What Temperature Should I Set My Water Heater to and Why?
What's the Ideal Water Heater Temperature?
Your water heater is a crucial part of your home, providing hot water for showers, washing dishes, laundry, and more. But what temperature should you set your water heater to for optimal performance, safety, and efficiency? This blog will explore the ideal water heater temperature settings and the reasons behind them.
The Recommended Temperature Setting
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius). This temperature setting offers a balance of safety, energy efficiency, and comfort. Let’s delve into why this temperature is considered ideal.
Reasons to Set Your Water Heater to 120 Degrees Fahrenheit
- SafetySetting your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit significantly reduces the risk of scalding. At higher temperatures, hot water can cause severe burns in just a few seconds. For example, water at 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius) can cause third-degree burns in about five seconds, whereas at 120 degrees, it would take several minutes to cause similar injuries. This is especially important for households with children, the elderly, or anyone with sensitive skin.
- Energy EfficiencyLowering your water heater temperature to 120 degrees can result in substantial energy savings. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, for every 10 degrees reduction in temperature, you can save between 3-5% on your water heating costs. Given that water heating can account for up to 18% of your home's energy use, these savings can add up over time.
- Preventing Mineral Buildup and CorrosionHigh temperatures can accelerate the buildup of minerals like calcium and magnesium in your water heater tank and pipes, leading to scaling. This can reduce the efficiency of your water heater and shorten its lifespan. Additionally, extremely hot water can increase the rate of corrosion in your pipes, potentially leading to leaks and other plumbing issues.
- ComfortWater at 120 degrees Fahrenheit is generally sufficient for most household needs, including showers, baths, dish washing, and laundry. It provides a comfortable level of warmth without being excessively hot, ensuring you have a pleasant experience while using hot water.
Adjusting Your Water Heater Temperature
If your water heater is set higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit, adjusting it is usually straightforward. Here are some steps you can follow:
- Locate the Thermostat: For electric water heaters, there are typically two thermostats (one for the upper heating element and one for the lower). Gas water heaters have a single thermostat near the bottom of the tank.
- Turn Off the Power: For safety, turn off the power to the water heater at the circuit breaker for electric models or set the gas control to the "pilot" position for gas models.
- Adjust the Temperature: Use a screwdriver to adjust the thermostat dial to the desired temperature. For electric models, adjust both thermostats to ensure even heating.
- Restore Power: Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker or set the gas control back to the "on" position.
- Check the Temperature: After a few hours, check the water temperature at the tap to ensure it has reached the desired setting. You may need to make slight adjustments if it’s not quite right.
Special Considerations
While 120 degrees Fahrenheit is the recommended setting, there are situations where you might need to adjust it slightly:
- Dishwashers without a Booster Heater: If your dishwasher doesn’t have a built-in booster heater, you might need to set your water heater to 140 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure proper cleaning and sanitization. Check your dishwasher’s manual for specific requirements.
- Health Concerns: Individuals with compromised immune systems or certain health conditions might need higher water temperatures to ensure hot water is sufficiently sanitized. Consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns.
Final Thoughts
Setting your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit is a practical and safe choice for most households, balancing safety, energy efficiency, and comfort. By keeping your water heater at this temperature and performing proper maintenance, you can prevent scalding, save on energy costs, reduce mineral buildup, and enjoy comfortably hot water for all your needs. Adjusting the temperature is a simple task, especially for DIY-water-heater-experts, that is safe to do yourself and that can make a big difference in your home’s energy use and safety.
Need a Water Heater Service?
Whether trying to adjust the temperature or perform a regular maintenance or repair, our plumbing pros are available to assist you. Call today to schedule your free assessment and speak with one of our experts.