Kenmore Water Heaters: Maintenance and Anode Rod Replacement

Summary

• Kenmore hot water heaters are dependable, but corrosion can shorten their lifespan without proper maintenance.
  
• The anode rod, often overlooked but crucial, is the most important component for tank protection.
  
• Replacing a worn anode rod helps prevent leaks, rust, and odor issues.
  
• Powered anode rods from Corro-Protec offer long-term, maintenance-free protection for all Kenmore models, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your water heater’s performance.
  

Learn how to locate, inspect, and replace the anode rod to keep your Kenmore water heater performing efficiently.

Understanding Your Kenmore Hot Water Heater

Kenmore water heaters are trusted for their durability and efficiency in homes across North America, providing a reliable hot water supply. Like most storage-tank models, they rely on a glass-lined steel tank to safely store heated water. Over time, exposure to minerals, heat, and oxygen can weaken the tank’s internal lining.

The anode rod is designed to prevent that. Acting as a sacrificial metal, the rod attracts corrosive elements in the water before they can damage the steel tank. When it wears out, the tank is left unprotected, increasing the risk of rust, leaks, and foul odors.

Kenmore Water Heater Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance is the key to extending the life of your Kenmore water heater. Follow these steps once or twice a year:

1. Drain several gallons/litres from the tank to flush out sediment.
   
2. Inspect the anode rod for corrosion, pitting, or thinning.
   
3. Flush the tank thoroughly if heavy mineral buildup is present.
   
4. Check for leaks around fittings and the temperature-pressure valve.
   
5. Test the heating element or pilot assembly to confirm proper operation.
   

For more background on how anode rods protect your tank, visit What Is an Anode Rod? and How a Water Heater Anode Rod Works.

Locating the Anode Rod on a Kenmore Water Heater

In most Kenmore water heaters, the anode rod is installed on the top of the tank, under a hex-head fitting. Some models combine the rod with the hot-water outlet connection, which can make it slightly harder to identify.

If you need guidance, visit Where Is the Anode Rod on a Water Heater? for diagrams and examples.

Signs It’s Time to Replace the Anode Rod

• Your hot water smells like sulfur or rotten eggs.
  
• Discolored or rusty hot water.
  
• Popping or hissing noises from inside the tank.
  
• More than three years since the last replacement.
  

These signs indicate your current anode rod may be depleted and that the tank could begin to corrode. For more help in understanding these signs and how to replace your anode rod, read the comprehensive Kenmore Water Heater Anode Rod Guide.

Comparing Replacement Options

When it’s time to replace the anode rod in your Kenmore water heater, you’ll typically choose from three different types.

Why Powered Anode Rods Are the Best Option for Kenmore Water Heaters

Traditional anode rods corrode over time, requiring regular replacement. Powered anode rods, like the Corro-Protec Water Heater Anode Rod, use a small electrical current to protect the tank without deteriorating.

Advantages include:

• Stops corrosion and scale formation inside the tank.
  
• Eliminates sulfur and rotten-egg odors in hot water.
  
• Works with both Kenmore gas and electric models.
  
• Maintenance-free once installed.
  
• Backed by a 20-year limited warranty.