For quite a few people, nothing feels quite as good as a hot shower to start the day. While that may just be a perfect way to wake up and start the day, experts say it’s possible to set your water too hot.

Setting your water heater to a temperature that’s too hot can squander energy and cost you money. It also can create a safety issue 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 supply sufficient hot water for your property.

So, what temperature is the right one for your water heater? In this article, we’ll establish 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 Temperature for my Water Heater Is the Most Energy Efficient?

Although many companies advise setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a more efficient temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Industry experts say 120 degrees provides the right balance between safety and energy usage.

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 a particular challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models constantly heat a tank of water in case it is required. If you have the water heater temperature set too high, your water heater is consistently heating a tank full of super-hot water.

What Temperature Should I Set My Hot Water To?

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

Can I Set My Water Temperature Higher Than 120 Degrees?

While many plumbing and heating experts say 120 degrees is the best water heater temperature if you’re looking to save money, is it alright to set it higher? Beyond personal preference, there are a few circumstances where it could be wise to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Higher water temperatures can be beneficial in eliminating harmful bacteria that can cause or aggravate certain health conditions. This also may be useful if you know your home has a problem with bacteria, or if any people who live in your home are immunocompromised.
  • High usage: If your home has a tendency to use a significant amount of hot water all at once—showering while also running the dishwasher and washing machine, for example—a higher water heater temperature may be necessary to make sure there’s enough hot water for everyone.
  • Old dishwasher: If your dishwasher is old and doesn’t heat water itself, you may need to set your water heater to a higher temperature for it to work effectively.

What Temperature Is Too High?

While some people like their water extremely hot or prefer to blend hot and cold water to obtain 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 residential dwelling. At 150 degrees, which is considered way too hot, it takes just seconds for the water to lead to third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is particularly unsafe in households with children or the elderly.

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

Water heaters can seem a little mysterious, but the knowledgeable technicians at ACE Solutions know these appliances extremely well. They’ve repaired many brands and models of water heaters throughout the years, so they have the experience to take care of your water heater repair in Hasbrouck Heights.

We also are skilled in water heater replacement, so reach out to us at 201-579-2562 if you think you need water heater installation in Hasbrouck Heights. We are happy to take a look at your system and give a free estimate!