Why æther Heat Pumps Last Longer: The
Power of Two Anodes
When it comes to choosing a heat pump hot water system, you want something that lasts. After all, no one enjoys surprise cold showers or unexpected repair bills.
One of the most important—but often overlooked—features that determines the lifespan of your hot water system is something called an anode.
Don’t worry if you’ve never heard of it. In this blog, we’ll explain what an anode is, why it’s important, and why æther heat pumps are designed with not one, but TWO types of anodes—a major reason our systems are built to last longer than most.
What Is an Anode, and What Does It Do?
Think of your hot water tank like a suit of armor that protects your water from the outside world. But inside that armor, there’s a hidden enemy: corrosion. Over time, water (especially hard or mineral-rich water) can cause the inside of the tank to rust.
This is where anodes come in.
An anode is like a “bodyguard” for your tank. It sacrifices itself to protect the metal of the tank from rusting. That’s why it’s often called a “sacrificial anode”.
Why Heat Pump Hot Water Systems Use Anodes
Most hot water systems, including heat pumps, use a magnesium rod anode. This rod sits inside the tank and gradually breaks down over time. As long as it’s doing its job, your tank stays in good shape.
But here’s the catch: once that magnesium rod is completely used up, your tank has no protection left. If it’s not replaced in time (usually every 3 years), your tank becomes vulnerable to corrosion, which can lead to leaks and expensive repairs—or worse, a full replacement.
How æther Heat Pumps Are Different: Dual Anode Protection
Most systems rely on just one sacrificial anode.
But æther heat pumps don’t.
All æther units are built with dual protection:
1. A physical magnesium rod (the traditional sacrificial anode).
2. An electronic anode—a smart, non-consumable component that provides continuous protection without ever needing to be replaced.
Why Is This Better?
Imagine having both a guard dog and a home security system. One is actively fighting off intruders, and the other is always watching, alerting, and backing things up. That’s what æther’s dual-anode system does for your tank.
Here’s what it means for you:
- Longer lifespan for your hot water tank.
- Less maintenance—instead of replacing the magnesium rod every 3 years, you can safely wait around 5 years.
- Peace of mind knowing your tank is protected by both an active and passive defense system.
Why It Matters to You as a Customer
If you’re investing in a heat pump hot water system, you want one that:
- Lasts longer
- Requires fewer maintenance visits
- Gives you better value for money
By choosing æther heat pumps with dual-anode protection, you’re getting all of that—and more.
A Hidden Hero You’ll Be Glad You Have
You might never see the anode working inside your heat pump. But rest assured, it’s working hard every single day to protect your system.
And with two types of anodes working together, æther heat pumps go above and beyond standard protection.
When you’re comparing heat pump systems, ask this question: Does it have dual anodes?
If it doesn’t—you know what to do. 😉
Choose Smarter. Choose Stronger. Choose æther.
Ready to upgrade to a heat pump that’s built for Australian conditions and backed by smart, long-lasting protection? Get in touch with us today and we’ll connect you with trusted local installers.