Steps 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 activities. Have you noticed the water feeling too hot at the tap? Perhaps the opposite is true, and the water never seems to get hot enough. You might need to correct your hot water heater heat level 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 easy adjustment based on the type of water heater your home uses.

Why Change Your Hot Water Heater’s Temperature?

At times, you may want to lower the temperature; other times, the hot water might necessitate a boost. According to the US Department of Energy, the optimal water heater temperature is between 120 and 140 degrees F, which strikes a balance between safety and energy efficiency.

However where in this range should you have your hot water heater? The answer relies on your household’s unique needs.

Reasons to Turn the Temperature Down

• Safety: A temperature greater than 140 degrees risks third-degree burns in just a few seconds. Reducing your water heater’s temperature closer to 120 degrees lowers the risk of scalding by water from the tap. Even though hot water burns can happen to anyone, children and older adults are specifically at risk, as their skin is sensitive and can burn much faster.
• Maintenance: Turning the temperature off is a crucial first step before draining the tank or doing other water heater maintenance activities. After the unit is off, wait several hours so the water can cool before doing any work so scalding water doesn’t splash on your skin.
• Energy savings: Water heating accounts for a major 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 aren’t going to be home for a few days, decrease the temperature even more for energy savings while you’re away.

Reasons to Turn the Temperature Up

• Microbial growth in the tank: Don’t set your water heater lower than 120 degrees for a long time because this creates an environment where harmful bacteria can grow.
• Better cleaning: If your dishwasher doesn’t come with a built-in heating system, you may need to set your water heater greater than 120 degrees for your dishes to actually become clean. Hotter water removes grease and dirt more successfully and results in better sanitation.
• More hot water for the household: Raising your water heater’s temperature makes more hot water available. If you’re normally 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 smart to test your current water temperature. Turn on the hot water tap at the kitchen sink and put a cooking thermometer in the stream. Often, the temperature at the tap is about 10 degrees lower than the water heater setting because the water loses heat as it flows through your pipes.

Changing the water heater is a fairly simple undertaking with most units. Stick to these recommendations to help you make the proper adjustment.

Traditional Storage Tank Water Heater Temperatures

If the water in your home has 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 a little bit in one direction or the other, depending on whether you need to have hotter or cooler water.

Once you’ve made the adjustment, kick back and relax for three hours for the temperature in the tank to stabilize. Next, go find the water temperature at the tap once more. Even though you’re waiting a bit to test the temperature, you can keep using your hot water like normal while you wait.

Changing the Temperature on a Modern Tankless Hot Water Heaters

Contemporary tankless models often have a simple-to-use digital control panel with temperature settings you can move up or down just by hitting a button. Be aware that tankless water heaters might not be able to reach the highest settings during cold spells or peak demand times. If you’re having difficulties with the lower flow rate, consider adding a second point-of-use unit in the kitchen or bathroom.

Contact Fras-Air/General Service Experts for Water Heater Services in Hillsborough

Fras-Air/General Service Experts is committed to enhancing home comfort and safety with reliable water heater repair in Hillsborough. 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 offer fast, enduring solutions to all your water heater concerns. For expert service tailored to your needs, call Fras-Air/General Service Experts at 908-448-2154 today!