An anode rod is a sacrificial component in water heaters that prevents internal corrosion by drawing corrosive elements into the water. They are made of aluminum or magnesium and should be checked annually. Homeowners can replace them when they deteriorate to prevent damage to the tank.
An anode rod is a component of a water heater that helps prevent internal corrosion. The rod, often called a sacrificial anode rod, draws corrosive elements into the water and allows them to dissolve it. This slows down the corrosion of the tank lining. Nearly all water heaters have rods, although some smaller tanks, such as RV water heaters, may not. Homeowners can replace the anode rods when they start to deteriorate.
When different types of metal are exposed to each other, there is usually an electric current flow between the metals. Since water heaters have various metals, such as copper piping, steel tank walls, and brass fittings, they are subject to erosion from the electrochemical reaction. The anode rods are made of aluminum, magnesium or a combination of metals. The sacrificial metal is wrapped around a steel wire or thin rod. In a cathodic protection action, the sacrificial metal allows the electrochemical reaction to attach it instead of the essential parts of the water heater.
Aluminum anode rods are very effective in hard water areas. Some people are concerned about the adverse health effects of aluminum; therefore, experts advise people not to use water from a hot water tank for drinking or cooking. The owner’s manual usually lists the type of barrel the manufacturer uses. Sometimes homeowners smell a sulfuric, or rotten egg, smell from the hot water. Often installing an aluminum zinc anode rod will dissipate the odor.
Magnesium bars are the most common type. Where there is hard water, they are not as effective as aluminum rods. In general, there are no known health problems with magnesium rods.
Experts suggest that homeowners check the anode rod annually or every two years. Usually a joint will last five years, but many factors can change that. The quality of the water and the amount of water used are two main factors. Perhaps the most important factor is softened water. The salts in the water create a higher electrochemical reaction and dissolve the anode rod at an accelerated rate.
The anode rod is screwed into the top of the water heater. A homeowner can do the inspection himself, following the instructions in the owner’s manual, or hire a plumber. If the rod shows exposed steel or has a calcium carbonate cover, the homeowner should replace it. If a corroded rod breaks off in a tank, it will fall to the bottom and could damage the inside walls of the tank. This usually drastically reduces the life of the water heater.
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