Electric Anode Rods

[ShuhornGarage]

Does anyone have any experience using electric anode rods?

Not sure how long they've been available or how if they're that much better.

I'd appreciate your comments

Thanks
Norm

 

[fitter30]

They been around for industial applications since the 1960s. You tube has all kind of videos on them. Pulled my factory rod after two years had a segmented one in just encase. Replaced it now have time line for next replacement. Sure it will come out easier than the original. 1/2" Impact makes the job.

 

[danski0224]

I'd start here and then make your own decisions.

Water Tank Tec. Stops Hot Water Odor and Internal Water Tank Corrosion.

Water Tank Tec powered anode system prevents hot water odor and internal tank corrosion using an advanced potential controller to protect and extend water heater lifespan.

www.waterodor.com

 

[ShuhornGarage]

Thank you for your responses, much appreciated & helpful

 

[HoosierBuddy]

In theory the impressed current (Powered one) should last a lot longer.

BUT Given how long a standard magnesium rod can last (3 to 5 years or so), I would hesitate to install a powered one. If the power supply dies or gets zapped, it won't protect your tank.

The standard magnesium rods are pretty fool proof as long as you've got your water heater electrically isolated from any other piping and you replace the anode rod on a regular basis (last one I did was 5 years and it was toast, so next time I'm getting it at 3 years).

I had a plumber in my house recently who saw I had a spare anode rod hanging next to my water heater and a replacement schedule sharpied in on the tank and he said he'd never seen anyone else do that in his entire career. Sure would cut down on water heater replacements if everyone did it.

 

[duneslider]

Freak, now I feel like I need check my anode rods...and figure out where you buy replacements at.

 

[HoosierBuddy]

Freak, now I feel like I need check my anode rods...and figure out where you buy replacements at.

Do a search. You can get them on Amazon for sure. If you have limited overhead clearance consider getting a segmented one that you can feed into the tank, say a foot at at time. I know on mine that saved me from having to disconnect the water heater, drain it, and lay it on it's side. I had enough clearance with the segmented type to turn off the water, drain about a gallon of water, pull the old anode (which was only a small stub), then feed in the new one.

I did need a cordless impact to get the old one out. Without that I would have needed a helper to hold onto the water heater to keep it from spinning while I used a breaker bar on the anode rod.

 

[rharman]

< snip >

The standard magnesium rods are pretty fool proof as long as you've got your water heater electrically isolated from any other piping and you replace the anode rod on a regular basis (last one I did was 5 years and it was toast, so next time I'm getting it at 3 years).

I had a plumber in my house recently who saw I had a spare anode rod hanging next to my water heater and a replacement schedule sharpied in on the tank and he said he'd never seen anyone else do that in his entire career. Sure would cut down on water heater replacements if everyone did it.

< /snip >

I've used a segmented anode for years due to headspace constraints. Based on wear patterns, I have mine on a 2-year schedule. I try and drain about 5-10 gallons quarterly to get rid of some of the schmutz that accumulates.

I looked at powered rods but a lot of the reviews mentioned leakage problems. Don't need that.

I had to laugh at your plumber comment. He should see my WH.