FAQ

Powered Anode Rods

What is a powered anode?
If the water heater is properly drained and empty after being turned off, the device can safely be turned off by unplugging it from the outlet. The device cannot properly function in an empty tank and the red LED will turn on indicating an error. If you leave the water heater filled with water, keep the S.O.S. PROTECT ® unit plugged in to prevent corrosion and smell accumulation.
Is it possible to use S.O.S. PROTECT ® even if I have a water softener installed?
Yes. It is actually highly recommended to use a powered anode if there is a water softener installed in your water supply. The powerful S.O.S. PROTECT ® system adapts to any water condition, providing optimal foul smell removal and corrosion protection.

Health

Are aluminum anodes safe?
There is no clear consensus on whether or not aluminum anodes are safe. However, there have been several studies which indicate that aluminum could play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Because aluminum anodes gradually dissolve over time, it is reasonable to assume that aluminum particles will eventually make their way in your hot water. Even if you don’t directly consume the water, there is a chance you are still exposed to it when you bathe or shower. However, there are better solutions, such as our S.O.S. PROTECT ® powered anode system!
Are powered anode rods safe?

Yes. Powered anode rods are safe for use in water heaters. Their design and functionality are carefully engineered to ensure both safety and effectiveness.

A concern people may have is the introduction of electrical currents into water. This is not an issue as the amount of current used by powered anode rods is minimal and safe. The small current prevents the corrosive reaction that leads to rust in the water tank and is also present with a sacrificial anode.

Unlike sacrificial anodes that gradually break down due to electrochemical processes, powered anodes do not decompose. This means there is no material breakdown that could affect water quality or system safety.

Is electrical current in a water tank safe?

Yes, our use of electrical current is safe. We implement Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) for our anode rods, which relies on a low-voltage DC power source to protect the water heater from corrosion.

ICCP is a widely recognized method for preventing corrosion in various metal structures submerged in water, such as sea vessels, piers and harbors, and underground and underwater pipelines.

Installation

Can I install S.O.S. PROTECT ® on an older water heater?

Yes. Our powered anode system can be installed in a used water heater.

Can I use S.O.S. PROTECT ® on a fiberglass tank?
No, there is no reason for corrosion protection on fiberglass. S.O.S. PROTECT ® Powered Anodes are designed for use only on enameled steel tanks.
Can I use S.O.S. PROTECT ® on a stainless steel water heater?
Unfortunately no, S.O.S. PROTECT ® is for use on enameled steel water heaters only.
Is there a recommended torque for the anode during install?

The recommended torque varies from water heater to water heater. Be sure that the screw is “water tight.”

What happens if my water heater has two magnesium anodes? Can one of them be left inside the tank?

No. Extra magnesium anodes must be removed from the tank in order for the electronics to function properly. If your tank has a second anode, remove it and cover the threaded socket with a blind plug.

Maintenance

Should I unplug the device if the water heater is turned off for a long period of time (ex: at a vacation home)
If the water heater is properly drained and empty after being turned off, the device can safely be turned off by unplugging it from the outlet. The device cannot properly function in an empty tank and the red LED will turn on indicating an error. If you leave the water heater filled with water, keep the S.O.S. PROTECT ® unit plugged in to prevent corrosion and smell accumulation.
How much power does the device consume annually?
Exact power consumption varies based on tank size, water quality, and other parameters. The maximum power consumption is under 5 kWh per year. With that in mind, the total cost to run the S.O.S. PROTECT ® for 1 calendar year is approximately $1.

Potentiostat (Powered Anode Controller)

Is the potentiostat certified?

Yes, our potentiostats are CSA Certified.

US Standards

Canada   

What do I do if my LED is red?

The LED being red is an indication of some sort of malfunction. Here is a list of possible causes:

  • Potentiostat malfunction
  • Storage water heater not completely filled
  • Connection between potentiostat and anode or storage water heater defective
  • Magnesium anode present/not removed
  • Corrosion protection too low or not detected
  • Insufficient ground contact

Anode Rod

Can you clean your anode rod?
No, you cannot clean your anode rod in your water heater. However, it is important to inspect the sacrificial anode rod every 1-3 years and replace it after more than half of its wear and tear to avoid corrosion of your tank. However using S.O.S. PROTECT ®, you will protect your tank indefinitely without the need for regular anode maintenance.
How do I remove the bad smell from my hot water?
You can get rid of the unpleasant smell in your hot water by removing the magnesium anode rod, which reacts with sulfate reducing bacteria in the water. However, doing this removes the only protection your water heater has against rust. You can replace it with an aluminum rod, which requires more maintenance, or choose our S.O.S. PROTECT ® impressed current anode, which removes bad odor and provides 20 years of protection! What is sulfate reducing bacteria? Sulfate reducing bacteria are a group of specialized microorganisms that use sulfate and hydrogen present in the water to breathe, converting it to hydrogen sulfide. (While sulphate is available in most domestic water, corroding anodes give a constant supply of hydrogen.) This process is responsible for the rotten egg smell often experienced in hot water tanks. These bacteria are present almost everywhere and thrive in environments low in oxygen. Is sulfate reducing bacteria dangerous? Sulfate reducing bacteria are generally not dangerous to humans, they actually are part of a healthy human gut. They constantly produce hydrogen sulfide though which can in large concentration be harmful. (A hot water tank that is frequently used will not produce harmful concentrations.)
Is the anode rod necessary?

Yes, the anode rod is essential. The anode rod safeguards your water heater from corrosion and helps prolong its lifespan.

What is an impressed current anode?

An impressed current anode uses an external power source known as a “potentiostat” to develop a high potential difference between the enameled tank surface to be protected (cathode) and the titanium anode.

Impressed current anodes are less likely to be attacked by corrosion due to their inert nature. The external DC power source is used to generate the electric current and this current provides cathodic protection to the structure.

Magnesium vs Aluminum anodes
It is best to choose an S.O.S. PROTECT ® impressed current anode so you are able to extend the life of your water heater and get rid of the rotten egg smell. For sacrificial anodes, we recommend using a magnesium anode, as aluminum residues found in the water could be harmful.

Anode Rod Location

Where is my anode rod located?

When trying to find the location of your anode rod on the water heater, it is best to consult your manufacturer’s website.

General Electric

Giant

Kenmore

Reliance

Rheem

Richmond

Ruud

State

Whirlpool

Bradford White

Why is My Water Heater Leaking?

Possible Causes
  • Corroded tank
  • Loose or damaged drain valve
  • Faulty temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P Valve)
  • Leaking inlet/outlet connections
  • Cracked tank
  • Damaged or faulty heater element gasket
  • Loose or broken hose connections
  • Excessive water pressure
  • Age of the water heater
  • Condensation

Common Water Heater Problems

Functional Problems
  • You turn on the tap and only get cold water
  • Water pooling around water heater
  • Water from heater has a foul smell
  • Water heater making unusual loud noises
Potential Causes
  • Sediment buildup
  • Corrosive fumes for gas water heaters
  • Faulty thermostats
  • Gas supply issues
  • Electrical issues
  • Rust issues
  • Leaking tank

Get Protected!

Don’t settle for less when it comes to water quality and appliance longevity. Contact us today to discover how our cutting-edge advanced powered anode rods can transform your water heating experience.

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