How to Find and Upgrade the Anode Rod on a Giant Water Heater

By Vincent Veilleux

Published September 17, 2025

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The anode rod is one of the most important parts of your hot water tank. It helps reduce rust, protect your water quality, and extend the usable life of your heater. Knowing where it is, and when to replace it, can help you get the most out of your water heater.

We’ll show you where to find the anode rod in your GIANT water heater, why it matters, and why many homeowners choose to upgrade to a powered anode rod for more consistent protection.

Where to Find the Anode Rod on a GIANT Water Heater

For most GIANT hot water heaters, the anode rod is located on the top of the tank. It is often placed under a plastic cap and resembles a hexagonal (six-sided) plug.

GIANT Electric Water Heaters: The anode rod is usually near the hot water outlet on top of the tank.
GIANT Gas Water Heaters: Similar location — look for a hex bolt cap near the plumbing connections.

GIANT Greenfoam Models: These energy-efficient models also have anode rods on top, though extra insulation may make them harder to spot.

How to Check and Replace the Anode Rod

If your GIANT water heater is more than three years old, and you have not performed general maintenance on it, it’s a good idea to check the anode rod. Here’s how:

Step 1

Turn off the power or gas supply to the water heater.

Illustration of an arrow turning a ball valve handle clockwise to shut off the water supply.

Step 2

Close the water valve and relieve tank pressure by opening a hot water faucet.

A screwdriver tightening or loosening a hex head fitting on a water heater.

Step 3

Locate the anode rod hex head on top of the tank.

Illustration showing two types of water heater anode rod locations, one under a dedicated hex head on the tank and another integrated into the hot water outlet

Step 4

Use an impact wrench or a ratchet wrench to loosen and remove the rod.

For a complete walkthrough, click the button below :

Installation guide

Illustration of an anode rod being lifted vertically out of the top of a water heater tank.

Step 5

Inspect it if more than 6 inches of the steel core is exposed, replacement may be needed. Install the new rod: Corro-Protec Powered Anode Rod.

Illustration of an anode rod being inserted and screwed into the top of a water heater tank.

Limitations of Traditional Anode Rods

While sacrificial anode rods are designed to help protect your GIANT water heater, they come with drawbacks:

Advantages of a Powered Anode Rod for GIANT Water Heaters

Instead of sacrificing itself, a powered anode rod uses a small electrical current to help prevent corrosion. This offers long-term performance without frequent replacement.

Some of the advantages include:

Compatible with all models: Works with electric, gas, hybrid, and Greenfoam units.
Odor control: Helps eliminate the rotten egg smell caused by some sacrificial rods.
Maintenance-free: Does not need to be replaced.
Tank protection: Helps keep your GIANT water heater in better condition.

Learn more about the Corro-Protec Powered Anode Rod.

Comparison between Powered Anode Rod and Sacrificial Anode Rod

Standard

Sacrifical anode rod

Anode Material

Magnesium or Aluminum

Typical Lifespan*

1 to 6 years

Energy savings

Increase energy use due to sediment buildup

Corro-Protec

Powered anode rod

Anode Material

Titanium (Impressed-Current)

Typical Lifespan*

25+ yrs

Energy savings

Reduces energy bills by $40/year by preventing sediment buildup

Learn more about the Corro-Protec Powered Anode Rod.

Why Anode Rod Care Matters for GIANT Water Heaters

A GIANT water heater can last many years with regular maintenance. Checking and replacing the anode rod — or upgrading to a powered option,

helps keep the tank in good condition and supports more reliable performance over time.

Shop the Corro-Protec Powered Anode Rod to see how it can support your GIANT water heater.

FAQ

How often should I check or replace the anode rod in my GIANT water heater?

Powered anode rod do not need replacement. It’s recommended to check the sacrificial anode rod every 3-5 years, depending on your water quality. If more than six inches of the steel core is visible or the rod is significantly deteriorated, it’s time to replace it. Regular checks can extend the life of your tank.

What happens if I don’t replace the anode rod in my GIANT water heater?

If the sacrificial anode rod is left to deteriorate completely, the tank itself can start corroding. This can lead to rust, leaks and eventually tank failure, which is far more expensive to replace.