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Hey everyone, this is Rod from Roughrider RVs! I know some of you may have heard me say this before, but for all the first-time RVers out there, this one’s for you.
Your RV’s water heater plays a big role in your camping comfort—but it’s also one of the easiest components to accidentally damage if you’re not familiar with how it works. Here's how to protect it and keep things running smoothly all season long:
1. Replace Your Anode Rod When It’s Worn Down
If you have a Suburban water heater, it uses an anode rod—a metal rod that corrodes over time to protect your tank from rust and mineral damage.
What happens if you don’t replace it? Eventually, the tank itself will corrode, leading to expensive leaks or even requiring a full tank replacement.
Inspect the rod by draining your tank, unscrewing the rod with a 1-1/16" socket, and checking its thickness. If it's soft, pitted, or worn down to less than ¼", it’s time to swap it out.
⚠️ Tip: If you have a Dometic/Atwood water heater, it uses a plastic drain plug instead—no anode rod needed.
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2. Drain Your Water Heater After Every Camping Trip
Draining your water heater prevents odors, calcium buildup, and pressure-related damage.
- Open the pressure relief valve
- Remove the anode rod or drain plug
💡 Skipping this step can cause smelly water and reduce your heater’s lifespan.
If you notice white flakes or hard water buildup, flush your tank with vinegar or use a rinser wand before storage.
3. Don’t Turn On Your Water Heater Unless It’s Full
This is one of the most common mistakes RVers make—especially after winterizing. If you power on your electric water heater with no water in the tank, the heating element will burn out almost instantly. Always ensure the tank is full before turning it on.