How to Modify a Hot Water Heater Temperature

Every home has a water heater working quietly out of sight to supply hot water for showering, cooking, cleaning and other household jobs. However, does the water in your residence feel too hot at the tap? Maybe the opposite is true, and the water just won’t get as hot as it should be. You might need to adjust your hot water heater settings to enhance comfort, safety and energy efficiency. Read more to find out why you might want to change the temperature and how to make this easy adjustment based on the type of water heater in your residence.

Why to Change Your Water Heater Temperature

At times, you need to lower the temperature; other times, the hot water might require a boost. According to the US Department of Energy, the optimal water heater temperature is between 120 and 140 degrees F, which provides a nice 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 specific needs.

Why Should You Turn Down the Water Heater Temperature?

• Safety: A temperature greater than 140 degrees risks third-degree burns in just a few seconds. Reducing your water heater’s temperature closer to 120 degrees reduces the risk of scalding at the tap. Although scalding can happen to anyone, children and older adults are particularly at risk, as their skin is sensitive and can burn more quickly.
• Maintenance: Turning the temperature off is a crucial first step before draining the tank or performing other water heater maintenance tasks. As soon as the water heater is off, wait several hours so the water can cool before doing any work so scalding water doesn’t splash on your skin.
• Energy savings: Water heating results in a significant portion of your home’s energy use. Reducing the temperature setting to 120 degrees reduces your utility costs without diminishing hot water performance. When you leave town for a few days, turn down the heat even more for energy savings while you’re away.

Why You Should Turn Up a Water Heater’s Temperature

• Microbial growth in the tank: Do not set the temperature of your water heater below 120 degrees for very long because this produces an environment where unhealthy bacteria can grow.
• Better cleaning: If your dishwasher doesn’t include a built-in heating capability, you may need to set your water heater higher than 120 degrees for your dishes to actually become clean. Hotter water cleans grease and dirt more effectively and results in better sanitation.
• More hot water for large families: Raising your water heater’s temperature makes more hot water available. If you’re frequently the last one 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 modifications, it’s wise to check your current water temperature. Open the hot water tap at the kitchen sink and place a cooking thermometer under the stream. Usually, the temperature at the tap is about 10 degrees lower than the water heater setting because the water loses heat as it flows through your pipes.

Changing the water heater is an easy task with most units. Stick to these recommendations to help you make the correct adjustment.

Changing the Temperature on a Tank Water Heater

If you have a gas or electric storage tank, look near the bottom of the tank for a temperature dial. You might see “Low” on one end and “Very Hot” on the other, with letter and symbol markings in between. Rotate the knob slightly in one direction or the other, depending on whether you need to have hotter or cooler water.

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

Tankless Water Heater Temperature Adjustment

Modern-day tankless models usually have an easy-to-use digital control panel with temperature settings you can move up or down simply by pushing a button. It’s worth noting that tankless water heaters might not be able to achieve the highest settings during cold spells or peak demand times. If you’re struggling with the lower flow rate, look into installing 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 committed to improving home comfort and safety with reliable water heater repair in Fort Lauderdale. Consider scheduling services with us if you need assistance modifying your hot water heater settings or if the thermostat reading and tap temperature don’t seem to match. We offer fast, lasting solutions to all your water heater dilemmas. For expert service customized to your needs, call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning at 954-736-4314 today!