How Do I Prevent My Pool Heater From Rusting?

rusted hayward heater
I have purchased a home with a chlorine pool and I am replacing the heater. I was told to install a sacrificial in-line zinc anode to help prevent rusting. Do I really need this, or is there something I should add to help the life of my pool and equipment.

Answer:

If you have a salt water pool then a zinc anode is essential. If you have a chlorine feeder or just add chlorine then the anode is not needed – and you will want to keep close track of your water chemistry in either case.

Good luck!