How To Turn Up The Temperature On A Water Heater - ERNIEGRAVES

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.
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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. Then, to get an accurate reading, place a thermometer beneath the surface of the water.

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 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).

1 Disconnect the circuit breakers for the water heater. Locate the circuit board in your property, which is usually located in the electrical box. You should be able to turn off two circuit breakers because most water heaters require around 240 Volts of energy. See whether there are any details on the location sheet on the inside of the panel—if there are none, switch off all of the panels to be on the safe side.

Never make any adjustments to your electric water heater without first turning off the circuit breakers. If you’re not sure how to switch off the breakers, call an electrician for help to avoid electrocution.

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

Create a new question

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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About This Article

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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

The next morning, before anybody uses any hot water, check the temperature of the water heater as a last check. Once you have determined the proper setting, make a note of it on the dial so that you do not have to go through the testing procedure again. Other methods of extending the life of your water heater are listed below:

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:

When working with gas appliances, it’s important to remember to put safety first and foremost. When you alter the temperature, there should be no open flames anywhere around you because this necessitates increasing the gas pressure. There are no complicated steps in this process:

What About Tankless?

When working with gas appliances, it’s important to remember to put safety first. When you alter the temperature, there should be no open flames anywhere around you since it necessitates increasing the gas pressure. The procedure is simple:

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 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

Knowing how to adjust your water heater may be really advantageous, whether you discover that your hot water is coming out too hot or not hot enough. Ideally, you should check the temperature of your hot water at the tap before making any changes to the present settings so that you can determine how much to modify the heater. Almost any regular cooking thermometer will suffice for this use. If you want to calibrate your thermometer, put 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 closest to the heater and turn it on until it is hot to the touch (but not too hot that you burn yourself).
As soon as the water reaches a certain temperature, the dial will come to an end.
However, not all hot water heaters will respond to the ways described below.
Attention: This “how to” is only applicable to tank-style water heaters and does not apply to tankless water heaters.

Gas Tank Water Heaters

Most gas water heaters will include a simple, easy-to-read dial at the bottom of the tank to control the temperature of the water. The actions outlined above should be followed if your model has a hidden dial beneath an access panel. If this is the case, follow the steps outlined above to change it. To complete this task, the following tools will be required: None! Step 1: Adjust the temperature by turning the knob warmer or colder according to your requirements. Step 2: After roughly 3-4 hours, check the temperature of your hot water once more.

If the temperature is still not just right, repeat the process.

Helpful Water Heater Temperature Tips

It is possible to save money on your energy bill by turning down the temperature on your heater. In order to conserve energy and money while you’re away, turn your water heater’s temperature down to its lowest setting before leaving for vacation. It is recommended by the majority of manufacturers that you use a temperature setting of 120 degrees. For the most part, most homes with children will choose a temperature that is just below 120 degrees to avoid the possibility of scorching. A higher water temperature may be preferred by certain individuals, who may be OK with a slightly higher setting
Some home equipment (such as dishwashers) require higher temperatures (about 140 degrees) in order to effectively destroy bacteria
However, because most modern dishwashers pre-heat the water, reducing the temperature should not have an adverse effect on the device.

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.

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!

In preparation for the next fall season, here’s how to boil your water for those wonderful bubble baths or peaceful showers:

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

Congratulations on having made it this far! Not only are you more capable than you anticipated, but you’re also practically finished! The dial should now be visible
This is what regulates the temperature settings on your thermostats, which will make the time spent in the tub when the weather cools down that much more enjoyable. Don’t forget about how we indicated that some design options may differ based on the manufacturer? Now is the time when you’ll notice the following differences: The settings on some dials are alphabetical, while others are numerical
There are even dials that vary from “hot” to “extremely hot,” such as the dials we are altering in our movie

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.

Related Media

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.

Services in PhoenixBeyond

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.

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

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 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

The temperature of your water heater is discussed in detail today. Whether the water is too hot or not hot enough, we have some ideas and tactics to make sure you have the correct temperature!

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. We can come down to inspect the problem and offer you with some insight and advice for the future if you phone us.

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!

How to change the temperature on a water heater

It is possible that you will feel the need to adjust the temperature of your water heater at some point. Changing the temperature of your water heater is a straightforward process, regardless of whether it is standard or tankless. Manufacturers of water heaters recommend that you set the temperature of your water heater to 120 degrees in order to conserve energy and avoid scorching water. Before attempting to adjust the temperature of your water heater, it is always a good idea to consult your water heater’s operation handbook and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. If you no longer have access to your manufacturer’s operation handbook, you can use the general principles listed below to get by. Water Heater with a Traditional Gas Burner The temperature of your gas water heater may be easily adjusted if you have one. To use the gas control valve, just turn the dial on the front of the valve. The hot setting will be around 150 degrees, while the mild setting will be approximately 95 degrees. As previously stated, the optimal temperature setting is 120 degrees. Electric Water Heater in the Old Fashioned Style Turn off the circuit breaker for the water heater. Remove both the top and bottom access panels from a two element water heater if you have one. The bottom panel on single-element water heaters should be removed. As soon as you get the access panel open, pull the insulation to the side or remove it completely so that the thermostat can be seen. If the plastic cover does not have an access hole for the adjustment screw, it should be removed. In most cases, the thermostat adjustment screw is situated at the bottom of the thermostat, immediately above the element. To make any adjustments, you’ll need a little flat blade screwdriver with a flat blade. Replace the plastic cover when you’ve done changing it to your preferred temperature (if you removed it). Replacing the insulation above the thermostat and heating element is simple. Replace the access panels and re-connect the power cords as needed. Tankless water heaters are a type of water heater that does not require a tank. In most cases, adjusting a tankless water heater is as simple as pressing a button on your front panel command center or remote control, depending on the make and type of your water heater. Please do not hesitate to call A.J.Perri if you want assistance in adjusting the temperature of your water heater. A.J. Perri has been providing heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and indoor air quality systems to New Jersey residents since 1971. He has years of experience and a national reputation for superior technical skills in the areas of heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and indoor air quality systems. They provide service to residents of the following counties: Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Sussex, and Union. If you would like additional information, you may visit their website or phone them at 732.606.4920. It should be noted that members of the USA TODAY Network’s editorial and journalistic team were not involved in the development of this material.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.