How Hot Does Hot Water Heater Get - ERNIEGRAVES | Process Measurement & Control

Best Temperature for a Water Heater

What is the optimal temperature to set the water heater at? That is a question that many homeowners have. Previous PostNext Post This is a fantastic question, and the information provided by Aire Serv® will help you to enhance the performance, efficiency, and safety of your water heater by following the guidelines.

Determine the Best Temperature for Your Water Heater

The usual setting for most water heaters is 140 degrees Fahrenheit, but the Department of EnergyLink opens in a new tabrecommends lowering the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit in order to conserve energy. To summarize, you shouldn’t drop the temperature of your tank below 120 degrees because doing so encourages bacteria development (unless you are traveling out of town, in which case the DOE suggests lowering the temperature to its lowest level). Consider the following factors that influence the temperature at which you should set your water heater:

Water heater temperature: If your dishwasher does not have a booster heater, you may wish to keep your water heater temperature at 140 degrees to get the best cleaning possible. This function, on the other hand, may be found on the majority of current dishwashers. For further information, consult your owner’s handbook. Your physical and mental well-being: While the bacteria growth within a tank set at 120 degrees is acceptable for most people, if you have a compromised immune system, you should consider maintaining your tank at 140 degrees. The amount of persons that live in your residence is as follows: It is unlikely that you will run out of hot water if you maintain the tank at 120 degrees for an extended period of time if you live alone. If, on the other hand, six family members shower back-to-back each morning, the additional 20 degrees helps to guarantee that everyone has hot water. If you have children, you should consider the following: Scalding at the faucet is less likely to occur when your water heater is set to 120 degrees, which is especially significant if you have children or elderly family members living with you.

How to Adjust the Water Heater Temperature

Perhaps you want to raise the temperature of the water heater to assist your dishwasher in doing its work more effectively, or you want to lower the temperature to reduce scalding. In any case, the following actions should be followed to alter the water heater setting:

Obtain an accurate reading of the present temperature by turning on hot water at a faucet that is the furthest away from the water heater, as shown in the diagram. Place a thermostat under flowing water to see whether or not an adjustment is required
Locate the thermostat dial by turning it clockwise: Gas water heater tanks include dials towards the bottom of the tank that regulate the temperature of the water. Water heaters that run on electricity frequently have their thermostats tucked away beneath screw-on panels. If your electric water heater contains upper and lower heating components, there may be two dials on the control panel. Take the following measurements and make the necessary adjustments: Increase or decrease the temperature setting on the thermostat by a little amount from its beginning level. Then you’ll have to wait a few of hours. Measure the water temperature once more and make any additional modifications that are necessary. Whenever you’re through, make a note of the final temperature on the dial so that you may quickly adjust it in the future.

Other Ways to Improve Water Heater Efficiency

In addition to lowering the thermostat, you may make these energy-saving modifications to your residence. To lower your water heating expenses, click on the following link, which will open in a new tab:

Insulate the water heater tank to decrease heat loss during standby mode. Renovate your bathroom by replacing your showerheads and faucets with low-flow models that use less hot water. Replace your existing water heater with a tankless one that warms water on demand, eliminating the need for storage and the accompanying standby heat loss.

Schedule Water Heater Services with Aire Serv®

Whether you need assistance changing the temperature of your water heater or you want to arrange water heater repair or replacement, you can rely on Aire Serv to complete the task. We’ll help you save money by providing thorough water heater repair services and replacing your water heater when it approaches the end of its useful life. Please call Aire Servtoday if you would like to schedule water heater services with a qualified expert. Previous PostNext Post Previous Post

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.

Are you still undecided? To begin, set the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit and gradually raise it in small increments until you reach the desired shower temperature.

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

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.

Your energy cost may rise during the colder months of the year, which is when you’ll most likely notice it. 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

The factors that influence the temperature of your hot water are numerous. They include everything from the sort of plumbing you have to the type of electricity you consume. Gas or electricity are the two types of energy. The criteria listed below provide insights on what sorts of items might have an impact on the temperature of your water heater.

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 people dial up the water temperature to eliminate microorganisms in the water. Sometimes, people wish to set up the water temperature hot enough so it kills germs andstops rotten egg stench. In order to destroy the bacteria in your hot water, you need to boost the temperature of the water heater to over 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degree Celsius) or higher. In addition to beingdangerous, such a high temperature can bringmedium and long-term problemsin your house and canreduce the lifespan of your water heater.

TheCorro-Protec powered anodewill remove the rotten egg smell in just 24 hours and you don’t need to adjust the temperature of the water heater.

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 Temperature Should I Set My Water Heater At?

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Setting the Ideal Hot Water Heater Temperature

Are you tired of burning your hands every time you turn on the hot water in the shower? What if you’re having trouble getting a comfortable water temperature, no matter how high you turn the faucet up? These are not always indications that your water heater is malfunctioning, but rather that the temperature setting you have chosen is not optimal for your purposes. A water heater that has been installed incorrectly can have a significant influence on your life, even in areas that are not directly linked to your plumbing or heating system.

It can also have a negative influence on your health or the health of people who share your home with you.

A definitive or simple response cannot be given; rather, part of it is a matter of personal choice.

General Recommended Water Heater Temperature

You can find out what temperature water should be at by visiting the Environmental Protection Agency. The optimum water temperature is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. You will really save money because your water will not be hot enough to cause scalding, most small households will have adequate hot water for their needs, and reheating will not need an excessive amount of energy consumption, allowing you to save money on your utility bills. This temperature, on the other hand, is not ideal for everyone.

Considerations When Choosing a Water Heater Temperature Setting

You may find out what temperature water should be at by visiting the Environmental Protection Agency. The optimum temperature for water is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. You will really save money since your water will not be hot enough to cause scalding, most small families will have adequate hot water for their needs, and reheating will not need an excessive amount of energy use, allowing you to save money on your energy bills. This temperature, on the other hand, is not ideal for all people. It will be necessary to raise the temperature in certain homes far higher than this standard for a variety of reasons, which we shall address shortly.

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.

Risks Of Too High Or Too Low Water Heater Temperature

You might be wondering what temperature to put your water heater to. When you purchase a water heater unit, the temperature is typically set by the manufacturer. However, this does not rule out the possibility of having some control over its temperature. The good news is that you may set the temperature to a level that is comfortable for you while yet ensuring the safety of your family. Previous to this, we wrote an article in which we spoke about how the heat in your shower might suddenly vary.

The temperature of the device is important since it can have an impact on how well it performs.

Top Risks of setting your unit temperature too high

An skilled plumber would advise against raising the temperature of your unit over the recommended level since it might endanger the safety of your children. It can also have an impact on your utility costs and the heater itself. In order to assist you, we have listed the following risks:

1. Scalding Accidents

Setting the temperature too high might result in scorching mishaps that result in burn injuries. According to the findings of a study on water heater temperature and attributes, many water heaters are frequently set at dangerously high temperatures. Several studies by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have discovered that scald burns are the most common cause of injury in younger children. Every day, over 300 children between the ages of 0 and 19 are treated in emergency departments for burn-related injuries, with two of these children dying as a result of their injuries.

Accidents such as this may be prevented by allowing your water to flow for three minutes and then monitoring the temperature with a candy thermometer thereafter.

2. High electricity bill

Setting the temperature too high might result in scorching mishaps that result in burn injury. According to the findings of a study on the temperature and features of water heaters, many water heaters are frequently set at potentially hazardous temperatures. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), scald burns are the most common type of injury suffered by younger children. Burn-related injuries affect around 300 children between the ages of 0 and 19 every day, with two of these children dying as a result of their injuries.

Using a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature of your water after it has been running for three minutes will help you prevent these mishaps.

3. Lowers your unit’s service life

According to some sources, hot water can accelerate the accumulation of hard water mineral silt, particularly calcium carbonate, in the tank’s interior. It is possible that the buildup would cause corrosion in the water heater tank, which will result in a reduction in the estimated lifespan of the complete device. Leaks and polluted water might occur as a result of the rust accumulation in the storage tank. Another major reason for water heater failure is the deposit of rust on the interior of the heater.

It is recommended that you do yearly water heater maintenance in order to extend the lifespan of your water heater up to 12 years. We wrote an essay about why it’s important and how you can extend its lifespan. You may read more about it here.

Risk of setting your unit temperature too low

If you want to save money on energy costs, you should avoid setting the temperature of your unit too low. It is possible that you will have a health problem as a result.

1. Legionnaires disease

Every year, around 100 people in the United States are sent to hospitals due to a form of bacterial illness that can be caused by water heaters. The infections connected with the bacterium were responsible for up to 12 percent of the country’s death rates. Specifically, the Legionella bacteria are responsible for this particular kind of atypical pneumonia. It is common to find this bacterium in water at low temperatures — often between 20 and 45 degrees Celsius. You can contract the disease if you inhale small water droplets in the air that contain germs that cause it.

Evidence indicates that the majority of the bacteria’s spread occurred through the provision of drinking water in private residences.

It has been shown that the danger of contamination is significantly reduced when water heaters are set at 60°C or 140°F.

Ideal Temperature For Your Water Heater

The optimum temperature is. What several agencies have to say about the optimal temperature is summarized below: According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), water heaters kept below 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit) may promote Legionella development. This temperature, on the other hand, will almost certainly increase the likelihood of being burned by searing hot water. If you have young children at home, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Energy Department recommend that you set your water heater’s thermostat to 120°F or lower.

This will help you keep control over the water temperature throughout your home, preventing it from being overly hot.

So, is it 120°F or 140°F?

We recommend keeping the temperature between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you may regulate the temperature of your water heater between 130 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which is very useful for large water heaters used in hospitals and industrial settings. In case you have little children at home, set the temperature to 120°F, which is considered safe by the majority of the population.

Your installer can help you adjust your water heater temperature.

As part of our service, our qualified specialist at SPS Plumber can assist you with setting the temperature of your water heater to the proper setting. In addition, we can do annual water heater maintenance on your unit. To schedule an appointment, please call us at 408-622-8183 (South Bay Area) or 209-597-9107 (Central Valley) right away!

What’s the Best Temperature for Your Water Heater?

You probably don’t give your water heater much thought till you’re in the middle of a shower and the hot water stops working. It might be much more dangerous if the water is overly hot and causes scorching. Although you have the ability to modify the temperature of your water heater, should you? Even while you would believe that water heaters have a standard suggested temperature, this is not the case. Some water heater manufacturers factory-set their water heaters at 120°F (49°C), while others factory-set their water heaters at a default temperature of 140°F (60°C).

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) advises that the temperature be maintained at or above 122 degrees to assist avoid the formation of potentially dangerous microorganisms in the workplace.

Should I Change the Water Heater Temperature?

For the purpose of determining the most appropriate water heater temperature for your house, there are various elements to take into consideration.

Hot Water Kills Harmful Pathogens

A health problem arises when Legionella, the bacterium that causes Legionnaires’ disease, develops in the water systems of residential properties. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, water heaters that are kept below 140 degrees and that include scale and silt may promote Legionella growth. Fortunately, the vast majority of healthy persons who are exposed to Legionella do not become ill. However, before you decide to turn up the temperature dial on your water heater, consider the following.

Hot Water Can Scald

The use of hot tap water is a leading cause of burn injuries and fatalities. Scald burns can be a serious threat in the house, especially if you have young children or elderly people living with you. Young children, because their skin is thinner, and the elderly, because their skin might be less sensitive to warmth and may be slower to respond to scalding water, are the two age categories that are most at risk for scalds. Adults may suffer third-degree burns if they are exposed to 150-degree water for even a brief period of time (as little as two seconds), according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Though the temperature reaches 120 degrees, a five-minute exposure might result in third-degree burns even if the temperature is lower.

Minimize Risk with Anti-Scald Devices

The question then becomes, how do you balance the hazards of bacteria development with potential scalding? Anti-scald guards and devices are normally installed in newer homes, but if you live in an older home, you may install anti-scald guards and devices in showerheads and tub spouts to help prevent dangerously hot water from escaping. Consult with a plumber about installing a thermostatic mixing valve (also known as a tempering valve or an anti-scald valve), which restricts the maximum temperature that may be discharged from your hot water heater.

Will Changing the Water Heater Temperature Save Money?

The temperature at which you set your water heater can make a significant impact in the amount of electricity your home consumes. It is estimated that the water heater accounts for between 17 and more than 25 percent of your monthly energy bills, making it one of the most expensive single items on your home energy bill. Turning down your water heater temperature, according to the Energy Department, results in a considerable reduction in the expenses of standby losses, which are heat losses from your water heater into the surrounding region.

Reduced temperatures can result in more savings when doing duties such as washing clothing, taking showers, and dishwashing, among others. According to the Energy Department, this reductions in energy use might amount to more than $400 per year.

What is My Water Heater Temperature?

You won’t be able to identify the temperature of most tank water heaters and some tankless water heaters merely by glancing at the temperature dial, because most are simply designated from “Low” to “Hot” (or “Very Hot”) on the dial. It is recommended that you consult your water heater’s handbook for the preset temperature. If you don’t know what you’re looking for, simply search the internet for the brand and kind of water heater you have, as well as the “default temperature.” However, the default temperature of the water heater is not always the same as the temperature of the water that is flowing out of your faucets.

How to Check Your Tap Water Temperature

Avoid using your hot water for at least two hours before doing the test. If you have a tankless water heater, you can skip this step
Otherwise, proceed as directed. Allow for a minimum of three minutes of running hot water. Make sure the temperature is correct by using a candy, meat, or water thermometer
Set the temperature on your water heater’s thermostat to a more comfortable level. Continually repeat steps 2 and 3 until you get the required temperature. Wait for a full day to enable the water temperature to fluctuate before testing it once more. If you have a tankless water heater, you may skip this step.

Pro tip: Once you’ve found the temperature you desire, mark the location on the temperature dial of your water heater using a permanent marker.

Find the Right Water Heater Temperature

Your water heater’s “optimal” temperature is essentially a matter of personal preference – for your own level of comfort, any potential safety problems, your monthly utility cost, and energy efficiency considerations.

Home Warranty Coverage for Water Heaters

Maintenance of your water heater on a regular basis can assist to prevent malfunctions and may even help to increase the lifespan of the equipment. In certain cases, even the most attentive maintenance will not be enough to avoid the onset of a problem with your water heater. When equipment such as your water heater quit operating, a home warranty can protect your budget from unexpected repair or replacement expenditures that may add up quickly. See what additional appliances and home systems you can protect with a home warranty plan, or request a quotation right away.

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

There is no temperature indicator or readout on the majority of water heaters. Temperatures or heating ranges are marked on thethermostat, rather than just numbers. You will need a cup and a culinary thermometer to correctly determine the temperature of the hot water heater. Allow the water heater to sit for a minimum of one hour without being used, and then turn on the tap closest to the water heater.

To ensure that the water reaches its maximum temperature, let it run for at least one minute before filling the cup with it. Insert and modify the settings of your cooking thermometer as needed after inserting it.

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

The temperature of a gas water heater may be adjusted by turning the setting knob on the water heater. The majority of gas control valves have a knob with different designations on them, such as A-B-C. Control valves for gas water heaters may be labeled differently depending on the manufacturer. In the majority of circumstances, the following is what each label indicates:

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.

Should You Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature?

Most houses have a water heater, which is one of their largest energy consumers. If you’re searching for ways to reduce your energy consumption, this is a smart place to start. Prior to decreasing the temperature of your water heater’s thermostat by a few degrees, there are a few things you should consider. If you set the temperature too low, you run the risk of turning your water heater into a breeding ground for potentially harmful germs. If you set it too high, you run the risk of causing a scorching mishap to yourself or someone else.

The quick answer is: 120 degrees Fahrenheit (degrees Celsius).
At this temperature, dangerous microorganisms such as the kind that causes Legionnaires’ disease are stopped from proliferating and may even be eliminated entirely.
As a result, other organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) suggest that the temperature of the water heater be maintained at 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Choosing a temperature closer to 140 degrees Fahrenheit is preferable, especially if anyone in the household has a weakened immune system.
What Is the Deal with Scalding?
You’ll never know when the scorching water will hit you since it takes several seconds for hot water to travel through your pipes and reach your faucet or showerhead.
There is a remedy to the tug-of-war that exists between pathogenic safety and scalding safety: anti-scald valves are available.
Installing an anti-scald valve may be a simple do-it-yourself operation for an experienced amateur plumber, but the difficulty of the task is determined by the configuration of the plumbing system.
What, however, is the state of energy efficiency?

Saving energy and money is vital, but it isn’t nearly as important as protecting yourself and your family from potentially life-threatening diseases. Having said that, it is feasible to reduce expenses without relying on your water heater’s thermostat to do this:

Most houses have a water heater, which is one of their largest energy consumers. If you’re searching for ways to reduce your energy consumption, this is an excellent place to start. However, there are a few things to consider before lowering the temperature of your water heater a few degrees. If you set your water heater’s temperature too low, you risk turning it into a breeding ground for harmful germs. If you set it too high, you run the risk of causing a scorching mishap to yourself or another else. What is your lowest point? Short answer: 120 degrees Fahrenheit (or degrees Celsius). In most modern water heaters, this is the thermostat temperature that is pre-programmed, and it is the temperature that the United States Department of Energy recommends for optimal performance. At this temperature, dangerous microorganisms such as the kind that causes Legionnaires’ disease are stopped from proliferating and may even be eliminated completely. Because germs die off more quickly as the temperature rises, As a result, other organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) suggest that the water heater temperature be maintained at 140 degrees Fahrenheit or above. While 120 degrees should be deemed safe if everyone in your household has a healthy immune system, this temperature is also the bare minimum. Choosing a temperature that is closer to 140 degrees is safer, especially if anyone in the household has a weakened immune system. Additionally, if you have a dishwasher that does not create its own heat, you may need to raise the temperature setting. Scalding Is A Problem? After only five seconds in the presence of 140 degree water, a third-degree burn can occur. Furthermore, because it takes several seconds for hot water to travel through your pipes and reach your faucet or showerhead, you will never know when the scorching water will suddenly appear. Children may be more susceptible to water burns than adults due to the fact that their skin is thinner than that of adults, and the elderly may also be at greater risk due to impaired sensitivity, mobility, and response time. There is a remedy to the tug-of-war that exists between pathogenic safety and scalding safety: anti-scald valves are used. These may be installed at each point where hot water comes into contact with a person, allowing you to maintain your water heater set at 140 degrees while ensuring that the water never gets hotter than 120 degrees when it comes out of the faucet. In the hands of a skilled amateur plumber, installing an anti-scald valve is a simple task, although the level of difficulty varies depending on the plumbing system’s design. Whenever you have a difficult installation, call a licensed plumber for help. What, however, is the situation with regards to energy conservation? However, conserving energy and money are vital considerations, but they are secondary to protecting yourself and your family from potentially deadly infections. Having said that, it is feasible to reduce costs without utilizing the thermostat on your water heater.

Considering installing some anti-scald valves or purchasing a new water heater? Get in touch with your local Benjamin Franklin right away. Call us today at (800) 259-7705 to learn more!

How Water Heaters Work

To understand how efficiently and effectively a water heater accomplishes its job, let’s take a closer look at what’s going on within the tank. The thermostat on a water heater is responsible for regulating the temperature of the water in the tank. Temperatures between 120 and 180 degrees Fahrenheit are usually OK in most cases (49 to 82 degrees Celsius). For the most part, manufacturers recommend that the water temperature be set between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit (49 to 60 degrees Celsius).

If you have youngsters in your household, it’s best to keep closer to the lower end of the price range than the upper end.
Most of the time, the thermostat is hidden under a protective cover plate and is controlled by a knob or dial that you can turn to adjust the temperature.
The heating device, which can be either a burner or an element, continues to operate until the water reaches the desired temperature.
Close to the top of the tank is a pipe that removes the heat.
Using the theory of heat rising to accomplish the difficult task of separating cold, entering water from hot, departing water is the key to understanding how a water heater is designed for this purpose.
Published on April 1, 2000 in the original version.

What Temperature Should I Set My Water Heater?

Water heaters are a critically vital component of your house, but most homeowners don’t give them much thought once they’ve been installed in the first place. Unfortunately, installations completed before you moved in or by specialists who don’t take the time to ensure that the unit is running properly might result in incorrect water heater temperatures being reached. On the one hand, scorching hot water can be dangerous, while on the other, water that does not stay hot long enough to hinder the growth of hazardous germs can be quite dangerous.

Consider the following questions for yourself:

Is it possible that the base temperature of the water heater has altered after it was initially installed? Water heaters used to be manufactured at a temperature of 140°F, which may induce scorching in as little as 5 seconds. Some heaters are set at a temperature of 160°F, which is far too high. A fraction of a second at that temperature will result in third-degree burns. Water heaters are now factory-set at 122.5°F, which is a much safer setting
If the temperature has been adjusted, it is possible that the temperature has been set too low. A water temperature that is set too low is no more beneficial than a temperature that is set too high. Low temperatures, between 90 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit, might foster the growth of germs that can make you or your family very sick. It is necessary to prevent temperatures that are too low.

So What is the Best Water Heater Temperature Setting?

The majority of specialists think that the best temperature range for personal comfort and safety is 120°F to 125°F. Using this setting, you can prevent bacterial development while not having to worry about possible damage from being caused by hot temperatures.

An additional benefit of decreasing the temperature is that you will save money on your energy costs. It’s also a good idea to spend some time getting acquainted with your water heater, which is often disregarded but is a vital component of your home’s plumbing system.

Water Heater Help from the Pros

Your water heater must operate at peak efficiency in order to provide a safe and comfortable environment. Corley’s team of experiencedGreenville plumbers is here to assist you! Our service personnel take great pleasure in not just providing excellent client service, but also in their technical knowledge. You can rely on us to provide you with the best water heater possible! Not only can we do preventative maintenance and identify little problems before they become major problems, but we can also install new water heaters!

Give us a call or send us a message online now.

How Your Water Heater Works

Take a look at the video below for additional information on how water heaters function.

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

The level of comfort is a matter of personal taste. The temperature that one person considers cozy may be too warm or too cold for another person to be comfortable. That is why arguments over the thermostat at home or at the workplace are so prevalent. There is a little more complexity when it comes to controlling the temperature of your water heater, though. According to the United States Department of Energy, water heating accounts for around 18 percent of total energy use in a residence. That is a significant amount.

The recommended hot water temperature

The Environmental Protection Agency provides us with a suitable starting point for setting our hot water tanks: 120 degrees. When the tank is not in use, this temperature is the bare minimum for killing off germs that might form in the tank.

It can also help to avoid scorching, which is crucial in families with small children or older people. This setting should be able to provide adequate hot water for the average family while still being energy efficient.

When to adjust your water temperature

The 120-degree setting is a good starting point for most people. There are a variety of variables or scenarios that may necessitate the use of a different temperature setting. Here are a few illustrations:

If you or someone in your household has a weakened immune system or respiratory condition, turn your water heater up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. With a bigger household, you may need to boost the temperature to ensure that there is enough hot water for everyone’s consumption
To ensure that dishes are properly sterilized, if your dishwasher does not pre-heat the water (which is generally the case only with older models), turn on your water heater to 140 degrees.

How to change the temperature on your water heater

If you have an electric hot water heater, you’ll need to remove the access panel and adjust the thermostat dial with a screwdriver after removing the access panel. Before performing any maintenance on your water heater, cut off the electricity to the device for your own safety. If you have a gas water heater, the temperature gauge does not contain numbers; instead, it is labeled “Hot” and “Warm,” with a few lines between the two designations. The warm setting should be between 90 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit, and the hot setting should be between 140 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pour hot water into a glass and use a culinary thermometer to check the temperature.
Continue to adjust the temperature until you achieve the desired result.
Saving money on energy expenditures is also important.
We can assist you in determining the best tank or tankless water heater for your needs.

This entry was published on April 30, 2020, under the category Water Heaters.

Adjusting Your Water Heater Settings: How To Maximize Efficiency

Not many people are aware that selecting the proper water heater settings may result in substantial savings. Indeed, while the majority of people don’t give their hot water heater settings a second thought, they are actually highly critical in many situations. Not only will it save you money, but it will also make your showering experience more pleasant as a result of it. Here is a breakdown of the procedures.

Default Hot Water Heater Settings Can Vary

Temperature settings on water heaters in Phoenix are frequently set to as high as 140 degrees Fahrenheit as the usual setting. That is far greater than the majority of individuals require, although manufacturers do so for a variety of reasons. The Department of Energy states that germs cannot thrive in water that is so hot, among other reasons. Increased gas or electric water heater settings can be beneficial for people who have weakened immune systems or respiratory illnesses. In addition to impressing consumers who have presumably recently replaced their tank since the previous one had ceased performing correctly, high temperatures can also be beneficial.

How Much Are Your Gas and Electric Hot Water Heater Temperature Settings Costing You?

As a general rule, every 20 degrees you reduce the temperature of your gas or electric water heater, you may expect to save as much as ten percent on your utility bill. That’s not too shabby after all! In reality, it adds up over time, and you can almost certainly come up with a number of better uses for the money you save. “But hold on a minute,” you may be thinking. “I really enjoy taking hot baths!” However, you almost probably do not take showers above 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which can cause scorching because of the high temperature.

It’s conceivable that you won’t even notice a difference. No matter what happens, raising the temperature is a simple process. It has the potential to cause aging hotwater heaters to stop functioning.

How To Adjust Your Gas and Electric Hot Water Heater Temperature Settings

Now that you understand why you should reduce the temperature of your water heater, let’s look at how to go about doing so.

Step One: Get An Accurate Temperature Reading

It’s likely that the thermostat dial linked to your water heater tank is not functioning properly. As a result, you should really use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the water flowing out of your faucet. The Department of Energy suggests that you measure the amount of water that is flowing out of the faucet that is the furthest away from your water heating system. Make a note of the settings after you’ve found them.

Step Two: Figure Out Where to Make the Adjustment

There are several distinct types of water heaters, and we’ll go through each of them separately.

Electric Water Heater Settings

In the case of an electric water heater, you must modify the hot water settings at the top and bottom of the unit. Both controls, which are often concealed behind a panel and consist of knobs that you crank to establish the appropriate electric water heater thermostat settings, are typically located on the same side of the panel.

Gas Water Heater Settings

Newer gas water heaters are equipped with temperature controls that are similar to those described above in the section on electric water heaters. Most gas heaters, especially older models, feature a temperature knob near the base that may be easily adjusted to the appropriate temperature.

Tankless Water Heater Settings

Finally, tankless water heaters are available. This is likely the simplest modification to make because most thermostats include an LED screen that allows you to directly control the thermostat’s temperature. In addition to being convenient, these systems frequently allow you to modify the tankless water heater settings more accurately than you could with traditional dial-based adjustment methods.

Step Three: Make The Adjustments

If you have an electric unit, make sure to turn off the electricity to it before modifying the hot water heater settings at the top and bottom, as we previously discussed in detail. This may be accomplished simply turning off the necessary settings on your circuit breaker panel. Doing so is also recommended in the case of a gas water heater that consumes some power (as some newer units do). But hold on a minute! What temperature should you choose as a starting point? The Department of Energy suggests that you set your heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit for the best performance.

Some water heater temperature controls now include buttons that read “A-B-C” instead of numbers, which makes them easier to use.

To double-check these settings, consult the owner’s handbook for your water heater.

Step Four: Tweak the Settings as Necessary

After you’ve made the necessary adjustments to your gas or electric water heater thermostat settings, you may discover that you need to make a few more adjustments to get the best setting.

You’re trying to strike the perfect balance between comfort and cost-effectiveness. If that’s more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit for you, there’s nothing wrong with that. Make the necessary adjustments!

Frequently Asked Questions

It is nearly guaranteed that a temperature setting of 150 degrees will be too hot for your water heater. The likelihood of experiencing scalding is quite high at that temperature. You should be concerned about your youngsters, who may experiment with the temperature settings on the faucets while completely unconscious of the risk and end up scorching themselves.

What Is The Maximum Temperature For A Water Heater?

The highest temperature setting for the majority of water heaters is 150 degrees Fahrenheit.

Is 140 Too Hot For A Water Heater?

Yes, temperatures above 140 degrees Fahrenheit are uncomfortable for the majority of people. The only exception would be persons who require an additional layer of protection against germs, which cannot thrive in water at that temperature. However, because such a state does not protect you from scorching, you will almost certainly need to install an equipment at the showerhead that cools the water before it is discharged from the showerhead.

Why Is My Water So Hot?

If you haven’t changed the settings on your hot water heater in a long time, they are most likely still set to the factory default of 140 degrees. The latter is especially true if your hot water heater was only recently installed; the old one was almost certainly altered at some time over the years, whereas the new one is set to the manufacturer’s recommended settings.