What is the difference between an aluminum anode rod and a magnesium anode rod?
Both aluminum and magnesium anode rods are designed to protect RV water heaters from corrosion, but they perform a little differently depending on your water quality and maintenance preferences.
Aluminum anode rods are often recommended for RV owners who deal with hard water. They are more durable in mineral-rich water, resist breaking down as quickly, and generally last longer before needing replacement. Aluminum rods are a great choice if you want lower maintenance and fewer replacements over time.
Magnesium anode rods provide more active corrosion protection because magnesium is more reactive than aluminum. This means they can offer stronger defense against rust and corrosion inside your Suburban or Mor-Flo water heater tank. However, in areas with very hard water, they may wear down faster and require more frequent replacement.
Installation Instructions
Turn the water heater gas regulator to OFF.
Let the tank cool, or open a hot water faucet inside the RV until the water runs cool.
Shut off the water supply.
Release pressure by opening a hot water faucet or the T&P valve.
Remove the water heater’s drain plug with an 11/16" socket (older models may use a square head plug).
Wrap Camco’s RV Anode Rod threads with 1½ turns of Teflon tape, in the same direction you will tighten.
Insert the anode rod and tighten until snug (do not overtighten — use only 7–8 ft-lbs of torque).
Turn the RV water supply back on. Open the hot water faucets inside until all air is flushed out, then close them. The tank should now be full.
Check the anode rod connection for leaks and tighten slightly if needed.