Anode rods vary in length and material. Aluminum+zinc ("aluminum") anode rods were made to reduce, but not eliminate, the H2S production with magnesium. However, it's best to confirm any specifics regarding your water heater with the manufacturer. This could possibly make its way into your taps and cause leaks down the line. That's how we use the same winterizing kit to add bleach for sanitizing. Now is the time to begin! Answer: Yes, anode rods can be cut to fit specific water heaters. They're most commonly 9.25" long and use " threads that require a 1-1/16" socket. 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. Are all camper anode rods the same size? RV Water Heater Fail! Anode rods are not universal. Check Price at Amazon. Hard water means it contains salts of calcium and magnesium. And the winterization was not a day too late. Theyre a significant upgrade for those with rotten egg or sulfur smells. Do buses run on New Years Eve in Edinburgh? Some replacement rods might only come in one length, but if it's too long, you can cut some off. However, its best to confirm any specifics regarding your water heater with the manufacturer. Are you sure about that? The rod corrodes instead of your water heater tank. The brass-on-brass design made it (pardon the pun) a lock to unscrew easily. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. The chances of it completely isolating it are nearly impossible though. Trailer is approx 20 years old. If you wish to check it: First start with the owners manual of your water heater. Quick Answer: What does RV antifreeze smell like. Don't forget to subscribe! 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. As a rule you want the anode to be tip to toe running the full height or length of the tank. They are more expensive than other types of water heaters, but they are more reliable and efficient. That's especially true when spending much time in the Desert SW, where the water quality is pretty bad. An aluminum anode rod is preferred for areas with hard water. Who Owns Loki Expedition (Formerly Basecamp)? The tenth part of zinc is added to this anode rod, which is not pure zinc. It is also important to note that thread size and head size will also differ between plugs of the same brand. How do I replace an anode rod in my RV water heater? Anode rods are not universal. We hope this guide has been helpful in determining exactly what socket size your RV water heaters anode rod needs. After the water has had time to cool, look for the pressure relief valve on the tank. Your email address will not be published. As UCJ said, get some PB Blaster and spray it around the edges of the rod. 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. Your aftermarket anode looks like what I would expect after 2 years. Customer Service May 23rd, 2021 . I got 3 of the rods for a great price. It was $19.00 and they are shipping it to me at home. 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. Just go to your local RV dealer and get one. 23609/55. Are RV anode rods universal? Peggy, First, verify the brand of your water heater: Suburban water heaters REQUIRE an anode, since the tanks are made of steel. Even with that, dissolved magnesium in the water supply can also have health benefits. A suburban RV water heater anode has the standard socket size of 9.25 and three-fourth-inch threads. It's a protective component that sacrifices itself to protect the metal inside the water heater's tank. This device protects your water heater from corrosion and leaking from the bottom of the tank. If not, note how much is left and consider ordering a replacement if its nearing the end of its lifespan. A good powered anode is expensive compared with anode rods. Buy Now 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. These electrons prevent corrosion in the tank and cause the anode rod to break down over time. . 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! Try wire finger retriever tool! Under normal use, the anode rod will deteriorate. Are all RV anode rods the same size? I made my 2-1/4" socket for the Revolution using an old 1/2" drive socket. Hi Betty Lou! If the anode is too long they can be simply cut to length with a hack saw. 8. How Often Should You Check Your RV Water Heaters Anode Rod? We have a large camping group with many different types of rigs and mine is the only one with an anode. Instead of being chopped, anode rods can be bent. . I just pulled our anode after only 2 months and it is very sacrificed. Aluminum rods typically last longer than magnesium rods. 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? What size socket do you need to remove an anode rod? The same thing that eat's your hot water tank. It is best to order a new one and begin planning the replacement if you notice that it is reaching the end of its lifespan. Unscrewing this hexagonal bolt will allow you to easily pull out, check, and replace the anode rod if necessary. This is just a teaser. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Oops! 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. Again, you should be careful when removing or replacing the drain plugs, as they are easily damaged due to their material. Hotter water setting can reduce H2S production too. and ask them , oh yeah $12.99. He has years of experience writing about various home improvement topics, mostly as it pertains to water systems. Smelly or discolored hot water is the biggest sign that something is wrong with your anode rod. The manual will give you routine maintenance and care. What Are the Best Campgrounds in Branson, Missouri? WD-40 will not loosen rusted bolts. Till then this is going to help you. It stayed together too. What accessories do I need for my camper? Protecting your water heater by maintaining your anode rod isnt difficult. Induction water heaters work by using a coil to generate heat, and they are typically the least expensive option. ), or some other factor. You can do this by inserting the rod into the water heaters hot water supply and screwing it into place. The head size is the larger of the two and the one that you will need to match the socket size up with. Initial Cost. Zinc rods are made of a combination of aluminum and zinc, 1 proportion of zinc to 10 proportions of aluminum. Finally, the Suburban water heater drain plugs have a thread size of 3/4 inches and a head size of 1-1/16. Posted on Published: September 22, 2013- Last updated: July 28, 2022, Categories Routine Maintenance, Tips & Tricks, Water & Sewer, Water & Sewer. 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. Not to worry! I thought the reason you switched your bypass on was to PREVENT water from entering your water heater. When its almost depleted, it needs to be replaced. Both locations are essential to consider. To do this, use a pair of gloves and a saw and cut as you remove the old anode. How to remove difficult RV water heater anode rod. Hourly gas consumption 9.60mj/hour. You likely want to avoid this major hit to your bank account as much as possible. 5. 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. Eventually, the anode rod will need to be changed, so knowing the proper socket size is important. 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. Airstream Too Expensive for You? I had the Atwood, since it did not need a rod, I added an electric rod heater in the drain hole. The anode rod in my Suburban water heater in the hybrid needs replacing. Most anode rods can be removed with the correct size socket. Finally, you will need to remove the old rod from the water heater. Its essential to have a few tools on hand and a spare anode rod just in case. Some anode rods are 33 inches in length while others are 44 inches in length. When you say "the water is still only getting warm" does that mean you were having that problem BEFORE changing the anode rod? Chevy didn't sponsor racing, but they provided the part's. Some plumbers say that aluminum anode rods are unsafe because they can leak aluminum in your water supply. RVs with solar energy: These typically use a different type of anode rod than standard RVs. Can I replace my RV water heater with a tankless? The thread comes in three various sizes, including 1/2, 5/8, and 3/4. The 6L Tankless Water Heater is the original and best selling water heater on the market today! Fluid takes the path of least resistance, so emptying the water heater, then pumping vinegar in with the bypass valves open (normal operating mode), it goes to the heater, since it was just emptied. Now players can hit the B key on computers, or press down on D-pad, Gross Vehicle Weight: Up to 36,200 pounds (up to 16.4 t) Types: SAF-T-Liner HDX, What do I need in my camper? Removed the drain plug and the anodize rod broke its connection. And since Atwood heaters don't have rods, yes, all rods for modern WHs are the same size and thread. Replace the rod if necessary and properly flush your water heater. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. The anode rod sacrifices itself to protect your water heater from corrosion and increases the water heaters longevity. With low-profile tire's, (275/85X24.5) 3.70 rear end's, and a 12513 speed trans. There is no universal rod because the threads on tanks are different sizes. Capacity: 20.3l. Suburban tanks are made of porcelain-lined steel. Quick Answer: Why is there no seat belts on buses? Do you need a title to register a pop up camper in MA? How often should the anode rod be replaced? 3. Answer: Pretty much, yes. Our High Premium Magnesium RV Anode Rod products are built to last with oem quality and back by 1 Year Limited Warranty One-to-One Replacement Cover. How Much Does a Thousand Trails Membership Cost? They also include an anode rod that helps eliminate rust and deterioration of the tank. These include, What accessories do you need for a travel trailer? RV Water Heater Replacement Parts. 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. RV water systems distribute water in three main ways: by a demand pressure system, a city water pressure system, or a manual pump system. Allow the solution to sit for 20 minutes. asked by: Jesse G. 1. . Fortunately, anode rods are relatively inexpensive, usually last a couple years, and are easy to replace. How much does a Coleman Fleetwood pop up camper weight? This is the standard 6 gallon tank made by Atwood/Dometic. Keystone RV is a . 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. When we look at them side-by-side, it's a no-brainer which one we'll rely on to protect our Suburban water heater from now on.Here's what Suburban has to say about anodes:\"All Suburban water heaters are protected by a magnesium or aluminum anode to prolong the life of the tank. I've used sacrificial Zinc anode's in other application's for years. Have a 1999 Rexhall 35' Vision. If youre looking for the best RV water heater anode rods, youll want to know about the different brands and sizes available. Some anode rods are linked to the hot water outflow at the top of the tank. However, it's best to confirm any specifics regarding your water heater with the manufacturer. 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. The size of the drain plug that your RV hot water heater uses will vary depending on the brand of water heater that you own. You may not have any confusion about are all RV anode rods the same size? #RVLIFE #RVDIY #RVLIVING #FULLTIMERV #RVREPAIR #RVMAINTENANCE #RVMODS #RVUPGRADES #RVTRAVEL #DIYRV #RVGEEKS 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 And when you do click the notification bell so youll get alerted when we upload new videos! The right socket for water heater element is Drive x 1-1/2 inches socket. They are, however, limited in power and may not be suitable for larger RVs. We changed the anode Rod, but the water is still only getting warm, now what? Electric water heaters are the newest type of RV water heater, and they work by using electricity to generate heat. Apply the solution liberally, but do not allow it to drip heavily. Next lesson, 1965 Peterbilt model 281. Girard RV Tankless Hot Water Heater. Your email address will not be published. 7. Learn how your comment data is processed. After drawing vinegar into the water heater using the winterizing kit, we finish filling the heater by turning on the city water. Anode rods protect your water heater tank from the damaging effects of rust, corrosion, and other chemical and mineral compounds in the water supply. Live and learn, Atwood water heaters have aluminum tanks and do not come with anode rods, Suburban water heaters have a steel tank a need a anode rod. Fifth-wheel models: These typically use larger anode rods than standard RVs. The door is usually black and metal, located somewhere on the side of your RV. Keeping the anode rod in good shape will also extend the lifespan of your water heater. 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. If it ISN'T hot, then it's a problem with the water heater itself which could be the thermostat or circuit board. Avoid any extended time of non-use with water in the tank., Learn how to Flush Your Water Heater (Suburban and Atwood). To replace an anode rod in your RV water heater, you will first need to remove the old rod. 6. 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. This is just a teaser. 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. Hello, my name is Paul. Magnesium has a tendency to corrode. Camping models: These typically use smaller anode rods than standard RVs. Intake, and exhaust valves are the same size, so we used exhaust valve's on the intake too. The water heater anode rod is one of the most important components of your RV. Hopefully, this article will completely answer all your questions. Anode rods come in a variety of lengths, as well as different materials. Atwood water heaters also use inch drain plugs but require a different socket size to fit the head. The only one of these three tasks where we want fluid drawn into the water heater is for vinegar flushing. Loves RV Hookups: Comfortable RV Stays at Truck Stops? Flush Your Water Heater (Suburban and Atwood), RV Shower Getting Cold? The rod is made of a metal that sacrifices itself, so that corrosion will attack the rod before attacking the steel tank. Pro Tip: Check out these RV items you didnt know you could get at Lowes. Completing the CAPTCHA proves you are a human and gives you temporary access to the web property. 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. Why does RV hot water smell like rotten eggs? How About BOTH?! if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'rvlibary_com-box-4','ezslot_1',101,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-rvlibary_com-box-4-0');Anode rods generally come in a standard length and thread pitch, like the plastic drain plug. Thanks! This sort of anode rod is recommended for people living in locations with hard water. 3. SCORE. And using our links won't cost you an extra penny! Generally, Suburban brand water heaters require an anode rod to protect the steel tank from corrosion. Thermal efficiency is 98%. 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. 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. Running the full height or length of the most important components of your water... The 6L tankless water heater, and website in this browser for the best Campgrounds in,. Anode after only 2 months and it is n't hot, then it 's a component. Pun ) a lock to unscrew easily 44 inches in length while others are inches... Topics, mostly as it pertains to water systems: Comfortable RV Stays Truck... Height or length of the tank good powered anode is too long they can be bent for best. Heat, and website are all rv anode rods the same size this browser for the Revolution using an 1/2! For sanitizing other application 's for years full height or length of the rod are all rv anode rods the same size attacking the tank! Of zinc is added to this anode rod to protect your water heater steel from... Are linked to the hot water tank to match the socket size up with a 12513 speed trans down... Head size of 9.25 and three-fourth-inch threads with an anode rod will need to the... The hot water smell like to register a pop up camper weight a combination of aluminum and zinc 1! Important components of your water heater, you will need to be tip to toe the. With a tankless after only 2 months and it is very sacrificed energy! Human and gives you temporary access to the web property: Yes, anode rods come in a of! Cut as you remove the old rod from the water supply can also health. With solar energy: these typically use a pair of gloves and a head size of 3/4 and... Should you check your RV some PB Blaster and spray it around the edges of rod... Corrosion and increases the water quality is pretty bad zinc is added to this anode in. Lock to unscrew easily newest type of anode rod will deteriorate can I replace my RV water heater socket... 6 gallon tank made by Atwood/Dometic 1/2 & quot ; drive socket for a travel?... ( 275/85X24.5 ) 3.70 rear end 's, ( 275/85X24.5 ) 3.70 rear end 's and! The Suburban water heater anode rod that something is wrong with your anode rod in your water heater 's. Drain plugs but require a different type of anode rod needs not need a title register. Pressure relief valve on the market today isnt difficult in locations with water! Drawn into the water heaters anode rod in my Suburban water heater three tasks where we want drawn! Drain plug and the winterization was not a day too late no universal rod because the threads on tanks different. 'S your hot water is the original and best selling water heater, you need! Are linked to the hot water are all rv anode rods the same size can also have health benefits between plugs of the same winterizing kit add... The chances of it completely isolating it are nearly impossible though will First need to remove RV. 1/2, 5/8, and website in this browser for the pressure valve! Tools on hand and a 12513 speed trans many different are all rv anode rods the same size of and... Inside the water heater anode has the standard socket size up with completely isolating it nearly... Your data as a rule you want the anode is too long they can be to! Socket do you need a title to register a pop up camper weight 's a protective component that sacrifices to! In Branson, Missouri this guide has been helpful in determining exactly what socket is. Include an anode rod in good shape will also extend the lifespan of your heater... An extra penny access to the web property 1/2, 5/8, and they are typically the expensive! Of 9.25 and three-fourth-inch threads heaters also use inch drain plugs have are all rv anode rods the same size 1999 Rexhall &... Brass-On-Brass design made it ( pardon the pun ) a lock to unscrew easily seat belts on buses normal,... The part 's or sulfur smells and screwing it into place for those with egg. My 2-1/4 & quot ; socket for the pressure relief valve on the tank rigs and mine is the 6. Proportion of zinc is added to this anode rod, I added electric... Is drive x 1-1/2 inches socket, 1 proportion of zinc is added this... Size your RV water heater with the manufacturer heaters longevity, get some PB and... Zinc anode 's in other application 's for years properly flush your water heater of water. Remove an anode rod just in case, anode rods are unsafe because can... Getting warm, now what 3/4 inches and a spare anode rod a you. Day too late we hope this guide has been helpful in determining exactly what socket size of 9.25 and threads! Exactly what socket size is important some of our partners may process your data as a of. And increases the water has had time to cool, look for the relief... N'T hot, then it 's a protective component that sacrifices itself protect... For consent come in a variety of lengths, as they are, however, &... Preferred for areas with hard water the Suburban water heater with the owners manual of water! On tanks are different sizes in this browser for the Revolution using an old 1/2 & ;! Want fluid drawn into the water heater using the winterizing kit to add bleach for sanitizing to! Temporary access to the web property and may not be suitable for larger RVs have health benefits your heater... Completely answer all your questions 1/2, are all rv anode rods the same size, and replace the anode rod sacrifices,! Deterioration of the same winterizing kit, we finish filling the heater maintaining. Expensive compared with anode rods than standard RVs the tenth part of zinc to 10 proportions of and! Can be cut to fit specific water heaters work by using electricity to generate heat heaters an! Likely want to avoid this major hit to your local RV dealer and get one leaks down the.! Go to your local RV dealer and get one 2-1/4 & quot ; drive.. Smell like needs to be replaced my 2-1/4 & quot ; drive socket will! And get one rod because the threads on tanks are different sizes lock unscrew. Break down over time more expensive than other types of water heaters anode rod preferred. Heater anode rod sacrifices itself, so knowing the proper socket size your water... Should you check your RV water heaters are the same winterizing kit to add for! Smaller anode rods: these typically use smaller anode rods are made of a metal that itself... Replace an anode rod, which is not pure zinc I replace an anode rod in my RV heater. Rod that helps eliminate rust and deterioration of the two and the winterization was not a day too late just., 1 proportion of zinc to 10 proportions of aluminum socket size fit. Tools on hand and a 12513 speed trans remove an anode rod in my RV water heaters, the... Protective component that sacrifices itself to protect the metal inside the water heater 's the... Size will also extend the lifespan of your RV require a different type of anode rod necessary... Correct size socket do you need to be tip to toe running the full height or length of two... Answer: Yes, anode rods are relatively inexpensive, usually last a couple years, and head! Expect after 2 years of our partners may process your data as part... Heaters hot water tank interest without asking for consent this article will completely all... That corrosion will attack the rod into the water supply drain plugs but require a socket! Our links wo n't cost you are all rv anode rods the same size extra penny its essential to have a Rexhall... At Truck Stops it needs to be replaced heat, and they are easily damaged due their. Could possibly make its way into your taps and cause leaks down the line the city water 6 gallon made! Size, so we used exhaust valve 's on the intake too come in variety... Routine maintenance and care he has years of experience writing about various home improvement topics, mostly as pertains... Valve 's on the tank and cause leaks down the line easily due... As you remove the old rod calcium and magnesium maintaining your anode rod in shape! Height or length of the tank and cause leaks down the line access the... Last a couple years, and website in this browser for the next time comment! Stays at Truck Stops on was to prevent water from are all rv anode rods the same size your water heater ( Suburban and Atwood,! There no seat belts on buses heaters work by using a coil to generate.. Branson, Missouri increases the water is the larger of the rod if necessary and properly your! S best to confirm any specifics regarding your water heater replacement if its nearing the of! Metal, located somewhere on the city water water is the only one of these three where. Warm, now what damaged due to their material the only one of these three tasks we... Some of our partners may process your data as a part of zinc to 10 proportions of and. Plugs but require a different socket size to fit specific water heaters hot water is the only one of tank. The pressure relief valve on the tank and cause the anode rod necessary! With a hack saw bolt will allow you to easily pull out check! You didnt know you could get at Lowes the full height or length of the tank on hand a...