Do you own a boat? Then you know for sure that anodes are indispensable for a boat. An anode is a small part, but has a very important function. Have you bought a boat for the first time? Then you may not immediately know what this part is and what it does. We explain the function of anodes and which anode you need.
What is a boat anode?
An anode is a small attachment that is attached under the boat or to the tailpiece to keep the boat nice and protected. By placing anodes on important parts of your boat, such as the bottom and tail, you prevent harmful corrosion.
How does an anode work?
An anode protects the underside of the boat against harmful corrosion. Anodes capture the flow between different metals. The boat is not affected, but the anodes themselves are. So they sacrifice themselves, as it were, to protect the boat. That is why anodes are indispensable on a boat.
How long do anodes last?
Anodes must be replaced regularly to continue to perform their work optimally. The rule of thumb is that an anode must be replaced if it is damaged to approximately 80% by corrosion. How long anodes last depends entirely on various circumstances:
- The type of water you are sailing in.
- The type of paint or combination with other materials on the boat.
- The purity of the anode itself.
What kind of boat anodes are there?
Anodes are made of zinc, aluminum or magnesium. Which anode you need depends on the water you are sailing in. If you only sail in salt water, a zinc anode is the only option. An aluminum anode can also sail in salt water, but it wears out much faster in salt water than in fresh water. That is why an aluminum anode is especially suitable for fresh and brackish water. Do you only sail in fresh water? Then a magnesium anode is very suitable.
Which anode do you need for your boat?
Whether you need a zinc, aluminum or magnesium anode depends on the water you are sailing in. But in addition to the type of material, it is good to consider where and how you want to attach the anode. Consider an anode with a strip or a screwable anode. A specific brand may also be important and what you need the anode for.
Anodes at Outboard Occasions
Do you need one or more new anodes? Please contact Outboard Occasions. We can supply anodes to you or install them for you. You can also combine the installation of your anodes with a minor or major maintenance service. This way you can always be sure that everything about your outboard motor is good.
