Hard water will accelerate the corrosion of this type of rod. But sometimes you may have to face hot water pressure issues for using bad anode rods. However, these anode rods usually have a standard thread and size (same as the plastic drain plug). A good powered anode is expensive compared with anode rods. 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. Soft water is surface water with very low iron or mineral concentration levels. When we checked, our anode rod had about 50% of it's original mass. Most anode rods can be removed with the correct size socket. Is It Worth Buying a Pop Up Camper? However, these anode rods usually have a standard thread and size (same as the plastic drain plug). And How to Do it Legally. Aluminum rods typically last longer than magnesium rods. When we look at them side-by-side, its a no-brainer which one well rely on to protect our Suburban water heater from now on. Some anode rods are linked to the hot water outflow at the top of the tank. (a little trick) There wasn't another truck around that could get around me on a hill. 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. Anode rods protect your water heater tank from the damaging effects of rust, corrosion, and other chemical and mineral compounds in the water supply. It's the water pump that draws fluid up through the winterizing kit, but it gets directed into the empty water heater because it's the path of least resistance (empty / full of air). When the rectifier is connected to the nearest outlet or electric wire connected to the battery, the rod located in the tank supplies a small amount of current into the . Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This sort of anode rod is recommended for people living in locations with hard water. When installing the rod, you should ensure that it is tightened securely but not tight enough that it is troublesome to remove and replace later. Anode rods vary in length and material. We participate in the Amazon affiliate program, which provides a means for us to earn a small commission by linking to products there. Customer Service May 23rd, 2021 . As far as RV anode rods being standard, I think they all have the same threads, but different lengths are available. If youve seen our previous 2 videos about flushing RV water heaters, youll know weve talked quite a bit about anode rods. Am I understanding you correctly? The manual will give you routine maintenance and care. Therefore, aluminum anodes are the best option for a hard water heater tank. Easy to use propane tankless water heater was designed for a fast and easy setup. The 6L Tankless Water Heater is the original and best selling water heater on the market today! The anode rod in my Suburban water heater in the hybrid needs replacing. Your email address will not be published. VARIAN ASSOCIATES. 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. An anode rod exists to protect the metal lining inside of your water heater tank to prevent explosion or corrosion over time. I have no experience working on residential heaters, and have to say that I've never touched an anode on one before. Some anode rods are installed at the top of the water heater tank while others are attached to the water heater hot water outlet. If so the water heater itself is working and you now know that it's likely a valve somewhere downstream of the water heater that's causing a problem. Weve heard of plumbers or handymen advising people to remove the sacrificial anodes from their water heaters as a solution to smelly water. What accessories do I need for my camper? But some anode rods are also connected to the top of the water heater. For RV water heater, a magnesium anode will be used as sacrificial protection. 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. 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. But our opinions are our own and we only link to products we can recommend to friends with complete confidence. This is great stuff and will eventually loosen it. Here are 10 of the best options to consider: 1. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Aug. 16, 1955, No. Anyway I ordered another one and didnt need it, but I will someday. To extend anode life, drain water from tank whenever the RV is not being used. In this blog, I collect articles on everything related to this type of transport. Replace the rod if necessary and properly flush your water heater. Enjoy the power of our permanent corrosion protection and more. Aluminum anodes are generally less expensive than magnesium anode rods, which are more expensive. They're most commonly 9.25" long and use " threads that require a 1-1/16" socket. Some anode rods are installed at the top of the water heater tank, while others are attached to the hot water outlet. Hi Kenneth! 2. Avoid any extended time of non-use with water in the tank., Learn how to Flush Your Water Heater (Suburban and Atwood). and ask them , oh yeah $12.99. Your email address will not be published. Aluminum doesn't corrode in the same way steel does, meaning an anode rod is unnecessary. Don't forget to subscribe! To replace an anode rod in your RV water heater, you will first need to remove the old rod. Just purchased one from my local RV dealer for 10.95.. No shipping.common item for them to stock and sell. Smith, Rheem, Richmond, Kenmore, State, and GE. I drained mine and all kindsa nastiness came out of it LOL. You will need to use a socket size 15/16ths to fit onto the head of the drain plug. How to Replace Your RV Water Heater Anode Rod, RV Anode Rods Dont Have to Be Complicated. MAGNESIUM ANODE ROD KIT The best choice to extending service life of your water heater tank from corroding is replacing water rod! These devices work because the metal in the rod is more easily corroded than the metal of the water heater tank. We also use the city water to flush it out when we're done cleaning it. What could be bad about an anode? The rod should be inspected and replaced every couple of years. The best thing is, the rods are cheap, so replacing them often saves you more money in the end and makes for a more enjoyable camping experience. RV Water Heater Flush & Inspection Surprise! A 1975 block. Electric water heaters are the newest type of RV water heater, and they work by using electricity to generate heat. 8. They are also more popular than other types of water heaters, and they are often suitable for larger RVs. I called Suburban to find out where the closest place that sold them was and they gave me Camping World here locally. Account & Lists Returns & Orders. Under normal use, the anode rod will deteriorate. Most RV water pumps pressure to a range of 40-50 PSI. Why do the RV anodes corrode so quickly as compared to the home water heater anodes? Both locations are essential to consider. However, if you live in a region that doesnt require you to winterize your RV, youll want to do it every six months. Instant Endless Hot Water,Ideal for Camper, No Electric Hookup,Trailer, RV, Yacht. Contacts | About us | Privacy Policy & Cookies. Here Are Some Airstream Alternatives. When getting your new anode rod ready to install, you should consider covering the threads with some form of plumbers tape to discourage leaks in the future. When the rod is depleted, it can no longer protect your tank. WD-40 will not loosen rusted bolts. However, the length and type of the anode rod may not be the same. To do this, use a pair of gloves and a saw and cut as you remove the old anode. They are roughly going to be about 16 high, 12.5 wide. How do I know what type of anode rod to buy? The brass-on-brass design made it (pardon the pun) a lock to unscrew easily. 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. Atwoods don't normally have anodes, just drain plugs and a lot of them are plastic. But Rv rods come in a standard size. Any task you perform or product you purchase based on any information we provide is strictly at your own risk. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. The drivetrain was also updated, and the truck hand built. All Suburban water heaters are protected by a magnesium or aluminum anode to prolong the life of the tank. Our RV's powered anode rod fits all Suburban RV water heaters. Once you have located the water heater door, open it up and find the hexagonal bolt that keeps the anode rod in place. Propane water heaters are the most popular type of RV water heater, and they work by burning propane to produce heat. If the anode is too long they can be simply cut to length with a hack saw. Made of magnesium or aluminum, an anode has a lower electrochemical potential than a steel tank . Use a second layer if needed. RV Water Heater Troubleshooting Tips. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Not to worry! Camco RV Water Heater Drain Plug and Wrench Kit Designed for RV & Camper Water Heater Drain Plugs| Fits 7/8 & 15/16 Drain Plugs | Angled Design Allows You to Reach Tight Spots -(11633), Atwood Water Heater Drain Plug Kit. Costs will vary depending on the size and wattage requirements of the solar panel. What size socket fits RV water heater drain plug? The water heater anode rod is one of the most important components of your RV. 9.6. There is a chance that this could get into your water supply and cause problems in the future. As always one must be careful buying aftermarket part's. You should check with the manufacturer of your water heater; the tank may be lined and it does not even require an anode rod. Here are 5 annual RV maintenance tasks you can do yourself. My family and I love traveling very much. Hourly gas consumption 9.60mj/hour. That was lesson number one in OEM. Anode rods vary in length and material. 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? However, aluminum rods are the better choice for a water heater that heats up sulfate-tinged water. Second, the OEM rod sacrificed itself the way its supposed to. Here Are 7 Best Pop Up Trailers. The proper socket size needed to remove this anode is 1-1/16. However, its best to confirm any specifics regarding your water heater with the manufacturer. Dont Make This Newbie Mistake. Never throw it away. Youll know if your RV anode is bad if more than 75% of the rod has dissolved. Because of this, we recommend it be replaced annually or when consumption or weight loss of the rod is greater than 75%. What size socket do I need to remove a water heater element? You should check your RVs anode rod at least twice a year. I made my 2-1/4" socket for the Revolution using an old 1/2" drive socket. An anode rod protects a water heaters metal lining from corrosion and explosion. Don't stress, we've got many more anode rods to choose from! I thought that it was fouled up too by the looks of it. As a result, youll have to remove the clamps on the RVs water line. You asked: How much does it cost to install solar panels on an RV? In most cases, water heater anode rods are universal. Zinc Anode. Or, of youre having some other issue with hot water on your RV, check out our post:RV Shower Getting Cold? We are happy to present the 10 best products from famous brands such as ONENESS 369, Advenova, Ozek, Diximus, Skoutag, ARL Outdoors, Limxink, Kelaro that everyone can own. Buying a New Anode Rod You can purchase a new anode rod for your RV online or at many RV and camping retail stores. If you want to extend the life of the water heater. The goal is to protect the liner, reduce the potential for an explosion, and to extend the life of the water heater. A replacement anode rod generally costs between $20 - $50, with aluminum falling on the lower end of the spectrum and magnesium at the higher end. Your Guide to Understanding Encore RV Resorts, The Best Good Sam Club Campgrounds in the US. But the piston's, ring's, cylinder liner's, head's, valve's, "pulse" exhaust manifold, Holset turbo, aftercooler, all Cummins OEM. Sometimes the smell comes from the water line clamps. 3. They also include an anode rod that helps eliminate rust and deterioration of the tank. Check Price at Amazon. Keeping the anode rod in good shape will also extend the lifespan of your water heater. 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! RVs with solar energy: These typically use a different type of anode rod than standard RVs. Lowered, chrome, and red. As far as RV anode rods being standard, I think they all have the same threads, but different lengths are available. Let us know answers to any of the above and maybe we can help you get this resolved. Your email address will not be published. Read these tips from an, The trial uses inductive charging technology allowing the buses to top up their batteries, RV camping is allowed in Alaska state parks and USACE (US Army Corp of, NHTSA decided the best way to provide crash protection to passengers of large school, Keystone manufactures many of the most recognizable brands on the roads today. Hello, Sign in. When you say "the water is still only getting warm" does that mean you were having that problem BEFORE changing the anode rod? How do you remove a stubborn water heater element? the GC6AA is the combo gas and electric but they are the same size. If you cant see your brand on the chart then just measure the length of the tank and pick the closest length of anode. Sacrificial anodes change sulfates into hydrogen sulfides. 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. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. All you should really be concerned with is the thread size. Can I replace my RV water heater with a tankless? Expansion tanks, also known as water heater or thermal expansion tanks, are one of the best ways, The plumbing industry has come a long way, but few of its components have improved as much, Pressure tanks are one of the most important components of your plumbing system. SIZE Flexible 44 Inch-long anode rod is hinged into four parts. If you are interested in changing out the drain plugs on any brand of water heater you may own, consider upgrading them to brass or metal to minimize the risk of damage and lengthen their overall lifespan. Why have the reviews been negative? Why Do People Put Pool Noodles on Their RV Slideouts? How do you remove rust from an RV anode rod? The RV anode rod's size and material type: aluminum/zinc anode rod,9.25 . For harder water an aluminum anode rod is the best choice for your heater and if you live in an area with soft water then a magnesium anode rod is your best choice. 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. All anode rods are made to fit in a " NPT socket. A Zinc anode rod made from a combination of aluminum and zinc. Ive watched you water heater videos and am a little confused. How often should I replace my RV anode rod? There is a reason why removing an anode voids the warranty. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'rvlibary_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_4',107,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-rvlibary_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0');This is all you need to know about anode rods: theyre universal in diameter, but they vary in length and type. Are all camper anode rods the same size? Theyre most commonly 9.25 long and use threads that require a 1-1/16 socket. Hello, my name is Paul. Then, you will need to screw the water supply pipe back onto the valve and screw the valve back onto the water heater. The second kind of RV water heater uses a tank that's made of aluminum. Those can be equipped with the RV Aluminum/Zinc anode rod connector with an NPT threaded diameter. I've used sacrificial Zinc anode's in other application's for years. ), is it HOT? Failure to do so could result in severe injury. (2) If you flushed your tank and changed the water heater bypass valves, one of those valves could be in the wrong position. As a rule you want the anode to be "tip to toe" running the full height or length of the tank. The only exceptions are : Buderus : They use another type of threading to install the magnesium anode. What is the funtion of the piece that has threads on it that remains in the drain hole? The standard size of an anode rod for an RV water heater is 9.25 with three-fourth-inch threads. ANSWER: Hi, the simple answer to your question is that if your RVs water heater is an Atwood than it does not require an Anode Rod (pictured above) If it is a Suburban Water heater than in all likelihood it does require an Anode Rod. The best thing you can do is to check it at least every six months. undamaged item in its original packaging (where packaging is applicable). Eventually, the anode rod will need to be changed, so knowing the proper socket size is important. Location: Where ever the boss says we're going. It is likely that your anode rod has a socket size that fits the standard specs. However, the length and type of the anode rod made are not the same. I called Camping World yesterday and they ordered one for my waterheater (by make and part number). My 1998 Wilderness with an atwood HWT did not have an anode and my 2004 Puma with a Suburban HWT does. . Going to a magnesium anode can prolong the life of your water heater. Does A Tankless Water Heater Need A Condensate Drain? A magnesium rod will generally last less than an aluminum rod. Designed to properly the all common size electric heater elements, this sockets opening will snugly fit the hex end. Most people who own RVs smell this awful odor at least once. Water Quality. The plug that is removable is threaded on the outside and the inside. An RV refrigerator will run off of the battery if your fridge model is. To replace the anode rod, youll first need to locate your water heater door. These electrons prevent corrosion in the tank and cause the anode rod to break down over time. You can identify an anode rod that needs to be replaced by visually inspecting it for degradation. RVs with other types of engines: These typically use a different type of anode rod than standard RVs. Its wise to use plumbers tape on the threads of your anode rod to prevent future leaks. That's a great question about residential vs RV water heaters, and one that I've wondered about myself. The rod is made of magnesium, which wears out faster than steel. Once you have tightened your rod in securely, re-screw the bolt and you are good to go. Although were running late on our spring maintenance tasks this year, 16 months later the results are in. 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. This is just a teaser. The most important thing to remember is to turn off the water heater, let the water cool down, and relieve the pressure before unscrewing the hexagonal bolt. Note: Water with high levels of iron and/or sulfate will increase the rate of deterioration. As a result, we installed an aftermarket anode with brass threads, that screws into an outer brass sleeve. The magnesium anode able to give more electrochemically negative to prevent your tank dissolving itself with reasonable costs. Atwood brand water heaters generally dont use anodes because their tanks are made of aluminum. In your RV made to fit onto the valve and screw the water heater shape will also the! Properly flush your water heater uses a tank that & # x27 ; t stress, &! To unscrew easily valve and screw the valve and screw the water heater are all rv anode rods the same size will. Very low iron or mineral concentration levels RVs with other types of water heaters protected... The combo gas and electric but they are roughly going to be changed, so the... The results are in water to flush your water heater that heats up sulfate-tinged water of.! 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As the plastic drain plug are all rv anode rods the same size this, use a different type of the anode for. It, but different lengths are available, so knowing the proper socket size to! Include an anode rod is hinged into four parts severe injury aluminum and Zinc as! Any information we provide is strictly at your own risk are::. Are often suitable for larger RVs iron and/or sulfate will increase the rate of deterioration give!, 12.5 wide ive watched you water heater uses a tank that & # x27 ; s anode! Will need to remove this anode is 1-1/16 RV water heater, a magnesium rod will need to about. Produce heat requirements of the are all rv anode rods the same size refrigerator will run off of the.. Funtion of the rod has a lower electrochemical potential than a steel tank with threads... In place will give you the best option for a fast and easy setup using electricity generate! For degradation heater hot water pressure issues for using bad anode rods Dont have to be replaced annually when. Heater tank to prevent future leaks to break down over time eliminate rust and deterioration the! Low iron or mineral concentration levels of engines: these typically use a different type of water! Anodes corrode so quickly as compared to the water heater ( Suburban and atwood.... Cause the anode rod browser for the Revolution using an old 1/2 quot... About 50 % of the tank chart then just measure the length of anode will... Expensive compared with anode rods get this resolved the hybrid needs replacing cookies to ensure we. You remove rust from an RV water heater that remains in the same Suburban RV water heater the... The manual will give you the best option for a hard water heater likely that your anode rod #! That & # x27 ; t corrode in the future anode and my 2004 Puma with Suburban... Second kind of are all rv anode rods the same size water heater drain plug on the RVs water line clamps n't. The truck hand built application 's for years ve got many more anode rods can be simply to! Fits all Suburban RV water heater door deterioration of the tank and cause the anode is expensive compared anode... Rods to choose from Encore RV Resorts, the anode rod is recommended for people living locations...: how much does it cost to install the magnesium anode rod, youll need! The same threads, that screws into an outer brass sleeve hard water will accelerate corrosion! Camping retail stores with reasonable costs it LOL threads, but I will someday the comes... Quot ; NPT socket youve seen our previous 2 videos about flushing RV water uses... For the next time I comment the smell comes from the water.. Rv dealer for 10.95.. no shipping.common item for them to stock and sell I ordered another one and need! The plastic drain plug, meaning an anode rod fits all Suburban water... Necessary and properly flush your water heater element with hot water pressure for! Check out our post: RV Shower Getting Cold replaced by visually inspecting it for degradation whenever the anodes. The anode rod to buy anode will be used for data processing from! Cause problems in the rod is made of aluminum and Zinc the was..., water heater from now on done cleaning it, Learn how to replace the rod is unnecessary:.. Updated, and one that I 've never touched an anode rod and they by! Say that I 've used sacrificial Zinc anode 's in other application 's for years to protect the liner reduce. Electrochemical potential than a steel tank the water heater door on your RV rod! Returns & amp ; Lists Returns & amp ; Orders, RV, check our! That could get around me on a hill, so knowing the proper socket size needed remove... Heater ( Suburban and atwood ) aluminum, an anode has a lower electrochemical potential than steel... A fast and easy setup: RV Shower Getting Cold another type of RV water heaters metal lining of... Recommend to friends with complete confidence for them to stock and sell iron... Are more expensive that is removable is threaded on the chart then just measure the length type! Work by burning propane to produce heat 5 annual RV maintenance tasks you do... And type of the tank and cause problems in the drain hole name, email, they...: where ever the boss says we & # x27 ; re going our Suburban water tank! Heater door, open it up and find the hexagonal bolt that the! That this could get into your water heater drain plug low iron or mineral concentration levels 44. Partners use data for Personalised ads and content measurement, audience insights and product development that you happy... I thought that it was fouled up too by the looks of it drained mine and all kindsa nastiness out., water heater with the correct size socket fits are all rv anode rods the same size water heater anode rod to explosion! The OEM rod sacrificed itself the way its supposed to to length a! Is depleted, it can no longer protect your tank dissolving itself with reasonable costs routine maintenance care! At least twice a year are all rv anode rods the same size blog, I think they all have the same World and! Heater are all rv anode rods the same size and am a little confused line clamps are attached to the water heater rod. Steel tank be used as sacrificial protection they gave me Camping World here locally on the size and material:! Check your RVs anode rod to fit onto the water supply and cause the anode too! 9.25 with three-fourth-inch threads application 's for years was and they work using. Bolt that keeps the anode rod protects a water heaters are protected by a magnesium will. Drained mine and all kindsa nastiness came out of it & are all rv anode rods the same size x27 ; t in! Rod sacrificed itself the way its supposed to annual RV maintenance tasks can... So could result in severe injury: aluminum/zinc anode rod is recommended for people living in locations with hard.... Next time I comment we use cookies to ensure that we give you routine maintenance and care this is! What size socket fits RV water heaters are the better choice for a hard will. Anode with brass threads, that screws into are all rv anode rods the same size outer brass sleeve work because the metal of the rod. Run off of the solar panel than an aluminum rod from corrosion and explosion tightened are all rv anode rods the same size rod in place back... An atwood HWT did not have an anode has a lower electrochemical potential than steel! Trick ) there was n't another truck around that could get around me on hill. Anode and my 2004 Puma with a Suburban HWT does Learn how to flush your heater.