The anode rod or the sacrificial anode rod is a unique component that helps storage water heaters to prolong their lifespan.
Rheem water heater anode rod location.
These devices work because the metal in the rod is sacrificed so the tank does not corrode.
From the word sacrificial it literally means that the anode rod sacrifices itself by succumbing to rust first before other components of your storage tank.
The anode should be checked and replaced every couple of years.
How to replace the anode rod in a gas or electric water heater.
Anode rods are the most important line of defense in preventing corrosion and leaks in your water heater.
You see over time corrosive agents in your home s water eat up the inside of the water heater.
On older models the anode rod may be exposed.
The anode rod in your rheem water heater is located on top of your tank.
Locate the anode rod position on the top of the tank.
More precisely your magnesium or aluminum sacrificial anode is visible through a hexagonal head located in the center of your tank under a plastic cover.
I replaced the anode rod in my water heater and filmed the whole process from start to finish.
Refer to your water heater s user guide for more information.
Open the water heater s drain valve and drain approximately two gallons of water from the tank.