How to Change a Hot Water Heater Temperature
Every home has a water heater working quietly in the background to supply hot water for showering, cooking, cleaning and other household needs. Have you noticed the water feeling too hot at the tap? Maybe the opposite is true, and the water just won’t get as hot as it should be. You could need to change your hot water heater heat level to improve comfort, safety and energy efficiency. Learn why you might want to change the temperature and how to make this easy adjustment based on the type of water heater in your residence.
Reasons to Adjust Hot Water Heater Settings
Occasionally, you need to lower the temperature; other times, the hot water might require a boost. As reported by the US Department of Energy, the most beneficial water heater temperature is between 120 and 140 degrees F, which strikes a balance between safety and energy efficiency.
Just where in this range should you have your hot water heater? The answer will depend on your household’s unique needs.
Turn Down the Water Heater Temp? Here’s Why:
- Safety: A temperature of more than 140 degrees can result in third-degree burns within seconds. Decreasing your water heater’s temperature closer to 120 degrees further minimizes the risk of scalding at the tap. Although this can happen to anyone, children and older adults are specifically at risk, as their skin is sensitive and can burn more quickly.
- Maintenance: Turning the temperature off is a crucial first step before draining the tank or doing other water heater maintenance activities. As soon as the water heater is off, wait several hours to allow the water to cool before doing any work so scalding water doesn’t splash on your skin.
- Energy savings: Water heating results in a major portion of your home’s energy use. Changing the temperature setting to 120 degrees reduces your utility bills without sacrificing hot water performance. When you leave town for a few days, turn down the heat even more for energy savings while you’re gone.
Why You Should Increase Your Water Heater Temp
- Microbial growth in the tank: Do not set the temperature of your water heater lower than 120 degrees for a long time because this causes an environment where unhealthy bacteria can grow.
- Better cleaning: If your dishwasher doesn’t have a built-in heating element, you may need to set your water heater higher than 120 degrees for your dishes to actually become clean. Hotter water removes grease and dirt more effectively and results in better sanitation.
- More hot water for everyone: Increasing your water heater’s temperature makes more hot water available. If you’re often the last family member 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 Modify the Temp of a Hot Water Heater
Before making any changes, it’s a good idea to check your current water temperature. Turn on the hot water tap at the kitchen sink and place a cooking thermometer into the flow. Generally, the temperature at the tap is about 10 degrees colder than the water heater setting due to heat loss as the water flows through your pipes.
Changing the water heater is a fairly simple process with many units. Use these recommendations to help you make the right adjustment.
Traditional Storage Tank Water Heater Temperatures
If the water in your home has a gas or electric storage tank, inspect the bottom of the tank for a temperature dial. You should see “Low” on one end and “Very Hot” on the other, with letter and symbol markings in between. Turn the knob just a little to one side or the other, depending on if you want hotter or cooler water.
Following the adjustment, hold off doing anything else to the water heater for three hours so the temperature in the tank to stabilize. Next, test the water temperature at the tap once more. You can continue using your hot water like normal while you wait.
Tankless Water Heater Temperature Adjustment
Contemporary tankless models usually have a user-friendly digital control panel with temperature settings you can move up or down simply by pushing a button. Be aware that tankless water heaters may not be able to attain the highest settings during cold spells or peak demand times. If you’re having difficulties with the lower flow rate, consider installing a second point-of-use unit in the kitchen or bathroom.
Contact 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 changing your hot water heater settings or if the thermostat reading and tap temperature are different. We provide fast, long-lasting solutions to all your water heater problems. For expert service that is completely personalized to your needs, phone Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing at 866-397-3787 today!
