Problems with your water heater can be inconvenient and uncomfortable. Taking a shower, washing your hands, and even doing the dishes with cold water can be frustrating. Performing regular plumbing repairs and maintenance can avoid these disruptions to your daily routine. Your heater’s anode rod is the key to keeping your water heater operating efficiently, so it’s helpful to understand its purpose and how to keep it maintained.

Why the Water Heater Anode Rod Is Important

Your anode rod protects the tank of your heater from corrosion and prevents the need for expensive repairs. The tank is made out of materials that are affected by the oxygen, calcium, and magnesium found in potable water, but the anode rod counteracts these elements.

Inside the rod is a steel wire core that’s surrounded by aluminum, magnesium, or zinc. These metals absorb the corrosion that the water causes through a process called electrolysis. As they erode, the metals release electrons, which prevent other elements of the tank from corroding.

Maintaining Your Anode Rod

Your anode rod wears down in 3 to 5 years naturally, but a variety of factors can affect the rate at which it corrodes. Acidic water, for example, causes the metal to decay faster. 

If you have hard water, you should avoid anode rods made of magnesium or aluminum because it accelerates the process. Higher temperatures can also increase the rate of corrosion.

You should understand the signs of a corroded rod so you can call your plumber for a replacement. Rust on the tank indicates that your rod has stopped working entirely. Also, calcium carbonate can visibly build up on the rod and needs to be brushed away. This buildup looks like a white, bumpy chalk on the metal.

A healthy anode rod should protect the home from bacteria in the water. If you notice a rotten odor when you run the water, the rod has aged excessively and needs to be replaced.

 

For more help maintaining your home’s water heater, contact the professional plumbers at Pelner-Williams Plumbing & Heating in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Their team has years of experience serving homeowners throughout south-central Wisconsin, and they’ll perform a thorough inspection of your plumbing fixtures to diagnose any potential issues. They have the tools and training needed to provide fast and reliable plumbing repairs to keep your system operating efficiently. Schedule a consultation by calling (715) 424-7800 or learn more about their services online.