Quote:
Originally Posted by flyingjack
Thanks guys for the quick response. Bought our Mountaineer new in 2013 and lived in RV while working western TX for first 6-7yrs. Had to replace anode sometimes every 3-4 months; sometimes every 8 months. Different water wells, different minerals. BUT, I didn't know about the smell issue; so thanks very much for that tip. I always keep a spare in 5er so I'll drain; maybe even run some vinegar through heater- redrain and install new anode. BTW; retired 3 yrs ago so 5er not getting the use it got when we more or less full-timed so water heater tank sits with water for longer periods of time. We drain fresh water tank when not in use but we seldom fill it as we're 90% using city fresh water at RV parks= very little boondocking.
Thanks again
Jack
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There's a procedure in the Suburban Owner's Manual that instructs on the "factory recommended way to eliminate the odors from stagnant water in the water heater:
ODOR FROM HOT WATER SYSTEM
Odor from the hot water system is not a service problem and many water supplies contain sufficient amounts of sulphur to produce an odor. The odor is similar to rotten eggs and is often referred to as "sulphur water". It is not harmful - only unpleasant to smell. Sulphur water can be caused by a chemical action or by bacteria. The solution to eliminate is chlorination of the water system . Add about six (6) ounces of chlorinated com m on household liquid bleach to each 10 gallons in the water tank. Then run the chlorinated water throughout the system, opening each faucet one at a time until you smell the chlorine. Let the RV sit for a few days and the chlorine should take care of the problem . Then you will need to take care of the chlorine. Remove the chlorine by flushing the system with fresh water. This m ay take several attempts. You may consider adding a filtering system that removes chlorine and prevents sulphur water. If the sulphur or rotten egg smell continues, flush the system once again as described above and replace anode rod as necessary.
I'm not sure that I'd use vinegar. In typical dilution ratios, it probably wouldn't be effecitve and at stronger strengths, it could affect the porcelain lining in the water heater.....