This Lochinvar Anode Rod is a crucial component designed to protect your water heater from the corrosive effects of water. It is made from magnesium, a metal that reacts with the electrolytes in water more readily than the steel of the tank, thereby preventing rust and prolonging the lifespan of your water heater. The rod measures 0.840 inches in diameter and 44.375 inches in length, making it suitable for use in a wide range of Lochinvar residential and commercial water heaters. It features a hex head for easy installation and removal, and its threaded connection ensures a secure fit within the tank. The product's primary function is to sacrifice itself by corroding before other components do, hence its name "anode," which refers to the electrode through which current flows into a polarized electrical device.