Most people don’t enjoy jumping into a cold shower. If the water is too cold or too hot, you should adjust the temperature of your hot water heater. The recommended water temperature is between 120 to 140°F for function, health, and safety.
6 Steps to Adjust Water Heater Temperature
There are several types of water heaters but the most common are tankless, electric, and gas. If you have a tankless water heater, you can easily adjust the temperature using the digital control panel and set it to the desired temperature.
If you have an electric or gas water heater, follow these 6 steps to adjust the water temperature:
1. Shut off power to the water heater at the circuit breaker.
2. Remove the thermostat’s access panel and pull back the insulation.
3. Adjust the thermostat’s temperature setting using a flathead screwdriver. If your heater has two thermostats, adjust both the same amount. The top thermostat should be a few degrees higher than the bottom thermostat.
4. Replace the insulation and reinstall the access panel.
5. Return the circuit breaker to the ON position.
6. For gas water heaters, you may need to relight the pilot light.
After adjusting the water heater temperature, wait a few hours, test the water temperature, and make any necessary adjustments to find the ideal setting.
Risks of Incorrect Water Temp
As stated earlier, the recommended water temperature is between 120 and 140°F. It is important to periodically check your water temperature and make adjustments since there are health and home efficiency risks associated with incorrect water temperature.
Water that is too hot can be dangerous, especially for children and elderly adults. Water above 130 degrees can cause scalding, and water above 140 degrees can cause third-degree burns for those with sensitive skin.
High water temperatures can also be bad for your energy bills and the lifespan of your water heater. The higher your water heater is set, the higher your utility bills will be. Higher temperatures also mean your heater is working harder and may cause it to burn out more quickly.
That being said, you don’t want your water heater set too low either, as this can also be a health hazard. A bacteria called Legionella bacteria can be found in water between 68 and 113°F. Breathing in water droplets with this bacteria can lead to Legionnaires disease, a bacterial infection that causes an atypical form of pneumonia.
Hot Water Heater Repair and Installation
If adjusting the water heater temperature does not raise or lower your water to the desired temperature, it may need to be repaired or replaced. Most residential water heaters have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, and tankless heaters can last even longer. If your water heater isn’t performing properly, call a professional plumber for an inspection
Homes and businesses in the Baltimore area can rely on Ace Plumbing to repair their water heater or install a new ones. With 25 years of experience, our team of skilled plumbers has mastered the art of water heater optimization.
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