What does a magnesium anode rod do?

The rod protects the steel walls of the tank by attracting minerals and sediment. The anode rods are made of either magnesium or aluminum. Magnesium is especially effective because of its ability to give electrons more freely than aluminum anodes. The rod pulls out sediment from the tank.

How long does a magnesium anode rod last?

about three to five years
When there’s no sacrificial metal left on the anode rod, your water heater tank can rust out, eventually causing it to burst. Anode rods generally can last about three to five years but it really depends mostly on the quality of your water and how much water travels through your water heater.

How often should you change anode rod?

Most water heater manufacturers will recommend inspecting the condition of the sacrificial anode every one (1) to three (3) years and replacing it when it has been consumed more than 50%. This is especially true if you have hard water or use a water softener.

How often should I change anode rod?

Is it too late to replace anode rod?

Anode rods are made of either magnesium or an aluminum-zinc alloy. The downside is that if you wait too long to replace the anode rod, it may be too late. If more than five years has passed, it may be too late to save the water heater.

Can an anode rod be too long?

Yes, you can cut your sacrificial anode rod, whether it is magnesium or aluminum, to replace it. Only 12 inches long, this anode is made to last over 20 years.

How big is the magnesium anode rod in a water heater?

That means Magnesium anode rod is more effective at keeping the water tank from corroding. FLEXIBLE DESIGN FOR TIGHT AREAS: This 44 Inch-long magnesium rod is hinged into four segments, less than 12 Inches long each, so it is easy to place it into the tight areas of water heaters.

Which is better magnesium or aluminum anode rods?

ADVANTAGES OF MAGNESIUM ANODE RODS COMPARED TO ALUMINUM RODS: The metallic activity of Magnesium anode rod is stronger than that of Aluminum anode rod. That means Magnesium anode rod is more effective at keeping the water tank from corroding.

Which is the least expensive hot water anode rod?

Least expensive of the hot water outlet styles, this particular anode rod has a 5″ built-in dielectric nipple (no ball or seat) allowing less water restriction than a heat trap nipple. Pricing discounts will show up in your shopping cart.

How big is anode rod for Farwest corrosion control?

Other imp. Anode rods are available in a number of standard diameters (see below) and rods can be produced up to 25 feet in length. A galvanized steel core is embedded lengthwise in the center of the anode rod allowing a reliable electrical connection to the anode rod.