Anode Rod for Atwood
I've got a new Atwood 10 gallon water heater in my rig. Someone suggested to me that I add an anode to this tank. I'm looking for opinions on whether this is a good idea. Thanks. jor
Forum Discussion
deandec wrote:
Well, our 18 year old Atwood does not have an anode rod because it is not needed.
So, not to be left out without such a rod, I installed a Hott Rod.
Now my gas only Atwood is also electric powered.
An anode rod and the Hott Rod are two completely different items for two completely uses....
The Anode Rod is a sacrificial rod made of aluminum or magnesium that reacts with minerals in water and slowly deteriorates due to galvanic action....saves the tank wall
The Hott Rod is an aftermarket electric heating element to heat water via AC power
Neither item is recommended by Atwood....
Anode Rod..because it is not needed
Hott Rod (or Lightning Rod)....because once installed in drain hole folks have a tendency to not drain & flush water heater routinely
