For quite a few people, nothing feels quite as good as a hot shower to start the day. Even though that may just be a fantastic way to wake up and start the day, experts say it’s possible to set your water too hot.

Setting your water heater to a temperature that’s too hot can squander electricity and cost you money. It also can create a safety concern for members of your family. But, if you set your water heater temperature too low, it can enable growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not supply enough hot water for your property.

So, what temp is the right one for your water heater? In this article, we’ll identify the most cost-effective temperature to use, when there could be justification to set it a little higher and how hot is too hot for your home's water heater.

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

Although many manufacturers encourage setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a better temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Experts say 120 degrees strikes the right balance between safety and energy consumption.

The U.S. Department of Energy reports that setting a home water heater temperature at 120 degrees could save approximately 22 percent on energy costs. Energy waste is especially a challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models continuously 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 brimming with extremely hot water.

So What Temperature Should My Hot Water Be?

More often than not, the suggested efficient temperature of 120 degrees is an effective yet cost-saving setting for your water heater. At 120 degrees, the water is heated enough to meet the desires of most homes, but not so hot that it could cause burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer choice, especially in homes with small children or elderly men and women. Lower temperatures also decrease mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need replacement.

Can I Raise My Water Temperature Higher Than 120 Degrees?

While many plumbing and heating experts say 120 degrees is the best water heater temperature if you’re trying to save money, is it alright to set it higher? In addition to personal preference, there are a few scenarios where it could be a good idea to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Increased water temperatures can be beneficial in eliminating harmful bacteria that can cause or exacerbate certain health conditions. This also may be recommended if you know your home has trouble with bacteria, or if any residents of the house have a compromised immune system.
  • High usage: If your home is inclined to use a lot of hot water simultaneously—showering while also running the dishwasher and washing machine, for example—a higher water heater temperature may be necessary to make sure there’s enough 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 quite hot or would rather blend hot and cold water to create their desired water temperature, there is such a thing as water that is too hot. Energy officials say any temperature hotter than 140 degrees is too hot for a water heater in a residential dwelling. At 150 degrees, which is regarded as way too hot, it takes only seconds for the water to lead to third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is considered very dangerous in households with children or the elderly.

Call Marios Air Conditioning for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Thousand Palms

Water heaters can sometimes feel a little mysterious, but the knowledgeable specialists at Marios Air Conditioning know these appliances like the back of their hands. They’ve repaired many brands and types of water heaters through the years, so they have the experience to take care of your water heater repair in Thousand Palms.

We also offer water heater replacement, so contact us at 760-314-4766 if you suspect you need water heater installation in Thousand Palms. We are happy to examine your system and produce a complimentary estimate!