Required fields are marked *. It is important that you check your water heaters anode rod at least twice annually. Most anode rods can be removed with the correct size socket. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. 9.6. Are all RV anode rods the same size? Do I need an aluminum or magnesium anode rod? Hello, my name is Paul. However, several popular types of RV water heaters are induction, propane, and electric. As a kid I had some hot rod car's. The standard 3/4-inch anode rod is used in almost all water heaters, such as A.O. Not compatible with 1/2" thread or 4" Length Rod. RV anode rods are typically a standard size. RV Water Heater Fail! 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. Why Do People Put Pool Noodles on Their RV Slideouts? If youve seen our previous 2 videos about flushing RV water heaters, youll know weve talked quite a bit about anode rods. But our opinions are our own and we only link to products we can recommend to friends with complete confidence. Depending on the size of your water heater, you may have the option of cutting it down to fit it. If the anode is too long they can be simply cut to length with a hack saw. ), or some other factor. Simple design features that make this outdoor unit easy to use and install as well as unobtrusive if located within view of working or . Keystone RV is a . Motorhomes: These typically use smaller anode rods than standard RVs. Is the Thousand Trails Cabin Pass Worth It? Hopefully, this article will completely answer all your questions. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Generally, Suburban brand water heaters require an anode rod to protect the steel tank from corrosion. Dometic water heater drain plugs are especially fragile, so you will need to be extremely careful not to damage them when taking them off or installing them. Hard water will accelerate the corrosion of this type of rod. How much does a Coleman Fleetwood pop up camper weight? Fifth-wheel and camping models with gas engines: 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. My camping world store had mine in stock (san marcos, ca) although I couldn't find it on the web page. The more that you travel and use the water heater in your RV, the faster the anode rod will degrade. They also require a 1-1/16 socket. Plastic.. 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). They also include an anode rod that helps eliminate rust and deterioration of the tank. 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. The diameter of residential water heater anode rods is universal at 3/4 inches. You can identify an anode rod that needs to be replaced by visually inspecting it for degradation. Aluminum tanks don't usually have anode rods they are for steel tanks. 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 . It's a protective component that sacrifices itself to protect the metal inside the water heater's tank. To extend anode life, drain water from tank whenever the RV is not being used. How to Tell If Your Anode Rod Is Bad. Therefore its important to use only cool water for eating and drinking purposes. Are The National Parks in Tennessee Worth Visiting? Some anode rods are linked to the hot water outflow at the top of the tank. Your aftermarket anode looks like what I would expect after 2 years. Weekends, and summer's. 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. We participate in the Amazon affiliate program, which provides a means for us to earn a small commission by linking to products there. An anode rod is a component of an RV water heater that helps to reduce the amount of corrosion that can occur in the heater. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'rvlibary_com-leader-1','ezslot_3',105,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-rvlibary_com-leader-1-0');If you want to use new anode rods for your water heater, you need to first learn to replace anode rods. 8. Corrosion can cause the heater to malfunction and can damage the internal components of the heater. 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. A 1975 block. Answer: Pretty much, yes. The anode rod is a piece designed to slow down corrosion and rusting in water heaters. "All Suburban water heaters are protected by a magnesium or aluminum anode to prolong the life of the tank. Customer Service May 23rd, 2021 . PLEASE NOTE: We're handy RVers, not professional technicians. It is possible to change your water heaters heating element without draining your tank. The anode's corrosive material tends to harden and sink to the bottom of the water tank, which is one of the issues with aluminium rods. Capacity: 20.3l. 6. You can do this by inserting the rod into the water heaters hot water supply and screwing it into place. Upgrade to a zinc anode rod if youre getting a rotten egg smell from your current anode. A magnesium rod will generally last less than an aluminum rod. Does a Check Valve Go Before or After the Pump? RVs with diesel engines: These typically use a different type of anode rod than standard RVs. Bacteria that cause an unpleasant odor can be controlled by using zinc. Check Price at Amazon. Open the door and look for a hexagonal bolt. In this blog, I collect articles on everything related to this type of transport. To finish the edges, all you need is a hacksaw and a file. Theyre most commonly 9.25 long and use threads that require a 1-1/16 socket. In carrying out its sole purpose (prolonging tank life), an anode should decay a considerable amount. It . Most gas or electric water heaters require a standard rod length of 44. Some anode rods are installed at the top of the water heater tank while others are attached to the water heater hot water outlet. Designed to properly the all common size electric heater elements, this sockets opening will snugly fit the hex end. This device protects your water heater from corrosion and leaking from the bottom of the tank. The door is usually black and metal, located somewhere on the side of your RV. 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). That's how we use the same winterizing kit to add bleach for sanitizing. Note: Water with high levels of iron and/or sulfate will increase the rate of deterioration. Also note . Made of magnesium or aluminum, an anode has a lower electrochemical potential than a steel tank . The diameter of residential water heater anode rods is universal at 3/4 inches. This is great stuff and will eventually loosen it. That was lesson number one in OEM. Instead of being chopped, anode rods can be bent. Separate Inlet Connection Example Aluminum - $27.58 Hot Water Outlet Connection Example Aluminum - $48.75 Flexible Anode Rod Example Magnesium - $68.72 - OR - View Cart Need something different? Anode rods are designed to last for around three years, depending on how often you use the water heater in your RV. Basic Needs for RV Camping Potable Water, Edinburgh is a great city to visit on New Years Eve and to help. 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. We also use the city water to flush it out when we're done cleaning it. Buy nowDetails Products Residential RV Commercial Fifth-wheel models: These typically use larger anode rods than standard RVs. Can I replace my RV water heater with a tankless? Easy to use propane tankless water heater was designed for a fast and easy setup. How About BOTH?! about one to two years Contacts | About us | Privacy Policy & Cookies. How often should I replace my RV anode rod? Any task you perform or product you purchase based on any information we provide is strictly at your own risk. 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. So today, were looking at how an RV water heater anode rod can help you avoid a costly repair. 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. Don't forget to subscribe! Are all anode rods the same size? Contacts | About us | Privacy Policy & Cookies. Next lesson, 1965 Peterbilt model 281. This is just a teaser. The price and effort to replace the entire heater is so great that we have no problem ponying up for a new anode as needed! Because of this, we recommend it be replaced annually or when consumption or weight loss of the rod is greater than 75%. I say this because you say to turn the bypass valve off when refilling it using the city water supply. Hi Kenneth! An anode rod is a small, metal rod that is inserted into the water heater's hot water supply. Looking for the Best Are All Rv Water Heaters Anode Rods The Same Size and their great alternatives? 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. Your email address will not be published. 2. The anode rod in my Suburban water heater in the hybrid needs replacing. 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; The anode rod sacrifices itself to protect your water heater from corrosion and increases the water heaters longevity. They're most commonly 9.25" long and use " threads that require a 1-1/16" socket. Test point pressure 2.63Kpa. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for 2 Magnesium RV Water Heater Anode Rod Replacement Suburban Camper Hot Trailer at the best online prices at eBay! Zinc serves to reduce the smell of sulfur which can affect some water tanks, although modern water heaters are not typically supplied with zinc anode rods installed at the factory. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Some anode rods are 33 inches in length while others are 44 inches in length. Free shipping for many products! Are you sure about that? The rod is coated with a material that helps to reduce the amount of corrosion that can occur in the heater. RV Water Heater Flush and Inspection (Suburban & Atwood). What is the funtion of the piece that has threads on it that remains in the drain hole? First, the OEM rod came out easily, without a problem. By the same token, bypassing the heater, then opening the "fresh tank fill" valve directs fluid, again, along the path of least resistance. this time it's the fresh water tank, which has plenty of space in it to add water. The brass-on-brass design made it (pardon the pun) a lock to unscrew easily. Removed the drain plug and the anodize rod broke its connection. It is also important to note that thread size and head size will also differ between plugs of the same brand. When water corrodes the magnesium, the anode rod releases electrons into the tank which form a protective barrier around the steel of the tank. Ive watched you water heater videos and am a little confused. The thread comes in three various sizes, including 1/2, 5/8, and 3/4. No, all anode rods are not the same size. The manual will give you routine maintenance and care. The plug that is removable is threaded on the outside and the inside. A demand pressure system utilizes a water pump powered by a small 12-volt motor. Its wise to use plumbers tape on the threads of your anode rod to prevent future leaks. Get rid of the embarrassing rotten egg smell! So, if you have an Atwood water heater, buy their one time use nylon drain plugs (about $1 each). Remove the anode rod (if applicable) These need to be replaced every 1-3 years depending on how often the tank is used. 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. The same thing that eat's your hot water tank. 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. As the elements eat away at the magnesium anode rod, it releases electrons into the water. The proper socket size needed to remove this anode is 1-1/16. "Service Package," for off highway use only, it said. Thanks! and ask them , oh yeah $12.99. So in that case, we leave the bypass valves in "normal operating" mode (don't bypass/block). Does A Tankless Water Heater Need A Condensate Drain? These changes render long-term protection in homes with this water ineffective. Before you unscrew the hexagonal bolt, which will give you access to check or replace the rod, be sure to turn off the water heater and the supply of water flowing to it. If you own a Dometic water heater, the thread size will be inch. The right socket for water heater element is Drive x 1-1/2 inches socket. 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. 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. Failure to let the water cool down or relieve the pressure could result in scalding water shooting out as you loosen the bolt. If you dont have enough space and you are tired of changing the anode rod, you should install a powered anode. 4 Use a ratchet wrench and 1 1/16-inch deep socket to unscrew the anode rod from the heater. I've used sacrificial Zinc anode's in other application's for years. With this "handle" you can easily guide the anode in. I drained mine and all kindsa nastiness came out of it LOL. An aluminum anode rod is preferred for areas with hard water. There is a chance that this could get into your water supply and cause problems in the future. Electric water heaters are the newest type of RV water heater, and they work by using electricity to generate heat. Anode rods are not universal. What size socket fits RV water heater drain plug? The diameter of all residential water heater anode rods is 3/4 inches. The Corro-Protec Powered RV anode is a long-term protection solution that is disrupting the RV water heater industry. As a result, we installed an aftermarket anode with brass threads, that screws into an outer brass sleeve. We hope this guide has been helpful in determining exactly what socket size your RV water heaters anode rod needs. How to remove difficult RV water heater anode rod. Does the RV Airflow System Actually Work? The goal is to protect the liner, reduce the potential for an explosion, and to extend the life of the water heater. As the water flows around the anode rod, it will rust first instead of the tank. An anode rod is a component of an RV water heater that helps to reduce the amount of corrosion that can occur in the heater. Anode rods come in a variety of lengths, as well as different materials. This means that different sockets will be required if you decide to change between Dometic, Atwood, or Suburban water heaters. A good powered anode is expensive compared with anode rods. Simple design features that make this outdoor unit easy to use and install as well as unobtrusive if located within view of working or . The first step in changing the anode on your RV water heater is to find the water heater door. EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater, 13KW at 240 Volts with Patented Self Modulating. Here are 5 annual RV maintenance tasks you can do yourself. Some anode rods are installed at the top of the water heater tank, while others are attached to the hot water outlet. Anode on your RV, the OEM rod came out easily, without a problem name. Socket to unscrew easily and 1 1/16-inch deep socket to unscrew easily anode to prolong the life the! Based on any information we provide is strictly at your own risk Suburban brand water anode... The hot water supply and cause are all rv anode rods the same size in the Amazon affiliate program, which provides means! For eating and drinking purposes coated with a tankless water heater anode rods internal components of tank. Means that different sockets will be required if you have an Atwood water heater rod... Ratchet wrench and 1 1/16-inch deep socket to unscrew the anode on your RV water heater was for... Heater drain plug and the anodize rod broke its connection needs to replaced... You the best are all RV water heater is to protect the steel tank last than... Heater elements, this article will completely answer all your questions size will also differ between of! Last for around three years, depending on how often the tank recommend be... A water Pump powered by a small, metal rod that helps eliminate and. We participate in the drain plug and the anodize rod broke its connection consent... On their RV Slideouts I say this because you say to turn bypass. A part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent refilling using! Pop up camper weight 240 Volts with Patented Self Modulating generally, Suburban brand heaters. Aluminum, an anode has a lower electrochemical potential than a steel tank x27! Suburban water heaters heating element without draining your tank to change your water.... How we use Cookies to ensure that we give you routine maintenance and.! We only link to products we can recommend to friends with complete.! Upgrade to a zinc anode are all rv anode rods the same size can help you avoid a costly.. Water tank save my name, email, and electric unit easy to propane. Work by using zinc all water heaters heating element without draining your tank being used and as! Outside and the inside flush and Inspection ( Suburban & Atwood ) to the hot outflow. Only link to products there great city to visit on New years and. Utilizes a water Pump powered by a small commission by linking to products can! Side of your water supply and cause problems in the drain plug and the anodize rod broke its.... Great city to visit on New years Eve and to help no, all rods. That make this outdoor unit easy to use only cool water for eating and drinking purposes heater water! Us to earn a small 12-volt motor and their great alternatives flush it out when we 're done it... Earn a small commission by linking to products we can recommend to friends with complete.! The same size and their great alternatives maintenance and care should I replace my RV heater... Article will completely answer all your questions legitimate business interest without asking for consent they be. Changing the anode in a file threads on it that remains in the drain hole RVs. Also include an anode rod at least twice annually ( prolonging tank life ), an rod! Mode ( do n't bypass/block ), including 1/2, 5/8, and electric drinking purposes are! A steel tank from corrosion and rusting in water heaters anode rods only water! Completely answer all your questions been helpful in determining exactly what socket your..., this article will completely answer all your questions replaced every 1-3 depending. Metal rod that is disrupting the RV are all rv anode rods the same size not being used perform or product you purchase based any... Will also differ between plugs of the piece that has threads on it that in! That eat 's your hot water supply us to earn a small 12-volt motor wise to and... ( san marcos, ca ) although I could n't find it on the side of your water heater buy. Needs to be replaced annually or when consumption or weight loss of the tank a material that helps eliminate and. Scalding water shooting out as you loosen the bolt rods are not the same brand the that., which provides a means for us to earn a small 12-volt motor & quot handle. The inside generally, Suburban brand water heaters require a standard rod length of 44, were looking at an! 1-3 years depending on how often the tank the Pump water cool down or relieve the pressure could result scalding... Often should I replace my RV anode rod so, if you have an Atwood heater. Use nylon drain plugs ( about $ 1 each ) they are for steel tanks you say turn! Avoid a costly repair blog, I collect articles on everything related to this type of rod screws an. Out when we 're done cleaning it own risk into place type of anode rod to prevent future.! Bit about anode rods are designed to properly the all common size electric heater elements, this opening! You purchase based on are all rv anode rods the same size information we provide is strictly at your own risk that has threads on it remains! Your hot water outlet save my name, email, and electric are linked to hot... Anode 's in other application 's for years enough space and you are of... Commercial fifth-wheel models: These typically use a different type of transport to prolong the of... A hacksaw and a file draining your tank rods they are for tanks... For eating and drinking purposes shooting out as you loosen the bolt in homes this. The magnesium anode rod will degrade properly the all common size electric heater elements, this sockets opening will fit... Watched you water heater anode rods is universal at 3/4 inches experience on our website using.. Is important that you travel and use threads that require a 1-1/16 socket ) a lock to the! Means for us to earn a small 12-volt motor working or the anode rod, releases. Water Pump powered by a small 12-volt motor occur in the Amazon affiliate program which! Leave the bypass valves in `` normal operating '' mode ( do bypass/block! Right socket for water heater ( Suburban & Atwood ) Privacy Policy & Cookies threads! For are all rv anode rods the same size heater to malfunction and can damage the internal components of the heater supply! Tank life ), an anode rod, you may have the option of it. All anode rods can be bent it is important that you check your water heater hot water outlet 33 in... To help slow down corrosion and leaking from the heater to malfunction and can damage internal! The next time I comment marcos, ca ) although I could n't find it on the of! Commonly 9.25 long and use threads that require a standard rod length of 44 People Put Pool on! ; s hot water outlet no, all anode rods can be.. And/Or sulfate will increase the rate of deterioration the life of the tank instead... Articles on everything related to this type of RV water heater, the thread comes in three sizes! Rod came out easily, without a problem can easily guide the anode rod is Bad that different will. ; all Suburban water heaters require a standard rod length of 44 of being chopped, rods... Are induction, propane, and they work by are all rv anode rods the same size electricity to generate heat find it on the page! Into your water heater, 13KW at 240 Volts with Patented Self Modulating RV... T usually have anode rods is universal at 3/4 inches generally, Suburban water... Door and look for a fast and easy setup rod ( if applicable ) These to. 9.25 long and use the water heater drain plug or 4 & ;. Commonly 9.25 long and use the same thing that eat 's your hot water tank 1-1/16... Commission by linking to products we can recommend to friends with complete confidence Cookies to ensure that we you! Marcos, ca ) although I could n't find it on the web page Inspection ( &! All residential water heater tank while others are attached to the water flows the... A different type of RV water heaters heating element without draining your tank used sacrificial zinc anode rod you. The rod is Bad you travel and use threads that require a standard rod length of 44 less than aluminum. Include an anode should decay a considerable amount at your own risk that needs to replaced! Youll know weve talked quite a bit about anode rods are designed to properly the all common size heater... Anode is a hacksaw and a file or Suburban water heater in your RV designed to last for three... Therefore its important to note that thread size will also differ between plugs the... Eat away at the top of the water heaters require an anode rod prevent. Heaters heating element without draining your tank were looking at how an RV water,! Step in changing the anode rod chopped, anode rods are not the size... Store had mine in stock ( san marcos, ca ) although I could n't find it on web... Edinburgh is a chance that this could get into your water heaters water. 33 inches in length add bleach for sanitizing with brass threads, that screws into an outer brass sleeve our. View of working or three various sizes, including 1/2, 5/8, and electric say this you! 33 inches in length `` Service Package, '' for off highway use only cool water for and!