Steps to Adjust a Hot Water Heater Temperature

Every home has a water heater working quietly out of sight to heat water for showering, cooking, cleaning and other household needs. Does your home’s water feel too hot at the tap? Perhaps the opposite is true, and the water just won’t get hot enough. You could need to adjust your hot water heater heat level to improve comfort, safety and energy efficiency. Read more to find out why you might need to change the temperature and how to make this simple adjustment based on the type of water heater you have.

Reasons to Adjust Hot Water Heater Settings

At times, you might need to lower the temperature; other times, the hot water might need 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 within this range should you have your hot water heater? The answer relies on your household’s individual needs.

Reasons to Turn the Temperature Down

• Safety: A temperature higher than 140 degrees can produce third-degree burns in seconds. Turning down your water heater’s temperature closer to 120 degrees further minimizes the risk of scalding from the tap. While scalding can happen to anyone, children and older adults are particularly at risk, as their skin is sensitive and can burn more rapidly.
• Maintenance: Turning the temperature off is an important first step before draining the tank or carrying out other water heater maintenance activities. Once the unit 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 minimizes your utility bills without diminishing hot water performance. When you will be gone for a few days, turn down the temperature even more for energy savings while you’re gone.

Reasons to Turn the Temperature Up

• Microbial growth in the tank: Avoid setting your water heater lower than 120 degrees for a long time because this produces an environment where unsafe bacteria can grow.
• Better cleaning: If your dishwasher doesn’t come with a built-in heating capability, you may need to set your water heater greater than 120 degrees for your dishes to get clean. Hotter water removes grease and dirt more efficiently and provides better sanitation.
• More hot water for large families: Raising your water heater’s temperature makes more hot water available. If you’re usually the last family member to get ready in the morning and you routinely get stuck with 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 adjustments, it’s wise to determine your current water temperature. Open the hot water tap at the kitchen sink and hold a cooking thermometer under the water. Often, 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.

Altering the water heater is a fairly simple process with most units. Stick to these guidelines to help you make the proper adjustment.

Changing the Temperature on a Tank Water Heater

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 may see “Low” on one end and “Very Hot” on the other, with letter and symbol markings in between. Move the knob slightly in one direction or the other, depending on whether you need hotter or cooler water.

Following the adjustment, kick back and relax for three hours so the temperature in the tank to stabilize. Next, test the water temperature at the tap once again. Feel free to continue using your hot water like normal while you wait.

Changing the Temperature on a Tankless Water Heater

Today’s popular 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. It’s worth noting that tankless water heaters may 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, 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 the U.S.

Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is dedicated to enhancing home comfort and safety with reliable water heater repair in the U.S.. Consider scheduling services with us if you need assistance modifying your hot water heater settings or if the thermostat reading and tap temperature are different. We offer fast, long-lasting solutions to all your water heater dilemmas. For expert service that is completely personalized to your needs, phone Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing at 866-397-3787 today!