How to Modify a Hot Water Heater Temperature
Every home has a water heater working quietly behind the scenes to supply hot water for showering, cooking, cleaning and other household tasks. Have you noticed the water feeling too hot at the tap? Perhaps the opposite is true, and the water doesn’t seem to ever get as hot as it should be. You might need to correct your hot water heater temperature to enhance comfort, safety and energy efficiency. Here are some reasons why you might want to change the temperature and how to make this simple adjustment based on the type of water heater in your residence.
Why to Change Your Water Heater Temperature
At times, you need to lower the temperature; other times, the hot water might necessitate a boost. As reported by the US Department of Energy, the ideal water heater temperature is between 120 and 140 degrees F, which provides a nice balance between safety and energy efficiency.
But where within this range should you set your hot water heater? The answer relies on your household’s specific needs.
Turn Down the Water Heater Temp? Here’s Why:
- Safety: A temperature higher than 140 degrees risks third-degree burns in just a few seconds. Turning down your water heater’s temperature closer to 120 degrees lowers the risk of scalding from the tap. Although scalding can happen to anyone, children and older adults are particularly at risk, as their skin is sensitive and can burn much faster.
- Maintenance: Turning the temperature off is an essential first step before draining the tank or doing other water heater maintenance tasks. Once the appliance is off, wait several hours to give the water time to cool before beginning maintenance so scalding water doesn’t splash on your skin.
- Energy savings: Water heating accounts for a considerable portion of your home’s energy use. Reducing the temperature setting to 120 degrees reduces your utility bills without diminishing hot water performance. When you leave town for a few days, turn down the temperature even more for energy savings while you’re away.
Why You Should Increase Your Water Heater Temp
- Microbial growth in the tank: Avoid setting your water heater below 120 degrees for very long because this causes an environment where harmful bacteria can grow.
- Better cleaning: If your dishwasher doesn’t come with a built-in heating element, you might need to set your water heater greater than 120 degrees for your dishes to come out of the dishwasher clean. Hotter water removes grease and dirt more successfully and provides better sanitation.
- More hot water for large families: Boosting your water heater’s temperature makes more hot water available. If you’re normally the last person to get ready in the morning and you typically suffer through lukewarm showers, try turning the water heater setting up to 140 degrees.
How to Change the Temperature on a Hot Water Heater
Before making any modifications, it’s smart to test your current water temperature. Turn on the hot water tap at the kitchen sink and put a cooking thermometer into the water. Often, the temperature at the tap is about 10 degrees less than the water heater setting because the water loses heat as it flows through your pipes.
Altering the water heater is a fairly simple task with most units. Follow these tips to help you make the right adjustment.
Changing the Temperature on a Tank Water Heater
If the water in your home has a gas or electric storage tank, inspect the bottom of the tank for a temperature dial. You may see “Low” on one end and “Very Hot” on the other, with letter and symbol markings in between. Move the knob a little bit one way or the other, depending on if you are aiming for hotter or cooler water.
Once you’ve made the adjustment, hold off doing anything else to the water heater for three hours so the temperature in the tank to stabilize. Then, test the water temperature at the tap once again. Feel free to keep using your hot water like normal during this waiting period.
Tankless Water Heater Temperature Adjustment
Contemporary tankless models commonly have an easy-to-use digital control panel with temperature settings you can move up or down with the touch of a button. Be aware that tankless water heaters sometimes aren’t able to achieve the highest settings during cold spells or peak demand times. If you’re struggling with the lower flow rate, contemplate adding a second point-of-use unit in the kitchen or bathroom.
Reach Out to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Water Heater Services in Canada
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is committed to increasing home comfort and safety with reliable water heater repair in Canada. Consider scheduling services with us if you need assistance adjusting your hot water heater settings or if the thermostat reading and tap temperature do not match. We offer fast, long-lasting solutions to all your water heater dilemmas. For expert service customized to your needs, call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing at 866-397-3787 today!
