What is an anode rod and why do I need one?
The anode rod serves as the screw-in plug for several varieties of RV hot water heaters. It is made of magnesium or aluminum and acts as a sacrificial rod to protect your steel water heater tank from corrosive impurities. It attracts these impurities through an electrochemical process, corroding the rod itself, and not your hot water tank, thus protecting its life.
When do I need to replace it?
When you winterize your RV, you will be removing the anode rod to drain your hot water heater tank. Use this opportunity to inspect the anode rod. If it is slightly pitted and chalky, that is normal and it does not yet need to be replaced. If 75% of the rod has been used up and you are seeing the inner core, it is time to replace it. If all that is remaining is the metal rod, it is way overdue to replace!
How do I know if I need an anode rod?
The brand of RV water heater that typically utilizes an anode rod is Suburban. If you have a Dometic water heater, it is likely plugged with a white plastic threaded plug. This is because Dometic water heater tanks are aluminum and do not require anode rods. If you add an anode rod to a tank that does not require one, you could cause more damage than you prevent.
Bucars Parts Manager Dan explains anode rods in this short video:
Where do I buy one?
Most RV dealerships stock water heater anode rods. If you are in the Calgary area, stop by Bucars RV Centre. Or buy on our e-store here for shipment anywhere within Canada.
