I ordered this and it arrived a couple of days later. I got it installed over a week ago. We are on well water (with water softener) and the hot water tank (Rheem, 2009 according to prev owner), not long after we took possession of the house, started reeking of rotten eggs. I did research on this problem and it seems that the magnesium anode rod that is Rheem's OEM choice for the hot water tank is reacting with bacteria in the well water. Due to the black slime that was accumulating on the magnesium anode, and the smell, I deduced that we have sulfur bacteria in our well water. Once choice was to remove the anode rod, but that would lead to premature tank or heating element failure. The other choice is to replace the magnesium rod with a rod of a different metal - in this case, aluminum. A water heater can provide an ideal environment for the conversion of sulfate to hydrogen sulfide gas. The water heater can produce hydrogen sulfide gas in two ways - creating a warm environment where sulfur bacteria can live, and sustaining a reaction between sulfate in the water and the water heater anode. The anode is 1/2 to 3/4 inches in diameter and 30 to 40 inches long.
If the smell is only from the hot water faucet the problem is likely to be in the water heater. This was our problem.
As we have a Rheem 50 gal tank, and this is a Rheem anode rode, I am not concerned about the 'size' of the anode rod. The magnesium rod is larger because it can be eaten away faster; the aluminum rod, while providing corrosion resistance, does not wear as fast, hence it does not need to be as large. In any case, once you replace an anode, its much easier to periodically check the condition of it. I was happy with the size and it appears to be working ok. I flushed the tank when I installed the aluminum anode and there is no smell to the water now. Very happy with this anode rod.
Shut off the cold inlet to the heater; also shut off power (a gas water heater will seldom have this sort of issue). Then drain a few gallons of water from the tap at the bottom of the tank.
I had to obtain a 1 1/16 inch half-inch drive socket to remove the anode rod plug. You will have to remove the plastic plug on top of the heater, then dig out the foam around the anode plug. If your heater is not attached to the ground or wall, you will need a helper to HOLD the heater while you remove the anode rod bolt/plug. I suggest a long breaker bar for this task. And you will need some teflon tape to install the new anode rod. Otherwise, it's a simple procedure. Be sure to close the bottom tap, OPEN the cold water inlet, and restore power to your tank. You also may want to take the opportunity when the tank is open to add some bleach as well to aid in removing the poopy smell.
| Item Weight | 1 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Rheem |
| Part Number | AP12938 |
| Item Weight | 1 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 0.63 x 0.63 x 42 inches |
| Item model number | AP12938 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Finish | White |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Included Components | WATER HTR ANODE ROD |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
