For quite a few people, there's nothing like a hot shower to get the morning started. Even though that might be a fantastic 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 above the recommended degree can waste power and cost you money. It also can pose a safety issue for members of your residence. But, if you set your water heater temperature too low, it can enable growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not supply enough hot water for your property.

So, what temperature is ideal for your water heater? Here, we’ll establish the most efficient temperature to use, when there could be cause to set it a little higher and how hot is too hot for your home's water heater.

What Water Heater Temperature Is the Most Efficient?

Although many brands 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 consumption.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that setting a home water heater temperature at 120 degrees could save approximately 22 percent on a home's utility bills. Energy waste is a particular challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models constantly 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 filled to the brim with super-hot water.

So What Temperature Should My Hot Water Be?

In many instances, the suggested efficient temperature of 120 degrees is an effective yet cost-saving setting for your water heater. At 120 degrees, the water is hot enough to meet the needs of most residents, but not so hot there's a danger of burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer alternative, especially in homes with small children or elderly men and women. Cooler temperatures also minimize mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need replacement.

Can I Set My Water Temperature Hotter Than 120 Degrees?

While many industry experts say 120 degrees is the preferred water heater temperature if you’re trying to save money, is it alright to set it higher? Beyond personal preference, there are a few situations where it could be a good idea to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Hotter water temperatures can be beneficial in eliminating harmful bacteria that can cause or aggravate certain health conditions. This also may be recommended if you know your home has trouble with bacteria, or if any residents of the house have a compromised immune system.
  • High usage: If your home is inclined to use a significant amount of hot water all at once—showering while also running the dishwasher and washing machine, for example—a hotter water heater temperature may be necessary to make sure there’s sufficient hot water for all the household's needs.
  • Old dishwasher: If your dishwasher is an older model and doesn’t heat water as part of its process, it may be necessary to set your water heater to a higher temperature for it to work properly.

What Temperature Is Too Hot for my Hot Water Heater?

Although some people like their water quite hot or would rather blend hot and cold water to achieve their perfect water temperature, there is such a thing as water that is too hot. Energy officials say any temperature above 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 especially dangerous in residences 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 knowledgeable specialists at Childress Heating & AC know these appliances extremely well. They’ve serviced 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 give us a call at 540-675-4306 if you believe you need water heater installation in Fredericksburg. We are happy to examine your system and produce a no-cost estimate!