What Is The Maximum Temperature For A Hot Water Heater

What Is the Hottest Temperature I Should Set for My Water Heater?

When you turn on the water from the faucet and turn the dial all the way to the “warm” setting, there is a limit to how hot the water can get. In fact, there is a certain temperature that can be adjusted in your water heater to alter how hot the water may become, and many homeowners are unaware that this part of their water can be “customized,” for want of a better phrase. Your water heater repair Sacramento, CAprofessionals will often provide two different temperatures for you to consider. Each of these temperatures are 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, and there are compelling justifications for both of these temperature ranges.

It is actually up to the homeowner to make this decision.

According to both the American Society of Sanitary Engineering and the United States Department of Energy, the maximum temperature for water heaters should not exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Water may burn the skin in seconds when heated to 140 degrees.

The use of slightly cooler water will also help to prevent mineral deposits from accumulating in your plumbing system.
Additionally, lowering the thermostat to 120 degrees can result in significant savings on your utility bills; up to $60 in savings per year, to be exact.
Heat is required to heat your water, and by using less energy, you will be able to keep that energy in reserve and avoid wasting it.
This may seem too high, but it is really the ideal temperature for water heaters.
This is their major explanation.
When these bacteria enter the body, they can cause a disease that is remarkably similar to pneumonia, known as bacterial pneumonia.
This is the lone argument in favor of keeping your maximum water temperature at 140 degrees, but it is one that can help families stay healthy in the long run.
Which Is the Better Option for Your House?
If you are growing a family or have elderly relatives living with you, it will be more vital for someone not to be burnt or infected by a rare type of bacteria than it will be for anyone else.
Summary Water heaters might have a maximum temperature restriction for how hot the water can become in your home, which can be adjusted.

Choose the temperature that is most comfortable for you and your family, and consult with your Sacramento plumber for advice. Return to the list of posts

Hot Water Temperature : Avoid Setting Your Water Too Hot

If the temperature of your hot water is set to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, it only takes three seconds to burn your skin severely enough to have surgical intervention. Three seconds is a smidgeon of a second. Furthermore, according to the American Burn Association, 41 percent of the houses they investigated were at hazardous levels, which might have resulted in these sorts of serious burns to the skin. Consider what would happen if your hot water temperature was increased by 150 degrees or higher.

Legionnaires disease, on the other hand, can develop when the temperature is too low.

This implies that the temperature of your heater’s hot water should be set at or below 120 degrees Fahrenheit at all times.

That implies you should lower the temperature of your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or below, and then retest it 24 hours after the first test.

Water Heater Temperature

It is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to keep the temperature of the water heater at 120 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Because infants and small children have more sensitive skin than adults, they may require a lesser concentration of the product. If you keep the temperature of your water at 120 degrees Fahrenheit all of the time, you can almost prevent the possibility of serious burns and injuries. Using a meat thermometer near a water faucet with the hot water turned on will allow you to check your water temperature quickly and easily.

For those who live in a colder area, your water heater will work furiously to keep your water at 120 degrees Fahrenheit at all times.

They are variables that influence how your water is heated and how long it takes to maintain a 120-degree Fahrenheit water temperature.

Hot Water Temperature

A water heater temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit or below is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP). Because infants and tiny children have more sensitive skin than adults, they may require a lower concentration. Keeping your water at 120 degrees Fahrenheit on a consistent basis reduces the likelihood of serious burns and injuries to a significant degree. Using a meat thermometer at a water faucet with the hot water turned on can allow you to check your water temperature.

For those who reside in a colder region, your water heater will work furiously to maintain your water at 120 degrees Fahrenheit all year long.

Increases in your energy bills are more likely to occur during the colder months of the year. The way your water is heated and how long it takes to maintain a temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit are both affected by these variables.

If your home’s faucets are located a great distance from your water heater, heat is lost during the transfer of water from the heater to the faucet. It is possible that you will lose even more heat if your pipes are not properly insulated. There are occasions when you will need to raise the temperature of your water heater over the recommended 120 degrees Fahrenheit. You must make regular temperature checks at your faucet if you set your water heater to a temperature higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit
Attempt to arrange these checks into your schedule if you do so. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that you keep your water heater temperature at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. OSHA has a separate recommendation for the temperature of hot water. In order to limit your risk of exposure to germs and Legionella, OSHA recommends that you keep your water heater at 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Not only do different safety agencies have different guidelines for acceptable water temperature, but so do different health agencies as well.

You might be a little perplexed by the various water temperature suggestions. However, if you keep the temperature of your hot water between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, you will be within an acceptable and safe range. In addition, you must do routine monitoring of your faucet water to determine the temperature of the water.

Changing Your Water Heater Hot Water Temperature

Every hot water heater has a separate set of panels that regulate the temperature of the hot water. No matter what sort of water heater you have, the majority of the panels are the same and even positioned in the same general places. The majority of electric water heaters are equipped with two thermostats. The following link will teach you how to change your water heater’s water temperature:Changing Your Water Heater’s water temperature

Increase The Temperature To Eliminate Sulfur Smell

Many individuals raise the temperature of their water in order to kill microorganisms in the water. It is sometimes desirable to raise the water temperature to a degree that is hot enough to kill microorganisms and eliminate the rotten egg smell. The temperature of the water heater must be raised to at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius) in order to destroy the germs in the water supply. Furthermore, in addition to being hazardous, such a high temperature can cause medium and long-term difficulties in your house and may shorten the lifespan of your water heater.

The Corro-Protec-powered anode will eliminate the rotten egg smell in as little as 24 hours, and you will not be required to raise the temperature of the water heater during this process.

Hot Water Heater and Heater Component Replacement

Some firms provide core replacement parts for items like water heater anodes and other components in water heaters, which may be purchased online. Some of these businesses adhere to and even go above and beyond best industry standards and practices. It will also be done on a consistent basis with each and every work since they wish to strengthen industry rules. Heat traps, ignitors, powered anode rods, dry-fire protection, and other components of a hot water heater that may need to be updated from time to time include, among other things, heat traps.

When you need to repair an anode rod, you’re changing something that is responsible for protecting the steel metal tank.

Save Money With Easy DIY

Ideally, you should drain your water heater at least once a year in order to maintain the energy efficiency of your water heater and avoid scorching or freezing water in your shower. Because silt collection will impair the energy efficiency of your tank, you will spend more money to heat the same volume of water as a result of this.

What Is The Ideal Temperature For A Water Heater?

If you own a hot water heater, there are a few things you should be aware of in order to ensure that it is operating properly. You should know what the temperature range of your water heater is, for example. For the simple reason that failing to adhere to safe hot water temperature recommendations increases your chances of burning yourself.

Furthermore, your pipes may become overheated, resulting in damage to your plumbing. We’ve put up a guide about water heater settings A, B, and C to make things easier for you. Continue reading if you’re interested in finding out more information.

What Temperature Should Hot Water Be at the Tap?

So, before we go into the nitty-gritty of the maximum settings, let’s address the question “what is the optimal temperature for residential hot water?” You’ll know exactly what temperature you should be aiming for when you’re in the shower. It’s crucial to consider two things when determining the appropriate temperature: how hot water can be before scorching you and how cold water can be before bacteria starts to thrive. Let’s take these variables one by one.

Water Temperatures vs. Bacteria

As the temperature of the water rises, bacteria have a lesser chance of surviving. The amount of bacteria present in the water will be influenced by the temperature of the water. At temperatures more than 158 degrees Fahrenheit, all bacteria will die almost rapidly, if not immediately. At somewhat lower temperatures of 140 degrees Fahrenheit, bacteria will die within 2 minutes, with around 90% of them dying within 2 minutes. Bacteria can survive and multiply at temperatures ranging from 118 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit from there.

Knowing these temperature ranges can assist you in determining whether or not germs will be able to survive in your hot water.

Water Temperatures vs. Scalding

While it is necessary to heat water in order to kill germs, it is equally crucial not to overheat the water. If you don’t, you can end up with hot water burns. According on how long you are exposed to the water, the temperature of the water will cause burns on your skin. Burns will result with prolonged exposure to temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 5 minutes. Temperatures of 130 degrees Fahrenheit produce burns in 30 seconds or less if not treated immediately. When the temperature is 140 degrees Fahrenheit, you can be burnt in around 5 seconds.

It is critical to keep the temperature of the hot water below a certain threshold in order to avoid burns.

Water must be heated in order to kill bacteria, but it must not be heated to an excessive temperature. It is possible to acquire hot water burns if you do not follow these instructions. According on how long you are exposed to the water, the temperature of the water can cause burns. Experiencing temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 5 minutes can result in burn injuries. Burns occur in 30 seconds at temperatures of 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Burning occurs in approximately 5 seconds at 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

It is critical to keep the temperature of the hot water below a certain threshold in order to prevent burns.

Keep Your Water Heater Temperature Range at the Right Settings

As a result, you now understand what the optimal water heater temperature range is. Typically, a thermometer or a gauge mounted on the side of the machinery may be used to easily determine the proper hot water temperature for a certain application. By following the recommendations in this guide, you will be able to ensure that your hot water is at the appropriate temperature. You will be able to take a safe and enjoyable shower without causing any damage to yourself or your property in this manner.

If you want assistance with your hot water heater, please contact the professionals at All A’s Plumbing and Heating immediately. We’ll make sure your hot water heater is properly installed and operating at the appropriate temperature.

What Temperature Should a Hot Water Heater Be Set At?

Previous PostNext PostYour water heater accounts for around 18 percent of the energy consumed by your house. If the temperature of your water heater is set too high, you will be forced to pay the price in your monthly energy bill. The converse is true: if you have your water heater set too low, your water may not get hot enough (resulting in short showers), or worse, it may get contaminated with germs. Maintain a 120-degree temperature for your water heater at all times because infections can form in the stagnant water within the water heater, notably Legionella, which is extremely deadly.

In addition to being hot enough to keep viruses at away while not being scorching hot enough to cause blistering, 120 degrees will provide adequate hot water for most small households while still being relatively energy-efficient, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

Factors That Affect Hot Water Temperature Setting

These criteria are unaffected by the kind of piping you have (PEX, PVC, or copper), the method of heating the water (gas or electric), or even if you have a tankless hot water heater installed.

Owners of dishwashers that do not pre-heat the water may wish to set their water heater temperature to 140 degrees
Elderly or families with young children may want to keep the temperature at 120 degrees. BabyCenter.com states that “it takes just two seconds for a kid to acquire third-degree burns from water that is 150 degrees and five seconds if the water is 140 degrees, the temperatures at which hot water heaters frequently leave the manufacturer.” It is recommended that the hot water temperature be maintained at 140 degrees in homes with people who have a compromised immune system or respiratory problems. Because there is less demand for hot water and hence less money spent on hot water, many people who live alone prefer a lower temperature within an acceptable range. The temperature of the water tank is often set higher in big households, in order to support the increased demand for hot water
Nevertheless, if you want to save money, every 10 degrees you lower the temperature of the water tank thermometer, you save 3 to 5 percent on your energy bill.

Owners of dishwashers that do not pre-heat the water may wish to set their water heater temperature to 140 degrees; elderly homeowners or those with young children may want to maintain the temperature at 120 degrees. BabyCenter.com states that “it takes just two seconds for a kid to acquire third-degree burns from water that is 150 degrees and five seconds if the water is 140 degrees, the temperatures at which hot water heaters frequently leave the manufacturer”; Homes with residents who have a weakened immune system or respiratory problems should maintain the hot water temperature set at 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Because there is less demand for hot water and hence less money spent on hot water, many people who live alone prefer a lower temperature within the permitted range.

If you want to save money, every 10 degrees you lower the water tank thermostat, you save between 3 and 5 percent on your energy bill.

What’s Your Current Temperature Setting?

Check the temperature setting on the water heater (if one is available) or take a temperature reading from the faucet to determine what it is currently. After turning on the hot water faucet, allow it to run for a few minutes before getting the temperature reading.

Solutions to Common Hot Water Tank Problems

If you’re concerned about pathogens in your hot water, as well as the possibility of scalding water, you might consider installing a hot water tank booster. This allows you to maintain your water at 140 degrees in the tank while mixing it with cold water to bring the temperature down to 120 degrees before it reaches the faucet.

Having a hot water circulating system installed in your home might alleviate the problem of waiting for hot water to reach the faucet in a large household. This method circulates hot water slowly through the pipes in order to prevent it from cooling down before it reaches the faucet.

Professional Plumbing Services

It’s possible that your hot water isn’t hot enough no matter what setting your water heater is set to. If you need assistance adjusting your hot water heater or troubleshooting any difficulties, call your local Mr. Rooter Plumbing at (855) 982-2028 or submit a request for a free estimate on our website. Not only does your hot water need to be “just perfect,” but so does everything else in your home. Aire Serv, a neighborly firm, can assist you in determining the optimal air temperature. Previous PostNext Post Previous Post

Safe maximum temperature for water heaters

Some people choose to set their hot water heater to a higher temperature because they believe that by mixing cold water with hot water, they may increase the volume of hot water available for bathing and other uses. I read a few years ago that setting the temperature of the tub too high resulted in a lawsuit against the plumber who installed it because the homeowner died after going into a tub that was too hot for someone with diabetes. Because of diabetes, it appears as though your feet might become insensitive, making you unable to detect the risk presented by hot water. Accordingly, I would set the temperature setting to Low and inform the occupant in writing that excessive water heater temperatures can result in the loss of life. I would also advise them to raise the temperature slowly and cautiously until they reached the desired level at their own risk. I would even go so far as to have them sign a document stating that they had read and understood the disclosure, and I would maintain a copy for my records. What is it about attorneys that you find so appealing?

Re: Safe maximum temperature for water heaters

According to the plumbing regulations, water heaters should be set at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. However, there is more to it than that. The tub and shower valves (assuming they have a single handle) are meant to have a temperature limit that is set when the valve is first installed. The temperature setting for private home showers and baths is 115 degrees Fahrenheit
The temperature setting for public showers is 110 degrees Fahrenheit. For those who have a two-handle tub and/or shower valve, they will need to have an access installed with a tempering mechanism so that they may control the temperature of both the bathtub and the shower. For those who want to raise the temperature of their water heater, water heater manufacturers have models with storage temperatures much beyond 150oF and a tempering valve put directly at the top of the tank. As a result, the water leaving the tank is still 120oF, which satisfies the requirement. These tempering valves must fulfill the most recent requirements, which state that if a tempering valve fails, the system will not be able to cool. There will be no way for the tempering valve to release scorching hot water in this manner. The reason why manufacturers are offering units like this is so that they may develop a smaller tank that can outperform two 50-gallon water heaters or even a single 75-gallon water heater. For example, Bradford White offers a model that will give very near to the same quantity of hot water in the first hour as a 75 gallon unit, which is around 155 gallons for the first hour. Their 50-gallon tank, which utilizes this technique, produces 200 gallons of hot water in the first hour of operation. – – – This page has been updated – – – Loren Sanders Sr. originally posted this message. ~snip~ Accordingly, I would set the temperature setting to Low and inform the occupant in writing that excessive water heater temperatures can result in the loss of life. I would also advise them to raise the temperature slowly and cautiously until they reached the desired level at their own risk. I would even go so far as to have them sign a document stating that they had read and understood the disclosure, and I would maintain a copy for my records. Isn’t it true that you have a soft spot for lawyers? If I were you, I would not fiddle with the settings on their water heater. I would take the temperature of the water at a sink, such as the kitchen or the laundry sink. Make a note of the set temperature that the water heater is producing, then take temperature readings in the tub and showers and record the results in your reports as appropriate. Even if you only make a little modification to their water heater, such as lowering the temperature to a safe level, and the gas control valve fails or the thermostat (on electric heaters) malfunctions, you are now accountable because you were the last one to touch it.

Re: Safe maximum temperature for water heaters

This photograph is included in my reports. I believe it was Jerry Peck who gave it to me a lot of years ago.

Re: Safe maximum temperature for water heaters

Gunnar Alquist originally posted this on his blog. This photograph is included in my reports. I believe it was given to me by Jerry Peck a lot of years ago. Thank you very much, gentlemen. You have provided a response to the question.

Re: Safe maximum temperature for water heaters

Gunnar Alquist originally posted this on his blog. This photograph is included in my reports. I believe it was given to me by Jerry Peck a lot of years ago. That was provided by A. O. Smith. I’m not sure whether they still do that, but they used to send you free labels so that you could attach them on their water heaters when you bought one (or any water heater for that matter). I used to get those self-adhesive peel-and-stick labels in bulk quantities of 50 at a time, with no fees or shipping charges. Cool. AskCodeMan.com is owned and operated by Jerry Peck, a retired construction litigation consultant.

Re: Safe maximum temperature for water heaters

This is something I like to add in my reports under the heading “Water heater”: In order to avoid scorching, the water heater thermostat should be set such that the water temperature does not exceed 120 degrees. Please see the following link: Scalds from tap water are covered by the Injury Prevention Policy.

Re: Safe maximum temperature for water heaters

That is an excellent question. Unfortunately, many will adjust their water heaters to whatever temperature they feel is most comfortable. Maintain the temperature of the water heater at its original setting whenever it is being serviced or inspected. Making a pencil mark on the control knob to serve as an index is not a terrible idea.

Re: Safe maximum temperature for water heaters

According to new building regulations in one of the counties we serve (Frederick, MD), the water heater must be set at 130 degrees Fahrenheit or above. It appears that the trend toward lower water heater temperatures has resulted in an increase in the presence of Legionella bacteria in water tanks. Now, what we recommend to clients is that, in order to avoid problems, they set the water heater to 140-145 degrees Fahrenheit and install a mixing valve immediately at the tank outlet to reduce the water supply to the taps to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Mr. Welmoed Sisson is the owner of Inspections by Bob, LLC in Boyds, Maryland. It is said that “if given enough propulsion, pigs fly perfectly well.”

Re: Safe maximum temperature for water heaters

Temperatures lower than 150 degrees Fahrenheit will not be effective in killing microorganisms. The problem is that 150o water would scorch you instantaneously. Another reason why the tempering valve must fulfill a standard is so that when the mixing/tempering valve fails, the system will always fail to cool at the same time. I just completed a work that included tankless water heaters that were set to 150 degrees Fahrenheit, as well as tempering/mixing valves put at all of the hand sinks. The fail-to-cold requirement was not in existence at the time this facility was constructed. The tempering/mixing valve did, in fact, malfunction, and it failed to operate at high temperatures. Fortunately, no one was burned or injured. The new mixing valves (which replaced all of the others) were installed and shown to the owner that by cutting off the cold supply while the faucet was flowing full hot, the mixing valve turned down the hot supply side practically quickly. (See photo.) Because I am not at my store at the moment, I am unable to tell you what quality it is. The ASSE standards 1016, 1017, 1069, and 1070 are the most commonly encountered
There are others, but these four seem to be the most common:

Re: Safe maximum temperature for water heaters

Welmoed Sisson first posted this on his blog. According to new building regulations in one of the counties we serve (Frederick, MD), the water heater must be set at 130 degrees Fahrenheit or above. It appears that the trend toward lower water heater temperatures has resulted in an increase in the presence of Legionella bacteria in water tanks. Now, what we recommend to clients is that, in order to avoid problems, they set the water heater to 140-145 degrees Fahrenheit and install a mixing valve immediately at the tank outlet to reduce the water supply to the taps to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. The answer is yes, but only in the case of electric tanks
Manufacturers have a preset that prevents the tank from dropping below 60 degrees, so keeping legionella at away. Just make sure you don’t switch off your circuit breaker while on vacation.

Re: Safe maximum temperature for water heaters

Welmoed Sisson first posted this on his blog. According to new building regulations in one of the counties we serve (Frederick, MD), the water heater must be set at 130 degrees Fahrenheit or above. It appears that the trend toward lower water heater temperatures has resulted in an increase in the presence of Legionella bacteria in water tanks. Now, what we recommend to clients is that, in order to avoid problems, they set the water heater to 140-145 degrees Fahrenheit and install a mixing valve immediately at the tank outlet to reduce the water supply to the taps to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Welmoed, This appears to me to be the most ideal approach in terms of safety, but it is likely to be more expensive to maintain the WH at such a high setting. Calculate the expense of a trip to the doctor and include it in your budget if you maintain the temperature too low. However, be cautious about scorching, since this might result in a large doctor’s bill as well. Overall, this is the solution that I prefer the most. Thank you for your contribution.

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What’s The Best Water Heater Temperature Setting?

A hot shower may receive a bad name from your dermatologist since it might dry up your skin, but many people like it for its relaxing properties! In a household where hot water is fiercely competed for among family members, or even between your washing machine and dishwasher, you may be tempted to raise the temperature of your hot water heater. But at what point does it become too hot? There are differences of opinion between the Department of Energy and the industry. Scalding can occur at temperatures below 120 degrees Fahrenheit, although 140 degrees Fahrenheit is the normal default temperature.

Whatever temperature setting you choose, it’s vital to remember that the kind of pipe used, how the water is heated (gas or electric), and whether your system is tanked or tankless have no effect on the temperature you choose.

Use 120°F if you have small children or the elderly in your house who are prone to third-degree burns in seconds, or if you are the sole inhabitant of your home since there is less demand for hot water. Consider 140°F if you have an immunocompromised individual in your house, a dishwasher that does not pre-heat, or if you have a large number of occupants owing to the increased need for hot water.

But what about the expenses of energy? We get what you’re saying! Water heaters account for around 14-18 percent of the total energy consumed by a residence on a typical day. Furthermore, it may be tempting to lower the temperature in order to save money. It should be noted that a 10°F decrease in temperature is related with a 3-5 percent reduction in energy use. Legionella, on the other hand, can live at temperatures as high as 122°F. So make sure to strike a balance between your risk tolerance and your energy consumption targets!

Many hot water heaters are equipped with a temperature control dial.
Start with 120°F and gradually increase the temperature in small increments until you get your desired result.
A water tank booster may be an appropriate option in houses where the requirement to maintain a greater hot water temperature for health safety must be balanced with the need to reduce the danger of scorching.
Alternatively, you could live in a house where, no matter what temperature you select, hot water takes an inordinate amount of time to reach the faucet (or a certain tap farthest from the hot water heater).

A hot water circulating system circulates hot water gently through the pipes so that you are not forced to wait. Whatever you choose, we’re only a phone call away if you’re having issues with your hot water!

What’s the Best Temperature for Your Water Heater?

What temperature should I use when altering the temperature of my water heater? If you have any of the following, the answer will be different:

Diseases are a source of concern. A dishwashing machine
Children or the elderly who are susceptible to being burnt
Electric vs. natural gas heating
Plumbing materials (for example, PEX or copper)

There are two major and diametrically opposed risks:

Minimum Temperature

Legionella’s survival is affected by temperature, according to the paperLegionella and the prevention of legionellosis (available on the World Health Organization website), which states that temperature has the following effects:

Legionella kills nearly rapidly when temperatures above 70 degrees Celsius (158 degrees Fahrenheit). At 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit), 90 percent of the bacteria die in 2 minutes. At 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit), 90 percent of the bacteria die in 80–124 minutes, depending on the strain. At 48 to 50 degrees Celsius (118 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit), they may live but not reproduce
Temperatures ranging from 32 to 42 degrees Celsius (90 to 108 degrees Fahrenheit) are ideal for development.

Dishwashers

The majority of current-model dishwashers have a minimum temperature requirement of 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit). Most of them are equipped with heaters and will heat the inside as required. If yours is an older model, you might want to double-check the specifications. Dishwasher detergent is available in a variety of formulations, although the remark “works best between 50 and 60 degrees Celsius” appears to be a pretty frequent one. There is also cold-water detergent available on the market that may be used at virtually any temperature without causing damage.

In particular, this is simple because when you initially open the tap, the water in the pipes has already begun to cool, and the temperature of that water will rise (potentially substantially) as it reaches the point of use after it has been drawn from storage.
Some persons, particularly the elderly, are at greater danger than others because they may be less sensitive to scorching water and slower to flee the area when confronted with it.
FromLegionellaPrevention: In the case of dead legs (branches that have been closed off or are only sometimes utilized), stagnant water can accumulate, creating an excellent breeding environment for germs that can infect the whole system.
As far as practicable, if a valve must be put, it should be as close to the main line as possible (no more than one pipe diameter away) in order to reduce danger.
Despite the fact that copper would theoretically cool down more quickly than PEX, given enough time (perhaps a couple of hours), the temperatures of both materials would cool to the ambient temperature.

There is a separate discussion that analyzes whether or not it is useful to insulate pipes, but even with insulation, the water in the pipes will ultimately drop down to room temperature or below.

Conflicting Views

From the heated debate over hot water: The country’s top specialists, who are represented on the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC), have rejected the lower maximum hot water tank temperature of 49 degrees Celsius proposed by the commission. Despite this, reputable organizations advise homeowners to decrease the temperature of their hot water tank to 49 degrees Celsius as a precaution against scalds caused by tap water in their homes. Some even provide instructions on how to locate the thermostat so that you may make the necessary adjustments yourself.

A lower temperature can be given from the tap in order to avoid scalding.

What temperature should I set my water heater to?

There are two major and diametrically opposed risks:

There are two primary dangers that are diametrically opposed to each other:

Legionella risk

According to the publication “Legionella and the prevention of legionellosis,” which can be accessed on the website of the World Health Organization, temperature has an effect on the survival of Legionella in the following ways:

Legionella kills nearly rapidly when temperatures above 70 degrees Celsius (158 degrees Fahrenheit). At 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit), 90 percent of the bacteria die in 2 minutes. At 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit), 90 percent of the bacteria die in 80–124 minutes, depending on the strain. 48 to 50 degrees Celsius (118 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit) – They are capable of surviving but not reproducing
Temperatures between 32 and 42 degrees Celsius (90 and 108 degrees Fahrenheit) are ideal for development.

Dishwashers

Burn risk

A setting that is too high may cause scalding to someone who is using the water. This is particularly simple because when you initially open the tap, the water in the pipes has already begun to cool down, and as a result, the temperature of the water in the pipes will rise (perhaps substantially) after the water from the tank reaches the point where it will be used. Because young children’s skin is thinner than that of adults, they are at greater danger. Some persons, particularly the elderly, are at greater danger than others because they may be less sensitive to scorching water and slower to flee the area when confronted with it.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends a temperature of 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit).

FromLegionellaPrevention.o:

Dead legs

Branches with dead legs (those that have been capped off or are rarely utilized) can accumulate stagnant water, which can serve as a breeding ground for germs that can infect the entire system. This shouldn’t come as a surprise because the water in the dead leg would warm up, but never grow hot enough to reach the temperature of the main stream.

If it is unavoidable, a valve should be positioned as near to the main line as practicable (no more than one pipe diameter away) in order to reduce the danger of contamination.

PEX vs Copper

Over the course of a 500-day trial, Legionella appeared to develop a little more quickly in PEX than in copper; however, by 800 days, there was virtually no difference in growth, and both pipes had identical biofilms established inside them, according to the findings. Though copper should cool down more quickly than PEX (Ed: I can’t locate any studies on this), given enough time (likely a few of hours), the temperature of both should fall down to the surrounding air temperature (or even lower).

There is a separate discussion that analyzes whether or not it is useful to insulate pipes, but even with insulation, the water in the pipes will ultimately drop down to room temperature or below.

From the heated debate over hot water: The top specialists in the nation, who are represented on the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC), have rejected the lower maximum hot water tank temperature of 49 degrees Celsius. Although this is the case, reputable organizations advise homeowners to adjust the temperature of their hot water tank to 49 degrees Celsius as a precaution against scalds caused by tap water. Some even provide instructions on how to locate the thermostat so that you may make the necessary adjustments yourself.

A lower temperature can be given from the tap in order to avoid scalding.

Conclusion

The temperature of a residential water heater should be 49 or 60 degrees Celsius, according to the report. It is crucial, according to the authors of a study published in the Canadian Journal of Infectious Diseases, to lower the risk of scalds as well as the danger of legionellosis linked with home water sources, which they believe is significant. For water heaters that serve a single dwelling unit, use the following formula:

In order to reduce the danger of Legionella contamination, electric water heaters should be set at 60 degrees Celsius and fitted with anti-scald devices in order to distribute water at 49 degrees Celsius to the whole home
Water heaters powered by gas or oil should be set at 49 degrees Celsius since the danger of scorching is higher with these equipment.

For water heaters that serve multi-family housing complexes, the following is recommended:

More sophisticated water distribution systems are more likely to be polluted, and the following guidelines from the World Health Organization should be followed regardless of the kind of water heater used: Hot water must be stored at 60 degrees Celsius within the water heater by ensuring that the temperature in the entire tank reaches at least 60 degrees Celsius at least once a day

Furthermore, water should be at least 50 degrees Celsius when it reaches the faucet. It is recommended that anti-scald devices be installed in these structures, particularly in the bath or shower, where the majority of scalds occur. The water temperature should be reduced to 49 degrees Celsius or below.

Absolute Ideal Scenario

Installation of anti-scald mixing valves at each human site of use (e.g., sinks, tubs) appears to be the most effective strategy, regardless of whether the valve is integrated into a shower valve or located beneath a sink.

The temperature of the tank is adjusted to the WHO-recommended 60 degrees Celsius
Each human point-of-use is restricted to the CPSC-recommended temperature of 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit).

Setting the tank to the WHO-recommended temperature of 60 degrees Celsius
Heat should be confined to 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit) at each human point of use, according to CPSC recommendations.

Other applications, such as the dishwasher, washing machine, and humidifier, can tolerate temperatures up to 60 degrees Celsius without difficulty.

The drawback to this, of course, is the additional cost of installing the valves on each hot water faucet in your home. It is usually simple to retrofit sinks; however, it may be more complex to convert tubs and showers.

What Is The BEST Water Heater Temperature Setting?

Please keep in mind that this content may contain affiliate links. This means that, at no additional cost to you, we may gain a small profit on purchases made via our links. If you have already set the temperature and are thinking to yourself, “I don’t have any hot water,” or “I don’t have enough hot water,” there are a few variables that might be causing the problem. If all else fails, it’s possible that the heating element is faulty and has to be replaced.

How To Check Your Water Heater Temperature

The majority of water heaters do not have a temperature gauge with a digital readout on them. Temperatures or heating ranges are marked on thethermostat, rather than numbers. A cup and a culinary thermometer will be required in order to correctly determine the temperature of the hot water heater. If you haven’t used your water heater in at least one hour, turn on the faucet that is nearest to it. Allow the water to run for at least one minute to ensure that the water is at its warmest possible temperature before filling the cup with it.

Recommended Temperature Settings

Water heaters are pre-programmed to operate at OSHA-recommended temperatures, which are around 140 degrees. The Environmental Protection Agency, on the other hand, recommends lowering the thermostat down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to save power use and using a booster heater to attain sanitizing temperatures at certain outlets. Another point of view is that lower temperatures are preferable for homes with little children, although higher temperatures are more effective in cleaning and sanitizing surfaces.

Recommendation from me Water heaters should be adjusted to 130 degrees Fahrenheit, in my opinion, in practically all circumstances. However, the temperature is low enough to avoid scorching while being high enough to destroy hazardous microorganisms.

How To Turn Up Your Water Heater

If you are dissatisfied with the suggested temperature of your hot water heater, you may alter the settings to receive extra hot water. Although electric water heaters may require a screwdriver and potentially a tiny wrench or socket, most hot water heater settings are straightforward to modify. Keep in mind that the thermostat is factory configured to a recommended temperature, and that altering the setting may increase the risk of significant burns from the appliance.

How to Set Temperature on a Gas Water Heater

In case you are dissatisfied with the suggested temperature of your hot water heater, you may alter the settings to receive extra hot water. Although electric water heaters may require a screwdriver and possibly a tiny wrench or socket, the settings for gas water heaters are simple to alter. Always keep in mind that the thermostat is factory configured to a suitable temperature, and that adjusting it may increase the likelihood of catastrophic burns.

Warm = 80-90°
Low = 80-90°
Hot (or triangle symbol) = 120°
A= 130°
B= 140°
C= 150°
Very Hot = 160°
High = 120°

There is a “Vacation” setting that appears from time to time. This does not heat the water, but it does ensure that the pilot light remains lit.

How to Set Temperature on an Electric Water Heater

Turn off the circuit breaker if necessary. Remove the access panels from the room. Under the insulation, look for the thermostat adjustment screwhole. Adjust the thermostat control to the appropriate temperature by using a straight screwdriver to make the adjustment. After replacing the insulation and panels, the power should be restored. Here’s a good video that demonstrates the procedure:

Factors That Affect Water Temperature

Some of the things that may influence the temperature of your hot water include the distance between the water heater and the outlet, the way the pipes are built, and the quality of the heating element itself, among others. Because of the length of the pipe and the small bore size, it will take longer for the hot water to reach the opening. Additionally, pipes that run beneath or outside the residence may be exposed to freezing or freezing temperatures in the winter and summer. Installing a hot water recirculation system in a large house may be worth considering since it can reduce the amount of time it takes to heat water in all of the property’s outlets while also resulting in significant cost savings over the long term.

If you don’t notice a difference in the water temperature after adjusting the thermostat, it’s likely that the thermostat is broken and has to be replaced.

Tankless Water Heater – Setting the Right Temperature

Your tankless water heater has unexpectedly gone out of service, and you’re stuck with no hot water? You’re in the shower when all of a sudden the warm water is replaced with frigid! You may reach us at 281-302-6710 to get it resolved. It is possible that the temperature setting on your tankless water heater is the source of the problem. In this video, Master Plumber Bryan Graham explains why this occurs and how to correct the problem.

Summary of Setting the Temperature of Your Tankless Water Heater

Occasionally, clients contact us because their tankless water heater is constantly cycling on and off. When we walk outside, we notice that the water heater is set to an excessively high temperature most of time. As a result, many individuals turn the heat up as high as they possibly can, reaching temperatures over 140 degrees. If you have a tankless water heater, that water heater has a flow switch, and you must have a significant amount of water flowing through that water heater for that water heater to activate.

For starters, if you have the water heater set to 140 degrees, you are mixing much too much cold water with far too little hot water in order to keep the temperature at the shower head comfortable.
It is possible to resolve this issue by turning down the temperature of the water heater.
As long as you maintain the temperature about 130 degrees, you won’t have to worry about becoming too hot when taking a shower.
The temperature is too high for your home at 140 degrees.
You’ll be generating enough flow to turn on that tankless water heater and keep it running during your shower session.
After less than an hour, they were at my house to have a check at my hot water heater.

He went out of his way to make sure I had hot water to keep me going till the parts came. I’m so delighted, this is the greatest customer service I’ve ever had!

Lona Howell

Recommendation from Facebook Graham Plumbing Services is certified A+ by the Better Business Bureau of Houston and services consumers in Sugar Land, Missouri City, Katy, and other communities around the greater Houston region. See what our customers have to say about us by reading their reviews and testimonies.

We’re Service Plumbers Too!

Our plumbers are certified to fix and replace your water heater as well as install new ones. Changing the temperature setting on your tankless water heater might sometimes solve the problem with your tankless water heater. To get your water heater inspected, call us at 281-302-6710 or click on the icon below.

What Temperature Should I Set for My Water Heater?

How many people are aware that you can adjust the temperature of your hotwater heater? Most water heaters have a maximum temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit at their most extreme. When it comes to setting the temperature, experts are divided on whether 140 degrees or 120 degrees is the optimal setting. In the end, your decision will be based on what is best for you and your family. Take a look at the arguments in support of both positions in the meanwhile.

120 Degrees

Did you know that the temperature of your hotwater heater may be adjusted? Most water heaters have a maximum temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit at their highest setting. When it comes to setting the temperature, experts are divided on whether 140 degrees or 120 degrees is the ideal choice. What’s best for you and your family in the long run will be determined by this decision. Allow us to examine the reasons in favor of both positions while we wait.

140 Degrees

Given the reasons in favor of keeping the temperature at 120 degrees, it’s difficult to see why anyone would try to raise it to 140 degrees. The answer is that a form of bacteria that may cause Legionnaires’ disease is killed by water heated to 140 degrees. This disease has the potential to cause a devastating pneumonia-like illness. Old, rusted pipes and water storage locations where water has been stagnant for an extended length of time are both risk factors for Legionnaires’ disease occurrence.

What’s Best For You?

Given the reasons in favor of keeping the temperature at 120 degrees, why would anyone try to raise the temperature to 140 degrees? As a result of the high temperature (140 degrees), germs that might cause Legionnaires’ disease are killed. When this condition progresses, it can cause a dangerous infection that looks and feels similar to pneumonia. Old, rusted pipes and water storage locations where water has been stagnant for an extended length of time are also risk factors for Legionnaires’ disease.

Changing the Temperature

Once you’ve decided on what’s best for you, you may need to adjust the temperature of your water heater to accommodate your newfound knowledge. To begin, check what temperature your water is currently running at. Fill a glass halfway with hot water and use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature of the water. Consider consulting your hot water heater’s handbook for instructions on how to adjust the temperature if you believe you need to. It is possible that the thermostat is concealed by a plate.

Call 806-373-7866 to schedule an appointment right away.

On September 26, 2021, Contractor2020 published a post in the category of water heaters.

Setting your water heater’s temperature for best results

time required for reading: 2 minutes It’s possible that you don’t give your water heater much thought, but it actually plays a very crucial role in the plumbing of your home. In addition to higher power expenses, a malfunctioning water heater might result in water that is either scorching hot or ice cold. It is critical to plan annual maintenance to verify that your device is clean (hard water build-up can be detrimental to your water heater) and that the temperature range is within acceptable parameters.

Setting the Water Heater to Its Optimal Performance Professionals recommend that you keep the temperature of your water heater between 130 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit at all times.

While increasing the temperature over the suggested setting might result in burns, decreasing the temperature below the recommended level can also be hazardous.

This might become a health danger for you and your family, putting you and your loved ones at risk of contracting diseases such as Legionnaires’ illness.

Check the temperature of your water heater.

The presence of sediment accumulation and calcification in the hot water tank itself will also be checked by a professional if the temperature on the water tank has been changed but you are still experiencing the same water temperature as you were before the temperature adjustment.

After draining the tank, a professional can attempt to address the problem by scraping off any scale that may have built up over time and soaking the components in hot water.

The average lifespan of a hot water heater is predicted to be between 8 and 12 years.

Water heaters require regular maintenance.

If you want to ensure that your water heater continues to function effectively, you may want to consider hiring a professional to perform this maintenance.

Maintaining your water heater’s temperature between the appropriate ranges is essential. This will prevent any bacteria from growing in the cold water and will protect you from being scalded by a shower that is much hotter than you anticipated.

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