For many people, there’s nothing better than a hot shower to start the day. While that may be a great 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 scorching can squander electricity and cost you money. It also can cause a safety concern for members of your residence. 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 temp is ideal for your water heater? Here, we’ll establish the most effective temperature to use, when there could be reason to set it a little higher and how hot is too hot for your own water heater.

What Is the Most Efficient Temperature for a Water Heater?

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

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

What's the Right Temperature for My Hot Water?

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 requirements of most homes, but not so hot there's a danger of burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer option, especially in homes with young children or elderly men and women. Reduced temperatures also decrease mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need to be replaced with a new one.

Can I Set 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 looking to save money, is it OK to set it higher? In addition to personal preference, there are some 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 aggravate certain health conditions. This also may be practical if you know your home has a problem with bacteria, or if any people who live in your home are sick.
  • High usage: If your home tends to use a lot of hot water at the same time—showering while also running the dishwasher and washing machine, for example—a higher water heater temperature may be necessary to make sure there’s adequate hot water for everyone.
  • Old dishwasher: If your dishwasher is an older model and doesn’t heat water itself, it may be necessary to set your water heater to a higher temperature for it to work correctly.

What Temperature Is Too High?

Even though some people like their water exceptionally hot or would rather blend hot and cold water to create their ideal 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 considered way too hot, it takes just seconds for the water to create third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is particularly dangerous in residences with children or the elderly.

Call Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Rockford

Water heaters can sometimes feel a little mysterious, but the knowledgeable specialists at Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling know these appliances inside and out. They’ve fixed many brands and designs of water heaters over the years, so they have the experience to take care of your water heater repair in Rockford.

We also offer water heater replacement, so reach out to us at (815) 914-6197 if you think you need water heater installation in Rockford. We are happy to check out your system and produce a no-cost estimate!