For many Americans, it seems like hot water at the turn of a tap has always been available. The truth is as startling as a cold shower. The modern water heater was invented in 1889 by Edwin Ruud. However, the device got off to a slow start. As Sense explains, only 1% of U.S. homes had indoor plumbing and electricity by 1920. Standardized plumbing codes in the 1940s finally helped make indoor plumbing an expectation, which also brought water heaters into wide use.
Water heaters and the technologies that power them have consistently improved. There are several kinds of water heaters in use today, including gas, electric, and tankless. All share the same top priority: heating water safely. What is the best temperature for a water heater? As some of the top-rated experts in water heater installation and repair, the team at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Daytona, FL, is happy to help you find the right answer.
Are There General Recommendations for Water Heater Temperature?
Recommendations for setting the temperature on your water heater are mixed. Exploring the differing viewpoints provides a good starting point when you’re thinking about the temperature of your household’s water heater.
The U.S. Department of Energy suggests setting your water heater temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. It says this temperature provides the hot water you desire while reducing the risk of scalding and saving energy.
Most water heater manufacturers and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, encourage homeowners to set their water heaters for 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the default setting on most water heaters, and they say it is the most effective temperature for cleaning and sanitizing.
How low should you let it go? Experts agree that water heaters should never be set below 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Turning the temperature too low is a safety hazard because it may allow harmful bacteria to flourish inside the tank. Legionella, the bacteria that causes Legionnaire’s disease, is just one example of the hazards that can move into a water heater that is too cool.
How hot is too hot? Most water heaters can be set for temperatures up to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. However, experts generally agree that 140 degrees Fahrenheit is enough to get the job done. Exceeding this temperature is unnecessary and wastes energy. It may also cause your water heater to fail more quickly by pushing it to cycle on more frequently.
How Do I Find the Right Temperature for My Household?
A review of general recommendations reveals that the best temperature for your water heater will be somewhere between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. How do you find the sweet spot? Asking these questions can help:
- Is anyone in my home at high risk for scalding? Young children and elderly people can suffer a third-degree burn in seconds. If you have either in your home, you may wish to set a temperature on the lower side of the range.
- Is anyone in my home immunocompromised? Keeping germs and bacteria away is crucial when someone has a weakened immune system. Setting the water heater temperature at or near 140 degrees Fahrenheit is probably best.
- Is saving energy a top priority? Keeping the temperature on your water heater lower may help to save energy.
- What is the demand for hot water like in my home? Homes with fewer occupants or a low demand for hot water generally find a temperature on the lower end of the range comfortable for their needs. In contrast, homes with several occupants or heavy usage of hot water often benefit from setting the temperature at the higher end of the range.
- Have I considered my appliances? Appliances and mechanical systems also use water, so you’ll need to weigh how and why they use water when determining your ideal temperature. For example, anyone with a dishwasher that doesn’t preheat water will want to set their water heater at the higher end of the range to ensure that there’s enough hot water for proper sanitization.
What If My Water Heater Is Delivering Water That’s Too Hot or Too Cold?
If you’re concerned about the temperature of your water, grab a cup and an instant-read thermometer. Avoid using any hot water for an hour to ensure that your water heater’s tank is full. Next, run your tap for a couple of minutes to let it get fully hot. Then, collect a cup of water, and check its temperature.
If you’d like to change the temperature of your water, you can adjust the controls of your water heater to turn the temperature setting up or down. Take care to stay in the safe range.
What if the temperature of the water coming out of your tap doesn’t match what your water heater control panel indicates? This is a red flag for a problem with your water heater. It’s wise to call a professional plumber to inspect the unit before it fails, and you’re left with no hot water.
In the past, easy access to hot water might have been considered a luxury. In today’s world, it’s a necessity. It plays an essential role in cleaning people, food, laundry, dishes, and more. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Daytona, FL, understands just how vital this resource is. Our team of expert plumbers is ready to assist you with water heater repair and installation. Are you interested in a tankless water heater? We also service and install tankless water heaters. Are you wondering which option is the best choice for your home? We’re happy to have a discussion about your household’s needs, educate you about your water heater options, and recommend the best solution for your property.
Whether you’re in need of a water heater repair, installation, or upgrade, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Daytona, FL, has it covered. To learn more about our services or request our assistance, contact us today.