I just replaced mine this week when I winterized. Why do the RV anodes corrode so quickly as compared to the home water heater anodes? Trailer is approx 20 years old. Dip a toothbrush into the solution and brush it between the seam of the heating element and the side of the heating tank. Anyway I ordered another one and didnt need it, but I will someday. Can anyone tell me what this anode is protecting against? To replace an anode rod in your RV water heater, you will first need to remove the old rod. RV Water Heater Troubleshooting Tips. Suburban Replacement Anode Rod; 1 116 Socket (for Suburban anode rod) 34 PVC Drain Plug (use while vinegar solution is in tank) 1 18 Socket (for 3 4 " PVC Drain Plug) Atwood Water Heater: Replacement Atwood Brand 1/2 Drain Plugs (set of 2) 1516 Socket (for Atwood brand drain plugs) 78 Socket (for Camco . Answer: Yes, anode rods can be cut to fit specific water heaters. It was $19.00 and they are shipping it to me at home. It is possible to change your water heaters heating element without draining your tank. This standard anode rod size can be removed and replaced using a 1-1/16 socket. I called Camping World yesterday and they ordered one for my waterheater (by make and part number). Hopefully, this article will completely answer all your questions. Smith, Rheem, Richmond, Kenmore, State, and GE. Aluminum anodes tend to be cheaper than magnesium anode rods. Almost every hot water tank has some cathodic protection installed to protect the tank against corrosion. Just go to your local RV dealer and get one. 4 Use a ratchet wrench and 1 1/16-inch deep socket to unscrew the anode rod from the heater. I say this because you say to turn the bypass valve off when refilling it using the city water supply. If we were to "bypass" (block access to) the water heater, the vinegar couldn't get into it. Your email address will not be published. $16.62. 4 Use a ratchet wrench and 1 1/16-inch deep socket to unscrew the anode rod from the heater. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'rvlibary_com-leader-2','ezslot_6',108,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-rvlibary_com-leader-2-0');Anode rods made of aluminum are the least expensive and most durable. The anoderod measures are Width=2.6"; Height=1.3"; Depth=9.50"; weight=2.0 lbs. Camco RV Water Heater Anode Rod - Aluminum - 3/4" Diameter x 9-1/2" Long (193 reviews) Code: CAM11563 Retail: $23.22 Our Price: $15.99 Accessories and Parts RV Water Heaters Anode Rods 3/4 Inch Diameter Aluminum Rod 9-1/2 Inch Long Camco more information > The brass-on-brass design made it (pardon the pun) a lock to unscrew easily. Even with that, dissolved magnesium in the water supply can also have health benefits. Whether youre doing dishes or taking a shower, its nice to have hot water in your RV. The RV anode rods size and material type: aluminum/zinc anode rod,9.25 long, threads,uses a 1-1/16 socket. Basically, it corrodes instead of the tank (just like the zinc coating on galvanized sheet steel protects the underlying steel from corrosion). As a result, we installed an aftermarket anode with brass threads, that screws into an outer brass sleeve. The drivetrain was also updated, and the truck hand built. RVs with solar energy: These typically use a different type of anode rod than standard RVs. If you have a Suburban water heater, the tank is porcelain-lined steel and requires an anode rod to prevent corrosion of the steel tank. Ozek RV Water Heater Magnesium Anode Rod Set - 2-Piece Kit Water Heater Anode Rods with PTFE Tape - Compatible with Suburban and Mor-Flo Water Heater Tanks - 9.25" Length " NPT Threads. Maybe I was simply ignorant about the need, maybe most don't require it (aluminum tanks, like Atwood RV heaters? Your email address will not be published. If you wish to check it: First start with the owners manual of your water heater. Going to a magnesium anode can prolong the life of your water heater. SCORE. All anode rods are made to fit in a " NPT socket. Most of the anode rods sold today are made of zinc, aluminum or a combination of both. (LT-1) the camshaft was a trans-am racing cam, the cylinder head's also. Please consult a plumber or a technician in order to be sure that this product is suitable for your unit. Don't forget to subscribe! High Quality and Safe Material: Pure High-Quality Magnesium anode rod made from top-quality magnesium AZ63-alloy which is non-toxic and entirely safe for the human body! If you've been having trouble with the water heater not getting the water hot for a while now then something else is wrong. However, these anode rods usually have a standard thread and size (same as the plastic drain plug). View on Amazon. RV Water Heater Flush & Inspection Surprise! Although we're running late on our spring maintenance tasks this year, 16 months later the results are in.First, the OEM rod came out easily, without a problem. We're happy with the techniques and products we use, but be sure to confirm that all methods and materials you use are compatible with your equipment and abilities. Generally, Suburban brand water . The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Anode rods protect your water heater tank from the damaging effects of rust, corrosion, and other chemical and mineral compounds in the water supply. Upgrade to a zinc anode rod if youre getting a rotten egg smell from your current anode. Posts: 13,621. This article is for campers with anode rod RV water heaters, usually the Suburban brand. They are reliable and powerful, but they can be expensive to operate and can be difficult to find in smaller RVs. Anode rods are not universal. Are you sure about that? Most people who own RVs smell this awful odor at least once. Atwood brand water heaters generally dont use anodes because their tanks are made of aluminum. How to Tell If Your Anode Rod Is Bad. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'rvlibary_com-leader-3','ezslot_7',109,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-rvlibary_com-leader-3-0');Anode rods made of magnesium are the most common. However, aluminum rods are the better choice for a water heater that heats up sulfate-tinged water. Fifth-wheel models: These typically use larger anode rods than standard RVs. Even though the OEM anode is magnesium, and the aftermarket rod was zinc and aluminum, it should still have worked properly, as those metals should still corrode before the tank did.In carrying out its sole purpose (prolonging tank life), an anode should decay a considerable amount. Fortunately, anode rods are relatively inexpensive, usually last a couple years, and are easy to replace. An anode rod is a small, metal rod that is inserted into the water heaters hot water supply. The more that you travel and use the water heater in your RV, the faster the anode rod will degrade. When we spend more time in the Pacific NW, where the water is generally very good, our anodes usually last longer, and a lot less debris comes out of the heater during our annual flush (see our most recent video for details on this year's follow-up inspection). I just pulled our anode after only 2 months and it is very sacrificed. The anode rod is a piece designed to slow down corrosion and rusting in water heaters. If you think that the posting of any material infringes your copyright, be sure to contact us through the contact form and your material will be removed! We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Although were running late on our spring maintenance tasks this year, 16 months later the results are in. Not compatible with 1/2" thread or 4" Length Rod. The rod is coated with a material that helps to reduce the amount of corrosion that can occur in the heater. AI Score. He has years of experience writing about various home improvement topics, mostly as it pertains to water systems. 3. Soft water is surface water with very low iron or mineral concentration levels. #RVLIFE #RVDIY #RVLIVING #FULLTIMERV #RVREPAIR #RVMAINTENANCE #RVMODS #RVUPGRADES #RVTRAVEL #DIYRV #RVGEEKS But some anode rods are also connected to the top of the water heater. The water heater anode rod is one of the most important components of your RV. Your email address will not be published. In this blog, I collect articles on everything related to this type of transport. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Get exclusive tips and tricks to save your money and time in the RV lifestyle! However, the length and type of the anode rod made are not the same. If you cant see your brand on the chart then just measure the length of the tank and pick the closest length of anode. What is the funtion of the piece that has threads on it that remains in the drain hole? Failure to let the water cool down or relieve the pressure could result in scalding water shooting out as you loosen the bolt. There is no one perfect answer to this question, as the best heater for an RV will depend on a variety of factors specific to your RV. Your email address will not be published. If you own a Dometic water heater, the thread size will be inch. What size is the drain plug on an Atwood RV water heater? Chevy didn't sponsor racing, but they provided the part's. Next, unscrew the bolt and pull out the anode rod. These Destinations Will Be Overrun With Tourists in 2023, The Highest Rated Campgrounds in North Carolina, Your Complete Guide to Marco Island Beaches, The Best Hot Springs in California to Soak Your Bones, What People Really Think About Arrowhead RV Campground. Loves RV Hookups: Comfortable RV Stays at Truck Stops? You will need a 1- 1/16 socket with an extension and attach it to either a socket wrench or a breaker bar. Your email address will not be published. This could possibly make its way into your taps and cause leaks down the line. Place a paper towel over the socket and push the hex in so that it has a firm grip. The Eastman Water Heater Anode Rod helps prolong the life of your water heater by attracting impurities in the water. As you probably guessed, the anode rod has a pretty short lifespan usually about one to two years. Posted on Published: September 22, 2013- Last updated: July 28, 2022, Categories Routine Maintenance, Tips & Tricks, Water & Sewer, Water & Sewer. When water corrodes the magnesium, the anode rod releases electrons into the tank which form a protective barrier around the steel of the tank. Can you drink in a motorhome in California? Thus accumulation on the bottom of the water tank. Posted June 28, 2010. By regularly checking your anode rod, you can increase the chances of replacing it before damage is done to your water heater. I'll just have dealer check it each time I'm in for service. It . But our opinions are our own, you wont pay an extra penny, and we only link to products we personally use, love and can recommend to friends with complete confidence.Comments welcome! I thought that it was fouled up too by the looks of it. Enjoy the power of our permanent corrosion protection and more. How to remove difficult RV water heater anode rod. Atwoods don't normally have anodes, just drain plugs and a lot of them are plastic. 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