Why You Should Have Your Water Heater Anode Rod Checked Annually

01/25/2016

Have you ever wondered why your water heater doesn’t rust out and rupture within a couple of years of installation? With the amount of water that the system is exposed to on a daily basis, it would make sense for it to have huge problems with rust throughout its lifespan. Yet, most water heaters don’t actually have much of a problem with rust as long as they’re treated properly. This is primarily because of a part called the “anode rod.” Read on to learn more about the anode rod, and why you should have yours checked at least once a year.

What Is the Anode Rod?

The anode rod is a long metal rod, often comprised of magnesium, aluminum, or zinc forged around a steel wire. The rod is inserted into the water heater tank, and as long as it is in contact with the water it will slowly degrade. The rod degrades because it attracts the ions that normally cause rust in the water heater tank. As long as some of the metal that forms the rod remains, the lining of the water heater tank will not rust. However, this protection is not permanent.

Getting the Rod Checked

Eventually the anode rod will degrade all the way down to the steel wire at its core, at which point it will not be able to protect the water heater tank any longer. If the anode rod is not replaced quickly, the tank will start to rust and weaken. This is why you should have your water heater’s anode rod checked on an annual basis. This will ensure that your water heater tank is always protected from rust.

If you think you may need a new anode rod, call Rooter Man. Our water heater experts serve the entirety of Troy, NY.