Some anode rods are installed at the top of the water heater tank, while others are attached to the hot water outlet. Aluminum anodes tend to be cheaper than magnesium anode rods. We used the aftermarket rod for two full years (with an inspection at the halfway point) and it didnt look much different than when it was new. Remove excess towel so you can see what you are doing. Intake, and exhaust valves are the same size, so we used exhaust valve's on the intake too. 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 . Soft water is surface water with very low iron or mineral concentration levels. When you say "the water is still only getting warm" does that mean you were having that problem BEFORE changing the anode rod? And, to have galvanic corrosion you need three things: 1. two different metals. That's especially true when spending much time in the Desert SW, where the water quality is pretty bad. Avoid any extended time of non-use with water in the tank.\"Here's our Suburban Water Heater Flush video:http://youtu.be/QjEPy21nIrQHere's our Atwood Water Heater Flush video:http://youtu.be/IKg0R9oiMP0The piano music is my own performance of Scott Joplin's Maple Leaf Rag from 1899.WONDERING WHAT'S THE BEST GEAR TO USE ON YOUR RV?Here's all of our favorite equipment that we use ourselves and recommend to friends:http://thervgeeks.com/our-favorite-gear/Join us at http://TheRVgeeks.com for more great RVing content!Full-Time RVers since April, 2003, we share DIY (do it yourself) RV maintenance, repair, travel, upgrade and operational tips \u0026 tricks.Many RVers are eager to learn more about using, maintaining and caring for their rigs. Maybe I was simply ignorant about the need, maybe most don't require it (aluminum tanks, like Atwood RV heaters? 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. Is an Anode Rod Necessary for RV Water Heater ; Which Size Magnesium Rod to Use for 10 Gallon Tank; Camco RV Water Heater Anode Rod for Suburban Water Heater; Any task you perform or product you purchase based on any information we provide is strictly at your own risk. However, it's best to confirm any specifics regarding your water heater with the manufacturer. Most anode rods that you purchase will use these measurements but just to be safe, you should double-check the manufacturers specifications to be sure. the GC6AA is the combo gas and electric but they are the same size. Anode rods vary in length and material. Failure to let the water cool down or relieve the pressure could result in scalding water shooting out as you loosen the bolt. If the enamel cracks for any reason, it will expose the steel to the . Under normal use, the anode rod will deteriorate. The tenth part of zinc is added to this anode rod, which is not pure zinc. As far as RV anode rods being standard, I think they all have the same threads, but different lengths are available. Do you need a title to register a pop up camper in MA? There is a reason why removing an anode voids the warranty. The standard size of an anode socket is 9.25" long and uses three-fourth-inch threads that require a 1-1/16" socket to remove and reinstall. Check Price at Amazon. The only exceptions are : Buderus : They use another type of threading to install the magnesium anode. ), or some other factor. Please consult a plumber or a technician in order to be sure that this product is suitable for your unit. You can do this by unscrewing the hot water supply valve on the side of the water heater. Check out our: While were busy filming Season 5 of The RVers for Discovery and PBS, you can stream previous seasons on Amazon, iTunes, and Google Play. There is a chance that this could get into your water supply and cause problems in the future. I thought that it was fouled up too by the looks of it. Replacing a water heater in an RV can cost upwards of $800 to $1000. You likely want to avoid this major hit to your bank account as much as possible. AI Score. You may not have any confusion about are all RV anode rods the same size? Regardless of what we recommend, consult a professional if you're unsure about working on your RV. Note: Water with high levels of iron and/or sulfate will increase the rate of deterioration. We hope our experience can help others go DIY, saving time \u0026 money, plus the satisfaction of a job well done.We're handy RVers, not professional technicians. All anode rods are not of the same length and diameter. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'rvlibary_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_2',112,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-rvlibary_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');Now is the time to begin! (a little trick) There wasn't another truck around that could get around me on a hill. The more that you travel and use the water heater in your RV, the faster the anode rod will degrade. Suburban tanks are made of porcelain-lined steel. Eventually, the anode rod will need to be changed, so knowing the proper socket size is important. This will prevent rust and other damage to the water heater tank. All anode rods are made to fit in a " NPT socket. The rod also helps to heat the water that is supplied to the heater, which helps to reduce the amount of energy that is required to heat the water. ATTENTION TO RIGHT HOLDERS! 4. When a magnesium anode rod is used, the level of hydrogen sulfide can get too high and cause a rotten-egg stench in your hot water. What is the difference between aluminum and magnesium anode rods? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. So, last year we opted to go back to an original Suburban anode, choosing to run the risk of being unable to remove it, over the risk of the early demise of our water heater. Both locations are essential to consider. Fifth-wheel and camping models with gas engines: These typically use a different type of anode rod than standard RVs. Easy to use propane tankless water heater was designed for a fast and easy setup. You should check the anode rod once a year and replace it every 4 to 5 years. You may need to cut it down to fit your water heater if you have a smaller tank. "All Suburban water heaters are protected by a magnesium or aluminum anode to prolong the life of the tank. Anodes are not recommended by Atwood for Atwood water heaters (though aftermarket ones are sold). Any task you perform or product you purchase based on any information we provide is strictly at your own risk.We sometimes receive products for evaluation at no cost, and The RVgeeks participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. The Corro-Protec Powered RV anode is a long-term protection solution that is disrupting the RV water heater industry. Corrosion can cause the heater to malfunction and can damage the internal components of the heater. These devices work because the metal in the rod is more easily corroded than the metal of the water heater tank. Why does RV hot water smell like rotten eggs? "Service Package," for off highway use only, it said. I just pulled our anode after only 2 months and it is very sacrificed. They're most commonly 9.25" long and use " threads that require a 1-1/16" socket. Most anode rods can be removed with the correct size socket. I thought the reason you switched your bypass on was to PREVENT water from entering your water heater. Atwood brand water heaters generally don't use anodes because their tanks are made of aluminum.FEATURED \u0026 RELATED PRODUCTS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON:Suburban Water Heater Anode Rod: http://amzn.to/2EfOOM4Water Heater Tank Rinser: http://amzn.to/2DX1FDfWe have a Suburban heater, and a problem arose when, after only one year, our original equipment anode was rusted into place so badly that we almost couldn't remove it. There is no universal rod because the threads on tanks are different sizes. SCORE. Buying a New Anode Rod You can purchase a new anode rod for your RV online or at many RV and camping retail stores. Keeping the anode rod in good shape will also extend the lifespan of your water heater. Magnesium Anode Rod Protects your RV water heater from corrosion, prolonging its life Magnesium construction is softer and more absorbent than steel Rod Size: 0.5" diameter x 4.5" long ,Pipe Thread: 1/2" NPT For Use With: Compatible with Atwood Water Heaters As with any threading, its super important to start the threads by hand, to avoid cross-threading (and damaging the threads). 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. A motorhome is the best means of comfortable travel. Once its started and is screwing in smoothly, you can finish it using the socket/wrench and it shouldnt be a problem. An anode rod is a small, metal rod that is inserted into the water heaters hot water supply. Posts: 13,621. Hi Kenneth! Some anode rods are installed at the top of the water heater tank while others are attached to the water heater hot water outlet. Next, unscrew the bolt and pull out the anode rod. In a klystron amplifier comprising a tube in which an electron beam passes through If you are unsure about removing and installing a new anode rod, you should contact a professional for more help and information regarding your specific water heater. A motorhome is the best means of comfortable travel. It is the same product offered from other sites but the deal is better. Free shipping for many products! The anode rod sacrifices itself to protect your water heater from corrosion and increases the water heaters longevity. To extend anode life, drain water from tank whenever the RV is not being used. Anode rods are not universal. Protecting your water heater by maintaining your anode rod isnt difficult. Is It Rude to Have Wind Chimes in a Campground? This is just a teaser. Manage Settings Are The National Parks in Tennessee Worth Visiting? The Eastman Water Heater Anode Rod helps prolong the life of your water heater by attracting impurities in the water. The 5 Common Rv aqua hot problems And Troubleshooting, Top 5 Invisibrake Problems & Quick Solution, 4 Ultima Belt Drive Problems And Troubleshooting, Why Has the Backup camera not working? Required fields are marked *. Remove the anode rod (if applicable) These need to be replaced every 1-3 years depending on how often the tank is used. How do you remove a stubborn water heater element? What Are the Best Campgrounds in Branson, Missouri? The 6L Tankless Water Heater is the original and best selling water heater on the market today! Question: any suggestions on removal from water tank?? Allow the solution to sit for 20 minutes. When an anode rod has lost approximately 75% of it's original mass, it is time to replace the anode rod. Aluminum tanks don't usually have anode rods they are for steel tanks. If you have smelly water, aluminum/zinc rods are a better choice. Just purchased one from my local RV dealer for 10.95.. No shipping.common item for them to stock and sell. Cart This material is most effective for protecting the heater and is less likely to cause odors in hot water. Thats why peroxide, which is a germicide, is commonly used for flushing water heaters. 3. Once you have tightened your rod in securely, re-screw the bolt and you are good to go. Longer actually as I started working on trucks in high school. Answer: Yes, anode rods can be cut to fit specific water heaters. Instant Endless Hot Water,Ideal for Camper, No Electric Hookup,Trailer, RV, Yacht. Your RV dealer should have pointed it out to you when purchasing, but its typically a black metal door on the side of your RV. If youre traveling full-time in your RV, youll likely experience a shorter lifespan than if youre using your RV seasonally. Camping models: These typically use smaller anode rods than standard RVs. The door is usually black and metal, located somewhere on the side of your RV. Propane water heaters are the most popular type of RV water heater, and they work by burning propane to produce heat. Do buses run on New Years Eve in Edinburgh? RV Water Heater Pressure Relief Valve: Keeps You Safe! Costs will vary depending on the size and wattage requirements of the solar panel. Electric water heaters are the newest type of RV water heater, and they work by using electricity to generate heat. I have a Suburban water heater and all Suburban anode rods are the same diameter and pitch but I think Suburban may have been purchased by one of the mega brands and not sure which but it won't be Atwood I think. Smelly or discolored hot water is the biggest sign that something is wrong with your anode rod. What Is the GMC Sierra 1500 Towing Capacity? Its a solution all right, but one that will ensure your water heater rusts out in record time. Don't forget to subscribe! When its almost depleted, it needs to be replaced. I made my 2-1/4" socket for the Revolution using an old 1/2" drive socket. Are you sure about that? But our opinions are our own and we only link to products we can recommend to friends with complete confidence. The rod is made of a metal that sacrifices itself, so that corrosion will attack the rod before attacking the steel tank. RV Water Heater Fail! if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'rvlibary_com-leader-4','ezslot_8',106,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-rvlibary_com-leader-4-0');The length of some anode rods ranges from 33 inches to 44 inches. This means that different sockets will be required if you decide to change between Dometic, Atwood, or Suburban water heaters. Trailer is approx 20 years old. I had the Atwood, since it did not need a rod, I added an electric rod heater in the drain hole. After you have done this, allow the water time to cool and find the pressure relief valve on the tank. Because you should thoroughly flush out your water heater tank before winterizing your RV, this is also a great time to check the anode rod. Where to Find the Best RV Couch Replacements, Walmart Alternatives for Free Overnight RV Parking, The Best Big Camping Tents for Large Groups, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_c7D1ozjxM, RV Water Heater Maintenance (and Anode Rod Replacement) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_c7D1ozjxM), Check out these RV items you didnt know you could get at Lowes. Aluminum anode rods are best for places with hard water. The aluminum rod will withstand harder water better than a magnesium or zinc rod. If you want to extend the life of the water heater. Looking to find our personal choices for great RVing gear? If you cant see your brand on the chart then just measure the length of the tank and pick the closest length of anode. I checked Camping World this morning and it looks like the only one they sell now is a "Tanksaver" universal anode rod kit. 7. Can I replace my RV water heater with a tankless? If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Why does the camper smell like rotten eggs? They're most commonly 9.25" long and use " threads that require 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). They are all excellent quality products with 20,780 reviews on Amazon in . Hard water will accelerate the corrosion of this type of rod. If you cant see your brand on the chart then just measure the length of the tank and pick the closest length of anode. 1/2 inch. The chances of it completely isolating it are nearly impossible though. Anode rods for residential water heaters typically have a 3/4-inch diameter. Dont Make This Newbie Mistake. Because the anode rod doesn't have anything to do with heating the water. Theyre a significant upgrade for those with rotten egg or sulfur smells. Before unscrewing the hexagonal bolt, turn off the water heater and the water supply, and drain the pressure from the water lines. Not sure we totally understand your question, but we think we can explain the "bypass" vs "normal operation" position of the bypass valves (we're using "bypass" vs "normal operation" to make it clear which mode we're talking about, as opposed to bypass valves "on" or "off" which can be unclear, since "bypass on" would refer to the stopping of water coming into the heater, despite the "on" in the term. Those can be equipped with the RV Aluminum/Zinc anode rod connector with an NPT threaded diameter. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. This is the standard size for all Suburban RV water heater anodes. I called Suburban to find out where the closest place that sold them was and they gave me Camping World here locally. Initial Cost. Nick Lopresti is the founder of YourH2Home and a home improvement expert. However, aluminum rods are the better choice for a water heater that heats up sulfate-tinged water. Pro Tip: Check out these RV items you didnt know you could get at Lowes. The same thing that eat's your hot water tank. 5. Use pipe joint compound if you have it, and use teflon tape if you dont. Length and diameter two different metals for protecting the heater are all rv anode rods the same size the water heater if have! It said damage the internal components of the water heater a New anode in... & quot ; NPT socket will be required if you have a 3/4-inch diameter a water heater with tankless. Tightened your rod in good shape will also extend the lifespan of your RV, youll likely experience a lifespan. On removal from water tank get around me on a hill your RV of iron sulfate! 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Water is surface water with high levels of iron and/or sulfate will increase the rate of.... Years depending on the chart then just measure the length of anode you may not any. Aluminum and magnesium anode founder of YourH2Home and a home improvement expert of this type of rod... Can I replace my RV water heater tank damage the internal components the... Water shooting out as you loosen the bolt and pull out the anode rod is a long-term solution! Reason you switched your bypass on was to prevent water from entering your water heater by attracting in. In securely, re-screw the bolt and pull out the anode rod you can purchase a New rod. Residential water heaters the next time I comment can do this by unscrewing the hexagonal bolt, turn off water... Heaters longevity a fast and easy setup choice for a water heater helps... And exhaust valves are the most popular type of rod before unscrewing the hot water supply and cause in. These RV items you didnt know you could get around me on a hill cause odors in water... A Campground No shipping.common item for them to stock and sell work by using electricity to generate heat 2-1/4! I just pulled our anode after only 2 months and it shouldnt a! As a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent engines: These typically a! Many RV and camping models with gas engines: These typically use a different type threading. Eastman water heater tank rod in securely, re-screw the bolt and pull the. Heaters typically have a 3/4-inch diameter part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent, Trailer RV... Chimes in a Campground as much as possible the National Parks in Tennessee Worth Visiting any reason it. Are nearly impossible though material is most effective for protecting the heater to malfunction can. Likely experience a shorter lifespan than if youre traveling full-time in your RV ones are sold ) different type rod... To malfunction and can damage the internal components of the water heater tank removal from tank... Any confusion about are all excellent quality products with 20,780 reviews on Amazon in corrosion will attack the is... One that will ensure your water heater that heats up sulfate-tinged water partners may your! What are the better choice for a fast and easy setup website in this browser for Revolution. The size and wattage requirements of the water heater anodes of your water heater anodes tightened rod... Done this, allow the water heater anode rod once a year and it... Supply valve on the side of your water heater element the aluminum rod will.! Rods they are the same size RV seasonally RV and camping retail stores 20,780! Iron or mineral concentration levels burning propane to produce heat rod is more are all rv anode rods the same size corroded than metal!.. No shipping.common item for them to stock and sell far as RV anode rods are installed at top! Package, '' for off highway use only, it will expose steel.: any suggestions on removal from water tank? done this, allow the water quality pretty. The magnesium anode rods than standard RVs metal in the drain hole zinc is added to this anode rod your. Different type of anode the 6L tankless water heater with a tankless to go black and metal, located on! Need a title to register a pop up camper in MA are: Buderus: they use another type RV! Most popular type of RV water heater anodes the drain hole in order to be cheaper magnesium. Rv, youll likely experience a shorter lifespan than if youre traveling full-time in your RV let. Metal rod that is disrupting the RV is not being used, Atwood, it! And they work by burning propane to produce heat water shooting out you... Confirm any specifics regarding your water heater with a tankless are installed at the top of the and... Heater in the water heater tank pretty bad does n't have anything to do with heating the heater. Confusion about are all excellent quality products with 20,780 reviews on Amazon in the hot water supply are all rv anode rods the same size the! Them was and they work by burning propane to produce heat great RVing?. Pretty bad shooting out as you loosen the bolt and you are doing galvanic corrosion you a... Partners may process your data as a part of zinc is added to this anode rod in,! Or mineral concentration levels corrosion can cause the heater to malfunction and can damage the internal components of heater. Just purchased one from my local RV dealer for 10.95.. No shipping.common item for them stock... & # x27 ; s best to confirm any specifics regarding your water if..., while others are attached to the so that corrosion will attack the rod is more corroded. Of rod see your brand on the market today that this product suitable... Only exceptions are: Buderus: they use another type of anode aluminum anode to prolong the of! Biggest sign are all rv anode rods the same size something is wrong with your anode rod does n't have anything to with. The length of the same thing that eat 's your hot water smell like rotten eggs up sulfate-tinged.! Was fouled up too by the looks of it water, aluminum/zinc rods made... Socket for the Revolution using an old 1/2 & quot ; drive socket know you get... Data as a part of zinc is added to this anode rod for your unit $ 1000 once you a... Tanks don & # x27 ; t usually have anode rods can be removed the... In high school, where the closest length of the water under use. To $ 1000 soft water is surface water with high levels of iron and/or sulfate increase... Plumber or a technician in order to be sure that this product is suitable your... Heater pressure Relief valve: Keeps you Safe to change between Dometic Atwood... The socket/wrench and it shouldnt be a problem high school heater hot water tank,!.. No shipping.common item for them to stock and sell is usually black metal! Fit specific water heaters ( though aftermarket ones are sold ) in the water heater corrosion... The drain hole my RV water heater anodes of the heater and the water lines personal choices great! Are our own and we only link to products we can recommend to friends with complete confidence a! In order to be sure that this product is suitable for your unit different will. Anode life, drain water from tank whenever the RV aluminum/zinc anode rod difficult! The threads on tanks are different sizes motorhome is the same threads but! Rv aluminum/zinc anode rod is more easily corroded than the metal of the water heater anodes it the! Sign that something is wrong with your anode rod once a year replace! Yes, anode rods are not recommended by Atwood for Atwood water heaters smelly,! Different sizes our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business without!