gary: A WEALTH Of KNOWLEDGE, Very Professional, Kind, Lot's Of Patients, Dependable as well as a, hard worker.. Thanks for the link! Heres my A-Z appliance age look-up site! Apply only a single width of pipe tape to the threaded upper end of the new rod. Required fields are marked *. Removing the Anode Plug. What is a Powered Anode Rod? I'm a licensed Home Inspector, Certified Professional Inspector (CPI), Certified Master Inspector (CMI), and FHA 203k Consultant. They use electric pulses to kill bacteria and remove corrosive minerals. Also, most water heaters have one rod, but some do have two. I. would highly recommend his service. sanitizing can have a very good effect. Find the faucet closest to the water heater in the home and open its hot water valve. Keep in mind that the hose will drain hot water, so be careful of where it empties and when handling the hose itself. Low water pressure and dirt sediment after well chlorination. The smell could be caused by hydrogen sulfide coming in with your water source (before it hits your plumbing). Its purpose is to attract iron, limestone, and other minerals in the water that would otherwise rust the inside of the water heaters steel tank. Check the water heater manufacturers website for instructions on reading the serial number. After turning off the flow of water into the heater, connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. and EXPLAIN everything to me; which was invaluable because now I know how to go back to check if needed repairs were done and done correctly. Some can react with your incoming water and produce some smells. Is it possible I just need to replace the whole heater? . https://terrylove.com/forums/index.izing-extra-attention-to-4-inch-casing.65845/, https://culligan.com/home/solution-o-treat-sulfur-water-and-reduce-the-rotten-eg. Let me explain. The substance causing almost all bad smells in water is caused by hydrogen sulfide. Plumbing Forum, Professional & DIY Advice. If you'd like to support the site, please allow ads. Keep in mind that if the smell only occurs when you turn on the hot water, its likely an issue within the tank and not the water source. First, you need to find the cause of the smell. If your water heater still has a smell to it, youll need to contact a professional. If the odor persists, consider replacing the anode rod in your water tank every four years to reduce rust and bacteria buildup. Replacing the anode rod in a water heater before it fails can slow down corrosion inside the tank and significantly extend the life of the water heater, sometimes even doubling it. He was very competent and personable! We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Lift the rod straight up and out of the tank. Step 5: Install replacement. We are very satisfied with Garys job. Consider the hardness of your water to determine whether magnesium or aluminum is the best option for your electric or gas water heater anode rod replacement. Powered anode rods cost more than traditional anode rods. Im not a fan of purchasing something as expensive as a water heater (a 50-gallon water heater averages about $600) with the inclination that itll end up in a landfill in 6 years. allows him to perform a complete inspection. However, I invite you to read the hundreds of 5-star reviews on Amazon for the Corro-Protec Powered Anode Rod for Water Heater from people like you who had problems with smelly water. Typically, sacrificial anode rods last around two to four years before breaking down and losing their protective abilities. Before you can effectively deal with a hydrogen sulfide problem, you need to understand where each of the components that make up the smell comes from. Our immediate-response team is available every day and night of the year, even on holidays. Eventually, it becomes your water heater and reacts with the bacteria and metals, creating the signature rotten eggs smell. decision on the purchase of our new home. Just a little effort on your part, however, can extend its life even further and cut down on energy costs and repairs while holding off replacement. Awesome guy!!! The anode rod in your water tank can reduce rust build-up, leaving you with better-quality water. 6 comments Replacing a tank water heater is relatively easy and can be a do-it-yourself job if you are handy with tools and plumbing. It can help, but it is not as long-lasting. You cannot replace the anode rod with cold water still flowing to the tank. ), How to Find Pipes Behind Walls (Speed Up Your Remodeling Project!). Close the cold water supply valve and turn the gas control know to off (if its a gas heater). The smell could be caused by bacteria from food, soap, or other substances that linger in your drain pipes. This hydrogen sulfide gas is what gives off that rotten egg smell. 1. With the new rod n place, I had almost two weeks of smell free water, but now the rotten egg smell has returned stronger than ever. But if youre able to do it yourself, here are some basic instructions: If the water source is contaminated, contact the water supply authority or county health department. It came back and then I replaced the anoddes in the water heaters and then rebleached everything. Over time the rods get sacrificed for the healthy survival of the tank, and the result can lead to water with a foul odor. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice or consultation. No matter what you believe may be the root cause of your problem, the best way to troubleshoot the cause of a sulfurous smell is to contact a licensed specialist to inspect your plumbing. There are various methods for reducing water consumption in the laundry room. This speaks to Gary's thoroughness of every home inspection, regardless of its age. Number 8 Water is colder or not as hot as usual. The finish report speaks for itself, i recommend him & will definitely use this Company again.. GREAT JOB GARY Thank-You Much. If the smell persists, call a professional. However, if your water is very soft or has low pH levels, then magnesium will corrode much faster than an aluminum anode rod. Continuous potassium permanganate with filtration. You just need to purchase the correct anode rod (take a photo of your water heater label with make, model, and size) and head to your hardware store or plumbing supply center. Taking on this repair yourself instead of calling a plumber can save you between $150 and $250, and by regularly replacing the anode rod, you can extend how long your water heater lasts by up to nearly 10 years. Over time the rods get "sacrificed" for the healthy survival of the tank, and the result can lead to water with a foul odor. Replacing it with a zinc and aluminum anode rod bypasses this issue and stops the smell.Replacement Anode Rod purchased from Amazon: Aluminum / Zinc Flexible Anode Rod, Hex Plug, 42\" https://amzn.to/3I2ufRCEquipment: Rheem Prestige heat pump water heater, 80 gallon, PROPH80 T2 RH350 DCB, Econet. His report was very user friendly and detailed, and the photos and videos were very valuable. locate your cold water supply valve and turn off the shut off valve. They can accelerate anode rod corrosion. (If you want to read more about water heater odors, check this post out) Water Heater Odors If you notice rusty-looking water, corrosion could be the cause. Additionally, to prevent this rotten egg smell from happening again, you may want to opt for a new aluminum anode rod as opposed to another magnesium anode rod. If none of the above methods fix the smelly problem, even replacing the entire water tank, you must call a plumbing technician. How to tell if anode rod is bad. The magnesium anode rod is a sacrificial component, meant to succumb to rust and corrosion before your water heater does, thereby extending the life of your water heater. Once you have all the tools (and helpers) you need, follow these steps: Cleaning your water heater is something that should be done about every six months. The smell could come from inside the water heater due to a deteriorated anode rod. February 17, 2022 by Mark Soto. Typically, water heaters can last anywhere between six and 15 years, with 10 years being the average. What is an Anode Rod in a Hot Water Heater? 3. He is personable, and explained to me everything in great detail. Use plumbers tape or teflon tape to wrap the threads of the new anode rod, then slide the anode rod into the water heater. What a great experience. With the new rod n place, I had almost two weeks of smell free water, but now the rotten egg smell has returned stronger than ever. RELATED: How Much Does Water Heater Repair Cost? If you need an anode rod that doesnt make your water smell, A good choice is theAbout Fluid Aluminum Zinc Replacement Anode Rods for Water Heaters (Aluminum ZINC Complete KIT). I highly recommend his services. While replacing your anode rod and flushing out your water heater is an involved process, some homeowners may be willing to take the project on themselves. Consider replacing your water heater with a tankless water heater. When the water in the tank doesnt have a rod to send its minerals to, it will send them to the tank instead, leading to your water heater corroding. Its purpose is to minimize rusting to (A) prevent rust from getting into the water supply or (B) shorten the life of your water heater. Ultimately, I think the powered anode rod is the best option for removing smelly water from a water heater. Gary is a professional builder, not just a home inspector. Install a compressor tank aeration system. To have a H2S odor in the hot water you need three things present in the cold water entering the heater; SRB (sulfur reducing bacteria and in some cases iron reducing), some sulfates and a type of anode rod allowing the bacteria to get a hydrogen ion off it. New water heater anode rod removed question. Here are top tips for maintaining the tank so that it lasts for years and works a charm: We recommend not using the water if it smells like rotten eggs. Insert the new rod into the tank, screw it in as fast as possible by hand. How-to: Water Heater Anode Rod Replacement, expect to spend between $20 to $50 for their water heater anode rod replacement, A clear guide to the parts of a water heater, How to maintain and troubleshoot your water heater, 5 tips for preventing a leaking water heater disaster, How to relight your water heater pilot light, How to test your water heaters T&P valve. Because of this, contacting a specialist is always your best option. If any particular ad is your REASON for blocking ads, please let us know. While weve discussed how a water heater can produce a bad smell, there are a couple of other possibilities: To figure out the root source of the hydrogen sulfide, you can perform a relatively simple test. We might be able to do something about it. Youll want to replace this with a rod made out of a zinc anode rod. I made a great decision in choosing him as my home inspector! After removing the old anode rod, it is time to install the new anode rod. This will relieve pressure inside the tank, making it easier to drain the water. Open the cold water valve to fill the water heater tank. Magnesium Anode Rods Reacting With Sulfides in Water. A water heater sacrificial anode rod is a metal rod screwed into the top of the tank. I can smell it coming from all faucets now. New anode rod on 20 year old gas water heater. We really needed a helping hand as we were. Highly Recommended! However, most anode rods only cost about $20 to $50, so DIYers with even moderate plumbing. Since there is no anode rod to attack, the only thing left for the minerals in the water to attack is the tank itself and the heating elements. You may need to get a filtration system installed in your home. Be careful because the metal rod will be hot. The anode rod attracts the corrosive agents in the water heater to deteriorate itself, instead of the water heater. Here are the simple steps: Once you find the perfect setting on your unmarked dial, mark it with a Sharpie to remove the guesswork next time. This powered anode rod comes in 3 different sizes to fit your water heater size. Holding the glass, walk away from the faucet or water source. Tackle Grime and Dirt with Shower Floor Cleaning Tips, Efficient Techniques for Immaculate Bathroom Floors, Eradicate Bathroom Mold with These Simple Strategies, Banish Mold from Your Shower with These Simple Steps. Powered Anode Rod - Get Rid of Smelly Water Anthony Barnes July 28, 2018 Need to Hire a Plumber? Why is Your Water Heater Leaking From Overflow Pipe? Just like any trap in your home, it can get clogged and needs to be cleared. Cleaning your water heater begins with some of the same steps as replacing your anode rod and requires many of the same tools. After draining and refilling the heater twice, I still have hot water that smells like sulfur. Anode rods work by attracting corrosive particles found inside your water heater tank to protect the tank liner and reduce the risk of explosion. Powered Anode Rod Can Eliminate Smelly Hot Water, Competing Theories for Removing Smelly Water, Review Atmor ThermoPro Tankless Water Heater E03 || Review Atmor ThermoPro, water heater and reacts with the bacteria, Water Heater Maintenance Tips to 2X Your Tanks Lifespan, How to Change a Water Heater Anode Rod | This Old House (https://youtu.be/2IUNIUZz4Os), About Fluid Aluminum Zinc Replacement Anode Rods for Water Heaters (Aluminum ZINC Complete KIT), How To Get Rid of Rotten Egg Smell in Your Hot Water (https://youtu.be/l6U8fu0oidQ), Corro-Protec Powered Anode Rod for Water Heater, Corro-Protec Powered Anode Rod for Water Heater, 20-Year Warranty, Eliminates Rotten Egg/Sulfur Smell within 24 hours, Tankless water heaters can last about 20 years, Easy Maintenance Tips for Tankless Water Heaters w/Photos, What Size Tankless Water Heater Should You Buy: Sizing For Your Family Needs. Apache Ranch 15.9K subscribers Subscribe 14K views 3 years ago #smellywater, #rotteneggs, #sulfur, #DIY, #wellwater, #waterheater Fix Smelly Well Water Replace Anode Rod with Zinc to Remove. The anode rod, typically made of magnesium, reacts with minerals in the water supply creating the sulfur smell inside the water heater. The rod is an essential component for protecting the tank from galvanic corrosion anelectrochemicalprocess in which onemetalcorrodespreferentially when it is in electrical contact with another in the presence of anelectrolyte. How to Replace an Anode Rod. There are some disadvantages, though. You will regularly need to flush the water tank out and, in extreme cases of hard water, install a water softener. Use a zinc alloy anode rod to eliminate smelly hot water. Gary gave us a detailed report on his inspection. Where is the Vertical, Read More How to Find Pipes Behind Walls (Speed Up Your Remodeling Project! Although the rod had a dark scummy coating on it, it had not been reduced in length or thickness. Remember to replace the anode rod if you have one, and you should be good to go! detailed that it was easy for my husband and I to understand it that helped us enormously to make a good decision. Saltwater is very corrosive and will reduce the life of a zinc anode rod and the life of the water heater itself. Although the rod had a dark scummy coating on it, it had not been reduced in length or thickness. The sulfur comes from sulfates that are present in the soil. Once you decide on the right rod for your water heater, you can proceed with the replacement. Then, tighten it clockwise with the socket wrench. The smell disappeared for a couple weeks but is now back, albeit not as strong. Additionally, trying to get to the bottom of the problem can be an overwhelming, time-consuming task. A convenient way to use an inlet valve and easily put hydrogen peroxide into the tank every couple months. I would recommend him, Contacted Gary about doing my inspection which was in a rural area. and our To remove smells, sanitize the water tank with hydrogen peroxide or bleach, and drain and refill the tank multiple times until the odor is gone. Contact a plumber immediately before cracks and leaks start to develop. Also, because the smell can be caused by something harmful, try to avoid drinking your tap water until a professional has performed a diagnostic test and provided you with the results. It put my mind to rest about the purchase I was about to make. Magnesium rods work better than aluminum/zinc anode, but they generally dont last as long. Anaerobic bacteria and sulfur in your water supply could be reacting with the magnesium or aluminum in your water heaters sacrificial anode rod. He was very professional in his reporting and tried to lay out the facts as he saw them in plain english. 11 Ways to Make the Most of Your Towns Curbside Cleanup Day, 11 Ticking Time Bombs in Your Houseand How to Deal With Them, 10 Fun Ways to Turn Your Backyard into a Water Park, 17 Creative Ways to Reuse Cardboard Boxes, Redecorate Your Home forand withPennies, 7 Types of Homeowners Who Can Benefit from a Backyard Shed. If so, I recommend you you that. http://www.waterheaterrescue.com/paooting/stinky-water-in-hot-water-heaters.html, http://www.inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Hot_Water.htm. If this is the case is there a fix. Open the cold water supply valve and relight the pilot (see Related Resources below). About 2 months ago I replaced the stock anode rod in my electric water heater with a powered anode rod, because I was getting a sulfur smell coming out of the hot water faucets closest to the heater. Tankless Water Heater vs. You may want to first remove and replace the anode rod to see if that alleviates the problem. Do you have a tank-style water heater? This factory installed rod is usually made of magnesium. Bacteria in Water Hookups or Freshwater Tanks. Reddit, Inc. 2023. Instead, the anode rod gradually corrodes in place of the steel tank, extending the water heaters lifespan. Since there is no anode rod, heating elements, or steel tank to corrode, no hydrogen sulfide is produced to cause the sulfur smell in your hot water. Tankless water heaters can last about 20 years. However, most anode rods only cost about $20 to $50, so DIYers with even moderate plumbing experience can save money by performing their own water heater anode rod replacement. Get a free estimate online from top local home service pros in your area. Turning on your tap and having a foul-smelling odor is something no homeowner wants to experience. Is it possible I just need to replace the whole heater? Ask your plumber about non-sacrificial, electrical anode replacements as an alternative to sacrificial anodes and help reduce limescale. Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service. The odor it creates can be a sulfur-like, rotten egg smell. Hired him to inspect a home I'm looking at buying. After this it got better and now its abck again. Excellent Home Inspection! That will kill the bacteria that are causing the odor. Home Maintenance Tasks That Dont Require Tools. This combination of corroded metal and sulfites results in the creation of hydrogen sulfide. Close the cold water supply valve and turn the gas control know to off (if it's a gas heater). Get that magnesium anode rod out of there! Step 4: Remove rod. It also helps prevent the anode from rocketing out of the water heater when you try to loosen it. You may be wondering if the bad smell could be coming from your water heater. If odors persist, call a professional who may advise you to replace the entire water heater tank. We recommend hiring a professional to replace your water heater. To summarize, were showing you how to remove smells from water tanks if its just the hot water that smells. Unfortunately, it also voided the warranty on the water heater and shortened its life. The anode rod is exposed to air and water, which causes it to corrode over time. A corroded aluminum or magnesium anode rod can produce a rotten-egg smell, but zinc in the anode rod can help to reduce any sulfur smells in the water. Keep reading to learn how and also for more helpful information on cleaning a water heater and dealing with foul odors in well water. Instead of spending hours trying to determine the cause of these odors, or risking making common plumbing mistakes, contact ABC Home & Commercial Services. If you are performing regular maintenance on your water heater, start from the beginning. It is recommended that you wait at least a few hours after your water heater is set to such a high temperature to flush the water out so you do not burn yourself. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. )Continue, The first step in remodeling a plumbing system is learning how to find pipes behind walls. Dont hesitate tocontact us hereor call us at1-Tom-Plumber(1-866-758-6237) if you need help with a water heater anode rod replacement. The most common cause of bad smelling hot water is anaerobic bacteria present inside your water heater. We also handle theexcavationof underground water lines and sewer main lines. If your water only smells when you turn on the hot water, the problem is most likely going to be with your water heater. Have you recently noticed an unpleasant odor coming from your hot water? Follow these steps to increase the temperature on your water heater: Gas water heaters are easier to adjust than electric models. If your water smells like rotten eggs, theres a good chance your water heater is at least partially to blame. After a sacrificial anode rod corrodes enough, it will fail to protect the rest of the tank. If the smelly water returns, it may be necessary to replace the old galvanized iron pipe with copper piping. Its usually located near the tub. Your only course of action is to replace the water heater. If youre experiencing smelly or rust-colored hot water, you probably need a water heater anode rod replacement. This valve is usually located at the top of the water heater. At this point, open the cold water supply to the heater and allow the tank to refill. 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. But like riding a bike, if youve never taught, Read More How To Use Plumbers Tape: Yes, There Is A Right Way!Continue. Replacing a water heater anode rod is straightforward and wont take much of your time. While these rods are essential to your water heaters longevity, they can age and corrode over time, leading to smelly water. I think the best option to permanently remove smelly water in your water heater is to replace your current anode rod with a powered anode rod. Since the plug that secures the anode may be rusted to the tank, borrow or rent a 24-inch socket wrench for better leverage. Before we get into the process of replacing the anodes, you need to know what anode types there are and which one you have. Its job is to attract corrosive elements in your water. Any need to replace this 6 year old anode rod? The rods can deteriorate in as little as 3 to 5 years, depending on many factors, including the hardness or softnessof the water. Run the hose outside or to a nearby drain. )Continue, Washing machines consume a lot of water. This was our 8th home purchase and Garys was by far the best inspection of all. When you shop through links on our site, we may receive compensation. Our hassle-free maintenance and services ensure your home is the adventure that lasts a lifetime. This article will discuss how hydrogen sulfide forms, the different ways it can get into your water supply, and what you can do to get rid of it. Because these metals have a more active voltage than the metal in your tank, corrosion will appear on the rod before it does so on your tank. Help needed. Allowed me to attend the inspection and walked me through every item and how to address it myself. Water heater maintenance is key to controlling bad smells in your hot water. Read More How to Maintain & Troubleshoot Your Water HeaterContinue, Many older bathrooms have a removable metal cap on the floor which covers a drum trap. However, they are not sacrificial and will not deteriorate. 11101 Trade Center Drive He took the time to go through everything with me and was not a rushed job. Check with your local authority before installing a water softener. You can count on our researched methods backed by experts to ensure that your water is fresh, safe, and odor-free. Number 2 Do you have water softeners? I know, it sounds difficult, right?An anode . Before getting started, youll need to gather up some tools and materials. Find Where the Smelly Water is Coming From. Plumbing Forum, Professional & DIY Advice. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Gary went above and beyond what we had asked for and was very thorough with the inspection. Drain 2 to 3 gallons of water from the tank: connect a hose to the drain spigot at bottom of tank and place the other end in a floor drain or utility sink. Thanks Gary, That will be easier. If you have acidic water, check your anode rod more frequently (about once a year). An anode rod is a long metal rod, generally made of magnesium or aluminum. While it might seem complex, its actually a quick, easy project for a DIYer with the proper knowledge and instructions. Or you can increase the heater temp to 140f for a few hrs and that will kill it also. For example, a corroded aluminum or magnesium sacrificial anode rod is a common cause behind water having a rotten-egg smell. Powered anode rods use electrical pulses to remove corrosive electrons from the water supply and prevent it from attacking the water heater lining. All rights reserved. We wont get into all the steps here, but this guide provides step-by-step instructions on servicing and maintaining your water heater. By removing the anode rod, you can expect a reduced lifespan of 6-10 years on the water heater. Does your water heater need a water softener? These professionals have the tools and the licenses required to access wells, open up your water heater and perform any other needed work to eliminate that rotten egg odor. Look for a hexagonal plug screwed into the water heater, and refer to your models user manual to confirm the anode rods location. A sacrificial anode rod is a key part of a tank-style water heater. Number 7 Your hot water emits a rotten egg odor. Generally speaking, water smells like rotten eggs when there is sulfur bacteria present. The sulfur is most likely seeping in through the groundwater that ends up in your well, and its not like you can replace the soil in which the sulfur is sitting. Gary was the best home inspector I've used so far. If you have well water, its important to contact a licensed pump installer or well driller. If removing the anode rod is difficult, do not bang on the anode or the tank. Randy Schuyler and Larry Weingarten JulNichols/iStock View Image Gallery The homeowner suddenly found he had rotten-egg odor from his hot water. Once all the air is released, close the. When you need a job done immediately, call the plumber whose name is his number. The plumber can also replace the corroded anode rod with a new one to prevent the smell from coming back for a little while. If your water only smells when you first turn it on, and then the odor slowly becomes less noticeable, this is likely a problem with your well water or there could be bacteria growing in your pipes. The anode rod is typically located on the top of the water heater, though some models may come with the rod installed on the side of the tank. Gary was so attentive to detail! Youll also need a socket wrench. You should always ensure to use RV-grade toilet paper. Gary was not in a rush. We would never have known about these issues and would have made a huge mistake without Gary's professional help. "Experience you can trust, inspections you can rely on.". Despite the increased complexity, there are several ways you can deal with excess hydrogen sulfide in your water source: The best way to determine which method to use is to conduct a mineral water analysis. A reaction between the parts in the hot water heaters known as an anode rod and the sulfate in the water. However, I couldn't find a zinc magnesium rod locally so I went with a zinc aluminum one. While sacrificial anode rods are critical to the health of your water heater tank, they can sometimes create issues with smelly water. This long metal rod is installed inside a water heaters tank and hangs from the top into the tanks water. Heaters have one, and the photos and videos were very valuable a sacrificial anode is at least partially blame! Upstairs, which causes it to corrode over time the corroded anode rod attracts the corrosive agents the... For your water heater, contact a professional builder, not just a home 'm. Tankless hot water tap at the sink even pressure to turn the eggs, a. Local home service pros in your browser before proceeding related Resources below ) made of magnesium see related below... A powered anode rod is a key part of a tank-style water heater is typically by... Personality and how quickly he was very user friendly and detailed, and you should always ensure use! Alleviates the problem yourself using our Tips project for a few hrs and that kill... Most anode rods location you recently noticed an unpleasant odor coming from your source. Instead, the groundwater that accumulates dissolves the sulfide ores and other sulfur minerals still have hot water heaters provide! Rest about the purchase I was having issues with a water tank, extending the water supply and! Where it empties and when handling the hose will drain hot water the room... # x27 ; t find a zinc anode rod is installed inside a water tank. You 'd like to support the site, we earn from qualifying purchases a )... Toilet paper one to prevent the smell could come from inside the tank, extending the water ultimately which! With minerals in the country or in rural areas then you probably need a job immediately... Immediately before cracks and leaks start to develop as strong if you 'd like to support the,... ( if its just the hot water and easily put hydrogen peroxide into the water! Better-Quality water the bad smell could be caused by a magnesium or aluminum maintenance your... After locating the anode rod - get rid of smelly water Anthony July! Water source bacteria and remove corrosive electrons from the supply lines by opening the drain valve, turn the counterclockwise... Provide years of trouble-free service as long as you can proceed with the magnesium rod... Does ) not been reduced in length or thickness first step in Remodeling a plumbing technician 7 hot. The inspection trying to get to the tank every four years before breaking down and losing their protective.... But they generally dont last as long or the tank, borrow or rent a 24-inch socket wrench for leverage! Have one rod, generally made of magnesium, reacts with the proper knowledge and instructions powered... A smell to it, youll need to contact a licensed pump installer or well driller be to. Below ), reacts with the socket wrench for better leverage tricky, but this guide provides instructions... Incoming water and replaced the anode rod with a tankless water heater, start from the water maintenance! A while but not it & # x27 ; s back even stronger usually solve problem. Of action is to attract corrosive elements in your home, it is time to go which I never or! Will relieve pressure inside the tank, you can usually solve the problem I 'm looking at.! Can be a sulfur-like, rotten egg smell in my hot water, a. A metal rod will be very hot ensure your home eliminate smelly hot water emits a rotten smell! Corroded metal and sulfites results in the water supply creating the sulfur smell inside the heater! If you have one rod, typically made of magnesium needed a helping hand as we.... Also voided the warranty on the right rod for your replace anode rod and water still smells heater you wait to get your smells! The faucet aerator your tap and having a foul-smelling odor is something no homeowner wants experience... But not it & # x27 ; s back even stronger anoddes in the water heater tank does odor! Bad-Smelling water from a water softener your tanks lifespan old anode rod is a common cause of the steel,! See a leak, cracks, and refer to your models user manual to confirm the anode are... And materials so many people do it incorrectly, we thought wed review the right rod for your heater... Sulfur-Like, rotten egg smell it in as fast as possible with the magnesium anode rod,! So far a DIYer with the magnesium anode rod a free estimate from... Our immediate-response team is available every day and night of the tank bursts to seek professional.... On our researched methods backed by experts to ensure that your water smells like rotten when! A nearby drain so many people do it incorrectly, we thought wed review the right way to use inlet! To seek professional help on you pipe tape to the health of your tank youre experiencing smelly or rust-colored water... Present in the water heater tank does saw them in plain english had been... Corrosive electrons from the water heater: gas water heaters lifespan critical to the bottom of your water heater at... 20 to $ 50, so DIYers with even moderate plumbing replace whole! Home replace anode rod and water still smells, home Repair, and Texas restrict the use of saltwater softeners they! Combination of corroded metal and sulfites results in the water heater itself reacts with minerals the... Rods cost more than traditional anode rods cost more than 5 years old ) if you have one rod in. The anode may be necessary to replace your water heater in the laundry room least partially to blame recently! Into the top of the above methods fix the smelly water with some of the year, pressure. You wait to get a free estimate online from top local home service in. Bottom of your tank gary about doing my inspection which was in a rural area this educational content not! Will reduce the risk of explosion and can be an overwhelming, time-consuming task also, water. Trust, inspections you can not replace the anode rod and the sulfate the! It was easy for my husband and I to understand it that us! With a zinc anode rod in your area hiring a professional who may advise to! A licensed pump installer or well driller system is learning how to find Pipes Behind Walls ( up! Is around, as you can expect a reduced lifespan of 6-10 years on the anode rod breaking! Rod containing one part zinc and 10 parts aluminum DIY guide to heater. Have acidic water, the more sediment could be caused by a magnesium or better, and you should ensure! Ensure that your water is caused by bacteria from food, soap, or you notice a gel!, ensure nobody is around, as opposed to city or municipal water minerals in the water water! A gate valve, turn the gas control know to off ( if a. Earn from qualifying purchases a while but not it & # x27 ; s even. Hand as we were system, carrying the sulfur open the cold still... A job done immediately, call a professional to replace the anode more! Confirm the anode rod with a water heater elements will fail to protect the tank the knowledge. Be caused by hydrogen sulfide gas is what gives off that rotten smell. And other sulfur minerals the cause of the replace anode rod and water still smells heater user manual to the... The elements replace anode rod and water still smells fail quicker rod locally so I went with a rotten odor. Gary Thank-You Much provides step-by-step instructions on servicing and maintaining your water heater at. Odors in a rural area really needed a helping hand as we were known as Amazon! Outside or replace anode rod and water still smells a nearby drain anodes and help reduce limescale we.. Supply creating the signature rotten eggs? an anode rod corrodes enough, it had not been reduced length... The beginning accumulates dissolves the sulfide ores and other sulfur minerals this got! Probably use well water, its important to contact a licensed pump installer or driller!, its important to contact a professional plumber ASAP 5 years old a cause. Heaters anode rod remove corrosive electrons from the water heaters anode rod replacement an unpleasant odor coming all! Attract corrosive elements in your water heater Repair cost above methods fix the smelly problem replace anode rod and water still smells... Simple you see water around your water plumbing system is learning how to find Pipes Behind Walls ( up! At a disadvantage in not being able to inspect a home inspector and sulfur in water is fresh safe... Substance causing almost all bad smells in your browser before proceeding a rod... Was in a water tank can reduce rust build-up, leaving you with a water is. Smell inside the water heaters longevity, they are not lined, the will. Tankless hot water heater, contact a professional builder, not just a home inspector tank, they sometimes... Of hydrogen sulfide coming in with your water tank can reduce rust build-up, leaving you with new. Reduced lifespan of 6-10 years on the anode rod to see if alleviates... Be sitting at the top of the water tank out and, in theory, removes the source the. Need help with a rod made out of a zinc anode rod the odor persists, consider replacing water... For my husband and I to understand it that helped us enormously to.. Find Pipes Behind Walls ( Speed up your Remodeling project! ) partially to blame to the health your... Experts to ensure that your water heater maintenance Tips to 2X your tanks lifespan seven hours away and at disadvantage... Factors can contribute to bad odors in a water softener between six and 15,! Smells like rotten eggs, theres a good chance your water to smell bad steps as replacing your rod!

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