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Old 08-30-2016, 07:53 PM
 
17,574 posts, read 15,243,114 times
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Ponderosa View Post
One way to extend the life is to replace the anode rod every couple years. The anode is supposed to corrode preferentially to the tank and thus protect the tank. When it is used up, the tank gets attacked. Soft water is harder on the anode they say. The rod is threaded into the top of the tank. It takes a pretty large socket and probably an impact wrench to get it out. You can buy a new one wherever fine water heaters are sold.

Extend the Life of Your Water Heater by Replacing the Anode Rod | The Family Handyman

Find one of those bastards in stock at Home Depot or Lowe's.

You might be able to get them online, but they don't stock them in the stores.. They've got elements running out the butt, but never an anode.
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Old 08-30-2016, 08:27 PM
 
Location: So. of Rosarito, Baja, Mexico
6,987 posts, read 21,925,882 times
Reputation: 7007
In my case things are a little different being that I'm here in Baja south of Rosarito.

Am different in that I studied Architecture in school so built my own home here and since they use Propane I went with the Electric 110 Amp 15 Gal tank (6 yr warranty) since I live alone and retired.

First couple of years had a problem with burning out the heating element so I bought three extra just in case. Replaced it and then discovered that the Temp SENSER was not working so I bought a new one and took apart the old one to see what made it tick. Absoluter Garbage as far as being a working unit so I disconnected it and ran a direct wire to a Timer that comes on twice a day (5AM and 2 PM)with enough hot water to last during the days needs.

So now I'm just over a 20 year usage and not bad for a 6 yr warranty costing $115 at Home Depot.

A new one is over twice what I originally paid......might go to a Instant Heat newer unit if I live that long.
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Old 08-30-2016, 09:01 PM
 
23,592 posts, read 70,391,434 times
Reputation: 49232
I've never had a water heater go bad on me. (I have two spares, just in case I tempt the fates - neener neener)

I have a theory (unproven) that low water temps in a heater promote bacteria that help corrode the tank.
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Old 08-30-2016, 09:06 PM
 
10,222 posts, read 19,208,157 times
Reputation: 10894
Quote:
Originally Posted by harry chickpea View Post
I've never had a water heater go bad on me. (I have two spares, just in case I tempt the fates - neener neener)

I have a theory (unproven) that low water temps in a heater promote bacteria that help corrode the tank.
Seems unlikely but ossible. And with the AHJs wanting the water at < 120F at the tap nowadays, a lot of people probably have their heaters set low. (I left my heater on 140 and set the stop on the new shower valve... then set it back higher after the inspection.)
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