5. Anode rods come in a variety of lengths, as well as different materials. 8. Don't stress, we've got many more anode rods to choose from! 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. 34-3/8 inch Length. ATTENTION TO RIGHT HOLDERS! In this blog, I collect articles on everything related to this type of transport. How to remove difficult RV water heater anode rod. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Please consult a plumber or a technician in order to be sure that this product is suitable for your unit. The brass-on-brass design made it (pardon the pun) a lock to unscrew easily. In most cases, water heater anode rods are universal. Purchase our most popular anode rods right here! An anode rod exists to protect the metal lining inside of your water heater tank to prevent explosion or corrosion over time. All materials are posted on the site strictly for informational and educational purposes! It's also on there pretty darn tight! Meets new NZ gas regulations and *NZ/Australian WaterMark certification scheme. When using aluminum rods, the corrosive material generated on the anode tends to solidify and sink. You will need a 1- 1/16 socket with an extension and attach it to either a socket wrench or a breaker bar. Sale Bestseller No. They are roughly going to be about 16 high, 12.5 wide. If you have soft water, you should use a magnesium anode rod. Fortunately, the anode is cheap to replace, and we have it out for cleaning once a year anyway. The drivetrain was also updated, and the truck hand built. Finally, the anode rod is crucial to your water heaters long-term performance. Aluminum tanks don't usually have anode rods they are for steel tanks. Most anode rods that you purchase will use these measurements but just to be safe, you should double-check the manufacturer's specifications to be sure. I got 3 of the rods for a great price. $19.19. Many RVers make the mistake of replacing their anode rod too early. I've used sacrificial Zinc anode's in other application's for years. Is It Worth Buying a Pop Up Camper? The anode rod sacrifices itself to protect your water heater from corrosion and increases the water heaters longevity. and ask them , oh yeah $12.99. Posts: 13,621. Why do the RV anodes corrode so quickly as compared to the home water heater anodes? Heres what Suburban has to say about anodes: A Suburban Water Heater requires an Anode Rod because the tank of the Suburban Water Heater uses glass enamel over a steel tank. We participate in the Amazon affiliate program, which provides a means for us to earn a small commission by linking to products there. If you check your anode rod and notice that its heavily corroded, then its doing its job of protecting your expensive tank. RVs with propane engines: These typically use a different type of anode rod than standard RVs. Peggy, First, verify the brand of your water heater: Suburban water heaters REQUIRE an anode, since the tanks are made of steel. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Motorhomes: These typically use smaller anode rods than standard RVs. RV water heaters that use anode rods are typically made of steel with a porcelain lining. Aluminum anodes tend to be cheaper than magnesium anode rods. I'll just have dealer check it each time I'm in for service. #RVLIFE #RVDIY #RVLIVING #FULLTIMERV #RVREPAIR #RVMAINTENANCE #RVMODS #RVUPGRADES #RVTRAVEL #DIYRV #RVGEEKS Answer: Yes, anode rods can be cut to fit specific water heaters. Remove the paper and tighten. We use the water heater bypass valves to direct the flow of liquid to the place we want it to go, but we always have to use the water pump to add whichever fluid we want into the system. Anode rods vary in length and material. The only one of these three tasks where we want fluid drawn into the water heater is for vinegar flushing. To be on the safe side, we replaced it with a new one. I can definitely say that the varied water sources that we experience while traveling in an RV have a detrimental effect. Whether youre doing dishes or taking a shower, its nice to have hot water in your RV. Camping models: These typically use smaller anode rods than standard RVs. They are also more popular than other types of water heaters, and they are often suitable for larger RVs. 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 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. . When we want to winterize, we "bypass" the water heater to block anti-freeze from getting into it (it's not needed, or wanted in there). Thanks for any info. The standard size of an anode rod for an RV water heater is 9.25 with three-fourth-inch threads. Too funny. It is likely that your anode rod has a socket size that fits the standard specs. Girard RV Tankless Hot Water Heater. The magnesium anode able to give more electrochemically negative to prevent your tank dissolving itself with reasonable costs. about one to two years Propane water heaters are the most popular type of RV water heater, and they work by burning propane to produce heat. Can anyone tell me what this anode is protecting against? No maintenance required. Max working pressure 850Kpa. A good powered anode is expensive compared with anode rods. Hello Gerald, . I thought the reason you switched your bypass on was to PREVENT water from entering your water heater. This article is for campers with anode rod RV water heaters, usually the Suburban brand. To hold the anode, get the correct socket and an extension. There is no universal rod because the threads on tanks are different sizes. As far as RV anode rods being standard, I think they all have the same threads, but different lengths are available. Aluminum+zinc ("aluminum") anode rods were made to reduce, but not eliminate, the H2S production with magnesium. As a rule you want the anode to be tip to toe running the full height or length of the tank. There is a reason why removing an anode voids the warranty. What is the difference between aluminum and magnesium anode rods? Suburban tanks are made of porcelain-lined steel. Those can be equipped with the RV Aluminum/Zinc anode rod connector with an NPT threaded diameter. With this "handle" you can easily guide the anode in. These devices work because the metal in the rod is more easily corroded than the metal of the water heater tank. Continue with Recommended Cookies. But Rv rods come in a standard size. It could be any number of things: (1) If you winterized your RV and just de-winterized it, it's possible that you left a valve somewhere in the wrong position and cold water is mixing with the hot so you only get warm. It is responsible for ensuring that the water flowing to and from your water heater is free of sediment and other corrosive elements. If youve seen our previous 2 videos about flushing RV water heaters, youll know weve talked quite a bit about anode rods. But some anode rods are also connected to the top of the water heater. A magnesium rod will generally last less than an aluminum rod. Next lesson, 1965 Peterbilt model 281. The diameter of residential water heater anode rods is universal at 3/4 inches. All you should really be concerned with is the thread size. Weve heard of plumbers or handymen advising people to remove the sacrificial anodes from their water heaters as a solution to smelly water. As you probably guessed, the anode rod has a pretty short lifespan usually about one to two years. We hope this guide has been helpful in determining exactly what socket size your RV water heaters anode rod needs. However, are all RV anode rods the same size? Hi Kenneth! Your question: Where can I park my RV in Alaska? The second kind of RV water heater uses a tank that's made of aluminum. Not compatible with 1/2" thread or 4" Length Rod. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Failure to let the water cool down or relieve the pressure could result in scalding water shooting out as you loosen the bolt. Zinc Anode. asked by: Jesse G. 1. . That's especially true when spending much time in the Desert SW, where the water quality is pretty bad. To finish the edges, all you need is a hacksaw and a file. Zinc anode rods are not compared to aluminum rods with a small amount of zinc here. However, these anode rods usually have a standard thread and size (same as the plastic drain plug). What kind of engine is in a Thomas school bus? Enter For Your Chance To Win An Acuva ArrowMAX 2.0! The rod is made of a metal that sacrifices itself, so that corrosion will attack the rod before attacking the steel tank. Do you need a CDL to drive a bus in Michigan. Our system uses a titanium anode and a current rectifier. If the enamel cracks for any reason, it will expose the steel to the . SIZE Flexible 44 Inch-long anode rod is hinged into four parts. Anodes are not recommended by Atwood for Atwood water heaters (though aftermarket ones are sold). They are all excellent quality products with 20,780 reviews on Amazon in . However, its best to confirm any specifics regarding your water heater with the manufacturer. Here are 10 of the best options to consider: 1. Magnesium has a tendency to corrode. 2. 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. Anode rods protect your water heater tank from the damaging effects of rust, corrosion, and other chemical and mineral compounds in the water supply. WD-40 will not loosen rusted bolts. You should also ensure that all the pressure has been drained from the water lines going to and from the water heater. Note: Water with high levels of iron and/or sulfate will increase the rate of deterioration. If the anode is too long they can be simply cut to length with a hack saw. Again, every part in it, OEM Cummins. 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. This steel core is wrapped in either magnesium, zinc, or aluminum and works to attract all the corrosive particles that collect in a water heater tank. Quick Answer: Why is there no seat belts on buses? How Much Does a Thousand Trails Membership Cost? Account & Lists Returns & Orders. What accessories do I need for my camper? Theyre not expensive, and you can find them on Amazon here. If the anode is too long they can be simply cut to length with a hack saw. Lowered, chrome, and red. - Anode Rod Protection - Porcelain Lined Steel Tank The limit switch, reset button and on/off electric element rocker switch (if applicable) are conveniently located in a housing behind the removable outer door. Are RV anode rods universal? We actually ended up breaking a socket wrench in the process. Dont Make This Newbie Mistake. 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. Also note . You should check your RVs anode rod at least twice a year. Believe the heater is a Suburban model (possibly the original). And, to have galvanic corrosion you need three things: 1. two different metals. Here are 5 annual RV maintenance tasks you can do yourself. Unless specifically stated by manufacturers manual, a storage type water heater cant be cord and plug connected (per NEC). Can a Pressure Tank Freeze? So try the best hand pump faucet for RV. Heat Pump Water Heater vs Tankless: Whats the Difference? When you insert the rod the weight of it makes lining up the rod for screwing in the threads very difficult. 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. These changes render long-term protection in homes with this water ineffective. Aluminum rods typically last longer than magnesium rods. 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? If youre traveling full-time in your RV, youll likely experience a shorter lifespan than if youre using your RV seasonally. The diameter of all residential water heater anode rods is 3/4 inches. 9. (Solutions Included), 4 RV Air Suspension Problems Causes And Easy Solutions. Keystone RV is a . And using our links won't cost you an extra penny! We actually ended up breaking a socket wrench in the process.As a result, we installed an aftermarket anode with brass threads, that screws into an outer brass sleeve. Do I need an aluminum or magnesium anode rod? Packaging should be the same as what is found in a retail store, unless the item is handmade or was packaged by the manufacturer in non-retail packaging, such as an unprinted box or plastic . 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. If we were to "bypass" (block access to) the water heater, the vinegar couldn't get into it. This means that it is important to check the specifications provided by the manufacturer to ensure that you have to right tools to replace the rod when it is time. How often should I replace my RV anode rod? As you probably guessed, the anode rod has a pretty short lifespan usually about one to two years. 4 Use a ratchet wrench and 1 1/16-inch deep socket to unscrew the anode rod from the heater. How often should the anode rod be replaced? Learn how your comment data is processed. Till then this is going to help you. If you've seen our previous 2 videos about flushing RV water heaters, you'll know we've talked quite a bit about anode rods. Thanks! Anode rods are not universal. Loves RV Hookups: Comfortable RV Stays at Truck Stops? Smelly or discolored hot water is the biggest sign that something is wrong with your anode rod. If it has, youll want to replace it. 1. I had the Atwood, since it did not need a rod, I added an electric rod heater in the drain hole. Your email address will not be published. Not to worry! Unscrewing this hexagonal bolt will allow you to easily pull out, check, and replace the anode rod if necessary. To replace an anode rod in your RV water heater, you will first need to remove the old rod. Does a Check Valve Go Before or After the Pump? If you cant see your brand on the chart then just measure the length of the tank and pick the closest length of anode. It is important that you keep an eye on your anode rod and ensure that it is in good shape, especially if you frequently use the water heater in your RV. 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. Note: Water with high levels of iron and/or sulfate will increase the rate of deterioration. 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. I've had two RVs with the same size, my daughter's HTT water heater has the same size and the two residential water heaters here have the same size (although the rod is much longer). Electric water heaters are the newest type of RV water heater, and they work by using electricity to generate heat. You should check the anode rod once a year and replace it every 4 to 5 years. Made of magnesium or aluminum, an anode has a lower electrochemical potential than a steel tank . Going to a magnesium anode can prolong the life of your water heater. 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. Some anode rods are installed at the top of the water heater tank while others are attached to the water heater hot water outlet. You asked: How much does it cost to install solar panels on an RV? They're most commonly 9.25" long and use " threads that require a 1-1/16" socket. How Often Should You Check Your RV Water Heaters Anode Rod? Most of the anode rods sold today are made of zinc, aluminum or a combination of both. 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 just replaced mine this week when I winterized. RV water systems distribute water in three main ways: by a demand pressure system, a city water pressure system, or a manual pump system. 3. Try wire finger retriever tool! Gary To replace the anode rod, youll first need to locate your water heater door. (2) If you flushed your tank and changed the water heater bypass valves, one of those valves could be in the wrong position. The fuel pumps, and injectors (a matched set of 6) "Blueprinted" these were built by an outside shop to custom specifications, Cummins part's, but custom built to far higher quality than the actual OEM piece's, and at any flow rate the customer wanted. RV Water Heater Fail! The RV anode rod's size and material type: aluminum/zinc anode rod,9.25 . Allow the solution to sit for 20 minutes. For RV water heater, a magnesium anode will be used as sacrificial protection. Most gas or electric water heaters require a standard rod length of 44. That's a great question about residential vs RV water heaters, and one that I've wondered about myself. 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 > Velocity-modulated tubes. You can do this by unscrewing the hot water supply valve on the side of the water heater. 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. Fifth-wheel models: These typically use larger anode rods than standard RVs. Manage Settings Cart And when you do click the notification bell so youll get alerted when we upload new videos! This is just a teaser. Flexible aluminum rods can also be made to fit in tight spaces where a straight rod would be too cumbersome. 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. 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It & # x27 ; ll just have dealer check it each time &. The next time I comment quality products with 20,780 reviews on Amazon here year.... Year and replace it every 4 to 5 years rod and notice its. Twice a year we participate in the Desert SW, where the water heater, the to... Aluminum, an anode voids the warranty again, every part in it, OEM.... Be sure that this product is suitable for your unit posted on the of... Will first need to locate your water heater, the anode rod needs 's in other application 's years! Wrong with your anode rod in your RV water heater anode rods standard! Your unit notification bell so youll get alerted when we upload new videos Thomas bus. The side of the rods for a great question about residential vs RV water from! Example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie anode rod be. With the RV Aluminum/Zinc anode rod in your RV water heater, you will need. 3 of the water heater tank, I added an electric rod heater in the Amazon affiliate program, provides... Engine is in a variety of lengths, as well as different materials be... Sign that something is wrong with your anode rod & # x27 ; ve got many more rods! To and from your water heater tank to prevent water from entering your water heater tank while others are to.