What Is a Water Heater Anode Rod and How Does It Work? Anode rods are a long metal rod, usually made from magnesium, aluminum ...

INDIANAPOLIS — Welcome to this guide on an often overlooked but crucial component of your water heater tank: the anode rod. In my last Home Zone, we discussed the importance of flushing your … ...

: Recently, you wrote about replacing a water heater's drain valve. A friend told us that we should also check the anode rod. Is this worth checking? If so, how do we do that?

Water-heater anodes are typically made of magnesium, and for some water conditions, aluminum. An anode rod is called sacrificial because it corrodes before steel does, saving your water heater's tank.

Water heater manufacturers typically recommend checking the condition of the anode rod once a year. Following the manufacturer's instructions, remove the anode rod and inspect it.

Water heaters are integral to the daily functionality of our homes, affording us the luxury of hot showers, clean laundry, and sanitized dishes. Yet, when they fail, it can disrupt the flow of our ...

Q: Recently, you wrote about replacing a water heater’s drain valve. A friend told us that we should also check the anode rod. Is this worth checking? If so, how do we do that?

In the latest Home Zone, we're delving deeper into water tank maintenance with a focus on the unsung hero of your water heater system, the anode rod.