Why Does My RV Water Smell? Let’s Talk Water Heaters.

We’ve had quite a few calls lately about stinky RV water—and if your water smells like rotten eggs, don’t worry, you’re not alone. The good news? It’s usually an easy fix once we narrow down the cause.

1.) Step One: Know What Water Heater You Have

There are two main types of RV water heaters:

• Suburban (Atwood) – These do use an anode rod
• Dometic – These do not use an anode rod (they have a plastic drain plug instead)

If you’re not sure which one you have, check your owner’s manual or stop by—we’ll help you identify it.

For Suburban Owners: Check That Anode Rod

Anode rods are designed to corrode on purpose—they protect the water heater tank from rust and mineral buildup. But once they’ve corroded too far, your water will start to smell and your tank may begin to deteriorate.

• 🛠️ Use a 1 1/16" socket to remove the rod.
• Clean corroded threads with vinegar, a steel brush, and some muscle.
• If threads are badly damaged, stop by—we’ll rethread it with our tap/threader tool.

👉 Read Rod’s Full Water Heater Advice

2.) Step Two: Don’t Let Hot Water Sit After Camping

Hot water naturally builds up bacteria and odor if it sits too long, especially in warm temperatures. That sulfur smell? It often comes from hydrogen sulfide gas caused by a reaction between:

• Sulfates in your water
• Heat
• Bacteria
• Your anode rod (if magnesium)

That’s why we recommend:

• ✅ Draining your hot water tank after each trip
• ✅ Flushing the tank every season
• ✅ Using an aluminum/zinc rod if you have sulfur-heavy water

3.) Step Three: Know the Basics to Prevent Damage

Here are a few water heater best practices to help keep things running smoothly all season:

• ✔ Only turn on your water heater when the tank is full
• ✔ Drain your water heater before winter
• ✔ Flush with a rinser wand or vinegar if you notice sediment

🔥 Quick Safety Tip:
Always shut off the power and propane and let the tank cool before removing the drain plug or anode rod. Hot pressurized water can cause injury.

Need Help or Want It Done For You?

Bring your RV to Roughrider RVs and we’ll:

• Inspect and replace your anode rod
• Clean and rethread the drain port
• Flush the water heater
• Recommend the right rod for your water

📍 Visit us in Beulah or Dickinson
🧰 Questions? Give us a call or stop in—we’re happy to help.