How To Adjust Temperature On Electric Water Heater - ERNIEGRAVES

Adjusting the Temperature on Your Electric Water Heater

To make a change to the temperature of your electric water heater, you don’t need to have a high degree of technical knowledge or specialized equipment. This is a quick and simple at-home remedy that just takes a few minutes, and you probably already have all of the supplies you need on hand. Fortunately, the process is fairly consistent across the brands of electric water heaters that you are most likely to own, with only a couple of minor differences depending on the manufacturer’s design choices; the overall size of your water heater has no bearing on how you must proceed through our simple steps!

Remove Cover Plates

The thermostats are located on the front side of your unit, behind two cover panels that must be removed in order to obtain access to them. This may be accomplished by using a Phillips screwdriver or a 1″ nut driver to remove the screws (think “righty tighty, lefty loosey” when doing so)

Remove Excess Materials

Many eclectic water heaters, particularly newer versions, have additional insulation that will need to be removed before they can be used. Simply remove the excess material and store it in a secure location. Additionally, you will discover a plastic safety plate that can be simply detached or twisted upwards to reveal your thermostat temperature settings

Locate Temperature Dials

It will be necessary to remove the insulation that has been added to many eclectic water heaters, particularly newer types. Simply remove the excess material and store it in a secure location. Additionally, you will discover a plastic safety plate that can be simply removed or twisted upwards to show the temperature settings for the thermostats

Adjust Your Dials Accordingly

Everything is now complete except for the actual adjustment of your electric water heater. You’ll need to set both of your thermostats to the same temperature in order to get the ideal temperature. Simply use a flat head screwdriver to make the necessary adjustments to the dials. Be mindful of the fact that it doesn’t take much to make your water hotter
Ensure that you’re testing these modifications to ensure that your water is at a safe temperature before you reverse the procedures and put everything back to way it was before, as well as replacing the front panel covers. Keep in mind that it will take some time for the water heater to acclimate to the new settings, so be patient. You’re now an expert when it comes to adjusting the temperature of your home’s electric water heater in a matter of minutes.

Bonus Step: Add a Few Extra Gallons of Hot Water

There is a simple plumber’s method you may try at home to see if you can get a few additional gallons of hot water out of your water heater without breaking the bank. All you have to do is adjust the temperature dial on your bottom thermostat to be slightly higher than the temperature dial on your top thermostat. Here’s why this tiny trick could be useful to you: Water enters your electric water heater through a dip tube that extends from the top of the unit to the bottom of the unit. The hot water that comes out of your water heater leaves via the tank’s opening at the top. Your water heater does not use both heating elements at the same time because there is just insufficient electricity being supplied to the water heater. Due to the fact that the water exits the tank from the top, the top element takes precedence in heating the water that is leaving the tank first. After the top of the water heater reaches the desired temperature, the power is shifted to the bottom of the water heater, which begins to heat the water that is being fed in. Adjusting your thermostats to these settings allows the element at the bottom of the tank to operate for a longer period of time and delivers hotter water up the tank, extending the amount of time it takes before the top of the heater cools down sufficiently to allow power to be transferred back to it. It is possible that this approach will result in a few additional gallons of hot water.

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Want to learn more about electric water heaters? Check out this article. Take a look at some of our related content: Electric Water Heaters are a type of water heater that uses electricity to heat water.

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When you’re in need of plumbing services in the Phoenix, Glendale, Scottsdale, or Chandler areas, you can rely on Robins Plumbing to give you with timely and competent service. To learn more, call our team today! In addition to our toilet services, we also provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services, such as: drain cleaning, water heater repair and replacement, sewer camera inspection and locating, backflow prevention, commercial and residential jetting, water treatments, and other related services.

How to Adjust the Temperature on an Electric Water Heater

Photograph courtesy of Vitaliy Halenov/iStock/Getty Images

Do you want to know how to change the temperature on an electric water heater? Read on. No matter if the water comes out of the faucet too hot or too cold, adjusting the thermostat on the unit should assist you in reaching the desired temperature. The procedure of installing an electric water heater is pretty simple, provided that you observe basic safety precautions.

Electric Water Heater Recommended Temperature

Before attempting to modify the temperature of an electric water heater, examine the suggested temperature as well as the potential risks of various temperature settings. Water heater settings of 120 degrees Fahrenheit are recommended by the United States Department of Energy for most houses. Water heaters are frequently installed with the temperature set at 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Scalding can result from turning the water too hot when washing your hands or having a shower while using that higher temperature setting.

By lowering the thermostat setting, you can not only make your home safer, but you can also save money on your energy bill by lowering standby heat loss.

Measure the Current Temperature

Take into consideration the suggested temperature for your electric water heater, as well as the potential consequences of adjusting the temperature too much. Water heater settings of 120 degrees Fahrenheit are recommended by the United States Department of Energy for most homes. 140 degrees Fahrenheit is a common temperature for water heaters to be set at. If you wash your hands or take a shower with the water turned on too hot, that higher setting might result in scorching.

Children who turn the faucet too far to the hot side run an even higher danger of scalding. Not only is it safer to use a lower thermostat setting, but it also saves you money on your energy bill by minimizing standby heat loss.

Adjust the Temperature Setting

Please take care not to touch or move any of the wires within the water heater. To adjust the water temperature, turn the dial in either way, depending on whether you want to raise or lower the temperature. Decide on the direction by referring to the marks on the dial. The dial may be easily adjusted with the use of your screwdriver. Replace the insulation and the panel in their original locations. Using the screws, reattach the panel to the wall.

Test the Water Temperature

Reconnect the electricity to your water heater if it has been disconnected. Allow at least three to four hours for the new temperature setting to be reached before checking it again. Make use of the same procedure you used for your initial temperature check, turning on the hot setting on the faucet nearest to the water heater and collecting water. Using your cooking thermometer, check the internal temperature. If it reaches the temperature you prefer, you’re done for the day. If you want the water to be hotter or cooler, repeat the thermostat adjustment process, wait a few more hours, and then check the temperature of the water once again.

If you need to make modifications in the future for whatever reason, this will assist you in getting back to the desired temperature.

How to adjust your water heater temperature

No one enjoys taking a cold shower. It’s much worse when you are scalded when the hot water is turned on. It is critical to correctly regulate the temperature on your water heater, not only for your health and safety, but also to save money on your power bill. Here’s how to regulate the temperature of your water heater to save money while also protecting your skin from sun damage.

The correct temperature range

It is recommended that your water heater be set within a specified temperature range for a variety of different reasons. A low temperature setting not only results in hot water that is merely lukewarm at best, but it can also promote bacterial development, which can lead to illnesses such as Legionnaires’ disease. This may be avoided by adjusting the temperature of the water heater to a level at which the bacteria Legionella cannot survive. A temperature of at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius) for water heaters is recommended by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to prevent Legionella and other germs from growing in the water.

The time it takes for third-degree burns to occur at 150 degrees Fahrenheit (66 degrees Celsius) is less than two seconds.
Not to mention that a water heater that is set too hot might result in an excessively expensive power bill.
The greater the distance between a faucet and the water heater, the greater the amount of heat that will be lost as the water flows, especially if the pipes are not insulated.
When determining the appropriate temperature for your family and household, use your best judgment.

Make an adjustment, test it, and continue the process until you’ve found the ideal temperature setting for your house and water heater, which may take many attempts. Currently playing: Keep an eye out for this: Take a look inside the CNET Guide to Smart Living. 1:00

Adjusting water heater temperature

The interface used to control the temperature of a water heater will differ depending on the kind and model. Fortunately, the majority of water heater models can be modified in the same way. For example, most contemporary gas and electric water heaters are equipped with a thermostat concealed behind an insulated access panel. Electric water heaters are frequently equipped with two thermostats: one at the top of the tank and another at the bottom. Furthermore, most tankless water heaters include a display with a temperature reading as well as controls for altering the water heater’s temperature.

Turn on the water in the bathroom or kitchen sink and let it to run until the water is completely hot before using.

Tankless

The process of adjusting a tankless water heater is quite similar to the process of adjusting your air conditioning thermostat. Adjust the temperature by using the digital control panel, which may be adjusted up or down as desired.

Gas or electric water heaters

Some gas water heaters include a dial towards the bottom of the device that may be adjusted simply by turning it – no tools are required for this operation. Nonetheless, most current tank water heaters (whether gas or electric) require a bit more effort, but the process is still straightforward and should only take a few minutes.

Turning off the water heater’s electricity at the circuit breaker is the first step. To remove a thermostat(s), locate the access panel for the thermostat(s) and remove it using a screwdriver
Remove the insulation by peeling it back. To adjust the thermostat, use a flathead screwdriver to turn it up or down.

If your water heater has two thermostats, make sure they are both set to the same temperature. The temperature on the top thermostat should be a few degrees higher than on the bottom thermostat.

Replace the insulation and re-install the access panel, if necessary. Reconnect the water heater’s power supply
It is possible that you may need to relight the pilot light on a gas water heater.

Once you’ve made the necessary adjustments, you should wait at least three hours before checking the water temperature once more. It is possible that you may need to make more modifications in order to get the desired temperature. If you’ve increased the temperature and are still getting chilly showers, it’s possible that your hot water heater has to be serviced or completely replaced. Is the energy efficiency of your home high? Here are five different methods to find out. CNET’s Guide to Smart Livingis a one-stop shop for tips, techniques, and how-to guides that can help you live a more intelligent life.

How to Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature – PlumbingSupply.com

Caution to anyone who is adjusting the temperature of their water heater! Scalding is extremely dangerous, and raising the temperature of your water can raise your chances of getting scalded by as much as 50%. In the event that you are at all concerned about your capacity to accomplish this project safely, you should check with your plumber before proceeding. In addition, please keep in mind that those with reduced skin integrity, such as youngsters, the elderly, and the disabled, can be scalded by water as cold as 110°F.

Check the Current Temperature First

If you are experiencing problems with your hot water coming out too hot or not hot enough, understanding how to regulate your water heater may be quite useful. Ideally, you should check the temperature of your hot water at the faucet before making any changes to the present settings so that you can determine how much to modify the heater. It is quite acceptable to use almost any basic cooking thermometer for this purpose. If you want to calibrate your thermometer, place it in a cup of cold water and hold it there until the temperature dial reaches 32 degrees (or stops at the lowest degree on the gauge).

Meanwhile, while the thermometer is calibrating, turn on the hot water tap nearest to the heater and turn it on until it is hot to the touch (but be careful not to burn yourself!).

The temperature dial will come to a complete halt when the water temperature is reached.

The procedures indicated below will work for the vast majority of hot water heaters, but not all of them.

Each water heater maker will have a somewhat different design, but the majority of them will work in the same way. Attention: This “how to” is for tank-style water heaters only; it does not apply to tankless water heaters at this time.

Electric Tank Water Heaters

The majority of electric water heaters will have two thermostats, one on top and one on the bottom, located beneath the two control panels. The two thermostats on your water heater must be adjusted to the same temperature in order for it to operate most effectively and efficiently. Some smaller units may simply have a single thermostat, which is understandable. To complete this task, the following tools will be required: Screwdriver with a Phillips-head or a flat-head Step 1: Disconnect the power supply to the heater.

Step 2: Locate the thermostats, the majority of which will be hidden behind an access panel.
Remove them with the proper screwdriver and store them in a secure location to prevent them from being misplaced.
Some smaller units may simply have a single thermostat, which is understandable.
There will be a dial on the thermostat, and the dials will have a varied reading depending on the heater manufacturer you are dealing with.
With your screwdriver, make little adjustments to the dials depending on your requirements and the reason for the adjustment.
Step 5: Re-attach the screws to the panels and close them up.
Step 7:After around 3-4 hours, check the temperature of your hot water once more.
If the temperature is still not just right, repeat the process.

Gas Tank Water Heaters

Most electric water heaters will have two thermostats, one on the top and one on the lower, located beneath the two control panels on the front and back of the appliance. When the two thermostats are adjusted to the same temperature, your water heater will operate most effectively and efficiently. Thermostats are not always present in all smaller units. To complete this task, you will require the following tools: a screwdriver with a Phillips or a flat head Step 1: Deactivate the heater’s power source by pressing the power button twice.

Locate the thermostats, which will most likely be hidden under an access panel in step two.
Remove them with the appropriate screwdriver and store them in a secure location to prevent them from being misplaced or damaged.
Thermostats are not always present in all smaller units.
There will be a dial on the thermostat, and depending on the manufacturer of the heater, the dials will read differently.
Step 4: With your screwdriver, make little adjustments to the dials depending on your requirements and the reason for the adjustment.
Reattach the screws when you have closed the panels.

Recheck the temperature of your hot water after 3-4 hours and repeat the process if needed. Follow these procedures again until the temperature is just perfect. If the temperature is still not just right, repeat the procedure.

Helpful Water Heater Temperature Tips

Most electric water heaters will have two thermostats, one on the top and one on the lower, located beneath the two control panels on the front and back of the unit. The two thermostats on your water heater must be set at the same temperature in order for it to operate most effectively and efficiently. Some smaller units may simply have a single thermostat, which is not uncommon. The following are the tools required: Screwdriver with a Phillips-head or a flat-head. Step 1: Deactivate the heater’s power source. This will normally entail locating your circuit breaker and shutting out the electricity to the entire vicinity. Step 2: Locate the thermostats, the majority of which will be hidden under an access panel. Disassemble the access panels, which are typically held in place with four screws. Remove them with the proper screwdriver and store them in a secure location to avoid losing them. Step 3:The majority of electric water heaters will have two thermostats, one on top and one on the bottom, located beneath the two control panels. Some smaller units may simply have a single thermostat, which is not uncommon. To access the thermostat on an insulated heater, you may need to remove the insulation first. The thermostats will have a dial, and depending on the manufacturer of the heater, the dials will read differently. The dials will all show hotter in one direction and colder in the other, despite the fact that they may read differently. Adjust the dials with your screwdriver slightly depending on your requirements and the reason for the adjustment. Make sure that both thermostats are set to the same temperature. Step 5: Reinstall the screws and close the panels. Step 6: Turn on the heater’s electricity again. Step 7:After around 3-4 hours, check the temperature of your hot water again. If the temperature is still not suitable, repeat the procedure until it is.

Related ItemsInformation

Please keep in mind that the material presented here is designed to provide a fundamental understanding of plumbing-related repairs, troubleshooting, and purchase considerations. This material is intended to be general in nature and may not be applicable to all applications. When in doubt about your ability to accomplish one of these tasks or when you have more concerns about the material offered, seek the advice of a qualified expert immediately. Always double-check local code rules and the appropriate authorities before starting a project of any kind.

How to Adjust Your Water Heater’s Temperature

It has been shown that even ordinary tap water might be hazardous. Every year, a number of individuals (mainly youngsters) are sent to hospitals after suffering burns as a result of water heaters that have been set excessively high. But what exactly does “too high” imply, and how can people ensure that their water heaters are set at a temperature that will not cause them to be burned, is a mystery. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends a hot temperature setting of 120 degrees Fahrenheit for both safety and energy savings reasons.

Use this procedure if the stickers on the water heater do not inform you how to set the temperature and you are unable to locate the owner’s handbook.

Make sure to run hot water for at least three minutes from the faucet nearest to the water heater. Fill a glass with hot water and check the temperature
If the water temperature is higher than 120 degrees, adjust the dial, wait approximately three hours, and then check again. Continue until the water reaches 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

The temperature of the water heater should be checked the next morning before anyone uses any hot water as a last check. Once you have found the perfect setting, make a note of it on the dial so that you do not have to go through the testing procedure again. Here are some more suggestions for extending the life of your water heater.

Family Handyman

You might be wondering how to adjust the temperature of your hot water heater. In this section, you will learn all you need to know about your gas or electric water heater thermostat, including how to adjust your hot water heater temperature thermostat and what temperature is optimum for hot water.

What’s the Right Temperature for a Hot Water Heater?

It’s an often asked question: what is the optimal temperature for hot water? Setting a tank-based hot water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended by the United States Department of Energy. If you have never changed the temperature of your hot water heater, it is most likely set to the 140-degree Fahrenheit level that is recommended by most manufacturers of hot water heaters. What is the significance of adhering to this temperature standard? If the temperature setting on the water heater thermostat is set too high, the water will be excessively hot and might cause burning or scorching.

How to Set Your Hot Water Heater Temperature Thermostat Setting

Before you make any modifications to the temperature thermostat setting on your hot water heater, you should first ascertain what the current temperature is set at so that you can establish how much you need to alter the settings. A conventional cooking thermometer may be used to quickly and accurately detect the temperature. You should calibrate your thermometer once you have determined the current temperature setting. Fill a cup halfway with cold water and submerge your thermometer until the temperature dial reaches 32 degrees, or the lowest temperature displayed on your thermometer’s gauge, and then remove it.

Meanwhile, locate the faucet that is closest to the water heater and turn it on until it is hot (while you are calibrating your thermometer).

Precautions must be taken! If your thermostat is set too high, the temperature may be high enough to burn you. Once the water is hot, fill a cup halfway with it and take the temperature with a thermometer by inserting it in the water.

Adjusting aGasHot Water Heater Temperature Thermostat Setting

Identify the present temperature setting of your hot water heater thermostat before making any alterations to the thermostat settings. This will allow you to estimate how much temperature adjustment is required. To simply determine the temperature, you may use any basic cooking thermometer. You should calibrate your thermometer after determining the current temperature setting. Fill a cup halfway with cold water and submerge your thermometer until the temperature dial reaches 32 degrees, or the lowest temperature displayed on your thermometer’s gauge, then repeat the process.

Meanwhile, locate the faucet that is nearest to the water heater and turn it on until it is hot (this will take a few minutes).

In some cases, turning up the temperature too high might result in burns.

First, adjust the temperature by turning the knob to the hotter or cooler position, depending on the situation. After that, let it sit for a few hours (around three or four) and then check the temperature again. If the temperature is still incorrect, make another adjustment and repeat the process until the problem is resolved. Do you require assistance? Call Hackler Plumbing for a free estimate. If you want the services of aMcKinney plumber, we can assist you

Adjusting anElectricHot Water Heater Temperature Thermostat Setting

The process of adjusting the temperature thermostat setting on an electric hot water heater is a little more difficult, but still pretty simple. The vast majority of electric water heaters are equipped with two thermostats: an upper and a lower thermostat, both of which are placed beneath two control panels. Setting both thermostats to the same temperature can help to guarantee that your electric water heater operates as effectively as possible. One thing to keep in mind is that some tiny electric hot water heaters only have one thermostat.

Here’s how to adjust the temperature on your electric hot water heater thermostat:

Please keep in mind that you will want a screwdriver to execute the following procedures in order to alter the temperature of your water heater.

Make sure your water heater is off by turning off the electricity. This may be accomplished by locating your circuit breaker and shutting off the electricity in the area surrounding your water heater
Then, locate the thermostat(s) on your water heater and turn them on. Typically, they are located behind a control panel that is secured with screws. Remove the cover from the access panel using your screwdriver (s). To access the thermostat, you may need to remove the insulation from your heater if it is properly insulated. The thermostats will be controlled by a dial, and the dials will have a varying reading depending on the manufacturer of the heater. Once the control panel has been removed, you may change the temperature knobs to make the room hotter or colder according on your preferences in terms of temperature. Take care to set both thermostats to the same temperature setting if you have more than one. Replace the control panel covers and the screws with your screwdriver after they have been removed. After that, re-energize your water heater’s electrical system. After many hours, check the temperature of your hot water (about three to four). Continue to follow the above instructions until the water temperature reaches the required setting
If it still does not, repeat them until the temperature reaches the ideal setting for your needs.

Other Considerations: Water Heater Thermostat Setting Safety

Shut down the water heater’s electric circuit. Finding your circuit breaker and shutting off the electricity in the area surrounding your water heater are two ways to do this. Find the thermostat(s) on your water heater and set them to the appropriate temperature. A control panel that is screwed to the wall usually houses these components. Remove the access panel lid using a screwdriver by pressing down on it (s). To access the thermostat, you may have to remove the insulation from your heater if it is insulated.

Once the control panel has been removed, you may alter the temperature knobs to make the room hotter or colder according on your preferences in terms of temperatures.

Reinstall the control panel covers with your screwdriver, and then replace the screws.

After a few hours, check your hot water temperature again (about three to four).

Continue to follow the above instructions until the water temperature reaches the intended setting; if it still does not, repeat them until the temperature is at the desired setting.

A. O. Smith Water Heaters at Lowes

Back It is recommended that you read the printed instructions that came with your water heater in addition to the material on this web site. Read and observe any warning labels on the water heater, as well as the safety recommendations in the printed owner’s handbook, to limit the danger of property damage, serious injury, or death.

Step1:Tools and Supplies

A thermometer, a non-contact circuit tester, a 1/4″ nut driver or a Phillips screwdriver (for removing access panels) and a flat-blade screwdriver (for adjusting temperature) are all required tools. Thermostatic mixing valves are used in many applications.

Step2:Before Adjusting the Temperature

Thermal protection has been provided by factory setting the thermostat(s) on this water heater at about 120°F to limit the danger of scald injury. Higher temperatures may be desired to supply hot water for automated dishwashers or washing machines, to increase the volume of hot water, and to minimize bacterial development.

Thermal protection has been provided by factory setting the thermostat(s) on this water heater at about 120°F to limit the danger of scald injury. Increasing the temperature may be necessary in order to supply hot water for automated dishwashers or washing machines, to increase the capacity of hot water, or to minimize bacterial development. WARNING! Higher temperatures increase the danger of scorching, however hot water can scald at temperatures as low as 120°F. The use of Thermostatic Mixing Valves at the point of usage can help to lessen the danger of scalding. If you raise the temperature setting on your water heater, you should install Thermostatic Mixing Valve(s) at each point of usage to lessen the danger of scorching your family. To maintain a temperature of 120°F or below, adjust the thermostat mixing valves at each point of usage.

Step3:Turn Power Off

To switch off the water heater, locate the circuit breaker and turn it off (or remove the fuses from the circuit). WARNING: Before working on the water heater, check sure that the power has been turned off with a non-contact circuit tester or volt meter. If you work on an electrified equipment, you risk getting electrical burns, electrocution, or death.

Step4:Open Electrical Junction Box

Unlock the electrical connection box, which is located on top of the water heater.

Step5:Check for Electrical Power

Check the power lines using a non-contact circuit tester to ensure that the power has been turned off completely. WARNING! Working on an electrified circuit has the potential to cause serious damage or death due to electrical shock. Check the cables with a volt meter or circuit tester to ensure that the power has been turned off

Step6:Replace the Junction Box Cover

Remove the cover from the electrical junction box and replace it. WARNING! Make certain that all covers are securely fastened in order to limit the risk of fire and electric shock.

Step7:Remove Heating Element Covers

Cover for lower access.”>

The majority of models come with two thermostats, although certain variants may only come with one. If your water heater has just one thermostat, it will be situated behind the lower access cover
If your water heater has two thermostats, they will be located behind the upper access cover. Remove the top and lower element coverings from their positions.

Step8:Move Insulation Out of the Way

Install two 120-degree-Fahrenheit thermostats
If greater temperatures are necessary, crank the water temperature dial counter-clockwise () to raise the temperature. (Decrease the temperature by turning the dial counterclockwise ().)
Set the thermometers on both computers to the same temperature setting
WARNING! The risk of scorching increases as the temperature increases. Installation of Thermostatic Mixing Valves at each point of use and setting them to 120°F or lower is recommended if the temperature setting has been raised over 120°F. It is not recommended to set the upper thermostat to a temperature that is higher than that of the lower thermostat in order to avoid a lack of useable hot water.

Step10:Replace Insulation

Install two 120-degree-Fahrenheit thermostats
If greater temperatures are necessary, move the water temperature dial counterclockwise () to raise the temperature. (In order to lower the temperature, turn the dial counterclockwise ()).
Achieve the same temperature settings on both thermostats. WARNING! Scalding is more likely to occur in higher temperatures. Installation of Thermostatic Mixing Valves at each point of use and setting them to 120°F or lower if the temperature setting has been raised over 120°F. It is important not to set the upper thermostat to a temperature that is higher than that of the lower thermostat in order to prevent a deficit of useable hot water.

Step13:Let the Water Heat Up

Wait for the water to warm up before continuing. Temperature changes in the tank may take many hours
Thus, be patient.

Step14:Install a Thermostatic Mixing Valves

Install Thermostatic Mixing Valves at each point of usage to ensure proper mixing. Thermostatic mixing valves should be adjusted in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. In order to adjust the water heater’s thermostat higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit, you must install thermostatic mixing valves at each point of use and set them to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or below. WARNING! Higher temperatures increase the danger of scorching, however hot water can scald at temperatures as low as 120°F. The use of Thermostatic Mixing Valves at the point of usage can help to lessen the danger of scalding.

Step15:Check Water Temperature

Ensure that the water temperature is correct at all places of usage in your house (such as the bathtub faucet, the shower, and the lavatory sink)
Water temperature at any fixture should be at or below 120°F, so that the Thermostatic Mixing Valves should be adjusted accordingly. When in doubt about how to alter the Thermostatic Mixing Valve settings, or when in doubt about whether or not you have Thermostatic Mixing Valves, consult with a knowledgeable person for advice
WARNING! Because of the increased danger of scorching when the water heater’s thermostat(s) is set higher than 120°F, it is advised to install Thermostatic Mixing Valves at each point of use to lessen the risk of scalding
However, this is not required.

How To Change The Temperature On Your Electric Water Heater

If you find yourself running out of hot water while having a shower, you may want to raise the temperature on your electric water heater to compensate. When you turn up the temperature on your water heater, your power bill will go up, but only by the most minute of margins. Your power use may increase by 3 to 5 percent for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit you raise the temperature (i.e., make it hotter). If you lower the temperature by 10 degrees Celsius (i.e., make it colder), your power consumption may decrease by 3 percent to 5 percent.

According to the facts, lowering your hot water heater’s thermostat by 10 degrees Celsius will save you between 3-5 percent on your operational costs.

The following tools will be required to raise or lower the temperature on your electric water heater:

Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips), flashlight, gloves are all necessary tools.

Step 1: To ensure your safety, switch off the circuit breaker for your water heater and make sure the electricity has been turned off to your water heater before altering the temperature. Remove the thermostat/element covers in the second step. In most cases, there are two coverings – one on top for the top element and another on the bottom for the bottom element. After removing the covers, make a note of the screws and store them somewhere secure. Remove the insulation in order to gain access to the thermostat control.

Use a flat tip screwdriver to set the top and bottom thermostats to around 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Homes with higher hot water use should only have the top thermostat set 5° to 10° degrees higher.
Using the screws you removed before, replace the top and bottom metal coverings in their original positions.
How to Adjust the Temperature of a Hot Water Heater Resetting the Reset Button on an Electric Hot Water Heater (with Pictures) Please keep in mind that all water heater thermostat settings are a ballpark estimate.
Safety Recommendations: For your own safety, never touch a wet water heater.
Listed below is the information you want in order to determine the proper temperature for your water heater.
What should I do if the water heater in my home is leaking?
The water heater must be turned off promptly if there is an issue with it leaking.
If you are aware of any alternative or better techniques for properly adjusting the water temperature on a water heater, please share your knowledge with our other readers by leaving a comment below.

As the author and developer of this website, Allen works as a Home Maintenance and Appliance Technician. He has 33 years of expertise troubleshooting and repairing a wide range of household appliances and electronic devices. Please get in touch with us here.

How to Adjust a Hot Water Heater

Documentation Download Documentation Download Documentation There is a delicate balance between the temperature of the water in your home—too high, and you run the danger of getting scalded; too low, and you’ll be shivering in your shower. Fortunately, regulating a hot water heater is a straightforward process if you go with caution. For your own safety, turn off the electricity to the water heater at the main circuit breaker in your home’s electrical panel. Afterwards, remove the access panel from the unit’s side and use a flat-blade screwdriver to increase or reduce the temperature in accordance with the temperature ranges specified on the control dial.

1 Determine whether or not the temperature of your water has to be adjusted. Most manufacturers recommend that the water used in your homestay be kept at a temperature of roughly 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius) for safety reasons. The temperature of most water heaters will already be adjusted to this level when they are installed. In most circumstances, it is advisable to simply leave it alone in order to reduce the danger of harm.

Instead of the water heater’s temperature being the source of the problem, it’s possible that a faulty heating element or inadequate insulation is to blame. A trained plumber can assist you in diagnosing and repairing a malfunctioning water heater.

2 To adjust the temperature of the water heater, turn the dial on the bottom of the unit. Gas water heaters are simple to use
They are controlled by a single knob that regulates the quantity of heat provided to the unit. Turning this knob to the left (counterclockwise) will raise the temperature, which will result in hotter water being produced. It will cool down if you turn it to the right (counter-clockwise).

The lower temperature range of the vast majority of gas water heaters will be anywhere between 90 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit (32 and 43 degrees Celsius), while the upper temperature range will peak at roughly 140–150 degrees Fahrenheit (60 and 66 degrees Celsius). It’s possible that the dial on your gas water heater isn’t numbered, which makes determining the ideal temperature a little more difficult. To get around this, just take the temperature of the water several times after making changes to your settings and write the exact degree reading on a piece of paper or on the dial itself.

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s3 Increase the temperature of the water to enjoy warmer water for cleaning and bathing purposes. It is advantageous to have hotter water in your house for a variety of reasons. For starters, it may make taking a shower or soaking in the tub more enjoyable, because you won’t have to worry about running out of hot water as fast as you would otherwise. This method may also be used to increase the performance of appliances that do not utilize warmed water (such as dishwashers and washing machines), which will aid in cleaning filthy things.

Heat is more effective in killing most common bacteria, including health-threatening pathogens such as Legionella, E. coli, and staphylococcus
Higher temperatures kill more germs. Avoid heating your water to a temperature greater than 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius). A substantial danger of burns, particularly for youngsters and the elderly, can result from this practice.

Increase the temperature in order to save money on your energy bills. Heating significant amounts of water quickly becomes prohibitively costly. Lowering the temperature of your water heater to the range of 100–110 degrees Fahrenheit (38–43 degrees Celsius) will help you save money on your next heating bill. Even a minor adjustment can result in significant savings over the course of a few months.

Be aware that your water will not be as hot, which may have an influence on your comfort or the degree of sanitation for cleaning tasks.

Take note that your water will not be as hot, which may have an influence on your comfort or the degree of sanitation for cleaning tasks.

Keep in mind that your water will not be as hot, which may have an influence on your comfort or the degree of sanitation for cleaning tasks.

2 Remove the access panel from the unit’s side by pulling it out. Identify the two screws at the top and bottom of the panel and loosen them with a flat-bladed screwdriver to complete the process. Pull the panel away from the body of the device and place it somewhere safe and convenient for you. Take cautious not to loose any of the screws.

Some versions may have a second plastic cover behind the metal access panel, which can be difficult to see. With a little tug, you should be able to gently remove it.

3 Remove or push the insulation that is covering the thermostat to the side. An additional layer of insulation is installed within the water heater. If it’s a single piece of styrofoam or similar material, you’ll be able to just lift it out with your hands. Using your hands, move fiberglass insulation out of the way so that you can get to the thermostat controls

3 Remove or push the insulation that is covering the thermostat to the side or away from it. An additional layer of insulation is installed within the water heater. Unless it’s a single piece made of styrofoam or a similar substance, you should be able to take it out with ease. Using your hands, clear a path to the thermostat controls by moving fiberglass insulation out of the way

4 To adjust the temperature, use a flat-blade screwdriver to raise or reduce the setting. The temperature ranges for the high- and low-ends of the temperature scale will be displayed at the bottom of the thermostat. To adjust the temperature, insert the tip of a screwdriver into the colored adjustment screw and turn it clockwise. When you twist it to the left (counterclockwise), the temperature will decrease, and when you twist it to the right (clockwise), the temperature will raise.

The adjustable screws on contemporary electric water heaters are equipped with indicator hands that inform you roughly how hot the current setting has been set to. Attend to where your palm settles, since this will help you to fine-tune the temperature of the water even more accurately
In the event that your water heater has two heating elements, make certain that both thermostats are set to the identical temperature so that one isn’t required to perform more effort than the other.

5Replace the insulation as well as the access door. When you’re pleased with the new temperature setting, return everything to the way it was when you first started. Make certain that the insulation completely covers the internal thermostat before reinstalling both protective covers and tightening the screws to fasten them. 6 Restore electricity to the water heater if it has been disconnected. Return to your main breaker panel and turn on the water heater by turning the switch to the “On” position. Please refrain from making any additional adjustments beyond this point since the electricity will be back up and running.

The flowing water temperature may not reach its maximum temperature for up to an hour after your unit has been turned off for a lengthy period of time
This is normal.

1 Fill a glass halfway with boiling water. Set a timer for one minute and turn on the nearest faucet to the water heater to start the process. Keep a drinking glass or similar container under the stream until you’ve captured a few inches of water
Until the water is as hot as it can possibly be

It is preferable to utilize a container that has been kept at room temperature in order to obtain the most accurate reading possible.

Cooking thermometer: Place a cooking thermometer in the boiling water. Prepare your thermometer in advance so that you may put it in as soon as the container is completely full. After making certain that the probe is completely immersed, let 30-60 seconds for it to determine the temperature

Make a note of the number you get for future reference. It may assist you in determining the optimal temperature range for your house, as well as identify any heating problems outside of the unit itself. If you don’t put the thermometer in the water straight soon, the water may have a chance to cool down sufficiently to cause your reading to be inaccurate.

3 Determine whether or not the water is sufficiently hot. You may be confident that your water heater is operating at peak performance if the temperature is at or near 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius). If the temperature is any lower than that, it may need to be raised a few degrees. Keep in mind that temperatures surpassing 120 °F (49 °C) will be too hot for the majority of people in their homes.

Increase the temperature of your water by 10 degrees at a time to lessen the chance of burning yourself

4 Wait three hours before checking the water temperature again. It will take some time for your water heater to adjust to the new temperature setting, so please be patient until it reaches the required temperature. Hold wait on taking a bath or turning on any appliances in case the water being circulated is hotter than you anticipated
In the meanwhile

Make any required modifications before everyone in your home begins their daily routine
Otherwise, they will be inconvenienced.

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Question What is the purpose of the letters ABC on a water heater? Answer from the Sealweasel Community It is a matter of temperature settings. The letter A represents the lowest temperature, while the letter C represents the highest/hottest temperature. These letters are printed on the water heater’s control knob. Question My water heater’s setting control has the letters A, B, and C on it. What is the best way to determine if A is the lowest temperature or C is the lowest temperature? Answer from the Sealweasel Community The lowest temperature is represented by the letter A. The maximum temperature is C, while the lowest temperature is B

Question What do the letters ABC on a water heater stand for, and why are they there? Community Response from Sealweasel Temperature settings are what they are. The letter A represents the lowest temperature, while the letter C represents the highest and hottest temperature. These letters are printed on the water heater’s control knob; Question The A, B, and C buttons on my water heater’s control panel are illuminated. What is the best way to tell if A is the lowest temperature or C is the lowest?

In terms of temperature, C is the highest and B is the middle.

Consider lowering the temperature of your water heater throughout the spring and summer months, when you will be using less hot water
This will save you money. Non-domestic institutions, such as restaurants, may be able to get away with utilizing a temperature setting as high as 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius).

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It just takes two seconds to develop third-degree burns from water that has been heated to 140–150 degrees Fahrenheit (60–66 degrees Celsius). If you have any worries about your capacity to safely and effectively adjust your water heater on your own, contact a professional plumber for assistance. If you are unfamiliar with the operation of a water heater’s controls, you should never attempt to tamper with them. One single error may set off a chain of events that would result in a very serious situation.

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Summary of the ArticleXIf the temperature of your hot water isn’t just perfect, you can easily modify it in a matter of minutes. All you have to do to adjust the temperature of a gas heater is turn the temperature dial located at the bottom of the heater. To get to the temperature dial on an electric heater, you’ll need to remove the access panel and the insulation covering that covers it. To reduce the risk of electrocution, make sure you first turn off the circuit breaker for the water. To adjust the temperature dial, a flathead screwdriver is required.

If your dial does not have numbers on it, test the water temperature using a kitchen thermometer or your fingertips, and then adjust the dial as necessary to your liking.

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Setting the Ideal Hot Water Heater Temperature

Are you tired of burning your hands every time you turn on the hot water in the shower? What if you’re having trouble getting a comfortable water temperature, no matter how high you turn the faucet up? These are not always indications that your water heater is malfunctioning, but rather that the temperature setting you have chosen is not optimal for your purposes. A water heater that has been installed incorrectly can have a significant influence on your life, even in areas that are not directly linked to your plumbing or heating system.

It can also have a negative influence on your health or the health of people who share your home with you.

How do you set your thermostat when there is so much riding on the outcome? A definitive or simple response cannot be given; rather, part of it is a matter of personal choice. But there are a few guidelines you may follow to ensure that your temperature setting is optimal for you.

General Recommended Water Heater Temperature

Is it getting old to burn your hands every time you turn on the hot water? What if you’re having trouble getting a comfortable water temperature, no matter how high you turn the faucet? However, they are not always indications of a problem with the water heater; instead, they indicate that the temperature setting may not be appropriate for your needs. It is possible for a water heater that has been installed incorrectly to have a significant influence on your life, even in ways that are not directly linked to plumbing.

As a result, it can have a negative influence on your health as well as the health of people who share your house with you.

A definitive or unambiguous response cannot be given; rather, part of it is a matter of individual choice.

Considerations When Choosing a Water Heater Temperature Setting

Are you tired of burning your hands every time you turn on the hot water in your shower? No matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to get a comfortable water temperature. These are not always indications that your water heater is malfunctioning, but rather that the temperature setting you have chosen may not be appropriate for your purposes. A water heater that is installed incorrectly can have a significant influence on your life, even in ways that are not directly linked to your plumbing. In the case of a water heater, which consumes around 18 percent of the energy in your house, altering it by just 10 degrees might result in a three to five percent increase in your monthly energy bill.

How should you adjust your thermostat when there is so much at stake?

But there are a few guidelines you can follow to make sure your temperature setting is just right.

Adjusting Your Water Heater Settings: How To Maximize Efficiency

Not many people are aware that selecting the proper water heater settings may result in substantial savings. Indeed, while the majority of people don’t give their hot water heater settings a second thought, they are actually highly critical in many situations. Not only will it save you money, but it will also make your showering experience more pleasant as a result of it. Here is a breakdown of the procedures.

Default Hot Water Heater Settings Can Vary

Temperature settings on water heaters in Phoenix are frequently set to as high as 140 degrees Fahrenheit as the usual setting. That is far greater than the majority of individuals require, although manufacturers do so for a variety of reasons. The Department of Energy states that germs cannot thrive in water that is so hot, among other reasons. Increased gas or electric water heater settings can be beneficial for people who have weakened immune systems or respiratory illnesses. In addition to impressing consumers who have presumably recently replaced their tank since the previous one had ceased performing correctly, high temperatures can also be beneficial.

Once this psychological trick wears off (and assuming you don’t have a sickness that makes you particularly susceptible to bacteria), you’ll likely receive far more joy from saving money on your water bill, which we’ll teach you how to achieve in the next section.

How Much Are Your Gas and Electric Hot Water Heater Temperature Settings Costing You?

As a general rule, every 20 degrees you reduce the temperature of your gas or electric water heater, you may expect to save as much as ten percent on your utility bill. That’s not too shabby after all! In reality, it adds up over time, and you can almost certainly come up with a number of better uses for the money you save. “But hold on a minute,” you may be thinking. “I really enjoy taking hot baths!” However, you almost probably do not take showers above 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which can cause scorching because of the high temperature.

No matter what happens, raising the temperature is a simple process.

How To Adjust Your Gas and Electric Hot Water Heater Temperature Settings

Now that you understand why you should reduce the temperature of your water heater, let’s look at how to go about doing so.

Step One: Get An Accurate Temperature Reading

It’s likely that the thermostat dial linked to your water heater tank is not functioning properly. As a result, you should really use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the water flowing out of your faucet. The Department of Energy suggests that you measure the amount of water that is flowing out of the faucet that is the furthest away from your water heating system. Make a note of the settings after you’ve found them.

Step Two: Figure Out Where to Make the Adjustment

Unreliability is most likely associated with the thermostat dial that is attached to your water heater tank. You should use a thermometer to really measure the temperature of the water that is flowing out of your faucet. The Department of Energy suggests that you measure the amount of water that is flowing out of the faucet that is the furthest away from your water heating unit. Note down the configuration after you’ve achieved it.

Electric Water Heater Settings

In the case of an electric water heater, you must modify the hot water settings at the top and bottom of the unit. Both controls, which are often concealed behind a panel and consist of knobs that you crank to establish the appropriate electric water heater thermostat settings, are typically located on the same side of the panel.

Gas Water Heater Settings

Newer gas water heaters are equipped with temperature controls that are similar to those described above in the section on electric water heaters. Most gas heaters, especially older models, feature a temperature knob near the base that may be easily adjusted to the appropriate temperature.

Tankless Water Heater Settings

Finally, tankless water heaters are available. This is likely the simplest modification to make because most thermostats include an LED screen that allows you to directly control the thermostat’s temperature. In addition to being convenient, these systems frequently allow you to modify the tankless water heater settings more accurately than you could with traditional dial-based adjustment methods.

Step Three: Make The Adjustments

If you have an electric unit, make sure to turn off the electricity to it before modifying the hot water heater settings at the top and bottom, as we previously discussed in detail. This may be accomplished simply turning off the necessary settings on your circuit breaker panel. Doing so is also recommended in the case of a gas water heater that consumes some power (as some newer units do). But hold on a minute! What temperature should you choose as a starting point? The Department of Energy suggests that you set your heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit for the best performance.

Some water heater temperature controls now include buttons that read “A-B-C” instead of numbers, which makes them easier to use.

Generally speaking, A denotes 120 degrees, B denotes 130 degrees, and C denotes 140 degrees, respectively. To double-check these settings, consult the owner’s handbook for your water heater.

Step Four: Tweak the Settings as Necessary

After you’ve made the necessary adjustments to your gas or electric water heater thermostat settings, you may discover that you need to make a few more adjustments to get the best setting. You’re trying to strike the perfect balance between comfort and cost-effectiveness. If that’s more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit for you, there’s nothing wrong with that. Make the necessary adjustments!

Frequently Asked Questions

It is nearly guaranteed that a temperature setting of 150 degrees will be too hot for your water heater. The likelihood of experiencing scalding is quite high at that temperature. You should be concerned about your youngsters, who may experiment with the temperature settings on the faucets while completely unconscious of the risk and end up scorching themselves.

What Is The Maximum Temperature For A Water Heater?

The highest temperature setting for the majority of water heaters is 150 degrees Fahrenheit.

Is 140 Too Hot For A Water Heater?

Typically, the highest temperature setting for a water heater is 150 degrees Fahrenheit.

Why Is My Water So Hot?

If you haven’t changed the settings on your hot water heater in a long time, they are most likely still set to the factory default of 140 degrees. The latter is especially true if your hot water heater was only recently installed; the old one was almost certainly altered at some time over the years, whereas the new one is set to the manufacturer’s recommended settings.