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

A water heater anode rod is one of the most important parts of a standard hot water heater. But what exactly do they do? This article answers that question.

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 … ...

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?

The anode rod sits inside a water heater and helps prevent corrosion. It needs to be replaced every three to five years, or more frequently if a high rate of corrosion is discovered.

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.

Powered rods are the next advancement in anode rods because they produce the ions needed to protect the tank instead of sacrificing the rod.

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.

: 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?