For lots of people, there's nothing like a hot shower to start the day. Even though that may be a fantastic way to wake up and start the day, experts say you should be careful not to set your water too hot.

Setting your water heater to a temperature that’s above the recommended degree can squander energy and cost you money. It also can pose a safety challenge for members of your family. But, if you set your water heater temperature too low, it can permit growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not supply sufficient hot water for your dwelling.

So, what temperature is the right one for your water heater? In this article, we’ll establish the most effective temperature to use, when there could be cause to set it a little higher and how hot is too hot for your personal water heater.

What Temperature for my Water Heater Is the Most Energy Efficient?

Although many manufacturers advise setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a more efficient temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Experts say 120 degrees hits the right balance between safety and energy consumption.

The U.S. Department of Energy states that setting a home water heater temperature at 120 degrees could save roughly 22 percent on energy bills. Energy waste is a frequent challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models always heat a tank of water in case it is demanded. If you have the water heater temperature set too high, your water heater is forever heating a tank full of very hot water.

So What Temperature Should My Hot Water Be?

More often than not, the suggested efficient temperature of 120 degrees is a good setting for your water heater. At 120 degrees, the water is hot enough to meet the desires of most members of the household, but not so hot there's a danger of burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer option, especially in homes with younger children or elderly people. Lower temperatures also minimize mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need replacing.

Should You Ever Set Your Water Temperature Hotter Than 120 Degrees?

While many energy experts say 120 degrees is the ideal water heater temperature if you’re looking to save money, is it acceptable to set it higher? In addition to personal preference, there are a few scenarios where it could make sense to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Hotter water temperatures can be helpful in eliminating harmful bacteria that can cause or exacerbate certain health conditions. This also may be useful if you know your home has trouble with bacteria, or if any people who live in your home are sick.
  • High usage: If your home has a tendency to use a lot of hot water simultaneously—showering while also running the dishwasher and washing machine, for example—a hotter water heater temperature may be necessary to make sure there’s sufficient hot water to go around.
  • Old dishwasher: If your dishwasher is an older model and doesn’t heat water as part of its process, it may be necessary to set your water heater to a higher temperature for it to work properly.

How Hot Is Too Hot for a Water Heater?

While some people like their water very hot or prefer to blend hot and cold water to achieve their ideal water temperature, there is such a thing as water that is too hot. Experts say any temperature hotter than 140 degrees is too hot for a water heater in a residential dwelling. At 150 degrees, which is definitely way too hot, it takes just seconds for the water to cause third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is considered very dangerous in homes with children or the elderly.

Call Fal-Ken Heating & Cooling Corporation for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Holbrook

Water heaters can be a little mysterious, but the qualified specialists at Fal-Ken Heating & Cooling Corporation know these appliances extremely well. They’ve repaired many brands and types of water heaters through the years, so they have the experience to handle your water heater repair in Holbrook.

We also offer water heater replacement, so contact us at 631-460-5159 if you believe you need water heater installation in Holbrook. We are happy to examine your system and produce a no-cost estimate!