Why Checking Your RV Anode Rod Matters
One of the often overlooked repairs to your RV is checking and replacing your anode rod that is inside your RVs water heater. The anode rod is essential to protecting your water heater from corrosion and premature failure. Regular inspection and replacement of the anode rod can help extend the life of your RV water heater and prevent costly repairs.
What Is an RV Anode Rod?
An anode rod is a metal rod installed inside many RV water heaters, typically made of magnesium or aluminum. Its job is to attract corrosive elements in the water that would otherwise attack the steel tank of the water heater. The anode rod basically sacrifices itself to protect the tank which is why it slowly wears down over time and must be replaced.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace Your Anode Rod?
Without a good condition anode rode minerals and corrosive elements in your water will begin to attack the inside of the water heater tank which will cause internal rusting, leaks and premature water heater failure. Replacing your anode is very inexpensive in comparison to having to replace your entire water heater. Not all RV water heaters use an anode rod. Atwood brand water heaters are made out of aluminum and dont use an anode rod as well as tankless water heaters.
Signs Your RV Anode Rod Needs Replacement
A way to tell if your anode rod is at the end of its life span and needs replacing is when it's about 50% worn away or heavily corroded. Some common signs of needing a new anode rod are if your RVs hot water smells like sulfur or rotten eggs, discolored or cloudy water, and reduced water heater performance.
RV Anode Rod Inspection and Replacement at Great Escape RV
At Great Escape RV we recommend that you inspect your anode rod annually and replace it every 1-3 years depending on your water quality and the amount of usage. We stock new anode rods and the Great Escape RV service department is happy to inspect or replace your anode rod.
