How To Set Your Water Heater Temperature And Save Money
For lots of people, there’s nothing better than a hot shower to get the morning started. Even though that may be a perfect way to wake up and start the day, experts say you can set your water too hot.
Setting your water heater to a temperature that’s above the recommended degree can waste electricity and cost you money. It also can pose a safety concern for members of your family. But, if you set your water heater temperature too low, it can allow growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not provide adequate hot water for your dwelling.
So, what temperature is ideal for your water heater? Here, we’ll determine the most cost-effective temperature to use, when there could be reason to set it a little higher and how hot is too hot for your personal water heater.
What Water Heater Temperature Is The Most Efficient?
Although many brands encourage setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a better temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Specialists say 120 degrees hits the right balance between safety and energy use.
The U.S. Department of Energy states that setting a home water heater temperature at 120 degrees could save approximately 22 percent on a home’s utility bills. Energy waste is a frequent challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models continuously heat a tank of water in case it is required. If you have the water heater temperature set too high, your water heater is forever heating a tank brimming with extremely hot water.
What Temperature Should I Set My Hot Water To?
In many instances, the suggested efficient temperature of 120 degrees is the right setting for your water heater. At 120 degrees, the water is warm enough to meet the needs of most residents, but not so hot that it could cause burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer alternative, especially in homes with small children or elderly individuals. Reduced temperatures also minimize mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need replacement.
Can I Set My Water Temperature Higher Than 120 Degrees?
While many energy experts say 120 degrees is the preferred water heater temperature if you’re looking to save money, is it OK to set it higher? Beyond personal preference, there are a few situations where it could be a good idea to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:
- Bacteria: Hotter water temperatures can be a good way to eliminate harmful bacteria that can cause or worsen certain health conditions. This also may be recommended if you know your home has trouble with bacteria, or if any members of the household are sick.
- High Usage: If your home tends to use a significant amount of hot water simultaneously—showering while also running the dishwasher and washing machine, for example—a greater water heater temperature may be necessary to make sure there’s enough hot water for all the household’s needs.
- Old Dishwasher: If your dishwasher is getting up there in years and doesn’t heat water on its own, it may be necessary to set your water heater to a higher temperature for it to work properly.
How Hot Is Too Hot For A Water Heater?
Even though some people like their water exceptionally hot or like to blend hot and cold water to achieve their ideal water temperature, there is such a thing as water that is too hot. Energy officials say any temperature hotter than 140 degrees is too hot for a water heater in a residential dwelling. At 150 degrees, which is definitely way too hot, it takes a few seconds for the water to create third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is particularly unsafe in homes with children or the elderly.
Call Tokay For Your Water Heater Service Needs In Lodi
Water heaters can sometimes feel a little mysterious, but the knowledgeable pros at Tokay know these appliances inside and out. They’ve repaired many brands and types of water heaters throughout the years, so they have the experience to tackle your water heater repair in Lodi.
We also offer water heater replacement, so contact us at (209) 257-3156 if you suspect you need water heater installation in Lodi. We are happy to take a look at your system and give a free estimate!
