Anode rod question

[CJcamping]

So which rod is better: Magnesium Anode Rod or Aluminum Zinc Anode Rod . The one one in my camper looks more like the Magnesium. Or does it make any difference?

[Old-Biscuit]

Magnesium is Suburban OEM Standard....best overall protection/quickest reacting

Magnesium can react with micros in water source and give off hydrogen sulfate (sulfur smell)
Swapping to Aluminum is choice.

Aluminum is slower reacting/lower protection ...lasts longer
Can cause Aluminum hydroxide which looks like “jelly beads” or a green, blue or gray gel like substance

Aluminum Rods should not be used if you are using a 'softener'

Replace when 75% of the material has been sacrificed



Magnesium Anode Rods have a 'teat' on Hex Head
Aluminum Anode Rods have a smooth Hex Head



Teflon Tape is perfectly OK to use
Threads cut thru tape and make metal to metal contact
Tape seals in valleys of threads
*Threads are NPT....National Pipe Threads (Tapered) and when drain hole & rod threads are NEW they self seal BUT tanks are STEEL and therefore can rust/pit etc so tape is used to seal threads W/O having to overtighten

[Ray,IN]

Originally Posted by Gary RVRoamer

An anode rod isn't expensive, $12-$15 from many sellers. If you ever have a concern as to its condition, just replace it. Wouldn't hurt to carry a spare.

Exactly! It's much better to spend $15 now than the cost of a new tank/water heater later.

[Spidergawd]

Mine looks just like this every fall when I remove it to drain and store the rig. For as cheap as they are, I just replace it every spring when recommissioning for the season. I also flush all the mineral deposits out with one of those wand things.

[glwinger]

Originally Posted by mrboyer

If I remember correctly, you risk insulating the rod from the tank if you use teflon tape. Doing so would cause the rod to be ineffective. Most people would not use enough tape to prevent the threads from making electrical connection, but don’t risk it.

A better solution to the teflon tape is plumbers grease. It makes it easier to install and remove, plus it protects the threads in the tank from rusting. I put it on when I flush my tank when winterizing, the just screw the rod back on a few turns.