Why anode in water heater

This includes all electric and gas models. Skip to content What is a Hot Water Anode? Share On:. What type of water heaters have anodes? Book a service. First Name. Last Name. Email Address. Contact Phone Number. Example of a Bad Anode Rod. Hot Water Heater Installation. You might also like. A skilled plumber like Duncan Plumbing are specially licensed by the Railroad commission to work on gas. Learn what signs indicate a possible gas leak. Plumbing Maintenance for the Fall Season. Chilly temperatures in fall serve as a gentle reminder of the harsher winter months ahead, so make sure to keep up with house plumbing basics so you're not unprepared for the dangers associated with freezing temperatures.

Don't Fear a Failed Water Heater. Learn what the symptoms of a water heater that is about to fail. Book a Service Today Name. Service Type Option 1 Option 2 Option 3. Thank you for contacting us. We will get back to you as soon as possible. Oops, there was an error sending your message. Please try again later. Both magnesium and aluminum are less-noble metals, meaning they corrode rust quickly in water. The chemical reaction for rusting begins by oxidation, which is when iron loses two of its electrons to the oxygen found in the tank.

When you place a magnesium or aluminum rod into water, this also occurs, just much faster. The bonds between the molecules of magnesium and aluminum give up their electrons faster than the bonds in steel or iron. Thus, when you place an aluminum or magnesium anode rod into an iron or steel tank of water, the oxygen in the equation takes the two electrons of the anode rod instead of the tank, as they gave them up quicker. This will rust the anode rod, but not the tank itself.

Unfortunately, a sacrificial anode rod is called that for a reason. It is sacrificing itself to save the lining of the tank. Not sure how old your water heater is? Check out this article. However, if the water heater fails from normal wear and tear, a home appliance warranty will cover it — all you pay is a service call fee for repairs or a replacement!