Where is my anode rod ?

[jbucking]

I have noticed when winterizing our 2007 Roadtrek 210V that there is no anode rod in the water heater. There is simply a plug. I don't see any remains of a depleted anode rod as in other water heaters that I have opened up. Should my 2007 210 have an anode rod ? Is there any harm in adding one if I can find one to fit ? (Sorry, I don't know the brand of the water heater at the moment, but can find out if necessary.) Thanks in advance.

[Doneworking]

I have a 2007 210P. I think what you are calling a "plug" may be, in fact, the remains of an anode? Mine is right at the bottom of the tank and it takes a one and one/sixteenth socket to remove it. I replace mine as needed with a standard anode for the purpose, like this:

https://www.amazon.com/Water-Heater-...%2C156&sr=8-10

[JohnnyFry]

A previous owner may have replaced the anode with a plug. I would get a new rod from an RV Supply and install it.

[GallenH]

I agree with the above responses. My Suburban WH only has one "plug" to drain it and that's where the anode rod goes. You can probably go to the mfg's website and find a manual/parts list for your particular model. I was able to download manuals for all of my appliances in my RV from the various mfgs.

I bought one of the "wands" that you attach to a hose and insert into that opening to aid in cleaning/flushing. I do it yearly and it always brings out some crap.

[GeorgeRa]

Atwood aluminum water heaters don't require anode rods. If the plug is plastic it could be Atwood.

[jbucking]

The plug is steel and takes a 1 1/16 socket. The rod just must be completely deteriorated. I will replace with a new unit. Thank you for everyone's help !

[jbucking]

Should this 9.5 " unit with the Amazon link work in my 2007 210V ? I assume the Popular and the Versatile would have had the same the same tank. Thanks again.

[rowiebowie]

As GeorgeRa said, might not have an anode if it is an Atwood, but to my knowledge all Suburban models have and anode that serves double duty as the bottom plug. Even if the anode was fully depleted (as mine was neglected by its' former owner), there should be a thin rod on the plug that never dissolves.

There are magnesium and also cheaper aluminum anode rods for sale. I buy the magnesium as we have very hard water and it is better at "doing its' thing".

While you have have the rod out, flush the tank out to remove any loose deposits. I use this:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/RV-Water-He...item5d8dd6997c

[jbucking]

All good information. Thanks again.

[GallenH]

The simplest way to know is to get the make and model number off your unit.
Then just google "<the name/model>" and "parts" or "anode rod." See what
comes up. Then you're not shooting in the dark.