The anode rod protects the tank from corrosion. Replace every 4-7 years — single highest-ROI Richmond maintenance task.
Replacement schedule
| Water hardness | Replace |
|---|---|
| Soft (under 7 gpg) | Year 5-7 |
| Medium (7-11 gpg) | Year 4-5 |
| Hard (over 11 gpg) | Year 3-4 |
Types
- Magnesium — factory standard; can cause sulfur smell in well water
- Aluminum-zinc — eliminates sulfur smell
- Powered — electric, never replaced. $150-250
DIY replacement
- Off breaker/gas
- Close cold supply; open hot tap
- 1-1/16" socket on breaker bar (75-100 ft-lb)
- Unscrew; inspect; replace if consumed
- Teflon tape on new; install
Cost
- Magnesium: $30-45
- Aluminum-zinc: $40-55
- Powered: $150-250
Bottom line
Cheapest highest-ROI Richmond maintenance.