Electrolytic Anode

Normally we all would first see any rusting, when a piece of equipment begins to leak water etc. however this means that the damage is already done. When any metal meets something called an electrolyte (this can be water), then, a reaction will take place and cause the metal to break down by producing rust, which as we all know eventually rots away. An Acton Plumber can replace an anode. Nothing has yet been invented that really cures this rusting in our cylinders etc. but there is a rod like piece of metal that is shaped that is fitted in an immersion heater cylinder to halt the rusting process, and this is called an anode. This anode in a way takes the place (not literally) of the cylinders metal shell and rots away instead as it is made from metals such as magnesium and zinc that will disintegrate first reducing the rusting of the cylinder. There is no way to judge the condition of the anode by just looking at your heater, so you must remove it from the cylinder. 1). Isolate the power and with an appropriate sized wrench undo and remove the anode.2). Visually inspect the anode for any degradation at least twice a year, this should give you a good idea of how much life is left. It is a good idea to include this in your maintenance schedule. Acton Plumbers know about anodes. The anodes are available in various shapes and sizes, so you need to know which one fits your cylinder. This information should be on the cylinder body.Replacement:Again isolate the power supply to the immersion heater, next, turn off the cold-water inlet valve on the top of the cylinder. Unscrew the large hexagonal bolt holding the anode in place and then take it out. Fit the new anode in the reverse order to the removal process.Teflon tape used on the threaded fitting should stop any leaks. De-isolate the water and electrical power supply and make a good visual check.