Ways to Modify a Hot Water Heater Temperature
Every home has a water heater working quietly behind the scenes to warm up water for showering, cooking, cleaning and other household activities. However, does the water in your residence feel too hot at the tap? Perhaps the opposite is true, and the water doesn’t seem to ever get hot enough. You could need to correct your hot water heater settings to increase comfort, safety and energy efficiency. Read more to find out 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
Sometimes, you might need to lower the temperature; other times, the hot water might require a boost. According to the US Department of Energy, the desired water heater temperature is between 120 and 140 degrees F, striking a balance between safety and energy efficiency.
Just where within this range should you have your hot water heater? The answer depends on your household’s individual needs.
Why Should You Turn Down the Water Heater Temperature?
- Safety: A temperature of more than 140 degrees risks third-degree burns in just a few seconds. Turning down your water heater’s temperature closer to 120 degrees reduces the risk of scalding from the tap. Although hot water burns can happen to anyone, children and older adults are the most at risk, as their skin is sensitive and can burn more quickly.
- Maintenance: Turning the temperature off is an essential first step before draining the tank or performing other water heater maintenance tasks. As soon as the water heater 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. Lowering the temperature setting to 120 degrees decreases your utility expenses without sacrificing hot water performance. When you will be gone for a few days, turn down the heat even more for energy savings while you’re out.
Why You Should Turn Up a Water Heater’s Temperature
- Microbial growth in the tank: Don’t set your water heater below 120 degrees for an extended time because this causes an environment where unhealthy 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 offers better sanitation.
- More hot water for the household: Increasing your water heater’s temperature makes more hot water available. If you’re normally the last one to get ready in the morning and you routinely are forced to endure 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 wise to check your current water temperature. Turn on the hot water tap at the kitchen sink and put a cooking thermometer under the flow. Often, the temperature at the tap is about 10 degrees lower than the water heater setting due to heat loss as the water flows through your pipes.
Adjusting the water heater is an easy process with many units. Use these guidelines to help you make the correct adjustment.
Traditional Storage Tank Water Heater Temperatures
If you have a gas or electric storage tank, check near the bottom of the tank for a temperature dial. You might see “Low” on one end and “Very Hot” on the other, with letter and symbol markings in between. Turn the knob slightly to one side or the other, depending on whether you need hotter or cooler water.
Following the adjustment, wait three hours so the temperature in the tank to stabilize. Next, test the water temperature at the tap once again. You can continue using your hot water like normal even though you are waiting.
Changing the Temperature on a Modern Tankless Hot Water Heaters
Modern-day tankless models often have a simple-to-use digital control panel with temperature settings you can move up or down with the touch of a button. It’s worth noting that tankless water heaters might not be able to attain the highest settings during cold spells or peak demand times. If you’re having problems with the lower flow rate, consider setting up a second point-of-use unit in the kitchen or bathroom.
Call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Water Heater Services in Canada
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is committed to enhancing home comfort and safety with reliable water heater repair in Canada. Consider scheduling services with us if you need guidance or support in modifying your hot water heater settings or if the thermostat reading and tap temperature don’t seem to match. We provide fast, lasting solutions to all your water heater problems. For expert service customized to your needs, phone Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing at 866-397-3787 today!