When you pull out the anode rod take a look at what comes out of the tank with the water. If you see a lot of small chunks of white and black minerals you want to also flush the tank once it is empty to get anything of this that is left inside flushed out of the tank. There is a nozzle that is sold in RV stores that is a long rigid tube that connects to a fresh water hose that works well to flush the tank quickly. You will be surprised to see how much more comes out of the tank.
Then put your anode rod back in, ready for the next trip.
