The first perform of this part is to guard a water heater from corrosion. It achieves this by sacrificing itself; the metallic comprising the rod corrodes earlier than the tank lining does. This sacrificial motion prevents the tank itself from rusting and leaking, considerably extending the lifespan of the equipment. As an example, in areas with extremely corrosive water, the part deteriorates extra quickly, indicating its protecting function is actively engaged.
The advantage of this proactive corrosion prevention is substantial. Changing a water heater is a substantial expense. By actively mitigating corrosive injury, this easy system considerably reduces the probability of untimely tank failure, leading to appreciable value financial savings for the home-owner over the long run. Initially launched as a preventative measure in opposition to early tank deterioration, it turned a typical function in water heaters as a result of its confirmed efficacy in preserving the integrity of the equipment.