Steps to Adjust a Hot Water Heater Temperature

Every home has a water heater working quietly behind the scenes to warm up water for showering, cooking, cleaning and other household tasks. However, does the water in your residence feel too hot at the tap? Or, it could be the opposite is true, and the water doesn’t seem to ever get hot enough. You might need to adjust your hot water heater heat level to improve comfort, safety and energy efficiency. Read more to find out why you might decide to change the temperature and how to make this straightforward adjustment based on the type of water heater your home uses.

Why to Change Your Water Heater Temperature

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

Why Should You Turn Down the Water Heater Temperature?

• Safety: A temperature of more than 140 degrees can result in third-degree burns in seconds. Decreasing your water heater’s temperature closer to 120 degrees further minimizes the risk of scalding from the tap. While hot water burns 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 performing other water heater maintenance activities. Once the appliance is off, wait several hours to allow the water to cool before doing any work so scalding water doesn’t splash on your skin.
• Energy savings: Water heating accounts for a significant portion of your home’s energy use. Reducing the temperature setting to 120 degrees decreases your utility expenses without diminishing hot water performance. When you leave town for a few days, lower 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 below 120 degrees for very long because this causes an environment where unhealthy bacteria can grow.
• Better cleaning: If your dishwasher doesn’t come with a built-in heating capability, you might need to set your water heater higher than 120 degrees for your dishes to come out of the dishwasher clean. Hotter water cleans grease and dirt more effectively and offers better sanitation.
• More hot water for everyone: Increasing 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 Modify the Temp of a Hot Water Heater

Before making any adjustments, it’s smart to determine your current water temperature. Open the hot water tap at the kitchen sink and hold a cooking thermometer under the water. Generally, the temperature at the tap is about 10 degrees less than the water heater setting because the water loses heat as it flows through your pipes.

Changing the water heater is a simple undertaking with most units. Follow these tips to help you make the correct adjustment.

Traditional Storage Tank Water Heater Temperatures

If your water heater has a gas or electric storage tank, inspect 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. Turn the knob just a little in one direction or the other, depending on if you are aiming for hotter or cooler water.

After the adjustment, wait three hours to allow the temperature in the tank to stabilize. After that, check the water temperature at the tap once again. You can continue using your hot water like normal even though you are waiting.

Changing the Temperature on a Tankless Water Heater

Modern tankless models commonly have a simple-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 achieve 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.

Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for Water Heater Services in Fort Lauderdale

Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is dedicated to improving home comfort and safety with reliable water heater repair in Fort Lauderdale. Consider scheduling services with us if you need help adjusting your hot water heater settings or if the thermostat reading and tap temperature do not match. We provide fast, enduring solutions to all your water heater concerns. For expert service that is completely personalized to your needs, call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning at 954-736-4314 today!