A magnesium anode protects the inner surface of the heater tank against corrosion and the heating element against limescale buildup, reducing its density and facilitating tank cleaning. The magnesium anode is installed by manufacturers in both dry and wet heating element tanks, which provides corrosion protection not only for the heating element, but also for the internal surface of the tank.

As most water heaters are made of metal, their interaction with water cannot be avoided. This means that corrosion cannot be avoided because tap water contains dissolved oxygen, which promotes corrosion. As the water in the tank heats up, the oxygen is actively released from the water and reacts with the metal, destroying the tank walls of the water heater.

To prevent corrosion, the magnesium anode must be inspected regularly and replaced if the anode is even partially destroyed. For more information on inspection and replacement of the magnesium anode, refer to the tank’s data sheet or the installation and operating instructions.