Changing Your Water Heater Water Temperature. The continual work of water heaters gives you hot water even when youre not using them. Pre-heating dishwashers are becoming popular. Replace your water heater. Everyone has their own temperature preferences when showering, but you can usually fine-tune this with the hot and cold water knobs. To lower the temperature of a gas water heater, you should find the control dial (its located somewhere on the outside of the device). So, take your time to get the temperature just right. To minimize this risk, you can install mixing valves or other temperature-regulating devices on any taps used for washing or bathing. Most hot water heaters are expected to last anywhere from 8 to 12 years. Most of the panels are similar and even located in the same general areas no matter what type of water heater you have. Different recommendations on water temperature may confuse you a bit. If youre worried about pathogens in your hot water, and are worried about scalding water, consider a hot water tank booster. Heres what you can do, in such a case: A water heater is the 2nd highest source of energy usage in your house. 
With 100% financing and no money down, you can start your home improvement project right away. Coral Springs, These systems take in water and then boost the temperature to even higher levels for an even better and more sanitary clean, and they do so without requiring you to boost the temperature coming from your water heater. It is for information purposes only. How To Clean Water Softener 4 Professional Tips. To change the temperature, follow the instructions that we have given above for electric water heaters. Is It Worth Getting A Whole House Water Filtration System? 
There are a number of factors that must be taken into consideration before determining the best temperature setting for your water heater. window.mc4wp.listeners.push( Set too high, or at 140F, your water heater can waste anywhere from $36 to $61 annually in standby heat losses. 2022 Corro-Protec. To find your perfect temperature, simply switch the thermostat to 120 F and then start slowly increasing the temperature to find the one that works best for you. Insert your cooking thermometer, and then adjust the settings as desired. Installing an anti-scald valve may be a DIY project for an experienced amateur plumber, but the complexity of the job varies by the layout of the plumbing. Using a flathead screwdriver, adjust the temperature, setting the top thermostat slightly higher than the bottom. Insulate your hot water heater and pipes.
Turns out, even plain old tap water can be dangerous.
If the water is above 120 degrees, adjust the dial, wait about three hours and check again. However, when the temperature is too low,legionnaires diseasecan develop.
Call yourlocal Benjamin Franklintoday. Some services are subject to provincial and local licensing and may not be available at all locations. And while there is a very slight risk of promoting legionellae bacteria when hot water tanks are maintained at 120F, this level is still considered safe for the majority of the population. Some dials have numbers, while others might not. OSHA has a different hot water temperature recommendation. Find the perfect air temperature with help from Aire Serv, a Neighbourly company.
Most electric water heaters have two thermostats. If your water heater doesnt have a hot setting and A is the first one, then the chances are high that A stands for 120 F. A Rheem water heater comes preset at 120 F, but you can always adjust the temperature to anywhere from 90 to 150 degrees. Turn off the circuit breaker. Factors that affect your hot water temperature are varied. What Is The Purpose Of A Backflow Preventer?
Imagine if your hot water temperature was set to 150 degrees of more. The EPA recommends 120 degrees because its hot enough to keep diseases at bay, its not hot enough to cause scalding, it will supply enough hot water for most small families and is relatively energy-efficient. If you have a large home with several people living there, you should set your water temperature higher to make your hot water supply last longer. We strongly recommend looking for a dishwasher that has a pre-heat system in it the next time youre due for an upgrade or replacement. Like with any appliance, a little upkeep and maintenance can go a long way toward extending the life of your water heater and keeping it in good working order. Most water heaters do not have a temperature gauge with a readout.
Dont set your water heater to anything below 120 degrees, as diseases can develop in the stagnant water inside the water heater, particularly Legionella, which is quite dangerous. This means that those who set their water temperature lower will also tend to run out of hot water faster. That means your heater hot water temperature should be set at or below 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If your water heater is set too high, you will be paying the price in your energy bill each month. This illness is a type of pneumonia and the bacteria that causes the illness can thrive in a water tank between the temperatures of 77 degrees and 113 degrees Fahrenheit. Many people turn up the water temperature to kill bacteria in the water. Use less hot water. The majority of adults are going to suffer from third-degree burns if they get exposed to 150-degree water for only 3 seconds. Theyre factors that affect how your water is heated and how long it takes to keep your water temperature at 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
No spam, we promise. Instead, the thermostat is marked with temperatures or heating ranges. These are not necessarily signs that your water heater is broken, but that the selected temperature may not be right for your needs. For the electric heaters that have a thermostat behind an access panel: Water heaters dont always have thermostats with actual numbers. Need help with your water heater in the Los Angeles area?
If the temperature has been adjusted on the water tank but you do not seem to be noticing any difference in water temperature, a professional will also be able to check for sediment buildup and calcification in the hot water tank itself. If you maintain your water temperature at 120 degrees Fahrenheit constantly, you eliminate most of the risk of severe burns and injuries. Smaller homes with fewer people living there can get away with a lower temperature, as theyre less likely to run out anyway. To turn off an electric water heater, switch off the circuit breaker to it. Bringing the temperature down is much, much safer for your baby and better for your energy costs too. If you live in a large home where it takes a long time for hot water to reach the tap, a hot water circulating system can solve this. When the temperature of the hot water tank is too high, it may affect its service life. Every letter has a different temperature setting. Well, the EPA recommends a hot temperature setting of 120-degrees F for both safety and energy-saving purposes. By the way, if you set the thermostat to 140 F, it does not necessarily mean that the water coming from our tap is going to be 140 degrees. CDC recommends your water heater temperature set at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Toll-Free: If you have a water heater that is 10 years or older, and appears to be leaking or is having some issues working, you might want to consider replacing it altogether, rather than just making a repair that will only temporarily solve the problem. Looking for more ways to maximize the performance, efficiency, and safety of your water heater? These stand for 120 F and 160 F respectively. If the set temperature on your water heater is too high, your skin might get burnt. This will prevent any bacteria from forming in the cold water and prevent scalding you with a hotter-than-expected shower. Turn on the water and wait for it to get hot. There are many safer ways to remove the smell of sulfur from your hot water. However, this high temperature significantly increases the risk of scalding. Its during the cooler months of the year that you may notice increases in your energy bill. Water heaters come with a thermostat and some of those allow you to set the temperature to up to 180 F. But that does not mean that you should do that. That said, its possible to cut costs without using your water heaters thermostat to do it: Ready to install some anti-scald valves or a whole new water heater? These may amount to more than $400. Different brands of gas water heater control valves may have different labels. ART Plumbing AC & Electric December 30, 2015 For a gas water heater, make sure you know how to safely relight the pilot light before turning it off. Many who live in large household aim for a higher temperature to accommodate increased demand for hot water. It will also lead to high energy bills and a decrease in the units lifespan as there will be much more mineral buildup. Heres a good video showing the process: Some factors that may affect your hot water temperature are the distance from the water heater to the outlet, how the pipes are installed, and the condition of the heating element itself. This will prevent sediment accumulation that will reduce the energy efficency of your tank resulting in more money to heat the same amount of water.
Why Bathroom Fan Making Noise When Windy? Home House & Components Systems Plumbing System Water Heaters. If you have a dishwasher without a booster heater, it may require a water temperature within a range of 130F to 140F for optimum cleaning. The Corro-Protec powered anode will stop the rotten egg smell in just 24 hours and you dont need to increase the temperature of the water heater. Take shorter showers and favor the dishwasher over hand-washing, which usually uses more water. A poorly functioning water heater could result in bigger electricity bills as well as water that is either piping hot or ice cold. On gas water heaters, simply find the knob on the valve and set the temperature. Some companies offer core replacement parts for things like water heater anodes and other components in water heaters. Sometimes water heater thermometers vary depending on the brand, the age, or how much the water heater is used. If you have an infant or any child under the age of three, we recommend a water heater set at no higher than 130 degrees. Subscribe to receive updates from Energy Saver, including new blogs, updated content, and seasonal energy saving tips for consumers and homeowners. There is no set or straightforward answer, and some of it does indeed come down to personal preference. CGC045296 Electrical Cont. You may want to consider doing this maintenance with a professional in order to keep your water heater working properly. Do Not Sell My Information - California Residents. Call us or text us at 1-877-466-6660. Infants and small children may need it a bit lower than that as their skin is more sensitive than adults. Whether you are a fan of extra hot baths or cold showers, you cant underestimate the importance of getting your water heater to that perfect temperature. You can find your current temperature setting by looking at the dial on the water heater (if equipped) or taking a temperature reading from the faucet. Additional savings will be realized by the lower temperature for consumption (from water demand or use in your home, such as clothes washing, showers, and dishwashing). Those who like showers cooler use a lower ratio. When youre testing your water temperature, you can use a meat thermometer at a water tap with the hot water on. While Are you sick of waking up to cold showers? If your pipes arent insulated, youll lose even more heat along the way. However, experts recommend keeping the setting above 120 F to prevent bacterial growth; increase the temperature to 140 F, if there is an immunosuppressed person living in the house and if you have a dishwasher that doesnt pre-heat. On the other hand, the EPA suggests turning the thermostat down to 120 to reduce power consumption, and a booster heater to reach sanitizing temperatures at select outlets. Several adjustments may be necessary before you get the temperature you desire. You also need to provide scheduled monitoring of your faucet water to gauge its temperature. Are you unable to get a comfortable water temperature, no matter how high you turn up the tap? Do You Need a Fan in a Bathroom With a Window? Some of these companies meet andexceed best industry standardsand practices. Whats more theyll do it every time with every job because want to improve industry regulations. We recommend our users to update the browser. For Immediate Emergency Assistance Call 1-800-475-1504. Every hot water heater has different panels that control your hot water temperature.
Your water heater isn't the only thing that needs to be "just right." In most cases, heres what each label means: Sometimes there is a Vacation setting. This system slowly circulates hot water in the pipes to prevent it from cooling down before it reaches the tap.
CAC1818277 General Cont. } Definitely keep your water heater set between the optimal temperatures. A burn will occur if you get exposed to 130-degree water for over 30 seconds. Tip: if you have a tankless water heater, you can simply use a digital control panel to adjust the temperature. You can adjust hot water heater settings to get more hot water if you are unhappy with the recommended temperature. Thermometer for testing the water temperature. Wait a couple of hours, and then measure the water temperature again at the farthest tap from the water heater. A professional can drain the tank and then attempt to fix the problem by scraping off any scale that may have built up over time and soaking the elements. WaterHeater HUB 2021 - All Rights Reserved. window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { Legionella, for example, gets killed only at 122 F. So, instead of lowering the temperature, you might want to consider simply using less water on a daily basis. Before making any changes to the temperature setting, you should test the water that is coming out of your tap.
4151 NW 124th Ave, We created this website in order to help our visitors to find proper information about HVAC troubleshooting, repair and most frequent questions about it. Keep in mind that the thermostat is factory preset to a recommended temperature and changing the setting may increase the potential for serious burns. The average water heater lasts 8 to 12 years, and thats if its properly maintained. At the same time, 120 F is the minimum temperature that helps prevent the growth of various bacteria inside your water heater. Some homes will need it quite a bit hotter for reasons we will discuss momentarily, but be careful when going beyond this benchmark. You may not often think about your water heater, but it actually plays a very important part in the plumbing of your home.
If you have a large house, you may want to look into installing a hot water recirculation system which can mean less time to get hot water in all outlets of the house and well as substantial cost savings over time. A water heater thats set improperly can have a broadly-reaching impact on your life, including in ways that arent expressly related to your plumbing. It is important to schedule annual maintenance to ensure that your unit is clean (hard water build-up is damaging to your water heater) and is set to the right temperature range. All Rights Reserved. If you want to keep the energy efficiency of your water heater and prevent scalding or prevent cold shower you should drain your water heater at least every year. Homeowners with a dishwasher that does not pre-heat the water may want to set their water heater to 140 degrees. If you want to save money, every 10 degrees you turn down the water tank thermometer, you save 3 to 5 percent on your energy bill.
Adjust until you get to your preferred setting, marking the changes and writing the temperature down every time. forms: { Three seconds isnt long at all. Professionals recommend keeping your water heater set at a temperature between 130 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Your water heater accounts for about 18 percent of your homes energy bill. How Much Cost Is To Move Water Heater To Garage? Sometimes, people want to turn up the water temperature hot enough that it kills bacteria and stops rotten egg smell. After that, hold a thermometer under the water and take note of the temperature. If you want to learn how to adjust the temperature, visit : Changing Your Water Heater Water Temperature. If you live in a colder climate, your water heater works tirelessly to keep your water at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. But finding that setting on the water heater temperature setting dial isnt easy, because most dials arent labeled with numbers. Gas water heaters have a setting knob that can be turned to adjust the temperature. Most electric water heaters have a thermostat. Hot water heater settings are easy to adjust, although electric heaters will require a screwdriver and possibly a small wrench or socket. A lot of water heaters have a default setting of 140 F, but do bear in mind that only a 6-second exposure to such hot water can lead to severe burns. The main problem with the temperature being set too low is the fact that various bacteria will be able to survive. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable EnergyForrestal Building1000 Independence Avenue, SWWashington, DC 20585, Do-It-Yourself Savings Project: Lower Water Heating Temperature. Some electric units have 2 thermostats at the top and at the bottom of the tank. Youll find it behind an insulated access panel. When turning off the breaker to your Rheem unit, make sure to turn off all the 30-amp double-pole breakers, if they have not been labeled. EC13006731, 2022 Art Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric. Here are more ways you can extend the life of your water heater. Before developing Water Heater Hub, Anthony Barnes was a full-time plumber, and he has undertaken a wide variety of projects over the decades. Thermostat dials are often inaccurate. 1-800-475-1504 Fax: 954-345-3899, Plumbing CFC037085 Air Cond. Get Pre-Approved Financing From Service Finance Company For Any Of Art Plumbing, AC & Electrics Services! If you need help adjusting your water heater or troubleshooting any problems, call your local Mr. Rooter Plumbing at (855) 982-2028, or request an estimate online. Trusted South Florida Licensed Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electrical Experts Since 1983! However, here are a few tips you can follow to make sure your temperature setting is perfect for you. There are easy-to-install pieces of insulation that are pre-cut for these purposes, so this may be an afternoon DIY project. This will save you money, prolong the life of your water heater, and ensure that you and your family are healthy and happy. After all, a 10-degree reduction in temperature will help you save up to 5% of the energy associated with water heating. Run hot water at the tap closest to the water heater for at least three minutes. Some services are subject to provincial and local licensing and may not be available at all locations, Mr. Rooter is a registered trademark of Mr. Rooter LLC, adjusting your water heater or troubleshooting any problems. This could become a health risk for you and your family, potentially exposing you to health hazards such as Legionnaires disease. If you are concerned that your water heater is set at an incorrect temperature either too high or too low call in a plumber who will be able to easily check the setting with a special thermometer and adjust as necessary. However, even this temperature can cause third-degree burns, if the skin is exposed to it for over 5 minutes. In a lot of cases, A is 130 degrees, B 140 F, and C 150 F. The other settings might include hot and very hot. For that reason, other agencies like theOccupational Safety and Health Administration(OSHA) recommend a water heater temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Gutter Guards: Are They Bad in Winter? This information is not intended as an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, a franchise. Ygrenes PACE financing offers many benefits that arent available with traditional financing, and you can get approved in 30 minutes or less. Another indication that sediment may have built up in the tank is if you hear hissing or sizzling noises. From another point of view, lower temperatures are better for households with small children, while higher temperatures are more efficient at cleaning and sanitizing. callback: cb listeners: [], For example, your water heater consumes around 18% of your homes energy, and adjusting it by just 10 degrees can cause a three to five percent change in your monthly energy bill. This video provides step-by-step instruction on how to successfully lower the temperature of your water heater, saving you energy and money. For these populations, provided there are no younger children in the house, we recommend a water temperature of no higher than 140 degrees. Several people (mostly children) are sent to hospitals each year with burns caused by water heaters that are set too high. 33065 They go from what kind of plumbing you have to what type of energy you use. ); The ideal temperature certainly does depend on your preferences. Some units have an A B C knob. Find Out If They Will Cause or Prevent Ice Dams Here! Keep in mind that an electric water heater may have two thermostatsone each for the upper and lower heating elements. The short answer:120 degrees Fahrenheit. 2)Mark the setting, then turn down the thermostat. This keeps your water at 140 degrees in the tank but mixes it with cold water to lower the temp to 120 degrees before it reaches the tap. Join our exclusive 2,500+ email list to get tailored advice, product roundups, and be the first to see our new content. { If yourhot water temperatureis set to140 degrees Fahrenheit, it takes three seconds toburn your skinserious enough to require surgery. You can find a thermostat dial for a gas storage water heater near the bottom of the tank on the gas valve. As the temperature gets higher, pathogens die off quicker. Others just help you improve both the heating and safety of your hot water heater or its parts. How should you set your temperature with so much riding on it? Whether your system has a tank or is tankless, gets heated up by gas or electricity that doesnt really matter. This is the preset thermostat temperature in most new water heaters, and its the recommended setting of theU.S. Department of Energy. Water heaters are factory set at OSHA recommended levels, around 140 degrees. If were not on time, we pay you $5.00 for each minute were late, up to 60 minutes (or $300). The main mission of your water heater is to get rid of the majority of bacteria by raising the temperature of your water. Rule of thumb is safe bathing and showering temperature is 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to call a licensed plumber if you have a tricky installation. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer). What Is the Optimal Temperature for a Greenhouse? Contact us today at (800) 259-7705! FL Need Assistance? })(); Anthony Barnes is the founder of Water Heater Hub and a second-generation plumber by profession. All Rights Reserved. Are you tired of your water heater leaking, failing to flush out sediment, or just Transformers at Universal Studios Hollywood, Six Common Problems with Your Home Water Heater, What Every Homeowner Should Know About Water Heater Maintenance. Replace the insulation and panels, then restore power. Water heated at 140F also poses a safety hazardscalding. In general, many who live alone aim for a lower temperature in the acceptable range since demand for hot water is less and it saves money. This will keep the water nice and hot for your dishwasher and still remain safe to use for most of your family members, provided you also use enough cold water to compensate. Marker to mark the setting on your thermostat. Some models have two: An upper and lower thermostat. What Is The Best Water Heater Temperature Setting? reduce the lifespan of your water heater. This does not heat water, but keeps the pilot light ignited. However, those who suffer from suppressed immune systems or who deal with respiratory diseases may want a hotter water temperature to both kill off bacteria and create a higher concentration of steam in the air when showering. Some components of a hot water heater that may need to be replaced from time to time consist of things like heat traps, ignitors, powered anode rods, dry-fire protection and more. To change the temperature, simply turn the knob to the preferred setting. If adjusting the thermostat still doesnt give you the right temperature, it may be time to replace the water heaterelement. Energy is defined as gas or electric.
With 100% financing and no money down, you can start your home improvement project right away. Coral Springs, These systems take in water and then boost the temperature to even higher levels for an even better and more sanitary clean, and they do so without requiring you to boost the temperature coming from your water heater. It is for information purposes only. How To Clean Water Softener 4 Professional Tips. To change the temperature, follow the instructions that we have given above for electric water heaters. Is It Worth Getting A Whole House Water Filtration System? There are a number of factors that must be taken into consideration before determining the best temperature setting for your water heater. window.mc4wp.listeners.push( Set too high, or at 140F, your water heater can waste anywhere from $36 to $61 annually in standby heat losses. 2022 Corro-Protec. To find your perfect temperature, simply switch the thermostat to 120 F and then start slowly increasing the temperature to find the one that works best for you. Insert your cooking thermometer, and then adjust the settings as desired. Installing an anti-scald valve may be a DIY project for an experienced amateur plumber, but the complexity of the job varies by the layout of the plumbing. Using a flathead screwdriver, adjust the temperature, setting the top thermostat slightly higher than the bottom. Insulate your hot water heater and pipes. Turns out, even plain old tap water can be dangerous.
If the water is above 120 degrees, adjust the dial, wait about three hours and check again. However, when the temperature is too low,legionnaires diseasecan develop.
Call yourlocal Benjamin Franklintoday. Some services are subject to provincial and local licensing and may not be available at all locations. And while there is a very slight risk of promoting legionellae bacteria when hot water tanks are maintained at 120F, this level is still considered safe for the majority of the population. Some dials have numbers, while others might not. OSHA has a different hot water temperature recommendation. Find the perfect air temperature with help from Aire Serv, a Neighbourly company. Most electric water heaters have two thermostats. If your water heater doesnt have a hot setting and A is the first one, then the chances are high that A stands for 120 F. A Rheem water heater comes preset at 120 F, but you can always adjust the temperature to anywhere from 90 to 150 degrees. Turn off the circuit breaker. Factors that affect your hot water temperature are varied. What Is The Purpose Of A Backflow Preventer?
Imagine if your hot water temperature was set to 150 degrees of more. The EPA recommends 120 degrees because its hot enough to keep diseases at bay, its not hot enough to cause scalding, it will supply enough hot water for most small families and is relatively energy-efficient. If you have a large home with several people living there, you should set your water temperature higher to make your hot water supply last longer. We strongly recommend looking for a dishwasher that has a pre-heat system in it the next time youre due for an upgrade or replacement. Like with any appliance, a little upkeep and maintenance can go a long way toward extending the life of your water heater and keeping it in good working order. Most water heaters do not have a temperature gauge with a readout.
Dont set your water heater to anything below 120 degrees, as diseases can develop in the stagnant water inside the water heater, particularly Legionella, which is quite dangerous. This means that those who set their water temperature lower will also tend to run out of hot water faster. That means your heater hot water temperature should be set at or below 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If your water heater is set too high, you will be paying the price in your energy bill each month. This illness is a type of pneumonia and the bacteria that causes the illness can thrive in a water tank between the temperatures of 77 degrees and 113 degrees Fahrenheit. Many people turn up the water temperature to kill bacteria in the water. Use less hot water. The majority of adults are going to suffer from third-degree burns if they get exposed to 150-degree water for only 3 seconds. Theyre factors that affect how your water is heated and how long it takes to keep your water temperature at 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
No spam, we promise. Instead, the thermostat is marked with temperatures or heating ranges. These are not necessarily signs that your water heater is broken, but that the selected temperature may not be right for your needs. For the electric heaters that have a thermostat behind an access panel: Water heaters dont always have thermostats with actual numbers. Need help with your water heater in the Los Angeles area?
If the temperature has been adjusted on the water tank but you do not seem to be noticing any difference in water temperature, a professional will also be able to check for sediment buildup and calcification in the hot water tank itself. If you maintain your water temperature at 120 degrees Fahrenheit constantly, you eliminate most of the risk of severe burns and injuries. Smaller homes with fewer people living there can get away with a lower temperature, as theyre less likely to run out anyway. To turn off an electric water heater, switch off the circuit breaker to it. Bringing the temperature down is much, much safer for your baby and better for your energy costs too. If you live in a large home where it takes a long time for hot water to reach the tap, a hot water circulating system can solve this. When the temperature of the hot water tank is too high, it may affect its service life. Every letter has a different temperature setting. Well, the EPA recommends a hot temperature setting of 120-degrees F for both safety and energy-saving purposes. By the way, if you set the thermostat to 140 F, it does not necessarily mean that the water coming from our tap is going to be 140 degrees. CDC recommends your water heater temperature set at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Toll-Free: If you have a water heater that is 10 years or older, and appears to be leaking or is having some issues working, you might want to consider replacing it altogether, rather than just making a repair that will only temporarily solve the problem. Looking for more ways to maximize the performance, efficiency, and safety of your water heater? These stand for 120 F and 160 F respectively. If the set temperature on your water heater is too high, your skin might get burnt. This will prevent any bacteria from forming in the cold water and prevent scalding you with a hotter-than-expected shower. Turn on the water and wait for it to get hot. There are many safer ways to remove the smell of sulfur from your hot water. However, this high temperature significantly increases the risk of scalding. Its during the cooler months of the year that you may notice increases in your energy bill. Water heaters come with a thermostat and some of those allow you to set the temperature to up to 180 F. But that does not mean that you should do that. That said, its possible to cut costs without using your water heaters thermostat to do it: Ready to install some anti-scald valves or a whole new water heater? These may amount to more than $400. Different brands of gas water heater control valves may have different labels. ART Plumbing AC & Electric December 30, 2015 For a gas water heater, make sure you know how to safely relight the pilot light before turning it off. Many who live in large household aim for a higher temperature to accommodate increased demand for hot water. It will also lead to high energy bills and a decrease in the units lifespan as there will be much more mineral buildup. Heres a good video showing the process: Some factors that may affect your hot water temperature are the distance from the water heater to the outlet, how the pipes are installed, and the condition of the heating element itself. This will prevent sediment accumulation that will reduce the energy efficency of your tank resulting in more money to heat the same amount of water.
Why Bathroom Fan Making Noise When Windy? Home House & Components Systems Plumbing System Water Heaters. If you have a dishwasher without a booster heater, it may require a water temperature within a range of 130F to 140F for optimum cleaning. The Corro-Protec powered anode will stop the rotten egg smell in just 24 hours and you dont need to increase the temperature of the water heater. Take shorter showers and favor the dishwasher over hand-washing, which usually uses more water. A poorly functioning water heater could result in bigger electricity bills as well as water that is either piping hot or ice cold. On gas water heaters, simply find the knob on the valve and set the temperature. Some companies offer core replacement parts for things like water heater anodes and other components in water heaters. Sometimes water heater thermometers vary depending on the brand, the age, or how much the water heater is used. If you have an infant or any child under the age of three, we recommend a water heater set at no higher than 130 degrees. Subscribe to receive updates from Energy Saver, including new blogs, updated content, and seasonal energy saving tips for consumers and homeowners. There is no set or straightforward answer, and some of it does indeed come down to personal preference. CGC045296 Electrical Cont. You may want to consider doing this maintenance with a professional in order to keep your water heater working properly. Do Not Sell My Information - California Residents. Call us or text us at 1-877-466-6660. Infants and small children may need it a bit lower than that as their skin is more sensitive than adults. Whether you are a fan of extra hot baths or cold showers, you cant underestimate the importance of getting your water heater to that perfect temperature. You can find your current temperature setting by looking at the dial on the water heater (if equipped) or taking a temperature reading from the faucet. Additional savings will be realized by the lower temperature for consumption (from water demand or use in your home, such as clothes washing, showers, and dishwashing). Those who like showers cooler use a lower ratio. When youre testing your water temperature, you can use a meat thermometer at a water tap with the hot water on. While Are you sick of waking up to cold showers? If your pipes arent insulated, youll lose even more heat along the way. However, experts recommend keeping the setting above 120 F to prevent bacterial growth; increase the temperature to 140 F, if there is an immunosuppressed person living in the house and if you have a dishwasher that doesnt pre-heat. On the other hand, the EPA suggests turning the thermostat down to 120 to reduce power consumption, and a booster heater to reach sanitizing temperatures at select outlets. Several adjustments may be necessary before you get the temperature you desire. You also need to provide scheduled monitoring of your faucet water to gauge its temperature. Are you unable to get a comfortable water temperature, no matter how high you turn up the tap? Do You Need a Fan in a Bathroom With a Window? Some of these companies meet andexceed best industry standardsand practices. Whats more theyll do it every time with every job because want to improve industry regulations. We recommend our users to update the browser. For Immediate Emergency Assistance Call 1-800-475-1504. Every hot water heater has different panels that control your hot water temperature.
Your water heater isn't the only thing that needs to be "just right." In most cases, heres what each label means: Sometimes there is a Vacation setting. This system slowly circulates hot water in the pipes to prevent it from cooling down before it reaches the tap.
CAC1818277 General Cont. } Definitely keep your water heater set between the optimal temperatures. A burn will occur if you get exposed to 130-degree water for over 30 seconds. Tip: if you have a tankless water heater, you can simply use a digital control panel to adjust the temperature. You can adjust hot water heater settings to get more hot water if you are unhappy with the recommended temperature. Thermometer for testing the water temperature. Wait a couple of hours, and then measure the water temperature again at the farthest tap from the water heater. A professional can drain the tank and then attempt to fix the problem by scraping off any scale that may have built up over time and soaking the elements. WaterHeater HUB 2021 - All Rights Reserved. window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { Legionella, for example, gets killed only at 122 F. So, instead of lowering the temperature, you might want to consider simply using less water on a daily basis. Before making any changes to the temperature setting, you should test the water that is coming out of your tap.
4151 NW 124th Ave, We created this website in order to help our visitors to find proper information about HVAC troubleshooting, repair and most frequent questions about it. Keep in mind that the thermostat is factory preset to a recommended temperature and changing the setting may increase the potential for serious burns. The average water heater lasts 8 to 12 years, and thats if its properly maintained. At the same time, 120 F is the minimum temperature that helps prevent the growth of various bacteria inside your water heater. Some homes will need it quite a bit hotter for reasons we will discuss momentarily, but be careful when going beyond this benchmark. You may not often think about your water heater, but it actually plays a very important part in the plumbing of your home.
If you have a large house, you may want to look into installing a hot water recirculation system which can mean less time to get hot water in all outlets of the house and well as substantial cost savings over time. A water heater thats set improperly can have a broadly-reaching impact on your life, including in ways that arent expressly related to your plumbing. It is important to schedule annual maintenance to ensure that your unit is clean (hard water build-up is damaging to your water heater) and is set to the right temperature range. All Rights Reserved. If you want to keep the energy efficiency of your water heater and prevent scalding or prevent cold shower you should drain your water heater at least every year. Homeowners with a dishwasher that does not pre-heat the water may want to set their water heater to 140 degrees. If you want to save money, every 10 degrees you turn down the water tank thermometer, you save 3 to 5 percent on your energy bill.
Adjust until you get to your preferred setting, marking the changes and writing the temperature down every time. forms: { Three seconds isnt long at all. Professionals recommend keeping your water heater set at a temperature between 130 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Your water heater accounts for about 18 percent of your homes energy bill. How Much Cost Is To Move Water Heater To Garage? Sometimes, people want to turn up the water temperature hot enough that it kills bacteria and stops rotten egg smell. After that, hold a thermometer under the water and take note of the temperature. If you want to learn how to adjust the temperature, visit : Changing Your Water Heater Water Temperature. If you live in a colder climate, your water heater works tirelessly to keep your water at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. But finding that setting on the water heater temperature setting dial isnt easy, because most dials arent labeled with numbers. Gas water heaters have a setting knob that can be turned to adjust the temperature. Most electric water heaters have a thermostat. Hot water heater settings are easy to adjust, although electric heaters will require a screwdriver and possibly a small wrench or socket. A lot of water heaters have a default setting of 140 F, but do bear in mind that only a 6-second exposure to such hot water can lead to severe burns. The main problem with the temperature being set too low is the fact that various bacteria will be able to survive. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable EnergyForrestal Building1000 Independence Avenue, SWWashington, DC 20585, Do-It-Yourself Savings Project: Lower Water Heating Temperature. Some electric units have 2 thermostats at the top and at the bottom of the tank. Youll find it behind an insulated access panel. When turning off the breaker to your Rheem unit, make sure to turn off all the 30-amp double-pole breakers, if they have not been labeled. EC13006731, 2022 Art Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric. Here are more ways you can extend the life of your water heater. Before developing Water Heater Hub, Anthony Barnes was a full-time plumber, and he has undertaken a wide variety of projects over the decades. Thermostat dials are often inaccurate. 1-800-475-1504 Fax: 954-345-3899, Plumbing CFC037085 Air Cond. Get Pre-Approved Financing From Service Finance Company For Any Of Art Plumbing, AC & Electrics Services! If you need help adjusting your water heater or troubleshooting any problems, call your local Mr. Rooter Plumbing at (855) 982-2028, or request an estimate online. Trusted South Florida Licensed Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electrical Experts Since 1983! However, here are a few tips you can follow to make sure your temperature setting is perfect for you. There are easy-to-install pieces of insulation that are pre-cut for these purposes, so this may be an afternoon DIY project. This will save you money, prolong the life of your water heater, and ensure that you and your family are healthy and happy. After all, a 10-degree reduction in temperature will help you save up to 5% of the energy associated with water heating. Run hot water at the tap closest to the water heater for at least three minutes. Some services are subject to provincial and local licensing and may not be available at all locations, Mr. Rooter is a registered trademark of Mr. Rooter LLC, adjusting your water heater or troubleshooting any problems. This could become a health risk for you and your family, potentially exposing you to health hazards such as Legionnaires disease. If you are concerned that your water heater is set at an incorrect temperature either too high or too low call in a plumber who will be able to easily check the setting with a special thermometer and adjust as necessary. However, even this temperature can cause third-degree burns, if the skin is exposed to it for over 5 minutes. In a lot of cases, A is 130 degrees, B 140 F, and C 150 F. The other settings might include hot and very hot. For that reason, other agencies like theOccupational Safety and Health Administration(OSHA) recommend a water heater temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Gutter Guards: Are They Bad in Winter? This information is not intended as an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, a franchise. Ygrenes PACE financing offers many benefits that arent available with traditional financing, and you can get approved in 30 minutes or less. Another indication that sediment may have built up in the tank is if you hear hissing or sizzling noises. From another point of view, lower temperatures are better for households with small children, while higher temperatures are more efficient at cleaning and sanitizing. callback: cb listeners: [], For example, your water heater consumes around 18% of your homes energy, and adjusting it by just 10 degrees can cause a three to five percent change in your monthly energy bill. This video provides step-by-step instruction on how to successfully lower the temperature of your water heater, saving you energy and money. For these populations, provided there are no younger children in the house, we recommend a water temperature of no higher than 140 degrees. Several people (mostly children) are sent to hospitals each year with burns caused by water heaters that are set too high. 33065 They go from what kind of plumbing you have to what type of energy you use. ); The ideal temperature certainly does depend on your preferences. Some units have an A B C knob. Find Out If They Will Cause or Prevent Ice Dams Here! Keep in mind that an electric water heater may have two thermostatsone each for the upper and lower heating elements. The short answer:120 degrees Fahrenheit. 2)Mark the setting, then turn down the thermostat. This keeps your water at 140 degrees in the tank but mixes it with cold water to lower the temp to 120 degrees before it reaches the tap. Join our exclusive 2,500+ email list to get tailored advice, product roundups, and be the first to see our new content. { If yourhot water temperatureis set to140 degrees Fahrenheit, it takes three seconds toburn your skinserious enough to require surgery. You can find a thermostat dial for a gas storage water heater near the bottom of the tank on the gas valve. As the temperature gets higher, pathogens die off quicker. Others just help you improve both the heating and safety of your hot water heater or its parts. How should you set your temperature with so much riding on it? Whether your system has a tank or is tankless, gets heated up by gas or electricity that doesnt really matter. This is the preset thermostat temperature in most new water heaters, and its the recommended setting of theU.S. Department of Energy. Water heaters are factory set at OSHA recommended levels, around 140 degrees. If were not on time, we pay you $5.00 for each minute were late, up to 60 minutes (or $300). The main mission of your water heater is to get rid of the majority of bacteria by raising the temperature of your water. Rule of thumb is safe bathing and showering temperature is 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to call a licensed plumber if you have a tricky installation. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer). What Is the Optimal Temperature for a Greenhouse? Contact us today at (800) 259-7705! FL Need Assistance? })(); Anthony Barnes is the founder of Water Heater Hub and a second-generation plumber by profession. All Rights Reserved. Are you tired of your water heater leaking, failing to flush out sediment, or just Transformers at Universal Studios Hollywood, Six Common Problems with Your Home Water Heater, What Every Homeowner Should Know About Water Heater Maintenance. Replace the insulation and panels, then restore power. Water heated at 140F also poses a safety hazardscalding. In general, many who live alone aim for a lower temperature in the acceptable range since demand for hot water is less and it saves money. This will keep the water nice and hot for your dishwasher and still remain safe to use for most of your family members, provided you also use enough cold water to compensate. Marker to mark the setting on your thermostat. Some models have two: An upper and lower thermostat. What Is The Best Water Heater Temperature Setting? reduce the lifespan of your water heater. This does not heat water, but keeps the pilot light ignited. However, those who suffer from suppressed immune systems or who deal with respiratory diseases may want a hotter water temperature to both kill off bacteria and create a higher concentration of steam in the air when showering. Some components of a hot water heater that may need to be replaced from time to time consist of things like heat traps, ignitors, powered anode rods, dry-fire protection and more. To change the temperature, simply turn the knob to the preferred setting. If adjusting the thermostat still doesnt give you the right temperature, it may be time to replace the water heaterelement. Energy is defined as gas or electric.