Did you know you may need to service your hot water system? Have you ever heard of a sacrificial anode?
What Is A Sacrificial Anode?
Most people have never heard of the plumbing term sacrificial Anodes, but they have been an essential part of hot water systems for decades.
The sacrificial Anode is part of your hot water system. It is inbuilt device designed to prolong the life of your hot water system. If the ‘sacrificial’ part of the name doesn’t give it away, it has a life span. Your sacrificial Anode will need to be replaced. But how long do they last? Do they need maintenance?
It is easy to forget that, like most things, your hot water system needs regular maintenance. A key factor in your hot water systems maintenance is replacement of the sacrificial Anode.
What Does A Sacrificial Anode Do In My Hot Water System?
The Anode is a magnesium rod that is placed in the center of the electric or gas storage hot water system. It is usually installed from the top of the hot water system.
When water is added to the steel tank an electrochemical reaction occurs. This reaction can cause rust and reduce the life of your hot water system.
This is where the sacrificial Anode comes in. The Anode protects the tank by sacrificing itself. The magnesium of the Anode bonds with the chemicals in today’s water, so that the steel doesn’t rust. This helps prolong the life of the tank, and your hot water system.
How Long Does A Sacrificial Anode Last In My Hot Water System?
Manufacturers recommend replacing your Anode every 5 years. In some areas of Australia, where the water supply is extremely hard, it could be required more frequently
So what will happen if you don’t replace the Anode regularly? The water inside the hot water cylinder will rust the tank, which will lead to the tank splitting and failing. A hot water system changeover is one of the costliest plumbing expenses a household will encounter, so maintenance is key.
Do All Hot Water Systems Have A Sacrificial Anode?
Not all hot water systems have a sacrificial Anode, however they are installed on the most common systems.
Gas or Electric storage hot water systems, the familiar tank you may have outside your home, feature sacrificial Anodes.
Low pressure ceiling hot water systems, gas or electric, don’t generally have sacrificial Anodes.
Need Help With Your Hot Water System?
To discuss replacement of your Anode or any other hot water system maintenance call us today on 0422 902 890 for a free no obligation chat, or email us.
