For quite a few people, there's nothing like a hot shower to start the day. Even though that may just be a perfect way to wake up and start the day, experts say you should be careful not to set your water too hot.

Setting your water heater to a temperature that’s above the recommended degree can squander power and cost you money. It also can pose a safety challenge for members of your family. But, if you set your water heater temperature too low, it can allow growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not produce sufficient hot water for your property.

So, what temperature is the right one for your water heater? Below, we’ll determine the most effective temperature to use, when there could be cause to set it a little higher and how hot is too hot for your personal water heater.

What Is the Most Efficient Temperature for a Water Heater?

Although many manufacturers suggest setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a more economical temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Industry experts say 120 degrees provides the right balance between safety and energy use.

The U.S. Department of Energy reports that setting a home water heater temperature at 120 degrees could save roughly 22 percent on a home's utility bills. Energy waste is a particular challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models continuously heat a tank of water in case it is needed. 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 Temperature Should I Set My Hot Water To?

More often than not, the suggested efficient temperature of 120 degrees is a good setting for your water heater. At 120 degrees, the water is warm enough to meet the needs of most members of the household, but not so hot there's a danger of burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer option, especially in homes with young 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 energy experts say 120 degrees is the best water heater temperature if you’re looking to save money, is it OK to set it higher? Beyond personal preference, there are a couple of different scenarios where it could make sense to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Increased water temperatures can be a good way to eliminate harmful bacteria that can cause or aggravate certain health conditions. This also may be useful if you know your home has an issue with bacteria, or if any residents of the house have a compromised immune system.
  • High usage: If your home is inclined to use a large volume of hot water all at once—showering while also running the dishwasher and washing machine, for example—a greater 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 an older model and doesn’t heat water on its own, it may be necessary to set your water heater to a higher temperature for it to work properly.

What Temperature Is Too High?

While some people like their water very 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 higher than 140 degrees is too hot for a water heater in a residential dwelling. At 150 degrees, which is regarded as way too hot, it takes only seconds for the water to lead to third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is especially unsafe in residences with children or the elderly.

Call Ohler & Holzhauer Inc. for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Port Clinton

Water heaters can seem a little mysterious, but the qualified technicians at Ohler & Holzhauer Inc. know these appliances like the back of their hands. They’ve serviced many brands and styles of water heaters through the years, so they have the experience to tackle your water heater repair in Port Clinton.

We also offer water heater replacement, so contact us at 419-465-8722 if you believe you need water heater installation in Port Clinton. We are happy to check out your system and provide a no-cost estimate!