The rectifier of an impressed current cathodic protection system should be checked _______ and the reading recorded on the impressed current log.

• A. Weekly
• B. Bi-weekly
• C. Monthly
• D. Annually

Answer: (B)

Regular maintenance of an impressed current cathodic protection system centers on verifying the rectifier, which provides the protective current and sets the protected structure’s potential. Because soil conditions, moisture, temperature, and load can cause the rectifier output to drift, checking the rectifier every two weeks helps catch changes early and keep the protected potential within its required range. Recording these readings in the impressed current log creates a traceable history for trend analysis, troubleshooting, and proving compliance. Less frequent checks could miss drift or faults, while more frequent checks may be unnecessarily burdensome, so checking bi-weekly is the practical balance.