The anode rod is a sacrificial magnesium or aluminum rod inside your RV water heater tank. It corrodes in place of the steel or aluminum tank walls, dramatically extending tank life. When the anode rod is fully depleted, the tank begins corroding directly - you'll notice rust-colored hot water and eventually the tank fails.
Florida's water is harder than most parts of the country, which accelerates anode rod depletion. We recommend annual anode rod inspection and replacement for any RV that uses Florida campground water regularly. A $65 annual anode replacement prevents a $400 to $600 water heater tank replacement.
Checking and Replacing the Anode Rod
- The anode rod is at the water heater drain port (1 1/16 inch hex head)
- Drain the tank (or let hot water run to drain some volume first)
- Remove the old rod with a socket wrench - it can be corroded in place and take significant force
- Inspect the old rod: white/chalky = depleted magnesium, rough and reduced = normal use, smooth and thick = still good
- Install new rod with teflon tape on threads
- Refill and check for leaks at the rod fitting
Anode Rod Type Selection
The original anode rod in most Suburban and Atwood heaters is magnesium. Magnesium rods are more reactive and sacrifice faster - they deplete in 12 to 18 months in Florida hard water. Aluminum/zinc rods sacrifice more slowly (24 to 36 month life) and are a good upgrade for Florida-based RVs. We use aluminum/zinc rods for replacement to reduce service frequency.
Service area: Apopka, Longwood, Casselberry, Altamonte Springs, Sanford, Lake Mary, DeLand, Deltona, DeBary, Mount Dora, Tavares, Leesburg, and all surrounding communities in Orange, Seminole, Lake, and Volusia counties.
Pricing for RV Anode Rod Replacement
Starting price range: $65 - $95. Flat-rate quote provided before any work begins. Request a free quote online or call (407) 326-5500.
*Estimates only. Final price determined on-site after diagnosis. Parts and labor included in flat rate.
Related Services
Also see: All RV Water Heater Repair services | All RV Repair Services | Apopka Service Area