For many people, nothing feels quite as good as a hot shower to get the morning started. Even though that may be a great way to wake up and start the day, experts say you can set your water too hot.

Setting your water heater to a temperature that’s too hot can waste power and cost you money. It also can cause a safety concern for members of your family. But, if you set your water heater temperature too low, it can enable growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not produce adequate hot water for your dwelling.

So, what temp should you set your water heater? Below, we’ll identify the most efficient temperature to use, when there could be reason to set it a little higher and how hot is too hot for your own water heater.

What Is the Most Efficient Temperature for a Water Heater?

Although many manufacturers advise setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a more economical temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Specialists say 120 degrees hits the right balance between safety and energy consumption.

The U.S. Department of Energy reports that setting a home water heater temperature at 120 degrees could save up to 22 percent on a home's utility bills. Energy waste is especially a challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models continuously heat a tank of water in case it is demanded. If you have the water heater temperature set too high, your water heater is forever heating a tank filled to the brim with very hot water.

What's the Right Temperature for My Hot Water?

In most cases, the suggested efficient temperature of 120 degrees is an effective yet cost-saving setting for your water heater. At 120 degrees, the water is warm enough to meet the requirements of most homes, but not so hot that it risks burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer alternative, especially in homes with small children or elderly people. Reduced temperatures also cut down on mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need to be replaced with a new one.

Can I Raise My Water Temperature Higher Than 120 Degrees?

While many energy experts say 120 degrees is the preferred water heater temperature if you’re trying to save money, is it acceptable to set it higher? Beyond personal preference, there are a few situations where it could make sense 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 helpful if you know your home has trouble with bacteria, or if any people who live in your home are sick.
  • High usage: If your home has a tendency to use a significant amount of hot water at the same time—showering while also running the dishwasher and washing machine, for example—a higher water heater temperature may be necessary to make sure there’s adequate hot water for all the household's needs.
  • Old dishwasher: If your dishwasher is getting up there in years and doesn’t heat water on its own, you may need to set your water heater to a higher temperature for it to work correctly.

What Temperature Is Too High?

While some people like their water very hot or like to blend hot and cold water to create their perfect water temperature, there is such a thing as water that is too hot. Plumbing and heating specialists say any temperature above 140 degrees is too hot for a water heater in a home. At 150 degrees, which is regarded as way too hot, it takes a few seconds for the water to lead to third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is especially dangerous in residences with children or the elderly.

Call Prudhom Mechanical for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Edmond

Water heaters can be a little mysterious, but the qualified technicians at Prudhom Mechanical know these appliances extremely well. They’ve repaired many brands and designs of water heaters throughout the years, so they have the experience to take care of your water heater repair in Edmond.

We also are skilled in water heater replacement, so contact us at 405-888-8606 if you think you need water heater installation in Edmond. We are happy to take a look at your system and provide a no-cost estimate!