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 Twist the dial from the warm to the hot side. Do not turn the dial all the way to the hot setting. First, shift it slightly towards hot 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
- 7Finish up with the panels and wait till the water is tested. Close either one or both panels of the heater after reinstalling the insulation. You may switch the power back on when you’re ready to check on the water temperature. Continue to wait at least 3 hours before testing the water. If the temperature is still too low or the water seems cold, make adjustments. Advertisement
- 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 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.
It is not safe to touch your water heater if it is wet or submerged in water. A plumber should be called so that the damage and any threat may be assessed. Keep an eye on your water heater while it is being adjusted! Keep exposed wires away from your body and never touch or manipulate them! A plumber should be contacted if you do not feel comfortable handling your water heater.
Things You’ll Need
- Screwdriver with a flat tip
- A candy thermometer or a 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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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
- We must first determine the type of gasoline with which we are working before we can proceed. Using an electric water heater differs from using a natural gas water heater. Temperatures more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit are considered dangerous, and we do not advise doing so. If you are exposed to a temperature of 130 degrees for just 5 seconds, you can sustain serious burns. Gas is simple to switch on
- Electricity, on the other hand, is a little more complicated, so let’s start with that.
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 temperature
No one enjoys taking a cold shower. It’s much worse when you are scalded when the hot water is turned on. It is critical to correctly regulate the temperature on your water heater, not only for your health and safety, but also to save money on your power bill. Here’s how to regulate the temperature of your water heater to save money while also protecting your skin from sun damage.
The correct temperature range
It is recommended that your water heater be set within a specified temperature range for a variety of different reasons. A low temperature setting not only results in hot water that is merely lukewarm at best, but it can also promote bacterial development, which can lead to illnesses such as Legionnaires’ disease. This may be avoided by adjusting the temperature of the water heater to a level at which the bacteria Legionella cannot survive. A temperature of at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius) for water heaters is recommended by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to prevent Legionella and other germs from growing in the water.
- The time it takes for third-degree burns to occur at 150 degrees Fahrenheit (66 degrees Celsius) is less than two seconds.
- Not to mention that a water heater that is set too hot might result in an excessively expensive power bill.
- The greater the distance between a faucet and the water heater, the greater the amount of heat that will be lost as the water flows, especially if the pipes are not insulated.
- When determining the appropriate temperature for your family and household, use your best judgment.
Make an adjustment, test it, and continue the process until you’ve found the ideal temperature setting for your house and water heater, which may take many attempts. Currently playing: Keep an eye out for this: Take a look inside the CNET Guide to Smart Living. 1:00
Adjusting water heater temperature
The interface used to control the temperature of a water heater will differ depending on the kind and model. Fortunately, the majority of water heater models can be modified in the same way. For example, most contemporary gas and electric water heaters are equipped with a thermostat concealed behind an insulated access panel. Electric water heaters are frequently equipped with two thermostats: one at the top of the tank and another at the bottom. Furthermore, most tankless water heaters include a display with a temperature reading as well as controls for altering the water heater’s temperature.
Turn on the water in the bathroom or kitchen sink and let it to run until the water is completely hot before using.
Tankless
The process of adjusting a tankless water heater is quite similar to the process of adjusting your air conditioning thermostat. Adjust the temperature by using the digital control panel, which may be adjusted up or down as desired.
Gas or electric water heaters
Some gas water heaters include a dial towards the bottom of the device that may be adjusted simply by turning it – no tools are required for this operation. Nonetheless, most current tank water heaters (whether gas or electric) require a bit more effort, but the process is still straightforward and should only take a few minutes.
- Turning off the water heater’s electricity at the circuit breaker is the first step. To remove a thermostat(s), locate the access panel for the thermostat(s) and remove it using a screwdriver
- Remove the insulation by peeling it back. To adjust the thermostat, use a flathead screwdriver to turn it up or down.
- If your water heater has two thermostats, make sure they are both set to the same temperature. The temperature on the top thermostat should be a few degrees higher than on the bottom thermostat.
- The thermostats on your water heater should be adjusted by the same amount if your water heater has two of them. There should be a slight difference in temperature between the top and the bottom thermostats.
Once you’ve made the necessary adjustments, you should wait at least three hours before checking the water temperature once more. It is possible that you may need to make more modifications in order to get the desired temperature. If you’ve increased the temperature and are still getting chilly showers, it’s possible that your hot water heater has to be serviced or completely replaced. Is the energy efficiency of your home high? Here are five different methods to find out. CNET’s Guide to Smart Livingis a one-stop shop for tips, techniques, and how-to guides that can help you live a more intelligent life.
How to Adjust Your Water Heater’s Temperature
It has been shown that even ordinary tap water might be hazardous. Every year, a number of individuals (mainly youngsters) are sent to hospitals after suffering burns as a result of water heaters that have been set excessively high. But what exactly does “too high” imply, and how can people ensure that their water heaters are set at a temperature that will not cause them to be burned, is a mystery. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends a hot temperature setting of 120 degrees Fahrenheit for both safety and energy savings reasons.
Use this procedure if the stickers on the water heater do not inform you how to set the temperature and you are unable to locate the owner’s handbook.
- Make sure to run hot water for at least three minutes from the faucet nearest to the water heater. Fill a glass with hot water and check the temperature
- If the water temperature is higher than 120 degrees, adjust the dial, wait approximately three hours, and then check again. Continue until the water reaches 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
The temperature of the water heater should be checked the next morning before anyone uses any hot water as a last check.
Once you have found the perfect setting, make a note of it on the dial so that you do not have to go through the testing procedure again. Here are some more suggestions for extending the life of your water heater.
Family Handyman
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
Take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of making temperature changes before getting started:
Cons
Before you begin, you might want to consider the advantages and disadvantages of making temperature adjustments:
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:
- Circuit breakers should be used to turn off your water heater. Remove the covers from the two access panels by using a screwdriver to pry them off. One is positioned towards the top of the tank, while the other is located near the bottom. Using caution, carefully remove insulation in order to locate the thermostat. To make a little adjustment to the thermostat, locate the dial and use your screwdriver to gently turn it in the direction of either hotter or colder, depending on your preferences. Both thermostats should be set to the same temperature. Due to the fact that each manufacturer labels them differently, yours may only indicate “hotter” and “colder,” but as long as you move each by the same amount, you should be OK
- Replace the insulation and access panels, and then re-energize the water heater by resetting the circuit breaker on the water heater. Allow at least 3-hours for the water heater to cool before monitoring the temperature again. If necessary, repeat the procedure.
Watch the Video
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.
Watch the Video
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.
Here’s how to properly increase or lower the temperature of the water coming from your electric water heater. The following tools will be required to raise or lower the temperature on your electric water heater:
- A screwdriver with a flat blade
- Screwdriver with a Phillips head
- Flashlight
- Gloves
Step 1: To ensure your safety, switch off the circuit breaker for your water heater and make sure the electricity has been turned off to your water heater before altering the temperature. Remove the thermostat/element covers in the second step. In most cases, there are two coverings – one on top for the top element and another on the bottom for the bottom element. After removing the covers, make a note of the screws and store them somewhere secure. Remove the insulation in order to gain access to the thermostat control.
- Use a flat tip screwdriver to set the top and bottom thermostats to around 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Homes with higher hot water use should only have the top thermostat set 5° to 10° degrees higher.
- Using the screws you removed before, replace the top and bottom metal coverings in their original positions.
- How to Adjust the Temperature of a Hot Water Heater Resetting the Reset Button on an Electric Hot Water Heater (with Pictures) Please keep in mind that all water heater thermostat settings are a ballpark estimate.
- Safety Recommendations: For your own safety, never touch a wet water heater.
- Listed below is the information you want in order to determine the proper temperature for your water heater.
- What should I do if the water heater in my home is leaking?
- The water heater must be turned off promptly if there is an issue with it leaking.
- If you are aware of any alternative or better techniques for properly adjusting the water temperature on a water heater, please share your knowledge with our other readers by leaving a comment below.
- He has 33 years of expertise troubleshooting and repairing a wide range of household appliances and electronic devices.
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.
Otherwise, you are consuming more hot water in the winter, and let’s face it, when you have a large family or a house full of Christmas guests, you can rapidly run out of hot water.
How to adjust the temperature on a water heater.
It’s a bad day at Anna Maria Island. Summer and winter are the only seasons that exist in Florida, according to some people. When the temperature fluctuates significantly enough throughout those two seasons, I have to adjust the water heater’s thermostat. Due to the warmth of the earth in the summer, we don’t require as much heat from the water. 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 things comfortable, such as showering.
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.
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
Not many people are aware that choosing the proper water heater settings might result in substantial financial savings for them. Despite the fact that the majority of people don’t give your hot water heater settings a second thought, they are quite significant. Not only will it save you money, but it will also make your showering experience more pleasant as a result of this. The following are the procedures to be followed:
How Much Are Your Gas and Electric Hot Water Heater Temperature Settings Costing You?
As a general rule, every 20 degrees you reduce the temperature of your gas or electric water heater, you may expect to save as much as ten percent on your utility bill. That’s not too shabby after all! In reality, it adds up over time, and you can almost certainly come up with a number of better uses for the money you save. “But hold on a minute,” you may be thinking. “I really enjoy taking hot baths!” However, you almost probably do not take showers above 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which can cause scorching because of the high temperature.
No matter what happens, raising the temperature is a simple process.
How To Adjust Your Gas and Electric Hot Water Heater Temperature Settings
Now that you understand why you should reduce the temperature of your water heater, let’s look at how to go about doing so.
Step One: Get An Accurate Temperature Reading
It’s likely that the thermostat dial linked to your water heater tank is not functioning properly. As a result, you should really use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the water flowing out of your faucet. The Department of Energy suggests that you measure the amount of water that is flowing out of the faucet that is the furthest away from your water heating system. Make a note of the settings after you’ve found them.
Step Two: Figure Out Where to Make the Adjustment
Unreliability is most likely associated with the thermostat dial that is attached to your water heater tank. You should use a thermometer to really measure the temperature of the water that is flowing out of your faucet. The Department of Energy suggests that you measure the amount of water that is flowing out of the faucet that is the furthest away from your water heating unit. Note down the configuration after you’ve achieved it.
Electric Water Heater Settings
It is likely that the thermostat dial linked to your water heater tank is not reliable. As a result, you should use a thermometer to check 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 hot water heater. Make a note of the setting after you’ve found it.
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
To finish off, there are tankless water heaters available for purchase. This is likely the simplest modification to make because most thermostats include an LED screen that allows you to immediately modify the thermostat’s temperature setting. Tankless water heater settings can be adjusted more accurately with these systems than with dial-based adjustment methods, which makes them more convenient.
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.
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.
Significant burns can occur in a shorter period of time if the water temperature is raised over a certain threshold. 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!
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.
How to Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature – PlumbingSupply.com
Caution to anyone who is adjusting the temperature of their water heater! Scalding is extremely dangerous, and raising the temperature of your water can raise your chances of getting scalded by as much as 50%. In the event that you are at all concerned about your capacity to accomplish this project safely, you should check with your plumber before proceeding. In addition, please keep in mind that those with reduced skin integrity, such as youngsters, the elderly, and the disabled, can be scalded by water as cold as 110°F.
Check the Current Temperature First
If you are experiencing problems with your hot water coming out too hot or not hot enough, understanding how to regulate your water heater may be quite useful. Ideally, you should check the temperature of your hot water at the faucet before making any changes to the present settings so that you can determine how much to modify the heater. It is quite acceptable to use almost any basic cooking thermometer for this purpose. If you want to calibrate your thermometer, place it in a cup of cold water and hold it there until the temperature dial reaches 32 degrees (or stops at the lowest degree on the gauge).
Meanwhile, while the thermometer is calibrating, turn on the hot water tap nearest to the heater and turn it on until it is hot to the touch (but be careful not to burn yourself!).
The temperature dial will come to a complete halt when the water temperature is reached.
The procedures indicated below will work for the vast majority of hot water heaters, but not all of them.
Each water heater maker will have a somewhat different design, but the majority of them will work in the same way. Attention: This “how to” is for tank-style water heaters only; it does not apply to tankless water heaters at this time.
Electric Tank Water Heaters
The majority of electric water heaters will have two thermostats, one on top and one on the bottom, located beneath the two control panels. The two thermostats on your water heater must be adjusted to the same temperature in order for it to operate most effectively and efficiently. Some smaller units may simply have a single thermostat, which is understandable. To complete this task, the following tools will be required: Screwdriver with a Phillips-head or a flat-head Step 1: Disconnect the power supply to the heater.
- Step 2: Locate the thermostats, the majority of which will be hidden behind an access panel.
- Remove them with the proper screwdriver and store them in a secure location to prevent them from being misplaced.
- Some smaller units may simply have a single thermostat, which is understandable.
- There will be a dial on the thermostat, and the dials will have a varied reading depending on the heater manufacturer you are dealing with.
- With your screwdriver, make little adjustments to the dials depending on your requirements and the reason for the adjustment.
- Step 5: Re-attach the screws to the panels and close them up.
- Step 7:After around 3-4 hours, check the temperature of your hot water once more.
- If the temperature is still not just right, repeat the process.
Gas Tank Water Heaters
Most electric water heaters will have two thermostats, one on the top and one on the lower, located beneath the two control panels on the front and back of the appliance. When the two thermostats are adjusted to the same temperature, your water heater will operate most effectively and efficiently. Thermostats are not always present in all smaller units. To complete this task, you will require the following tools: a screwdriver with a Phillips or a flat head Step 1: Deactivate the heater’s power source by pressing the power button twice.
Locate the thermostats, which will most likely be hidden under an access panel in step two.
Remove them with the appropriate screwdriver and store them in a secure location to prevent them from being misplaced or damaged.
Thermostats are not always present in all smaller units.
There will be a dial on the thermostat, and depending on the manufacturer of the heater, the dials will read differently.
Step 4: With your screwdriver, make little adjustments to the dials depending on your requirements and the reason for the adjustment.
Reattach the screws when you have closed the panels.
Recheck the temperature of your hot water after 3-4 hours and repeat the process if needed. Follow these procedures again until the temperature is just perfect. If the temperature is still not just right, repeat the procedure.
Helpful Water Heater Temperature Tips
- 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.
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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.