For many people, there’s nothing better than a hot shower to get the morning started. Although that may just be a perfect 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 scorching can throw away electricity and cost you money. It also can pose a safety concern for members of your family. But, if you set your water heater temperature too low, it can allow growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not produce enough hot water for your household.

So, what temp is the right one for your water heater? In this article, we’ll establish the most efficient 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 Water Heater Temperature Is the Most Efficient?

Although many companies advise setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a better temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Specialists say 120 degrees strikes the right balance between safety and energy use.

The U.S. Department of Energy states that setting a home water heater temperature at 120 degrees could save up to 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 required. If you have the water heater temperature set too high, your water heater is forever heating a tank full of very hot water.

So What Temperature Should My Hot Water Be?

In many instances, 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 choice, especially in homes with small children or elderly men and women. Lower temperatures also minimize mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need to be replaced with a new one.

Can I Raise My Water Temperature Higher Than 120 Degrees?

While many energy experts say 120 degrees is the preferred water heater temperature if you’re looking to save money, is it alright to set it higher? In addition to personal preference, there are a few circumstances where it could make sense to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Increased water temperatures can be helpful in eliminating harmful bacteria that can cause or worsen certain health conditions. This also may be useful if you know your home has a problem with bacteria, or if any members of the household are sick.
  • High usage: If your home tends to use a large volume of hot water all at once—showering while also running the dishwasher and washing machine, for example—a greater water heater temperature may be necessary to make sure there’s adequate hot water to go around.
  • Old dishwasher: If your dishwasher is an older model and doesn’t heat water itself, you may need to set your water heater to a higher temperature for it to work properly.

What Temperature Is Too Hot for my Hot Water Heater?

While some people like their water quite hot or would rather blend hot and cold water to achieve their ideal water temperature, there is such a thing as water that is too hot. Plumbing and heating specialists say any temperature above 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 create third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is especially dangerous in households with children or the elderly.

Call Childress Heating & AC for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Fredericksburg

Water heaters can be a little mysterious, but the skilled specialists at Childress Heating & AC know these appliances extremely well. They’ve repaired many brands and styles of water heaters over the years, so they have the experience to handle your water heater repair in Fredericksburg.

We also offer water heater replacement, so call us at 540-675-4306 if you think you need water heater installation in Fredericksburg. We are happy to take a look at your system and provide a no-cost estimate!