Discolored water might seem like a bad sign, particularly when accompanied by a foul odor. Often, this is from minerals in the water heater accumulating. Likewise, it may be degraded anode rod. Even so, the fix isn’t difficult. If you’re up for a small challenge, you can fix it.
Here are the steps:
- Turn off power to the water heater
- Drain water heater
- Attach a garden hose to a valve at the bottom
- Turn the valve to release water and drain
- Look for hexagonal head of the anode rod
- Use an air compressor, 1-1/16-inch socket, and ½-inch drive impact wrench and loosen the rod
- Remove the rest of the rod by hand
- Replace the anode rod
It may take a little work, but it’s worth it to fix your water quality.