Anode-rod Replacements
Anode-rod Replacements | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Calhoun
In Calhoun, your tank water heater relies on a single, sacrificial anode rod to fight off rust and mineral buildup. When that rod is spent, corrosion moves in fast—raising energy costs, shortening equipment life, and tainting your water with a metallic taste. HEP’s master plumbers make swapping that rod simple and stress-free, using top-grade magnesium or aluminum replacements sized precisely for your unit. The result: cleaner water, longer heater life, and way fewer surprises.
Schedule an on-time appointment today and experience HEP’s “Happy You’ll Be” guarantee. We arrive with fully stocked trucks, upfront pricing, and the know-how to spot any other lurking issues before they become emergencies. From first phone call to final clean-up, we treat your home like our own—so you can keep enjoying reliable, efficient hot water all year long.
FAQs
What does an anode rod do inside my tank-type water heater?
The anode rod is a long metal sacrificial rod—usually magnesium, aluminum, or a zinc alloy—screwed into the top of your storage tank. Because it is more reactive than the steel walls of the tank, it corrodes (sacrifices) first, protecting the tank from rusting. Without a healthy anode rod, the tank itself will start to corrode, leading to leaks, premature failure, and possible water damage.
How can I tell that the anode rod in my Calhoun home’s water heater needs to be replaced?
There are several warning signs: • You notice rusty or metallic-tasting hot water. • The water smells like rotten eggs (sulfur odor), which can be caused by a depleted anode reacting with certain bacteria. • Visible rust or moisture near the base of the heater. • Rumbling or popping noises from sediment buildup that often accompanies an exhausted rod. The only sure way to know is a visual inspection. We remove the rod, measure its diameter, and check for deep pitting; if 50 % or more of the rod is consumed or the core steel wire is exposed, it needs immediate replacement.
How often should an anode rod be replaced given Calhoun’s water conditions?
With our moderately hard municipal water, magnesium rods typically last 3–5 years, while aluminum/zinc rods can last 4–7 years. If you have a water softener, the lifespan shortens because softened water accelerates corrosion; plan on 2–3 year inspections. We recommend scheduling a quick check at every annual water-heater flush or after the second year of a new heater, whichever comes first.
Why is replacing the anode rod preferable to simply waiting until the water heater fails?
Replacing the rod costs a fraction of a new heater and can double or even triple the tank’s service life. A healthy anode maintains manufacturer warranties, prevents catastrophic leaks, reduces energy waste caused by sediment buildup, and keeps hot water quality high. Waiting until failure usually means an emergency replacement, possible flooding, higher energy bills leading up to the failure, and disposal costs for the old unit.
How long does professional anode-rod replacement take, and will my water be shut off?
A standard appointment usually takes 45–60 minutes, including draining a few gallons, removing the old rod, installing the new one, and pressure testing. We only shut off the cold-water supply to the heater; the rest of your home’s plumbing remains active. Hot water is unavailable during the service, but recovery time is quick—most households have hot water again within 30–45 minutes after we finish.
What is the typical cost of anode-rod replacement in Calhoun, and do you offer any warranties?
Most replacements fall in the $175–$275 range, depending on rod material (magnesium vs. aluminum/zinc), tank size, and accessibility. The price includes the rod, labor, disposal of the old rod, and a mini flush. We back our work with a one-year labor warranty and a manufacturer’s warranty on the rod itself (typically 3–5 years). We also offer bundled pricing when combined with a full annual heater maintenance visit, saving up to 20 %.