What is the Best Temperature Setting for your Water Heater?
Have you adjusted the temperature on your water heater? If not, you could be missing out on a great energy and money saving opportunity that also decreases the risk of hazards in your home. So what are most water heaters
set at when installed? What are the benefits of lowering the temperature on your water heater?
When you install a new water heater, it will most likely be set at 140 degrees. However, due to safety risks and energy concerns, 140 degrees is considered too high by the EPA and many other water experts.
So what is the best temperature setting for a water heater?
For safe and comfortable water that is also energy-efficient, it’s best to set your water heater at 120 degrees. This temperature setting has a number of different advantages, including:
- Reduces the risk of scalding. A water heater that is set at 140 degrees may be a safety threat because it can burn your skin rapidly. A water heater that’s set at 120 degrees provides hot water that is much less likely to burn you.
- Slows mineral buildup. By reducing your water heater’s temperature, you can slow down the buildup of minerals both in your tank and in your pipes. This will increase the efficiency of your plumbing system and extend the life of your water heater.
- Saves energy. The EPA says that you can save between three and five percent off of your water heater’s energy consumption for every 10 degrees that you lower the temperature. By reducing your water heater from 140 to 120 degrees, you can cut your water heater’s energy consumption by six to 10%.
How do you adjust a water heater temperature setting?
Before you try to adjust the temperature of your water heater, be sure to check your owner’s manual for the proper instructions. For gas water heaters, the thermostat dial is located at the bottom of the tank and you can simply turn it to adjust the temperature settings.
If you have any questions about your water heater temperature setting, or if you’d like a water heater serviced or installed in your home, contact ABT Plumbing, Electric Heat & Air. 530-272-9120