For lots of people, there’s nothing better than a hot shower to get the morning started. Although 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 scorching can throw away electricity 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 permit growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not provide enough hot water for your dwelling.

So, what temp is ideal for your water heater? In this article, we’ll establish the most cost-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 Temperature for my Water Heater Is the Most Energy Efficient?

Although many companies encourage setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a more economical temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Experts 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 roughly 22 percent on a home's utility bills. Energy waste is a particular challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models always heat a tank of water in case it is needed. If you have the water heater temperature set too high, your water heater is constantly heating a tank filled to the brim with very hot water.

So What Temperature Should My Hot Water Be?

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 desires of most homes, but not so hot that it could cause burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer alternative, especially in homes with younger children or elderly individuals. Reduced temperatures also minimize mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need replacing.

Should You Ever Set Your Water Temperature Higher Than 120 Degrees?

While many industry experts say 120 degrees is the ideal water heater temperature if you’re wanting to save money, is it acceptable to set it higher? Apart from personal preference, there are a few circumstances where it could be a good idea to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Higher water temperatures can be a good way to eliminate harmful bacteria that can cause or exacerbate certain health conditions. This also may be recommended if you know your home has a problem with bacteria, or if any residents of the house are immunocompromised.
  • High usage: If your home has a tendency to use a large volume of hot water at the same time—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 everyone.
  • Old dishwasher: If your dishwasher is old 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 effectively.

What Temperature Is Too High?

Although some people like their water quite hot or prefer to blend hot and cold water to create their desired water temperature, there is such a thing as water that is too hot. Plumbing and heating specialists say any temperature higher than 140 degrees is too hot for a water heater in a home. At 150 degrees, which is regarded as way too hot, it takes just seconds for the water to cause third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is especially unsafe in households with children or the elderly.

Call ACE Solutions for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Hasbrouck Heights

Water heaters can be a little mysterious, but the knowledgeable pros at ACE Solutions know these appliances extremely well. They’ve serviced many brands and types of water heaters through the years, so they have the experience to handle your water heater repair in Hasbrouck Heights.

We also provide water heater replacement, so contact us at 201-582-2806 if you believe you need water heater installation in Hasbrouck Heights. We are happy to examine your system and provide a complimentary estimate!