Lynnmor wrote:
One more thing, you may be dealing with iron bacteria or some other kind. Check the temperature of your hot water and replace the thermostat if necessary. It takes 140 degrees or more to kill bacteria.
Anode rods can be sawed to length, so you can buy aluminum/zinc and cut it as long as possible.
Suburban OEM T-stat is 130*F
140*F OPTIONAL t-stats are available
120V AC 140*F t-stat ------Suburban 232317 for electric element
12V DC 140*F t-stat -------Suburban 232319 for propane
As to the 'barely gone' anode rod........probably straight aluminum vs a mix of aluminum/zinc.
Suburban doesn't offer a alum/zinc rod
Residential anode rods come in magnesium, aluminum and alum/zinc
Any deterioration of rod means it IS working.
Water chemistry plays a big part in how fast a particular material rod will deteriorate
Residential aluminum/zinc rod will be expensive and have to be cut down (9" and throw the other 35" or so of rod away)
Better to try a Suburban aluminum rod with frequent drain/flush routine and not leaving water standing in water heater when not at TT.
The vinegar soak is for AFTER you stop using the well water source or if going to remain at that site for extended periods.
Any Chlorine Bleach will be long gone -----non-issue.
