HWH anode ... a historical perspective

[Robi.1014]

The December FMCA magazine confirms that Atwood hot water heaters don't use an anode. As a rookie to RVing (back in '05), I wish that my owners manual had stated clearly that one was not used.

So just wondering:
When (what year), in the Monaco line of RVs, did the HWH anode become a thing of the past? Also wondering, what is the "technology" of the Atwood HWH that allows us not to need the anode?

[nodine]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Robi.1014 The December FMCA magazine confirms that Atwood hot water heaters don't use an anode. As a rookie to RVing (back in '05), I wish that my owners manual had stated clearly that one was not used. So just wondering: When (what year), in the Monaco line of RVs, did the HWH anode become a thing of the past? Also wondering, what is the "technology" of the Atwood HWH that allows us not to need the anode?

I am certainly no expert but if memory serves me the Attwood water heater tank is made of a material that will not fall victim to electrolysis. The anode rod is sacrificial and as long as it has material left will prevent the tank in a Suburban water heater from being eaten away by electrolysis. So the need for an anode rod depends on the manufacturer of the water heater installed.

Bob

[RickO]

I think Bob's right on. I don't know which year Monaco shifted but I'll do one better than your owners manual not being clear on needing one.

When I took delivery of our first ever coach in 2007 my dealer told me I HAD to put one in. I then proceeded to forget about it for two years and ended up with a mess in my tank you would not believe.

good luck...

Rick

[Robi.1014]

Rick: your tank is/is not an Atwood?

[RickO]

My tank is an Atwood.

[Radarman]

I believe Bob is right on also. That's exactly what my local RV Dealer told me on my 10 Gal. Attwood HWH. It's tank material is the difference, and therefore does not require an Anode Rod like the Suburban.
Note: The Attwood replacement drain plug is simply a plastic-like drain plug that can withstand the temp. of the water.

[nodine]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Radarman ....Note: The Attwood replacement drain plug is simply a plastic-like drain plug that can withstand the temp. of the water.

Be careful exchanging that plastic plug for a different type. If you change to a metal one it may fuse to the threads and be very difficult to remove. That is why Atwood uses the non-metal plug. Some folks have had success using a metal valve by wrapping the threads with Teflon.

Bob

["007"]

Here is a thread to add to historical reference.