How to Turn Up a Hot Water Heater
Article in PDF format Article in PDF format When bathing, cleaning dishes, or doing tasks around the house, cold water may be a major hassle. Increasing the temperature of your water heater may be necessary if you are experiencing regularly colder water temps. While adjusting a gas or electric water heater takes deft hands and a thorough grasp of the components, it is usually a straightforward procedure. As long as you use safety when working with your water heater, you should be able to alter the temperature quite fast and easily.
- 1 Before adjusting the gas water heater, make sure all other open flames are extinguished. It is not recommended that you come into direct touch with natural gas
- Yet, it is better to be cautious than sorry in this situation. Please refrain from lighting candles, smoking, or using any other open flames in the house while you are adjusting your water heater.
- When modifying the water temperature, there is no need to switch off the gas.
- 2Find the dial on the front of the water heater and turn it to the desired temperature. The gas control valve is located here. It is often a black or red knob with two sides: one for warm and another for hot. In certain circumstances, it may additionally feature notches on the side to distinguish between the different temperature settings. Advertisement
- s3 Rotate the dial from the warm to the hot position to activate the feature. Do not turn the dial all the way to the hot setting. To begin, shift it slightly toward the hot side of the spectrum from where it was previously. Your hand may be burned if the water temperature is increased to its maximum setting (hot). You may always adjust the temperature to be much hotter later on if necessary
- 4 Once you’ve waited three hours, check the water temperature. Wait at least 3 hours before checking the water temperature again to ensure that it has had enough time to warm up. If the water temperature remains too low or the water seems too chilly, the gas control valve should be adjusted once again.
- To avoid major burns, do not raise the temperature over 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius).
- To avoid major burns, keep the temperature below 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius).
- To avoid major burns, do not raise the temperature over 120 °F (49 °C).
- 2 Remove the access panels from the heater. The access panel(s) should be in the shape of rectangular boxes and should be located on the front of the water heater. Depending on whether the water panel has a single or double access panel, pry open one or both of them to get access to the panel’s internal controls.
- The majority of panels can be accessed without the need of a screwdriver. It should be sufficient to use your hands
- 3 Take off the insulation to see the thermostat location. You should be able to detect a small layer of insulation between the thermostat and the door access panels. To obtain a better look at the thermostat, take remove all of the insulation and adjust the temperature as needed.
- Keep the insulation somewhere safe since it will need to be reinserted into the water heater in order for the thermostat temperature to remain precise.
- 4 Raise the temperature on the thermostat by one degree. The majority of thermostats are controlled by a screw in the centre. Insert a flat-tipped screwdriver into the screw and raise it several notches with the screwdriver. To avoid burns, keep the thermostat set no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius).
- The thermostat should display temperatures ranging from around 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) to 150 degrees Fahrenheit (66 degrees Celsius), with a maximum temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius) being ideal. Even though there are two panels, there should only be a single thermostat on each of them. The number of panels has more to do with the design of the water heater, as both panels should be connected to the same thermostat
- Nonetheless,
- 5Close the panels and wait till the water has been tested. Replacing the insulation in the heater and closing one or both of the panels is recommended. You may check the water temperature whenever you want by turning the power back on. To check the water temperature, wait at least 3 hours and then analyze it: if the water temperature is still too low, change the temperature again. Advertisement
- 1Bring the heated water to a boil for 3 to 5 minutes. Select the sink that is closest to your hot water heater and let it run for at least 3 minutes before cleaning it. Any water that comes out of the sink during the first several minutes will have already been absorbed by the plumbing system. It is necessary to allow for sufficient clearing before testing the water heater in order to obtain an accurate reading
- 2To check the temperature of the water, use a candy or a kitchen thermometer. Place the water in a dish or cup and take the temperature of the water right away. Allow at least 20-30 seconds for the thermometer to be submerged in water to obtain a dependable reading. 3 Make a note of the temperature number. As a result, while cold water is an issue, it is equally important not to have your water temperature too high. If the temperature rises beyond 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius), you run the danger of suffering burns. For an understanding of the link between temperature and the length of time it will take to cause major burns, consider the following numbers:
- 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius): 5+ minutes
- 125 degrees Fahrenheit (52 degrees Celsius): 60-120 seconds
- 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54 degrees Celsius): 5-30 seconds
- 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius): 1-5 seconds
- 150 degrees Fahrenheit (66 degrees Celsius): 1-1 1/2 seconds
- 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius) or above: Immediately
- 4If necessary, repeat the check in approximately 3 hours. If the temperature is too low or too high, make the necessary adjustments to the water heater and check the temperature again after 3 hours. It will take some time for the water heater to adjust its internal temperature and warm or chill the water to the proper degree. Advertisement
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- Question What is the maximum temperature that a hot water heater can reach? Dave Jones is a writer and musician from the United Kingdom. Cleanup of water after a master plumber or Roto-Rooter Plumbing Dave Jones is a Professional Plumber and the Midwest Regional Vice President of Roto-Rooter PlumbingWater Cleanup. He has over 30 years of experience in the plumbing industry. Jones began working with Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician when he was 18 years old in 1992. Since then, he has worked his way through the ranks, assuming roles of greater responsibility. Prior to being elevated to Contractor Area Manager, Dave worked as the general manager of Roto-Charlotte, Rooter’s North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia locations. He was then moved to Regional Vice President. Dave is a Master Plumber with licenses in three states: Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and the state of Georgia. Water Cleanup Expert, Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter PlumbingService Answer It is dependent on the water heater and the number of dial settings it has to provide. The temperature should never be higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature at which you will truly burn yourself is 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Question If I want to customize the water temperature, how do I go about it? Dave Jones is a writer and musician from the United Kingdom. Cleanup of water after a master plumber or Roto-Rooter Plumbing Dave Jones is a Professional Plumber and the Midwest Regional Vice President of Roto-Rooter PlumbingWater Cleanup. He has over 30 years of experience in the plumbing industry. Jones began working with Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician when he was 18 years old in 1992. Since then, he has worked his way through the ranks, assuming roles of greater responsibility. Prior to being elevated to Contractor Area Manager, Dave worked as the general manager of Roto-Charlotte, Rooter’s North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia locations. He was then moved to Regional Vice President. Dave is a Master Plumber with licenses in three states: Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and the state of Georgia. Answer from a Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing, and Water Cleanup Expert Unfortunately, this is not possible. Only the dial settings on your water heater will provide you with a selection of possibilities. If you have four temperature settings on the dial, you have four different alternatives for the temperature. Question Do you think it is safe for me to adjust the temperature on my electric water heater? Dave Jones is a writer and musician from the United Kingdom. Cleanup of water after a master plumber or Roto-Rooter Plumbing Dave Jones is a Professional Plumber and the Midwest Regional Vice President of Roto-Rooter PlumbingWater Cleanup. He has over 30 years of experience in the plumbing industry. Jones began working with Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician when he was 18 years old in 1992. Since then, he has worked his way through the ranks, assuming roles of greater responsibility. Prior to being elevated to Contractor Area Manager, Dave worked as the general manager of Roto-Charlotte, Rooter’s North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia locations. He was then moved to Regional Vice President. Dave is a Master Plumber with licenses in three states: Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and the state of Georgia. Licensed Master Plumber with Roto-Rooter Plumbing Services Answer from a Water Cleanup Expert Yes, however you must first turn off the electricity to the water heater before making the necessary adjustments to it. Ensure that both the top and lower thermostats are set to the same temperature and that the insulation has been replaced before reattaching the panels. Question Will increasing the temperature of water in a water heater help the water to heat up more quickly to the desired degree? Answer from the Sealweasel Community Yes, the temperature of the water is controlled by the thermostat. However, you must exercise extreme caution since hot water can scald or burn you, so it is better not to attempt to modify it unless you are confident in your abilities. Keep the temperature at the lowest possible setting since it is the most safe
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- If you experience cold water on a regular basis and have adjusted your water heater several times, call a plumber. It is possible that it is damaged or broken.
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- If your water heater is dripping wet or sitting in a pool of water, avoid touching it. Call a plumber, who will then be able to examine the damage and any threat. When adjusting your water heater, do with caution. Open wires should never be touched or moved. If you are not sure in your ability to handle your water heater, contact a plumber.
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Things You’ll Need
- A screwdriver with a flat point
- A candy or culinary thermometer
About This Article
Summary of the Article Starting with any open flame sources in the home (such as cigarettes or candles), dial up the heat on your gas hot water heater. Natural gas is combustible, so make sure you put out any open flame sources first. Then, on the front of the heater, locate the gas control valve and adjust the dial slightly to the “hot” side to activate the heater. After 3 hours, check the temperature to determine if it has reached the desired temperature. If this is not the case, crank the dial till the water reaches the required temperature once more.
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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.
- The temperature of certain gas water heaters may be adjusted by turning a dial towards the bottom of the machine – no tools are needed for this. Some 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.
- 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 Turn Up Water Heater
The likelihood that the previous tenants turned down the water heater before leaving your holiday home or new house is high whether you’re staying on vacation or moving into a new property. As a cost-cutting measure, it is sound. However, in order to do so, you must understand how to modify the temperature of the water heater to fit your requirements. You’re in luck because we’ll walk you through the procedure right here.
Getting Started
We must first determine the type of gasoline with which we are working before proceeding. The technique for installing an electric water heater differs from the procedure for installing a natural gas water heater. Anything exceeding 120 degrees Fahrenheit is considered hazardous, and we do not suggest it in any circumstances.
When the temperature reaches 130 degrees, you can suffer serious burns in as little as 5 seconds. Gas is simple to switch on; electricity, on the other hand, is a little more complicated, so we’ll start there:
How to Adjust Temperature on Electric Hot Water Heater
- Turn off the electricity at the breaker—because most water heaters work on 240v, you’ll probably need to flick two switches to do this. Don’t let yourself be electrocuted! In the event that you are unsure which switches control the water heater, turn them all off. The access panel and insulation should be removed since you can have a tank with two access panels. In order to modify the temperature, you must first remove the panel(s) and any insulation. Adjust the temperature by rotating the dial using a flat-head screwdriver (in certain situations, you won’t need one) to increase the heat. If your thermometer has notches marked with temperature measurements, you may set it to the temperature you choose. It’s as simple as replacing the insulation and panel(s) and you’re done! So please be patient as the water will take a couple of hours to warm up to the new temperature
How to Turn Up a Gas Water Heater
When working with gas appliances, it’s important to remember to always put safety first. It is essential that there are no open flames anywhere around you when you are adjusting the temperature since this will necessitate increasing the gas pressure. Essentially, the procedure is as follows:
- It is not necessary to switch off the gas in order to adjust the temperature. To begin, locate the control knob, which is most likely labeled with the settings for warm and hot (but it may have other possibilities)
- You want to be as conservative as possible while making the modification. Don’t just turn it up to the maximum/hottest setting
- Allow several hours for the tank to heat the water before testing the temperature with a hot water faucet in the house
What About Tankless?
If you have an on-demand water heater, it should be as simple as pressing a button that is easily accessible or adjusting a dial to the desired temperature. If you are encountering any difficulties, examine the instruction booklet provided by the manufacturer.
In Conclusion
The procedure for increasing the temperature of a hot water heater is simple regardless of the type of water heater you have. If you find this article to be useful, please spread the word. Bradford White is one of the renowned brands that we sell here at PlumbersStock. For those in the market for a new water heater, this is an excellent spot to shop around for a good deal. If you want to understand more about water heaters in general, you should read this water heater Wiki article. Resources that are related to this topic include: How to Reset a Water Heater (with Pictures) How to Turn on a Water Heater How to Turn Off a Water Heater (with Pictures) Draining a Water Heater (with Pictures) Instructions on How to Turn On a Water Heater What should the temperature of the water heater be?
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.
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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
- Replace the coverings over the heating elements. WARNING! In order to decrease the risk of fire and electric shock, make sure all covers are securely fastened.
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 Turn Up Your Water Heater
When you turn on a hot water faucet, you expect to be greeted with hot water. But what happens if the temperature of your hot water isn’t up to your standards? It’s possible that increasing the temperature of your water heater will solve the problem. Even if the temperature of a water heater is preset at the manufacture, you may like the water to be either warmer or colder than the factory setting. You may control the temperature of your water heater regardless of whether it is powered by electricity or gas.
This article will demonstrate how to adjust the temperature, as well as discuss several important safety issues that should never be disregarded.
Water Temperature Safety
When adjusting the temperature of your water heater, there are several really severe safety considerations to keep in mind. For a variety of reasons, the Environmental Protection Agency advises that you set your water heater temperature to 120°F: Water at 120°F will do three things: first, it will conserve energy and minimize your electricity cost; second, it will be hot enough to prevent the majority of infections; and third, it will not be hot enough to cause a burning injury. However, 120°F is not hot enough to kill the Legionella bacterium, which is responsible for the outbreak of Legionnaires disease.
- When Legionella bacterium is exposed to 140 degrees Fahrenheit water for 32 minutes, it is destroyed.
- Although it is not possible to have the best of both worlds, or more particularly the best of both temps, there is a workaround.
- This will guarantee that your hot water is not only disease-free, but it will also prevent scorching accidents from occurring.
- When the hot water reaches the faucet, the temperature has dropped to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Speaking with a specialist will also assist you in determining the best course of action for your particular case.
Why a Water Heater Runs Cold
There might be a multitude of reasons for your water heater to be operating at a low temperature. If the temperature of your water is substantially lower than expected, or if you have no hot water at all, this article might assist you in troubleshooting the cause of the issue. It’s possible that the problem is a simple remedy, such as changing a heating element, or that the demand for hot water in your home has risen and your water heater is unable to keep up with the demand. We recommend that you solve these difficulties first since, in the majority of situations, addressing the fundamental cause of the problem is always the most effective solution.
It is possible to increase the temperature of your water heater if you just want a scalding hot shower and your water heater isn’t giving it.
Is it Okay to Turn Up the Temperature on a Water Heater?
In order to address this issue, water heaters are designed with temperature controls. Despite the fact that the temperature is pre-set at the manufacturer, there is no reason why you shouldn’t alter it to your liking. Please bear in mind, however, that raising the temperature will result in an increase in your utility cost; conversely, lowering the temperature will result in a reduction in your utility bill. Despite the fact that many homeowners immediately increase the temperature of their water heater, it is always a good idea to check the temperature of the water at the faucet before making any modifications to ensure that the water is not excessively hot or too cold for safety reasons.
Pros and Cons of Turning Up the Temperature on Your Water Heater
Before you begin, you may want to consider the advantages and disadvantages of making temperature modifications. These are:
Pros
Most significantly, increasing the temperature of your water heater will provide the impression to your family that they have more hot water available. It is called a feeling since the volume of heated water produced by your heater is the same regardless of the model you have. What makes a difference is that when water is generated at a higher temperature, most people instinctively believe they require less water. This is advantageous since it might give your family the impression that they can take hotter showers or wash their dishes at a higher temperature.
Aside from that, if you have a gas heater, you may easily lower its temperature to the lowest level if you are leaving on vacation.
However, lowering the temperature of your water heater below this limit will have no effect on these appliances because they pre-heat the water.
Cons
Increases in the temperature of your water have two significant drawbacks to consider. The first is the rise in your energy bill that you will notice. An increase in temperature indicates that more energy is required to heat the water, which results in an increase in utility expenses. The other point of worry, as previously said, is safety. Take cautious not to overheat your water heater by turning it to the maximum setting. Calcification is a serious threat to little children and elderly people alike, and it can occur at temperatures as low as 110°F.
Also to consider is the potential risk of Legionnaires’ disease and other bacteria growth in your hot water tank and piping if the water is too cold.
How to Check Your Water Heater’s Temperature
It is extremely simple to check the temperature of the water heater. Here’s how it’s done:
- Start by turning on the hot water at the faucet that is nearest to your water heater
- Allow the hot water to run for a few minutes before using it. Fill a cup halfway with hot water, then place a culinary thermometer into the cup to check the temperature. Food thermometers are affordable, and if you don’t already have one, you may get one from Amazon. Observe and take note of the temperature
How to Turn Up the Temperature on a Water Heater
The method you regulate the temperature of your water is mostly determined by the sort of water heater you have. There are three types: tankless, electric tank-style, and gas tank-style.
Tankless is the most common. In addition, there may be some differences across manufacturers, but they are often located in close proximity to one another. Check your heater’s owner’s handbook for any specifics that are special to it.
Tankless
Heater temperature adjustments are found on the digital control panel of the vast majority of tankless water heaters (both gas and electric). Many people even monitor the temperature of the air they are sending out, which makes the change that more simpler. The temperature may be raised or decreased in most cases by using the same method as you would to set the thermostat on an air conditioner.
Electric Water Heaters
The vast majority of electric water heaters are equipped with an upper and lower temperature thermostat. A set of thermostats is concealed behind two panels on the heater’s tank. Both thermostats will need to be set to the same temperature in order to function properly. Here’s what you should do:
- The vast majority of electric water heaters are equipped with an upper and lower temperature control dials. The heater’s thermostats are hidden behind two panels on the tank of the unit. For the best results, both thermostats must be set to the same setting. What you should do is as follows:
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Gas water heaters are more convenient to use since they often feature a dial that is simple to see and is positioned outside the tank. Here’s what you should do:
- Once you’ve located the dial, all you have to do is turn it to the left or right depending on whether you want to make the temperature warmer or cooler. Before monitoring the temperature of your hot water, give it at least 3 hours to warm up. Make any necessary modifications.
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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.
Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips), flashlight, gloves are all necessary.
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
There are several distinct types of water heaters, and we’ll go through each of them separately.
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?
Yes, temperatures above 140 degrees Fahrenheit are uncomfortable for the majority of people. The only exception would be persons who require an additional layer of protection against germs, which cannot thrive in water at that temperature. However, because such a state does not protect you from scorching, you will almost certainly need to install an equipment at the showerhead that cools the water before it is discharged from the showerhead.
Why Is My Water So Hot?
Yes, 140 degrees Fahrenheit is considered very hot by the majority of the public. The only exception would be persons who require an additional layer of protection from germs, which cannot thrive in water at that temperature. However, because such a state does not protect you from scorching, you will almost certainly need to install a device at the showerhead that cools the water before it is discharged from the shower.
How To Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature
Today, we’ll walk you through the process of adjusting the temperature of your water heater. Whether the water is too hot or not hot enough, we have some ideas and tactics to make sure you have the optimum water temperature!
Your Water Temperature is Too Hot
After a hard day, taking a hot shower is such a delight! There is, on the other hand, nothing more irritating than scalding hot temperatures emanating from every shower head and tap in your residence. If you’re getting excessively hot water on a consistent basis, it might be an indicator that your water temperature is set to a too high setting. It is critical that the temperature of your water heater does not exceed 140 degrees Fahrenheit (78 degrees Celsius) for the health and safety of you and your family.
See the table below for the Time and Temperature to Produce a Scald.
Temperature | Time to Produce Serious Harm |
120℉ | More than 5 minutes |
125℉ | 1 ½to 2 minutes |
130℉ | About 30 seconds |
135℉ | About 10 seconds |
140℉ | Less than 5 seconds |
145℉ | Less than 3 seconds |
150℉ | About 1 ½ seconds |
155℉ | About 1 second |
Decreasing Your Water Temperature
It is possible that your water heater’s access will differ depending on the kind of Bradford White water heater you have. After removing the bottom access panel with a screwdriver, you should be able to simply remove the panel and reveal the thermostat.
The temperature difference between A and B is around 140 degrees Fahrenheit, hence the nob should not be exceeded beyond that point. Turn the thermostat slightly to the right with a screwdriver if you want to lower the temperature.
Increasing Your Water Temperature
On the other hand, you can find that the temperature of your water isn’t hot enough for your liking. Low water temperatures may be present for an extended length of time in your area. No one enjoys taking a shivering cold shower! Several contributing variables, including ineffective components, tank size, and an increase in hot water use, might be responsible for this. However, this does not imply that this is always the case. It is possible that adjusting the temperature of your water heater is the best answer.
Take note of the water temperature over the following several days and note whether it has changed considerably from the previous day.
If you don’t see a difference, it’s possible that there is another problem at hand.
The Perfect Temperature
Bradford Whitewater heaters are the brand that we trust at Reliance Heath. When you rent a Bradford White water heater from Reliance Heath, our yearly rental price includes all routine maintenance at no additional cost to you. You can live with confidence knowing that if your water is too hot, too cold, or anything in between, you can phone us and we’ll get there as quickly as possible. All it takes is a fast phone call to reach our knowledgeable and trustworthy specialists! Make an appointment with us today and let us to take care of all your water requirements!
Electric Water Heater-Temperature Adjustment
On a bad day, Anna Maria Island is a beautiful place to visit. Summer and winter are the only seasons we have here in Florida, according to some people. Those are the two seasons in which the temperature varies significantly enough that I need to adjust the thermostat on the water heating system. Because the earth is warm in the summer, we don’t need the water to be as hot as it is in the winter. For example, in the winter. or what we call winter, since the earth is colder, water is colder, and it requires more hot water to make it pleasant for activities such as showering.
How to adjust the temperature on a water heater.
How a water heater works Tools-You’ll need a pair of screw drivers to set the temperature control on your water heater. To remove the lid, use an A2 Phillips (medium size head) screw driver, and to adjust the thermostat, use a tiny standard (flat blade) screw driver. In addition, a candy thermometer or something similar will be required to test the real water temperature.
There are no parts required. The water temperature should be stabilized after 15 – 20 minutes after setting. –Amateur/Beginner degree of ability Caution: Never handle a wet water heater until the power has been turned off. Before fixing an electric device, be sure the power has been turned off.
Steps:
1st step: locate the electrical circuit breaker (also known as an electric disconnect or fuse) or fuse that delivers electricity to the water heater. The majority of modern homes will have a disconnect located within visual range of the water heater. It might even be as basic as a heavy-duty light switch to do this. Locate a circuit breaker and flip it to the off position; a disconnect; pull it out; or, if you have an older home, unscrew the circuit breaker or disconnect. Turn off the main circuit breaker or pull out the main fuse if the power source is not listed or if you have any doubts about it.
Always remember that we don’t have to be macho, and that it’s better to be cautious than sorry.
Remove the two screws that hold the cover panel in place with the Phillips screw driver and set them to one side.
Water heaters with two panels, one on top of the other, are commonly found on bigger models.
Step 2: Locate the little adjustment screw that was previously mentioned.
This is often located at the bottom of the thermostat.
On the Hi Lo, the Hi setting will often be 140°, and the Lo setting will be somewhere in the neighborhood of 90°.
Step 3: Choosing the appropriate temperature.
Make little changes until the arrow or indication points in the direction of your desired temperature.
The values listed here are approximations.
Step 4: Replace the cover or covers.
Leaving the insulation and covers off might cause chilly air to enter the thermostat, interfering with its normal performance.
Run the hot water for several minutes to bring the water temperature in the heater down to a comfortable level, and then wait for the heater to adjust to the new temperature before moving to step six of the procedure.
You should proceed with caution until you have decided what temperature your hot water should be.
Test the temperature of the water with a candy thermometer or something similar, either by holding the thermometer under hot running water or by filling a big cup halfway with hot water and placing the thermometer in the cup.
This will provide a more accurate reading than the one provided by the thermostat setting itself. You may repeat these steps as many times as necessary to get the temperature where you want it. If you are not pleased with the result, you can return to step 1.