Ways to Modify a Hot Water Heater Temperature

Every home has a water heater working quietly in the background to heat water for showering, cooking, cleaning and other household jobs. However, does the water in your residence feel too hot at the tap? Perhaps the opposite is true, and the water never seems to get hot enough. You could need to change your hot water heater heat level to improve comfort, safety and energy efficiency. Read more to find out why you might need to change the temperature and how to make this straightforward adjustment based on the type of water heater your home uses.

Reasons to Adjust Hot Water Heater Settings

Sometimes, you might need to lower the temperature; other times, the hot water might need a boost. Per the US Department of Energy, the most beneficial water heater temperature is between 120 and 140 degrees F, striking a balance between safety and energy efficiency.

Just where within this range should you put your hot water heater? The answer will depend on your household’s unique needs.

Turn Down the Water Heater Temp? Here’s Why:

• Safety: A temperature greater than 140 degrees risks 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. While this can happen to anyone, children and older adults are particularly at risk, as their skin is sensitive and can burn more rapidly.
• Maintenance: Turning the temperature off is an essential first step before draining the tank or performing other water heater maintenance work. As soon as the unit 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 makes up a major portion of your home’s energy use. Reducing the temperature setting to 120 degrees decreases your utility costs without sacrificing hot water performance. When you leave town for a few days, lower the heat even more for energy savings while you’re out.

Reasons to Turn the Temperature Up

• Microbial growth in the tank: Avoid setting your water heater under 120 degrees for very long because this creates an environment where harmful bacteria can grow.
• Better cleaning: If your dishwasher doesn’t have a built-in heating capability, you may need to set your water heater greater than 120 degrees for your dishes to get clean. Hotter water removes grease and dirt more successfully and provides better sanitation.
• More hot water for the household: Raising your water heater’s temperature makes more hot water available. If you’re often the last person 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 modifications, it’s wise to test your current water temperature. Turn on the hot water tap at the kitchen sink and hold a cooking thermometer into the flow. Usually, the temperature at the tap is about 10 degrees lower than the water heater setting due to heat lost from the water as it flows through your pipes.

Altering the water heater is a fairly simple task with many units. Follow these guidelines to help you make the right adjustment.

Changing the Temperature on a Tank Water Heater

If the water in your home has a gas or electric storage tank, inspect 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. Turn the knob a little bit in one direction or the other, depending on whether you need hotter or cooler water.

After the adjustment, wait three hours for the temperature in the tank to stabilize. Next, test the water temperature at the tap once more. Feel free to keep using your hot water like normal during this waiting period.

Changing the Temperature on a Tankless Water Heater

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. 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 problems with the lower flow rate, consider adding a second point-of-use unit in the kitchen or bathroom.

Call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for Water Heater Services in Fort Lauderdale

Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is dedicated to improving home comfort and safety with reliable water heater repair in Fort Lauderdale. Consider scheduling services with us if you need guidance or support in changing your hot water heater settings or if the thermostat reading and tap temperature don’t seem to match. We provide fast, lasting solutions to all your water heater dilemmas. For expert service tailored to your needs, call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning at 954-736-4314 today!