For quite a few people, nothing feels quite as good as a hot shower in the morning. Although that may just be a fantastic 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 above the recommended degree can squander energy and cost you money. It also can create a safety concern for members of your home. But, if you set your water heater temperature too low, it can enable growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not produce sufficient hot water for your household.

So, what temp is ideal 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 own water heater.

What Is the Most Efficient Temperature for a Water Heater?

Although many companies suggest setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a better 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 energy 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 consistently 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 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 option, especially in homes with small children or elderly people. Lower temperatures also minimize mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need replacing.

Can I Raise My Water Temperature Hotter Than 120 Degrees?

While many plumbing and heating experts say 120 degrees is the preferred water heater temperature if you’re trying to save money, is it acceptable to set it higher? In addition to personal preference, there are a couple of different scenarios where it could be wise to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Increased water temperatures can be helpful in eliminating harmful bacteria that can cause or exacerbate certain health conditions. This also may be recommended 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 is inclined to use a large volume of hot water simultaneously—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 as part of its process, it may be necessary to set your water heater to a higher temperature for it to work correctly.

How Hot Is Too Hot for a Water Heater?

While some people like their water very hot or like to blend hot and cold water to achieve their perfect water temperature, there is such a thing as water that is too hot. Experts say any temperature hotter than 140 degrees is too hot for a water heater in a home. At 150 degrees, which is considered way too hot, it takes only seconds for the water to create third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is particularly hazardous in homes with children or the elderly.

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

Water heaters can sometimes feel a little mysterious, but the knowledgeable specialists at Ohler & Holzhauer Inc. know these appliances inside and out. They’ve fixed many brands and styles of water heaters throughout the years, so they have the experience to tackle your water heater repair in Port Clinton.

We also are skilled in water heater replacement, so call 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 give a free estimate!