How To Lower Water Heater Temperature - ERNIEGRAVES

Do-It-Yourself Savings Project: Lower Water Heating Temperature

Instructions on how to use the thermostat may be found in your water heater’s owner’s handbook. A thermostat dial for a gas storage water heater can be found in the bottom of the tank, near the gas valve, on the gas valve. When it comes to electric water heaters, thermostats may be hidden by screw-on plates or panels
However, this is not always the case. Prior to removing or opening the panels, make sure that the electricity to the water heater has been turned off as a safety measure. Always keep in mind that an electric water heater may have two thermostats, one for the top heating element and another for the lower heating element.

SHOPPING LIST

Thermometer for checking the temperature of the water
Marker to indicate the temperature setting on your thermostat

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1) Determine what the current temperature is. Use a thermometer to determine the starting temperature of your hot water at the faucet that is the farthest away from the water heater. The dials on thermostats are frequently wrong. 2) Make a note of the temperature setting and then lower the thermostat. Make a note on your water heater’s thermostat using a marker to indicate the starting temperature, and then adjust the thermostat down. 3) Take measurements and make adjustments. Wait a couple of hours, and then check the water temperature at the faucet that is the furthest away from the water heater once more.

4) Make a note of the new temperature.

5) Turn the volume down or off while you’re not there.

To turn off an electric water heater, first turn off the circuit breaker that is connected to the heater.

How to adjust your water heater temperature

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

The correct temperature range

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

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

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

Adjusting water heater temperature

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

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

Tankless

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

Gas or electric water heaters

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

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

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

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

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

How to Adjust Your Water Heater’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

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.
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 6: Turn on the heater’s power supply again. Step 7:After around 3-4 hours, check the temperature of your hot water once more. Follow these procedures again until the temperature is just perfect. If the temperature is still not just right, repeat the process.

Gas Tank Water Heaters

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

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

Helpful Water Heater Temperature Tips

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

Related ItemsInformation

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

How to Adjust a Hot Water Heater

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Heat is more effective in killing most common bacteria, including health-threatening pathogens such as Legionella, E. coli, and staphylococcus
Higher temperatures kill more germs. It’s best not to heat your water over 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius). A substantial danger of burns, particularly for youngsters and the elderly, can result from doing so.

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

Step 1: Turn off the electricity to the water heater. Locate the water heat switch on your home’s central circuit breaker panel, which should be located near the water heater. Make sure that this switch is in the “Off” position. This will interrupt the flow of electricity to the device, allowing you to open it without worry of getting electrocuted

Do not attempt to make any changes to your water heating system until you have double checked that the power has been turned off. Depending on whether your water heater’s circuit breaker is clearly labeled, it may be essential to use a multimeter to check for a live current. Zero volts is what you’re searching for in this case. Keep in mind to label the appropriate breaker after you’re finished.

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

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

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

It is necessary to insulate a water heater in order to prevent heat loss and guarantee that measurements are more accurate.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Create a new question

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

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

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

Things You’ll Need

Cooking or candy thermometer
A drinking glass or other similar container
A flat-bladed screwdriver Multimeter (for determining the voltage of the circuit breaker)

About This Article

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

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

Continue reading for additional information, including how to regulate a water heater with dual heating components. Did you find this overview to be helpful? Thank you to all writers for contributing to this page, which has been viewed 83,871 times so far.

Did this article help you?

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

Remove Cover Plates

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

Remove Excess Materials

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

Locate Temperature Dials

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

Adjust Your Dials Accordingly

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

Bonus Step: Add a Few Extra Gallons of Hot Water

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

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

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

3 Reasons to Lower Your Water Heater’s Temperature

You may not even be aware that you can reduce the temperature of your water heater — much less that there are advantages to doing so — if you are like many other individuals. Most homeowners don’t give it a second thought as long as they are getting hot enough water to utilize on a daily basis when they open the faucet. It is important not to take proper water temperature for granted. Water heaters are shipped from the factory with the thermostat already programmed. However, the unit’s installer may change the temperature of the device, or he or she may fail to verify that the temperature is still at the original factory setting at the time of installation.

The collection of hard water mineral silt, particularly common calcium carbonate, in the tank is accelerated when the water temperature exceeds 120 degrees. Water heater tank corrosion is triggered by sediment collection, which reduces the estimated service life of the entire equipment. Because of the coating of silt in the tank, the burner has to operate longer to heat the water, increasing fuel consumption and operational expenses. Water beyond 120 degrees increases the danger of scorching. When exposed to water at a temperature of 140 degrees, serious scalding can occur in as little as 5 seconds of exposure. In houses with small children, the elderly, or anyone who may not be able to respond quickly to scorching water, this is especially harmful since hot water exceeding 120 degrees generates considerable stand-by heat loss. Water that has been held at a higher temperature cools more quickly. This implies that a unit in standby will re-light the burner more often in order to compensate for heat loss and to bring the water temperature back up to the value specified by the thermostat. Burner cycles that occur on a regular basis waste energy and raise operational expenses. Using a gas-fired water heater, the average residence in the United States spends around $300 per year on hot water. It is possible to decrease standby heat loss by lowering the temperature from 140 degrees to 120 degrees and save up to 15 percent on annual water heating expenses by doing so.

For additional information on why and how to reduce the temperature of your water heater, call Apollo Home Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing.

A. O. Smith Water Heaters at Lowes

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

Step1:Tools and Supplies

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

Step2:Before Adjusting the Temperature

Thermal protection has been provided by factory setting the thermostat(s) on this water heater at about 120°F to limit the danger of scald injury.

Higher temperatures may be desired to supply hot water for automated dishwashers or washing machines, to increase the volume of hot water, and to minimize bacterial development.

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

Step3:Turn Power Off

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

Step4:Open Electrical Junction Box

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

Step5:Check for Electrical Power

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

Step6:Replace the Junction Box Cover

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

Step7:Remove Heating Element Covers

Cover for lower access.”>

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

Step8:Move Insulation Out of the Way

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

Step10:Replace Insulation

Replace the coverings over the heating elements. WARNING! In order to decrease the risk of fire and electric shock, make sure all covers are securely fastened.

Step13:Let the Water Heat Up

Replace the coverings over the heating element(s). WARNING! In order to decrease the risk of fire and electric shock, be certain that the covers are properly secured.

Step14:Install a Thermostatic Mixing Valves

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

Step15:Check Water Temperature

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

How to change the temperature on 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 Prevent Your Water Heater From Costing You Money

The 9th of March, 2017 When it comes to conserving energy and decreasing your family power costs, changing the temperature of your water heater might be beneficial. The thermostat on most water heaters is set to a default temperature of 140 degrees, which is standard practice. A water temperature this high results in energy losses and poses a safety concern to members of your family who are more prone to illness or injury. Homes that keep a water heater temperature of 120 degrees, with the exception of scenarios such as a dishwasher that does not have an inbuilt heater, are more energy efficient and safer than homes that maintain a hotter setting.

Why to Reduce the Temperature of Your Water Heater

By lowering the temperature by 20 degrees, you may reduce the energy consumption of the appliance by as much as 10%. Considering that hot water heating accounts for up to 25% of total energy use in most households, it’s simple to understand how reducing the temperature of the water might result in substantial cost savings.

How to Reduce the Temperature of Your Water Heater

Ensure that your water heater is not powered by electricity (if it is not a gas one). Use a thermometer to determine the temperature of hot water departing the faucets or other hot water devices both closest to and farthest from your water heater; hot water closest to the heater will be the warmest, but water traveling through pipes to reach distant locations will drop dramatically. Create an entry on the thermostat of your water heater for the starting temperature, then modify the temperature setting up or down to match the demands of your home.

A temperature of 120 degrees at the nearest hot water device and 115 degrees in a distant bathroom is a decent choice in a family with little children.

The temperature can be adjusted as necessary to attain the desired result.

Understanding Your Water Heater’s Energy Consumption

A temperature that is set too high will not only cost you money, but it will also put your family members at risk of scorching. Learning how to correctly regulate the thermostat on your water heater will save you money while also protecting your family. In the majority of American houses, storage tank water heaters are used, and there are a number of reasons why they consume a significant amount of electricity. Every time you turn on a hot water faucet in your home and water is pulled out of the tank, cold water with a temperature of around 50 degrees is brought in to replace the water that was drawn out.

Some energy is squandered as a result of heat loss that happens as a result of transference via the tank’s sides, top, and bottom.

The gas burner or electric elements of a tank-style water heater use energy even when you are not using hot water because the unit’s gas burner or electric elements must cycle on and off continuously to keep the water within at the temperature set by the thermostat.

Adjusting Your Water Heater Temperature Isn’t Difficult

Learning how to correctly adjust your water heater’s thermostat can not only save you money, but it will also keep your family safe from scorching. Learn how to properly change the thermostat on your water heater and save both money and life! In the majority of American households, storage tank water heaters are used, and there are several causes for this high energy consumption. In your house, every time you turn on a hot water faucet and water is sucked out of the tank, cold water with a temperature of around 50 degrees is brought in to replace the hot water.

There is some energy wasted owing to heat loss that happens as a result of transference via the tank’s sides, top, and bottom.

Maintaining Your Water Heater

You may take your home’s storage tank water heater for granted since it operates silently and is located out of the way, but regular maintenance may extend the life of your water heater and improve its performance. If your appliance is equipped with a handbook, consult it. If you don’t have one, you might want to consider purchasing one from the manufacturer or ordering one online. It’s possible that scheduling a qualified expert to conduct it will make you feel more comfortable. Make that the pressure release valve is working properly.

If you are having trouble identifying the valve and pipe, see the handbook for assistance.

This is a very excellent reason to get your water heater inspected on a yearly basis, even if it is quite unusual.

Placing a bucket beneath the pipe and lifting the lever are good ideas. When the water pipe is turned on, water should flow into the bucket. If this is not the case, the valve will need to be replaced. If the valve is not functioning properly, you should consult a plumbing specialist.

Drain sediment

It is inevitable that some sediment will accumulate in the water and eventually settle to the bottom of the water heater tank. It’s important to drain your water heater at least once a year, whether you do it yourself or hire a professional to do it for you. Sediment buildup may reduce the efficiency of your water heater and limit its usable life, so it’s important to do it on a regular basis. To get rid of silt, use the following methods:

The shutdown valve on the cold water supply line leading to the water heater should be closed. Using any faucet in your home, turn on hot water to relieve pressure in the water heater and leave it flowing until you’re finished with the water heater repair
Shut off the water heater, either by shutting down the electricity at the main electric panel for electric water heaters or by turning off the gas at the main gas valve for gas water heaters. Drain the water in the tank that has sediment in it, allowing the water to flow out into a bucket until the water is clean of sediment. Remember that the draining water will be quite hot
Be cautious when using it.

Need Help? Call Lozier Heating and Cooling!

Do you require a small amount of assistance with your water heater? Make a phone call to our skilled specialists for the assistance you want! Have you ever had a service call, a repair, or an installation from the Lozier team? Please let us know how we performed by submitting a review on our website.

What temperature is right for your water here?

When it comes to conserving energy at home, one of the first things that comes to mind is most likely changing the thermostat settings on your home heating system to the lowest possible level. Nevertheless, what about the temperature control device on your water heating system? The factory default setting on most water heaters supplied today is 140 degrees, and sometimes even higher – a temperature that is high enough to induce scorching but not high enough to meet the needs of most people (there are exceptions to this, however, as we will see).

However, the most compelling reason to lower your water temperature is to save electricity (and, consequently, money).

When you adjust your water heater’s thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit rather than 140 degrees Fahrenheit, you’ll save around $50 per year in standing heat loss and more than $400 per year in fuel use.

A 140° setting is right in certain circumstances

However, while the majority of individuals can get by with a 120-degree setting, there are some situations in which a 140-degree setting is more appropriate. For example, if you have a member of your family who has a compromised immune system or chronic respiratory condition, a 140-degree setting is suggested to avoid Legionnaires’ disease and other water-borne illnesses. Additionally, if your dishwasher does not pre-heat the water, you may want to keep the temperature at a higher setting.

Checking your water heater thermostat temperature

This video from the United States Department of Energy will help you determine what temperature your hot water heater is set at and how to modify it. For any more assistance, please contact us and we will lead you through the process step by step. In the event that your water heater is having difficulty maintaining its temperature, or if you’re experiencing other water heater difficulties such as strange noises, a sulfur smell, or sediment buildup, please call us immediately. Repair and replacement of water heaters are available throughout western Massachusetts, and we can provide you with a FREE quote on a water heater upgrade for your house.

For additional information, please contact us immediately!

How to Set How Water Heater Temperature by Thermostat

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

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

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

How to Set Your Hot Water Heater Temperature Thermostat Setting

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

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

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

Adjusting aGasHot Water Heater Temperature Thermostat Setting

The majority of gas water heaters are straightforward due to the presence of a clearly readable dial at the bottom of the tank’s bottom section. If you follow the methods outlined below, it is simple and straightforward to alter this dial.

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

Adjusting anElectricHot Water Heater Temperature Thermostat Setting

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

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

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

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

Other Considerations: Water Heater Thermostat Setting Safety

There is one thing you should be aware of: your water heater is fitted with something known as a temperature and pressure relief valve, abbreviated “T P valve.” These can become worn out over time, and one sign that they should be replaced is the presence of water leaking through. This is a very crucial safety feature. If your unit is old, or if your hot water heater pressure relief valve is leaking after it has been replaced, get it examined by a competent plumbing professional.