I know,,,, I DON'T use arc welders anymore and when I say keep the rod dry, It is the rod, not the welder that under performs. Bad rod wont hurt the welder, just weld like chit, and hard to start the weld.....
You will know if your rod has absorbed moisture, It wont weld very good if at all.........
Realist - Everybody in America is soft, and hates conflict. The cure for this, both in politics and social life, is the same -- hardihood. Give them raw truth.