Sacrificial anode rods are an essential component in tank-style water heaters. You can screw them into the top of the tank so that they protrude into the water stored inside. These rods help add to the tank’s longevity and make sure it keeps working.
A sacrificial anode rod possesses a lower, negative electrochemical potential and attracts any particles of limestone, iron, or other minerals that may be present in the water. These minerals would typically cause the tank to corrode over time. However, when you add an anode rod, the minerals corrode the rod instead. This is why it is called a “sacrificial anode rod”: it sacrifices itself in order to extend the water heater’s life.
It’s easy to take our water heaters for granted, despite them being one of the appliances that we rely on the most (can you imagine bathing without hot water?)
If they gave trophies to home appliances, water heaters would be winning one every year (and we’re not talking about the obligatory trophies they give to all the kids on the team). Nearly every appliance in your home relies on the water heater. If the sink gets clogged, sure, you might not be able to use your sink for the day. But if something happens to the water heater? The sink, the washer, and the shower are out of commission (unless you like freezing showers).
People tend to worry about the strain their heaters are put under during the winter, and their air conditioners during the summer. Very few worry too much about their water heaters, though. That’s unfortunate, because though water heaters are designed to be quite tough, they are not invincible.
As we move deeper into the fall season, now is the time to take stock of your home and see what needs to be done to prepare it for the winter. Part of those preparations might include installing a new system in your home, like a water heater. Water heaters are designed to last for quite a long time, especially if they are properly taken care of. No system lasts forever, though. Sooner or later, you’re going to need your replace your system. If you aren’t sure whether or not your water heater needs to be replaced, there are a number of signs to look for. 
It can be more than a little frustrating for major home systems, especially something like a water heater. There are quite a few options available on the market today, and it can be more than a little daunting finding the right system for your needs. The more knowledge you have about the various systems on the market, though, the better you’ll be able to make a decision. 