Ask This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shares some advice on maintaining water heaters

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Richard explains that most tank-type water heaters last for about 8-12 years. However, by changing the anode rod every 2 years, you can make the hot water tank last for as long as 30 years. The rods can be found at home centers.

Cost: $10 and up
Skill Level: Beginner

Shopping List:
Anode rod

Steps:
1. Look for a rating plate on the water heater that will tell when the tank was manufactured and the warranty life. Tanks that have reached the end of their warranty period are more likely to fail.
2. If you’re planning to change to a different style water heater, like going from a tank-style to a tankless, its better to change proactively.
3. Water heaters placement will also help determine when it should be replaced. A water heater in the living area or a finished basement could do more damage if it floods than one in an unfinished basement.
4. By proactively changing the anode rod in a tank style water heater every few years, a tank can be kept in service for many years. If the anode rod isn’t changed in the first few years of the water heater’s life, it may be impossible to remove later.
5. Periodically drain the water heater by attaching a hose to the draw off at the bottom of the tank, turn the water supply off, and then turn the water supply off and on a few times quickly.
6. If you notice a leak on the floor, turn off the water supply, attach a hose to the draw off, and drain the tank below the level of the leak. Call a plumber to replace the water heater.

Resources:
All types of water heaters can be found at home centers and plumbing supply houses.

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Homeowners have a virtual truckload of questions for us on smaller projects, and we're ready to answer. Ask This Old House solves the steady stream of home improvement problems faced by our viewers—and we make house calls! Ask This Old House features some familiar faces from This Old House, including Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and landscape contractor Roger Cook.

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