I follow the instructions in the manual and change the anode rod as recommended. We have real hard water, so the recommendation is to use an aluminum anode rod and change as necessary. The original was magnesium and was entirely eaten up in 3 years. The purpose of the anode rod is to have the minerals work on the anode rod instead of the tank and heating elements.
The anode rod was replaced by an aluminum rod 2 years ago, so I ordered a new aluminum rod from Home Depot.com for $20+ because they don't stock them in the stores. Going to change out the present rod and try to extend the life of the tank, which is whole lot cheaper than buying a new water heater.
The anode rod was replaced by an aluminum rod 2 years ago, so I ordered a new aluminum rod from Home Depot.com for $20+ because they don't stock them in the stores. Going to change out the present rod and try to extend the life of the tank, which is whole lot cheaper than buying a new water heater.