If you own a water heater, there’s one small but essential part you can’t afford to ignore—the anode rod. This hidden component prevents rust and corrosion, significantly extending the life of your water heater.
Most homeowners never check their anode rod, which can lead to premature water heater failure, leaks, and expensive replacements. But with regular maintenance, you can avoid costly plumbing repairs and keep your water heater running efficiently for years.
At LGE Prime Plumbing, we help homeowners in Chula Vista, Bonita, National City, and surrounding San Diego areas maintain their water heaters and prevent unnecessary breakdowns. Read on to learn how an anode rod protects your system and when it’s time for a replacement.
The anode rod is a sacrificial metal rod inside your tank-style water heater. It is usually made of magnesium, aluminum, or zinc, and its sole purpose is to attract corrosive elements in the water so they don’t eat away at the metal tank itself.
Without an anode rod, your water heater’s inner lining is exposed to constant corrosion, leading to:
✔️ Rusty water
✔️ Leaks and tank failure
✔️ Expensive water heater replacements
Regularly checking and replacing your anode rod can add years to your water heater’s life and save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in replacement costs.
Anode rods typically last 2-5 years, depending on several factors:
🔹 Water quality – Hard water causes faster corrosion
🔹 Water usage – More hot water usage = quicker wear
🔹 Tank material – Some high-quality tanks have longer-lasting anode rods
🔹 Maintenance habits – Regular inspections extend lifespan
Pro Tip: If your water heater is over 3 years old and has never had an anode rod inspection, it’s time to check it!
If you notice any of these warning signs, your water heater’s anode rod may need attention:
✅ Metallic or rotten egg smell in hot water
✅ Rusty or discolored water
✅ Popping or rumbling noises coming from the water heater
✅ A sudden drop in hot water efficiency
✅ Water heater over 5 years old without maintenance
Ignoring these signs could result in corrosion inside your tank, leading to expensive repairs or a full replacement.
While some homeowners attempt a DIY anode rod replacement, it requires turning off the water supply, draining the tank, and using specialized tools.
For safety and efficiency, it’s best to have a licensed plumber handle the inspection and replacement.
At LGE Prime Plumbing, we provide comprehensive water heater maintenance, including:
✔️ Anode rod inspections & replacements
✔️ Water heater flushes to remove sediment buildup
✔️ Leak detection & emergency repairs
By scheduling routine maintenance, you can extend the life of your water heater and avoid unexpected failures.
If your water heater is 3+ years old and hasn’t been checked, now is the time to act.
At LGE Prime Plumbing, we know that a reliable water heater is essential for your home. Whether it’s for hot showers, clean dishes, or laundry, you depend on your water heater every day. That’s why we offer professional, hassle-free maintenance to help extend its lifespan and keep it running efficiently.
With over a decade of experience serving Chula Vista, Bonita, National City, and surrounding San Diego areas, we’ve built a reputation for quality work, honest service, and reliable plumbing solutions. Our licensed plumbers are trained to handle all aspects of water heater maintenance, repairs, and installations—so you can rest easy knowing your home is in good hands.
We don’t just fix problems—we help prevent them. Our water heater maintenance service includes:
✔️ Anode rod inspections & replacements to prevent rust and corrosion
✔️ Water heater flushing to remove sediment buildup that can cause damage
✔️ Leak detection to catch small issues before they become expensive repairs
✔️ Pressure & temperature safety checks to ensure your unit operates safely
✔️ Gas line & venting inspections for gas water heaters to prevent hazards
We know that plumbing problems don’t wait, and neither should you. Our team offers:
✔️ Same-day and next-day appointments for urgent issues
✔️ Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
✔️ Friendly, knowledgeable plumbers who respect your home and time
✔️ Warranties on our work, so you can feel confident in our service
Regular anode rod inspections and preventative maintenance can help your water heater last years longer, saving you from costly emergency repairs or premature replacement. Instead of waiting until your water heater fails unexpectedly, let LGE Prime Plumbing help you stay ahead of issues and keep your hot water flowing.
