How many gallons of water should be soaked into the backfill for anodes during installation?

The installation of anodes during UST installation is a critical step in ensuring the effectiveness of cathodic protection systems. Properly soaking the backfill with water is essential to facilitate the activation of the anodes and enhance their corrosion protection capabilities.

The correct choice indicates that 3-5 gallons of water should be soaked into the backfill for optimal installation of anodes. This range ensures adequate moisture content, which aids in achieving the desired conductivity between the anode and the surrounding soil. Proper hydration maximizes the efficiency of the cathodic protection system by improving the electrical connection and reducing resistance. This water saturation allows the anodes to operate effectively, minimizing the risk of corrosion on the tank itself.

Choosing the right amount of water is crucial; too little may result in inadequate soil conditions that do not properly support the function of the anodes, while too much water could lead to other issues, such as erosion or instability in the backfill. Therefore, the specified 3-5 gallons strikes a balance that aligns with best practices in the industry.