Your water heater provides your home with hot water daily. As one of the most important appliances you have, preventing abrupt system failures should be one of your priorities. One critical component of your water heater is the anode rod.
When the rod breaks down, however, how do you choose a replacement? As the expert in water heater repair in Glen Ellyn, IL, Keeley’s Plumbing shares tips on seeking replacements.
Anode Rods Explained
The anode rod prevents corrosion in your water heater tank. It works by attracting corrosive elements in the water, sacrificing itself to keep the tank intact.
If it’s not replaced in time, corrosion will attack the tank directly, often leading to costly repairs or complete system failure and the eventual need for premature water heater replacement.
Choosing the Right Anode Rod
Different water conditions call for different types of anode rods:
- Magnesium anode rods are highly effective in most situations, providing strong corrosion protection.
- Aluminum-zinc anode rods are often recommended in areas where water creates a sulfur odor (often described as a “rotten egg” smell).
- Powered anode rods offer long-term protection without deterioration, especially valuable for homes with specific water chemistry concerns.
Making the wrong choice can shorten your system’s lifespan. When in doubt, consult an expert provider of water heater services. Anode rods usually require replacement every five years, on average. However, this can vary depending on factors like water quality and usage patterns.
A tankless water heater does not have an anode rod, as it does not store hot water. Instead, it uses a heating element to heat the water as needed. Still, it’s important to keep up with maintenance to remove mineral buildup and ensure efficient operation.
Why Professional Expertise Matters
When you hire Keeley’s Plumbing, we will work to extend the life of your water heater. Our experienced technicians will perform thorough inspections to determine the current condition of your water heater and anode rod. From water heater installation to repair, we will provide you with precise recommendations and use only high-quality replacement parts.
As industry professionals, we stay up to date on the latest technology and manufacturer guidelines. This allows us to address any issues accurately and prevent potential problems before they develop into major failures.
Unsure when your anode rod was last replaced? Keeley’s Plumbing is ready to help. Protect your investment. Call now and schedule a service!