Ruud Water Heaters: Maintenance and Anode Rod Replacement
Summary
- Ruud hot water heaters are built for efficiency and reliability, but their internal tanks still need corrosion protection.
- The anode rod in the tank prevents rust and extends the lifespan of the water heater.
- Replacing a worn anode rod can improve water quality and prevent leaks.
- Powered anode rods from Corro-Protec are a maintenance-free solution compatible with Ruudd models.
Learn how to locate, inspect, and replace the anode rod in your Ruud water heater.
Understanding Your Ruud Hot Water Heater
Ruud water heaters are known for their energy efficiency and consistent hot-water delivery. Whether gas or electric, each model uses a steel tank lined with a protective coating. However, even the best coatings can break down over time due to heat, minerals, and water chemistry.
To prevent the tank from rusting, every Ruud hot water heater includes an anode rod. This metal rod sacrifices itself to attract corrosive minerals away from the tank walls. When the rod becomes too corroded, the protection stops working.
Maintaining Your Ruud Water Heater
Regular maintenance helps your Ruud water heater operate efficiently and last longer. Follow these simple steps:
- Drain a few gallons of water from the tank twice a year to remove sediment.
- Inspect the anode rod annually for heavy pitting or thinning.
- Flush the tank if your home has hard water buildup.
- Test the pressure relief valve to ensure it’s working correctly.
Check for leaks around the fittings, drain valve, and supply lines.
For more background on how anode rods protect your tank, visit What Is an Anode Rod? and How to Find and Upgrade the Anode Rod on a Ruud Water Heater.
Locating the Anode Rod on a Ruud Water Heater
In most Ruud models, the anode rod is located at the top of the tank, under a small hex-head cap or nut. It may also be built into the hot-water outlet connection, depending on the model size.
If you’re unsure where to look, check out this helpful article: Where Is the Anode Rod on a Water Heater?.
Some Signs It’s Time to Replace or Upgrade the Anode Rod
- Hot water smells like sulfur or rotten eggs.
- Water appears rusty or cloudy.
- You hear cracking or popping sounds in the tank.
- You haven’t replaced your sacrificial anode rod in 1-5 years.
These signs indicate that the anode rod may be depleted and needs to be replaced, or your tank could soon begin to corrode internally. Being alert to these signs can help you take timely action to prevent potential damage to your water heater.
50% Depleted Anode Rod
If your anode rod is 50% depleted or more, it’s no longer doing its job of protecting your water heater. You can refer to the following image as reference when you inspect your sacrificial anode rod.
Comparing Replacement Options
When it’s time to replace your Ruud water heater anode rod, there are three main types available.
Why Powered Anode Rods Are the Best Option for Rudd Heaters
Powered anode rods, like the Corro-Protec Water Heater Anode Rod, are the most effective and long-lasting solution for protecting Rudd hot water heaters. Instead of relying on sacrificial corrosion, a powered rod uses a small current to stop rust before it starts.
Advantages include:
- Stops corrosion and limescale inside the tank.
- Eliminates sulfur or “rotten-egg” odors.
- Works in all Rudd gas and electric models.
- Maintenance-free once installed.
Comes with a 20-year limited warranty.
*Ruud is a registered trademark of Rheem Manufacturing Company. Corro-Protec is not affiliated with, endorsed, or sponsored by Rheem Manufacturing Company or Ruud.
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