Alum v Mag

[CUFFS054]

Went to order a new anode for my Suburban water heater. Found out I have a choice between aluminium and magnesium but no where can I find which is correct/better. Price is not much different. Can anyone give some idea?

[SAD]

Magnesium will burn better should you get bored!!!

[Festus2]

CUFFS054 -

While both will work, magnesium is a better choice for fresh water applications. Aluminium is often favoured by boaters for use in salt water as a sacrificial component.
Because magnesium is also higher on the Galvanic scale, it produces a better "connection" between anode and cathode.

There is also some concern about the health risk of aluminium but since you are not likely drinking water from your hot water tank (making coffee ???) the hazard may not be an issue for most people.

Keep in mind that magnesium rods will probably not last as long as aluminium ones but that could be a good thing in that it is doing its job if it is breaking down faster!

I'd probably go with the magnesium one if that is what came with the Suburban.

[CUFFS054]

SAD, right you are, just harder to put out! Mag it is. Thanks all.