Teflon tape or pipe thread dope ?

I use both tape and dope. Thread dope on fittings that will not be taken apart. Tape on parts that are frequently taken apart. And both on fitting that are corroded, damaged, or just will not quit dripping.

One word of caution about the tape. Too much on the male end can split the female fitting. When a taped fitting is removed be sure to clean the tape bits from the female fitting to keep those pieces from entering the piping system. I have pulled pieces from the faucet strainer.

When using dope leave the first two threads of the fitting free of dope to prevent the dope from entering the piping system.

DutchmenSport wrote:
I don't use either on the anode rod plug. Metal to metal. That's because I drain the tank after every trip. I have an occasional drip, but that's no big deal! It's not like the plug is going to be in there permanently. It get removed too much.

But for what it's worth, I haven't used plumbers putty on "anything" in the last 30 years. Teflon tape only on everything for me. I've only used plumbers putty under a sink to help seal it to the counter top when replacing the sink or around sink drain, or a shower drain hole.

My other option was pipe thread dope, not plumbers putty.
I only use that between a sink drain and the sink along with a rubber gasket.

guy

Dutch, I think he is talking pipe dope not the putty.

Anyway I use Teflon tape on that plug/anode rod.

I don't use either on the anode rod plug. Metal to metal. That's because I drain the tank after every trip. I have an occasional drip, but that's no big deal! It's not like the plug is going to be in there permanently. It get removed too much.

But for what it's worth, I haven't used plumbers putty on "anything" in the last 30 years. Teflon tape only on everything for me. I've only used plumbers putty under a sink to help seal it to the counter top when replacing the sink or around sink drain, or a shower drain hole.

Use both, either, or none at all. If the plug is a dissimilar metal than the tank, tape will slow electrolysis on the threaded hole but not eliminate it. I like to use tape since it allows for easier removal if I choose to remove the anode for inspection or replacement.
Cleaning the threads of the water heater where the anode is connected is a good thing. I usually use a threaded nipple that is the same size as the threaded hole, along with some CLR or other mineral eater.

Teflon Tape