FAQ

In most cases, water heater anode rods are universal. The only exceptions are :

Buderus : They use another type of threading to install the magnesium anode.

Bradford White : Some model have the anode is built into the hot water outlet.

All other water heater brands use a regular magnesium anode with 3/4 ” NPT threads.

Corro-Protec anodes are designed to fit any hot water tank on the market. You can see all models on the following link : Residential and Commercial Water Heater Anode.

Yes, it is even highly recommended to install an imposed current anode if you have a water softener.

The water softener generally makes the water more aggressive to the tanks, which reduces the life of your hot water tank and creates a more conducive environment for the development of Sulfur Reducing Bacteria that creates the rotten egg smell in hot water. The Corro-Protec Powered anode rod will automatically adjust to provide optimum rust protection.

Limescale may form if the anode is too close to the walls of the hot water tank and the current flows too quickly between the anode rod and the tank. Corro-Protec powered anode, unlike other anodes, has a design that prevents this type of reaction. Indeed, the white plastic present in the top of the titanium anode prevents this kind of reaction and ensures that the anode is well positioned in the tank.

The answer is YES. Since the sacrificial anode must sacrifice itself to protect the hot water tank, it is important that the anode is large enough to last for several years. However, the powered anodes rod do not work in the same way, so they are much smaller.

A powered anode related to electricity being fed into the anode to impose a flow of current rather than relying on natural electrolysis. The length and size of the anode, as well as the current sent by the rectifier will influence the life expectancy of the anode. Corro-Protec anodes have been designed to work for more than 40 years, no matter how hard your water is. In order to know more about the lifetime of the current anodes, I invite you to visit our blog post: Tests of Powered Anode

Anode rod in the water heater can be very hard to remove. It often happens that the magnesium anode is installed very tight at the factory and is very difficult to remove. It also happens, in older water heaters, that lime builds up and holds the anode in place.

The best way to remove an anode that is stuck is to use an impact wrench. If you don’t have one, you can try a breaker bar.

Yes! Corro-Protec Powered Titanium Anodes are recognized by some insurance companies :

• Desjardins Assurances 
• La Capitale
• La Personnelle

Our Corro-Protec anodes are made from titanium and coated with MMO, which improves their performance.

The stability of MMO (mixed metal oxide) coated titanium anodes have been used for almost 30 years. MMO coated titanium anodes are used in various environments such as seawater brackish water fresh water carbon backfill and concrete.

A powered anode is a non-sacrificial anodes that use a current rectifier, plugged into an electrical outlet, which sends current in the hot water tank through a titanium anode.

Unlike sacrificial anodes, powered anodes are maintenance free and designed to last for years. Plus, they are well known to solve rotten egg odor problems in hot water tanks.

It is very difficult to answer this question, because no one wants to take a clear position on the subject. However, several studies suggest that aluminum may be a contributing factor to Alzheimer’s disease.

Knowing that an aluminum anode dissolves over time, it is normal to conclude that aluminum particles will end up in your hot water. Even if you do not consume the hot water directly, you are in contact with it when you take a bath or a shower.

Very often, plumber offer to change magnesium anode for an aluminium anode in order to try to fix the rotten egg smell in the hot water. You should know that better solution exists such as Corro-Protec Powered anode rod.

Yes, powered anode rods are safe for use in water heaters. Their design and operation principles are carefully formulated to ensure safety and effectiveness.

One concern that some people might have is the introduction of electrical current into the water. However, the amount of current used by powered anode rods is very minimal and safe. This small current is precisely what prevents the corrosive reaction that causes rusting in the water tank.

Additionally, unlike sacrificial anodes that deteriorate over time due to the electrochemical process, powered anodes do not decompose. This means there is no breakdown of material that could potentially affect the water quality or the safety of the system.

Furthermore, companies like Corro-Protec prioritize the safety of their products. They ensure stringent quality control during manufacturing and carry out continuous testing to guarantee the products meet and exceed safety standards. Thus, you can confidently use a Corro-Protec powered anode rod in your water heater, knowing it is safe and effective in protecting your tank from corrosion.

Yes, the use of electricity in water heaters by Corro-Protec’s system is safe. They use Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) for their anode rods in water heaters. This method uses a low voltage DC power source to protect the water heater from corrosion.

Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) is a widely used method for protecting a variety of metal structures submerged in water from corrosion. Here are a few examples:

1. Sea Vessels: In the maritime industry, ICCP systems are installed on ships and submarines to prevent the corrosive effects of seawater. This system uses an external power source to generate a protective electric current that counteracts the corrosion process, ensuring the vessel’s hull remains intact.
2. Piers and Harbors: ICCP systems are also used to protect piers, wharves, and offshore platforms from the constant threat of corrosion. These structures, being in direct contact with seawater, can quickly degrade without such protection. ICCP systems ensure the longevity of these important infrastructures.
3. Underground and Underwater Pipelines: ICCP is widely used to protect pipelines carrying water or other substances. Given their often inaccessible locations, ICCP’s reliable and low-maintenance nature makes it an ideal choice for protecting these vital infrastructures.

Yes, Corro-Protec Powered Anode Rod can be installed in a used water heater. However, we recommend the installation of a Corro-Protec during the first 5 years of wear of the hot water tank to maximize its efficiency.

Some fiberglass hot water tanks require anodes to protect certain metal parts in the tank. If your tank is equipped with a magnesium anode, you can install a Corro-Protec.

In most cases, these tanks do not have anode and do not need any additional protection.

Yes, the Corro-Protec System is a universal anode rod that adapts to any type of steel or stainless steel hot water tank. However, to maximise anode performance and reduce selling price, there is four different Corro-Protec model available. Click HERE to find the perfect Corro-Protec anode for your hot water tank.

Since Bradford White water heaters have the magnesium anode built into the hot water outlet, we need to do a few extra steps to install a powered anode rod. Please see following link : https://www.corroprotec.com/installation-guide/

The Corro-Protec Integrated Anode Rod for Bradford White water heater will come with everything you need to install it in the hot water outlet where the original magnesium anode rod was installed.

Yes, it is possible to install Corro-Protec by yourself. With all tools needed, it will take you about 15 minutes to install it.

A complete step-by-step guide is included inside the box for an easy installation. Each guide are also available on this page: https://www.corroprotec.com/installation-guide/

The answer is no and that is why Corro-Protec offers different models adapted to tank sizes.

If your water heater has two anodes, you can replace one of them with our Corro-Protec imposed current anode and leave the other one in place. Even if you install the Corro-Protec anode to eliminate the rotten egg smell in your hot water, you don’t need to remove the second magnesium anode.

The Corro-Protec does not require any special maintenance. Leave it connected at all times, and it will work only if necessary. Even if you turn off the hot water tank, if there is still water in the tank, the Corro-Protec will remain functional to prevent corrosion. If you empty the tank, the Corro-Protec will turn off automatically because the water acts as a conductor between the anode and the ground.

An impressed current anode does not function as a heating element. There is no danger in emptying the water from the tank without disconnecting the anode.

It is possible to find rust residues in your hot water after the installation of a Powered Anode Rod. The anode cleans the tank, so residues will be present in the water throughout the cleaning process.

People often look for water hater overflow pipe but the real term is Water Heater Pressure and Temperature relief valve. We have a complete blog post about it : Water Heater Pressure Relief Valve

Yes, because the voltage adjusts automatically depending on the resistance of your water. A very low voltage means that your water is very conductive and the anode does not need to send much current to provide adequate protection.

Yes, The Corro-Protec rectifier meets the following requirements:

• Conforms to UL STD. 1310
• Certified to CSA STD. C22.2 NO.223

If you want to learn more about the tests performed on our anodes, visit : https://www.corroprotec.com/blog/tests-of-powered-anode-iccp/

To ensure that the cathodic protection works, the following conditions must be met:

• The rectifier must be connected
• Corro-Protec must be connected to the rectifier
• The negative side must be installed on the water heater, as indicated in the instruction manual.
• The water heater must be functional (filled and operational)

If the above conditions are met and the indicator light is not lit, please contact us to complete a claim at: https://www.corroprotec.com/troubleshooting-and-warranty-claim/

Our powered anode rod can protect your water heater tank from corrosion and rust, extend the service life of your water tank, remove the rotten egg/sulfur smell in 24 hours, so that you can have clean, tasteless hot water. A green LED light on the power supply allows you to check if the system is running properly, making your life easier and more convenient

Since the amount of current used by the anode will vary from region to region due to the hardness of the water, it is impossible to give an exact answer. 

However, on average, the anode will use 10 kWh per year. If we take the average price of electricity in the United States, the cost to run the anode 24 hours a day all year round is $ 1.36 or about a third of a penny per day.

Yes, all Corro-Protec system come with a 20 years warranty. To register your Corro-Protec, please complete the following form: Warranty.

To remove the anode rod from your water heater:

1. Disconnect the powersupply.
2. Locate the anode location according to your water heater model. It is usuallylocated ontop.
3. Remove the insulating material if present and empty your tank.
4. Remove the anode with a socket wrench and a power bar if necessary.
5. Install your new anode and restart your waterheater.

You cannot clean your anode rod in your water heater .However, it is important to inspect the sacrificial anode rod every 1 to 3 years and replace it after more than 50% of its wear and tear to avoid corrosion of your tank.

To loosen the anode rod of your water heater, it is important to wear a pair of gloves to protect yourself from heat, a socket wrench and a power bar for better support in confined spaces. Ask for a professional if necessary.

To remove the anode from your water heater, it is important to wear gloves to protect yourself from heat, a socket wrench in the correct size and a power bar if necessary. Ask for a professional if necessary.

The length of the anode rod is important in the case of a sacrificial anode. Indeed, as its name suggests, it sacrifices itself to protect your tank from corrosion. As a result, the more magnesium or aluminum there is on the anode, the longer the protection time of your water heater will be.

You can remove the bad smell in your hot water by removing the reacting magnesium anode rod that comes in contact with the magnesium in the water. However, this deprives your water heater of its only protection against rust. You can choose an aluminum anode rod that requires more maintenance or the titanium Corro-Protec impressed current anode that eliminates unpleasant odours and offers 20 years of protection against rust.

Yes, an anode rod is necessary. It protects your water heater from corrosion and extends its life. However, once the magnesium or aluminum from your anode is dissolved, the steel walls of your water heater will start to rust.

When the anode rod in your water heater no longer works due to wear and tear, it is important to replace your sacrificial anode with a new one. Indeed, this type of magnesium or aluminium anode protects the walls against rust by dissolving its alloy. Another solution is to purchase a Corro-Protec impressed current anode to double the life of your water heater against corrosion and water damage and eliminate unpleasant odours.

There are several names you can use when talking about an impressed current anode. Impressed current anode rod is simply a synonym for Powered Anode Rod, electronic anode or ICCP system.

It is important to change the sacrificial anode in your RV every year for a steel water heater. Aluminium tanks are generally not equipped with replaceable anodes because they have an inner coating of zinc and aluminium with the same protective function.

It is important to inspect the sacrificial anode every 1 to 3 years and replace it after more than 50% of its wear and tear to prevent corrosion of your tank. Its lifespan depends on the quality of your water. On average, the magnesium or aluminum anode must be changed every 3-5 years. For a powered titanium anode rod, it must be changed every 20 years.

Depending on the corrosiveness of your water, a regular anode rod may only last a few years. Our titanium anode rods work with electricity to stops corrosion, reduces limescale buildup and solve hot water smell. Corro-Protec reduces your chances of water heater leaking and extends the life of the tank.

You can buy a magnesium or aluminum sacrificial anode rod from a plumber, hardware store or on the Internet. There are also titanium impressed current anodes available on the Corro-Protec website that double the life of your water heater.

For your water heater, you have the choice between a sacrificial anode rod or an impressed current anode. As its name suggests, the magnesium or aluminum sacrificial anode dissolves over time to protect the surface of your water heater. The Corro-Protec impressed current anode forms a permanent protective layer on the tank walls.

To treat bad odours, it is recommended to use the Corro-Protec anode rod. This impressed current anode eliminates the bacteria responsible for the sulphur odour in less than 24 hours. In addition, the Corro-Protec doubles the life of your water heater, unlike a sacrificial anode.

It is preferable to choose a Corro-Protec impressed current anode in order to double the life of your water heater and eliminate unpleasant odours. For the sacrificial anode, it is recommended to use a magnesium anode, as aluminium residues that may be found in the water are harmful to health.

The size of your anode depends on your anode type and the capacity of your water heater. In the case of a sacrificial anode, its rod is much larger than an impressed current anode, because the more material there is, the longer it offers a protection time.For the Corro- Protec impressed current anode, its protection is provided by an electrical current that is proportional to the capacity in gallons of your water heater and not to the size of its rod.

If your hot water smells like oil, it is possible that the water supply or plumbing has been contaminated with gasoline, oil or bacteria. This can be a health risk. In rarer cases, you may notice an oil smell in a new water heater caused by a chemical reaction between the water and the tank components. This should disappear in a few weeks.

A rotten egg smell in your hot water can be caused by various factors. If you can only smell this smell on your kitchen faucet, it could be due to the fact that the drain is partially blocked by decomposing remains. The odour can also come from your water purifier if it is not regularly maintained. In most cases, a sulphur odour is caused by water with a high magnesium content that comes into contact with the original magnesium anode. The Corro-Protec anode is the ideal solution to this problem, because in addition to eliminating odours in a few hours, the anode stops the corrosion of your water heater and is guaranteed for 20 years.

If your water smell like sewage, your plumbing and supply may contain iron, algae, bacteria or decomposing organic matter. This problem may be due to the season of the year and may pose a health risk. During periods of limited use, water can become stagnant and develop these odour through stagnation and the presence of bacteria.

If your hot water smells like onions, it can be caused by different factors. Here is a list of the main factors:

• A prolonged absence can dry out the pipes and lead to onion and sewer odour
• A clogged drain
• Incorrect temperature setting of the water heater that causes bacteria to grow
• The metal in the water heater tank

If your water smells like rotten eggs, it’s likely due to a gas called hydrogen sulfide. This gas forms in your water heater tank during a process called electrolysis. The solution to this smelly water problem? Get the best anode rod for smelly water!

The Corro-Protec powered anode rod is the best anode rod to solve the smelly water once and forall. this powered anode rod is using a tiny bit of electricity to protect your tank from rusting. This also helps to reduce hydrogen sulfide gas, which causes that unpleasant sulfur smell in hot water. Corro-Protec rods last a long time, often even longer than your water heater. So, you’ll save time and money on maintenance and replacements making it the best anode rod for smelly water!

But there’s another choice: aluminum anode rods. These include aluminum-zinc alloy rods and are cheaper than powered rods. They do a good job in soft water conditions and can protect your tank from rusting too. But they might not completely get rid of the smelly water, especially in hot water. Also, these rods wear out quicker, so you’ll need to replace them more often.

So, what’s the best water heater anode rod for smelly water? It depends on a few things: how much you want to spend, the type of water in your area (especially if you use a water softener), and how long you plan to stay in your current home. If you want a long-lasting fix, go for the Corro-Protec anode rod. But if you want a quick, cheap fix and don’t mind replacing the anode rod often, an aluminum rod could work too.

Another approach to tackle the smelly water problem involves removing the anode rod completely. This eliminates the source of hydrogen sulfide gas production. However, it’s important to note that the anode rod’s function is to protect the water heater tank from rusting. Removing it entirely may resolve the odor issue, but it can also accelerate the corrosion of your tank, leading to a shorter lifespan of the water heater. This is why most professionals recommend replacing the anode rod rather than completely removing it.

If the odor persists, a bleach treatment could be considered. By flushing the water heater with a bleach solution, you can kill the bacteria responsible for creating the hydrogen sulfide gas. However, this is typically a temporary fix, and the rotten egg odor may return over time. It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions or hire a professional for this process, as overuse of bleach can also cause damage to your water heater tank.

Remember, the aim is to not only get rid of the smelly water but also ensure the longevity of your water heater. Balancing these two objectives can guide you to the best solution.

The location of the anode rod in your water heater depends on the model of your tank.Refer to your water heater’s user guide for more information .In most cases, the magnesium or aluminum sacrificial anode rod is located on top and is located under a plastic cover. Ask for a professional if necessary.

The location of the anode rod in your water heater depends on the model of your tank. In most cases, the sacrificial magnesium or aluminum anode is located on top. Refer to your water heater’s user guide for more information.

The anode rod  in your A.O. Smith brand water heater is located on top of your tank. When you are facing the front of your water heater, the sacrificial magnesium or aluminum anode is located at the back, between the cold and hot water connections. Refer to your water heater’s user guide for more information.

The location of your anode rod in your electric water heater depends on the model of your tank. Refer to your water heater’s user guide for more information. In most cases, the sacrificial magnesium or aluminum anode is located on top of the tank.

• Bradford White
• GE
• Giant
• Rheem
• Richmond
• State
• Whirpool

The anode rod in your General Electric (GE) water heater is located on top of your tank. When you are facing the front of your water heater, the sacrificial magnesium or aluminum anode is located at the back of the vent pipe. Refer to your water heater’s user guide for more information.

The anode rod in your Giant water heater is located on top of your 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. Refer to your water heater’s user guide for more information.

The anode rod in your Kenmore water heater is located on top of your 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. Refer to your water heater’s user guide for more information.

The anode rod in your Reliance brand water heater is located on top of your tank. When you are facing the front of your water heater, the sacrificial magnesium or aluminum anode is located between the cold and hot water connections. In the case of a gas water heater, the anode is located near the ventilation system.

The anode rod in your Rheem water heater is located on top of your 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. Refer to your water heater’s user guide for more information.

The anode rod in your Richmond water heater is located on top of your tank. When you are facing the front of your water heater, the sacrificial magnesium or aluminum anode is located at the back of the vent pipe. Refer to your water heater’s user guide for more information.

The anode rod in your Ruud brand water heater is located on top of your tank.When you are facing the front of your water heater, the sacrificial magnesium or aluminum anode is located on your right under a plastic cover. Refer to your water heater’s user guide for more information.

The anode rod in your State water heater is located on top of your tank. When you are facing the front of your water heater, the sacrificial magnesium or aluminum anode is located at the back, between the cold and hot water connections. Refer to your water heater’s user guide for moreinformation.

The anode rod in your Whirlpool water heater is located on top of your tank. When you are facing the front of your water heater, the sacrificial magnesium or aluminum anode is on your right. Refer to your water heater’s user guide for more information.

Bradford White Water Heater Have Integrated Anode Rod

The anode rod in your Bradford White water heater is located at the hot water outlet of your tank. Unfortunately, it is not easily accessible. You must remove the hot water outlet to access it. Some newer Bradford White models have an anode rod which is not located in the hot water outlet, but in a dedicated port for this anode.

If you’re tired of yearly checks on the anode in your Bradford White water heater or experiencing a sulfur smell in your hot water, we have a reliable solution for you. By installing the Corro-Protec powered anode, you can eliminate the need for frequent inspections and enjoy maintenance-free water heater protection.

The Corro-Protec powered anode rod effectively stops corrosion, eliminates the sulfur smell, requires no maintenance, and comes with a 20-year guarantee for your peace of mind. With this innovative solution, you can ensure long-lasting performance without the hassle of annual anode checks.

Having Trouble Finding It?

Contact-us with your Bradford White water heater model number and we would be happy to help you locate it.

You can also contact the manufacturer directly. With Bradford White’s customer support, you can rely on their expertise to help you locate the anode rod in your specific model, such as the Bradford White RG250T6N. Their dedicated team is ready to assist you in finding the exact placement of the anode rod, ensuring you have all the information you need to keep your water heater in optimal condition.

Adjusting the temperature of your water heater, whether it’s a gas or electric model, can help optimize the heat of your tap water and potentially lower utility bills. Here are step-by-step instructions for both types of heaters:

For Gas Water Heaters:

1. Locate the control knob on your gas water heater, typically found near the bottom of the tank.
2. You should see a dial with markings such as “Low,” “Medium,” and “High,” or it may display temperature degrees.
3. To adjust the temperature, simply turn the dial. For energy efficiency and safety, it’s often recommended that your hot water heater is set around 120 degrees Fahrenheit (48 degrees Celsius). However, some households prefer setting the temperature up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit for higher temperature water.
4. Once adjusted, you may need to relight the pilot light following the instructions specific to your model.
5. Allow a few hours for the water heater to heat water at the new setting before you test the water temperature.

For Electric Water Heaters:

1. For safety, first turn off the power to the water heater from your home’s main circuit breaker.
2. Remove the access panel cover on the side of your electric water heater with a screwdriver. Some models have two panels: an upper and a lower one.
3. Pull back the insulation to reveal the thermostat.
4. Use a flathead screwdriver to adjust the temperature. As with a gas water heater, it’s generally recommended to set it between 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. After you adjust the temperature, replace the insulation and the access panel cover.
6. Restore the power to the water heater at the circuit breaker.
7. Wait a few hours for the water heater to heat water to the new temperature before you test the tap water.

Remember, setting the temperature too high can risk scalding and increase utility bills, so adjust cautiously. And always test the water temperature after adjusting the settings to ensure it’s at a comfortable and safe level.

How to Change Your Hot Water Heater Temperature In 6 Steps

No hot water in house but have cold water ? You certainly have a problem with your water heater. Several things can cause your hot water tank to fail. We’ve put together a list of the most common issues: 9 Reasons Why Your Hot Water Tank Isn’t Working.

Water heater will remain in function even if there’s a small leak as long as the water don’t reach any electronics or satefy. However you should change the water heater immediately is it’s leaking.

Yes, turning the cold water off will stop the leak and reduces chances of water damage. Make sure to turn off power supply to the water heater and drain the tank before replacing it.

Water heater gas leak can be very dangerous. Make sure to turn off gas supply and call a specialist right away.

The main reason for a water heater leak is corrosion. Aggressive water will attack the weakest points inside the tank and will create a leak.

Make sure to change your water heater anode rod every year or install a Corro-Protec anode in order to stop corrosion inside your tank and prevent water heater leaking.

The quickest fix is to get it changed. Honestly, a leaky water heater will be hard to repair and will leak from a different place soon since this normally indicated the end of its service life.

If you want to investigate why your water heater is leaking, visit our blog post :

Water Heater Leaking.

A water heater leaking from the overflow pipe means the temperature and pressure relief valve need to be changed. See our step-by-step guide on how to change the T&P valve on your water heater.

If you notice your water heater leaking from the overflow pipe, it’s usually a clear sign that your temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P valve) needs to be replaced. The T&P valve is an essential safety device that discharges water when the temperature or pressure becomes too high for the tank to handle.

Not to worry, we’ve compiled a straightforward, step-by-step guide to help you changing the T&P valve on your water heater. It’s an important skill to have, as ensuring the proper function of this valve is crucial to the safety and longevity of your water heater.

If you’re in need of a new T&P valve, we’ve got you covered. We’ve conducted thorough research and found the highest quality pressure relief valves available on the market. Check out our top pick for a reliable and effective solution to your overflow leak problem.

With the right tools, parts, and guidance, you’ll have this issue resolved in no time, ensuring your water heater is operating safely and efficiently.

Draining a leaky water heater is normally the right thing to do in order to prevent any water damage in your house. However, if the leak is coming from the drain valve, you need to make sure this will not make it worst.