Anybody here a plumber? Need some info on water heater anode

I have a 50 gallon electric water heater and I want to replace the anode rod. However I don’t know what will fit and there are too many choices on Amazon.

It is a GE
Serial no GE A331308585
Model no GE50M06AAG
Manufactured Aug 2013
It stands 46” tall.

I have the manual, but it does not list a part number for the anode.

I appreciate the help.

 

Call Johnstone or Grainger

 

Paging @15whtrd

 

Your best bet is to go down to your local plumbing supply with your part number and serial number. Compare their price and take a snapshot of the part number they give you. You might be able to find it on Amazon. I hate ordering parts online if it isn’t a sure thing. At least at the plumbing supply, if it’s the wrong one, you can return it. Sorry I’m not more help, but this is the way I’d do it. It never paid for me too order parts like that, as I need them immediately.

 

Thanks all. I don’t have a plumbing parts store nearby other than the 2 big box stores. I’ll find a plumbing supply store and give them a call, then make a trip there to buy. I don’t mind buying locally and paying a little more, it’s just that there aren’t any conveniently nearby.

 

Really any anode rod with thread size 3/4" NPT you should be fine with. Also, depends on your clearance to the ceiling. You can cut it if necessary or go with the ones that are separate sections and connected.This is an option Rheem Magnesium SP11524C (solid piece) or Rheem PROTECH Model # SP8371B (sectioned)

 

Thanks, I’ll look at those. I know absolutely nothing about plumbing so I wasn’t even sure if the fittings are standard size and the owners manual doesn’t state it either.

 

Learn something new every day. In my over 20 years of plumbing, I’ve only replaced a handful of anode rods. I usually show up when the water heater is dead.

 

Question for you- what’s the difference between reisistored and non-resistored rods?

Would this one be a better choice?

$54 Rheem SP11526C R-Tech Magnesium Anode Rod

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009AXFTRW/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_3?smid=A29YHE8OKANI0B&psc=1

 

Rheem claims resistored rods will last longer as the resistor slows down/regulates the electrical current produced as the anode is broken down. It is a Rheem thing as they have the patent.

The link you sent should work for you as well.

 

Agreed, hardly anyone knows these days there is a anode rod in them meant to corrode instead of the tank. Some manufacturers give the option of 2 rods in one tank on a fresh swap out and it's covered under warranty for 10 years instead of 7 with one rod. I find it's few and far between where people are looking to replace the anode rod. Like you said, most people don't maintain their water heaters like the OP is, they just wait for it to go out or leak and replace with new. Sometimes you can replace the thermocouple and get some more life out of it, but most people just opt to replace the entire unit...

 

Thanks very much. I’ll buy the one with the resistor.