Magnesium versus aluminum anode rods
I couldn't get a replacement magnesium anode rod for our 6 gallon Suburban water heater, and put in an aluminum one. However, we notice that there's a terrible sulfur smell that comes back several wee...
Forum Discussion
Aluminum is an alternative vs magnesium which can react with bacteria in water source and create that sulfur smell. Aluminum can also but it not very common problem
Aluminum does NOT deteriorate as quickly as magnesium which is why magnesium is supplied as OEM rod.
Aluminum can build up with deposits, can swell and become difficult to remove thru drain hole
Aluminum can also produce an aluminum oxide deposit in bottom of water heater tank. A Gel like substance which can be clear, milky, hard, soft, gooey.
Aluminum does NOT deteriorate as quickly as magnesium which is why magnesium is supplied as OEM rod.
Aluminum can build up with deposits, can swell and become difficult to remove thru drain hole
Aluminum can also produce an aluminum oxide deposit in bottom of water heater tank. A Gel like substance which can be clear, milky, hard, soft, gooey.
