Podmods, Maintenance, Tips and Tricks: Heater Anode Replacement

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Heater Anode Replacement

Printed From: R-pod Owners Forum
Category: R-pod Discussion Forums
Forum Name: Podmods, Maintenance, Tips and Tricks
Forum Discription: Ask maintenance questions, share your podmods (modifications) and helpful tips
URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4127
Printed Date: 15 May 2024 at 7:49am
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Topic: Heater Anode Replacement

Posted By: Camper Bob
Subject: Heater Anode Replacement
Date Posted: 21 Oct 2013 at 11:56am

It's that time of year again. Winterization. Pulled the anode on my water heater and looks like it should be replaced. Checking on Amazon, they feature two different types. Aluminum and Magnesium. Any particular preference for one over the other? Not a tremendous difference in price, however, what do they do to my insides? Safe Travels.

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Camper Bob and Camper Sue
Gracie the Wonder Dog (12 LB. Mini Dachshund)
2013 Rpod 171HRE(ORPod)
2016 Lance 1685
2015 Nissan Pathfinder

Replies:

Posted By: hogone
Date Posted: 21 Oct 2013 at 1:05pm

I just replaced mine with the magnesium rod, only because they mentioned it being origanal replacement. I also read somewhere that if you have quick deterioration with magnesium, switch to aluminum.............but I can't remember why though. Overall, I probably wasn't much help!

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Jon & Pam
2013 RP177
2010 F150
2017 HD Streetglide
2009 HD Lowrider
CHEESEHEAD

Posted By: P&M
Date Posted: 21 Oct 2013 at 2:15pm

Magnesium vs. Aluminum Rods

Many plumbers prefer magnesium anodes because they produce a stronger current making them more effective at keeping the water tank from corroding. Aluminum rods collect a buildup of corrosive materials that harden and make taking them out for inspection or replacement a challenge. Magnesium may react with bacteria causing a sulfurous smell. Aluminum rods don’t have this problem as often. Some plumbers say that aluminum anode rods are not safe because they put aluminum in your water supply.

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P & M ... and Comet too!
2012 171 -- The Monkey Pod
2018 Ram 2500

Posted By: Camper Bob
Date Posted: 22 Oct 2013 at 10:13am

Good advice and thanks for the replies. On your recommendations, I have ordered a magnesium replacement. Actually after two years there seems to be quite a bit of material left, but rather be on the safe side and protect the water heater. Pretty expensive to have to replace for want of a replacement andoe. Safe Travels.

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Camper Bob and Camper Sue
Gracie the Wonder Dog (12 LB. Mini Dachshund)
2013 Rpod 171HRE(ORPod)
2016 Lance 1685
2015 Nissan Pathfinder