Home > FAQ > Should I use aluminum anodes or zinc anodes?

I hear a lot about aluminum anodes; should I use aluminum anodes or zinc anodes?

The answer depends on your application. While aluminum anodes have a greater electrical potential to absorb corrosion (up to 50% more), our hand-poured mil-spec zinc anodes consistently outperform aluminum anodes in salt water. Our zinc anodes dissolve more evenly and completely; while typical aluminum anodes erode unevenly with visible "craters". Often times, aluminum anodes will develop soft white or grayish surfaces which tend to prohibit the anode from dissolving completely.

*Please note that some engine manufacturers require you to use aluminum anodes if you are still within your warranty period.



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  1. What are zinc anodes?
  2. What kind of zinc does B&S use?
  3. There's a lot of emphasis on "hand-poured" zinc anodes on your website. Why does B&S Marine Anodes hand pour their zincs? How are other zincs made?
  4. How often should you change your anodes?
  5. Sometimes, mid-season my zincs are gone. Did they fall off?