Problems with Water Heater

[CharlieTR]

This is really starting to be a drag!

In the early spring of last year my water heater started a lslow leak.
I repaced it myself with a smaller tank from the local hardware store.
Just a reagular brand I guess.

After about 6 months of use, I noticed the only the hot water smelled like rotten eggs.
I never encountered this before.
I googled and found it is a bacteria that is attracted to the hydrogen sulphur in the water and mercury anodes in the tank, that prevent corrosion. The page advised to open all hot water taps and drain the tank.
I have been doing that and it would last a week or two, then drain again.
Now it comes back after a day or the same day.

I guess I just need a new tank without those type of anodes???

Thanks,
Chuck

[kenmac]

Haven't heard of mercury anode rods ? new to me & I've been doing this a long time. The ones I install have magnesium anode rods like this 1

Reliance 9001829005 32-Inch Magnesium Water Heater Anode Rod - Amazon.com

[Tig]

I think magnesium rods are usually associated with the sulphur smell. The anode rod might (should) be removable. Contact the manufacturer and ask if a zinc or aluminum anode rod would be ok to protect the tank.

[sdkubota]

You need better water.