Segmented anode rod in lowboy

[mr_coffee]

Hi,
I'm about to replace the anode in my lowboy aka short 38 gallon electric water heater with a 4-segment magnesium rod.

Is there a reason to cut it shorter so it dangles, or can I just let the extra length rest on the bottom?

Seems a shame to waste the magnesium by cutting it off. Is there something I'm missing here?

Thanks

 

[johnjh2o]

Cut it. With it laying on the bottom the incoming water may rattle it around, which would be annoying at the least.

 

[mr_coffee]

Thanks for replying. But...

If I try it and it doesn't rattle with shower-force usage, is there any harm it can do?
Is there really enough turbulence in the water heater to make it move around?

It just seems like such a waste.

 

[mr_coffee]

John,
Ended up cutting it as you suggested. Got to thinking about it tapping on the glass liner and decided the waste of material was less important to the longevity of the water heater compared to the risk of the extra anode tapping on the liner starting a crack or pit in the lining = which could start a hole rusting in it.
Thanks for your reply getting me thinking about that, even if you didn't actually say it.

mr_coffee