How to Adjust a Hot Water Heater Temperature

Every home has a water heater working quietly out of sight to warm up water for showering, cooking, cleaning and other household activities. Have you noticed the water feeling 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 temperature to increase comfort, safety and energy efficiency. Learn why you might need to change the temperature and how to make this easy 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 desired water heater temperature is between 120 and 140 degrees F, which strikes a balance between safety and energy efficiency.

But where in this range should you set 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 greater than 140 degrees can produce third-degree burns in seconds. Lowering your water heater’s temperature closer to 120 degrees reduces the risk of scalding by water from the tap. Even though this can happen to anyone, children and older adults are particularly at risk, as their skin is sensitive and can burn much faster.
• Maintenance: Turning the temperature off is an important first step before draining the tank or doing other water heater maintenance activities. After the unit is off, wait several hours to give the water time to cool before proceeding 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 sacrificing hot water performance. When you will be gone for a few days, decrease the temperature even more for energy savings while you’re gone.

Reasons to Turn the Temperature Up

• Microbial growth in the tank: Don’t set your water heater under 120 degrees for very long because this produces an environment where harmful bacteria can grow.
• Better cleaning: If your dishwasher doesn’t come with a built-in heating element, you may need to set your water heater higher than 120 degrees for your dishes to actually become clean. Hotter water eliminates grease and dirt more efficiently and offers better sanitation.
• More hot water for the household: Increasing your water heater’s temperature makes more hot water available. If you’re frequently the last family member to get ready in the morning and you repeatedly get stuck with lukewarm showers, try turning the water heater setting up to 140 degrees.

How to Adjust a Hot Water Heater

Before making any adjustments, it’s wise to check your current water temperature. Turn on the hot water tap at the kitchen sink and place a cooking thermometer into the flow. Often, 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 fairly simple process with most units. Stick to these guidelines to help you make the right adjustment.

Traditional Storage Tank Water Heater Temperatures

If you have a gas or electric storage tank, check near 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. Move the knob just a little to one side or the other, depending on whether you are looking for hotter or cooler water.

Following the adjustment, kick back and relax for three hours to allow the temperature in the tank to stabilize. After that, test the water temperature at the tap another time. Even though you’re waiting a bit to test the temperature, you can continue using your hot water like normal while you wait.

Tankless Water Heater Temperature Adjustment

Modern tankless models usually have a user-friendly digital control panel with temperature settings you can move up or down with the touch of a button. Be aware that tankless water heaters may not be able to attain the highest settings during cold spells or peak demand times. If you’re having difficulties with the lower flow rate, contemplate setting up 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 devoted 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 do not match. We create fast, lasting solutions to all your water heater issues. For expert service that is completely personalized to your needs, call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning at 954-736-4314 today!