Do you use a tank water heater in order to heat water for use throughout your home? If so, you have an anode rod in that water storage tank, and it serves a vital purpose in there. You may not know the component by name, but it is important that you familiarize yourself with it and its operation. After all, your anode rod is going to have to be replaced eventually, and you need to keep its condition in mind. Before we get ahead of ourselves, though, read the following post to learn more about what your anode rod does for your water heater in Windsor, CO.
Preventing Rust Via Self Sacrifice
Not to make an inanimate object sound too heroic, but there is good reason as to why anode rods are often called “sacrificial anodes.” You see, anode rods are composed of either aluminum or magnesium, generally. These materials actually serve to attract the corrosive elements in the water within the hot water tank that your water heater uses. Why would they do this?
As you probably know, steel will rust if exposed to water and oxygen for a period of time. For many reasons, most modern hot water storage tanks are made of steel. As a first defense against rusting, they are lined with glass. Over time and due to high temperature exposure, that glass will likely crack. The anode rod is the next line of defense.
By sacrificing itself for the good of the steel tank, the anode rod is able to protect your water heater as it allows itself to rust and corrode away. Eventually, that rod will need to be replaced, as it will continue to corrode until there is pretty much nothing left. We are happy to ensure the proper operation of every component in your water heater.
Schedule service with the professionals here at Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning.