Steps to Change a Hot Water Heater Temperature

Every home has a water heater working quietly in the background to heat water for showering, cooking, cleaning and other household activities. Does your home’s water feel too hot at the tap? Perhaps the opposite is true, and the water doesn’t seem to ever get as hot as you want. You could need to change your hot water heater heat level to enhance comfort, safety and energy efficiency. Here are some reasons why you might need to change the temperature and how to make this simple adjustment based on the type of water heater you have.

Why to Change Your Water Heater Temperature

At times, you may want 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, striking a balance between safety and energy efficiency.

But where inside this range should you set your hot water heater? The answer will depend on your household’s specific needs.

Turn Down the Water Heater Temp? Here’s Why:

• Safety: A temperature greater than 140 degrees can produce third-degree burns within seconds. Turning down your water heater’s temperature closer to 120 degrees lowers the risk of scalding by water 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 rapidly.
• Maintenance: Turning the temperature off is a crucial first step before draining the tank or carrying out other water heater maintenance tasks. As soon as the water heater is off, wait several hours to allow the water to cool before beginning maintenance so scalding water doesn’t splash on your skin.
• Energy savings: Water heating makes up a major portion of your home’s energy use. Reducing the temperature setting to 120 degrees decreases your utility expenses without sacrificing hot water performance. When you aren’t going to be home 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 under 120 degrees for very long because this causes an environment where harmful bacteria can grow.
• Better cleaning: If your dishwasher doesn’t have a built-in heating capability, 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 large families: Increasing your water heater’s temperature makes more hot water available. If you’re usually 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 Adjust a Hot Water Heater

Before making any adjustments, it’s wise to determine your current water temperature. Open the hot water tap at the kitchen sink and place a cooking thermometer into the stream. 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.

Altering the water heater is a simple task with most units. Stick to these recommendations to help you make the right adjustment.

Traditional Storage Tank Water Heater Temperatures

If your water heater has a gas or electric storage tank, check near 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. Rotate the knob a little bit one way or the other, depending on if you need hotter or cooler water.

Once you’ve made the adjustment, wait three hours to allow the temperature in the tank to stabilize. After that, go find the water temperature at the tap another time. Feel free to continue using your hot water like normal during this waiting period.

Tankless Water Heater Temperature Adjustment

Today’s popular tankless models usually have an easy-to-use digital control panel with temperature settings you can move up or down just by hitting a button. Note 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 adding a second point-of-use unit in the kitchen or bathroom.

Reach Out to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for Water Heater Services in Fort Lauderdale

Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is committed to enhancing home comfort and safety with reliable water heater repair in Fort Lauderdale. 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 are different. We provide fast, long-lasting solutions to all your water heater concerns. For expert service customized to your needs, call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning at 954-736-4314 today!