For quite a few people, nothing feels quite as good as a hot shower to start the day. Although that may be a fantastic 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 throw away power and cost you money. It also can create a safety issue 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 provide sufficient hot water for your household.

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

What Is the Most Efficient Temperature for a Water Heater?

Although many companies encourage setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a more efficient temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Specialists say 120 degrees strikes 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 energy costs. Energy waste is a particular challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models constantly 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 brimming with very hot water.

So What Temperature Should My Hot Water Be?

In most cases, 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 desires of most members of the household, but not so hot there's a danger of burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer alternative, especially in homes with young children or elderly individuals. Reduced temperatures also decrease 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 wanting to save money, is it acceptable to set it higher? In addition to personal preference, there are some circumstances where it could be a good idea to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Hotter water temperatures can be a good way to eliminate harmful bacteria that can cause or worsen certain health conditions. This also may be recommended if you know your home has a problem with bacteria, or if any people who live in your home have a compromised immune system.
  • High usage: If your home has a tendency to use a lot of hot water simultaneously—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 everyone.
  • 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 effectively.

What Temperature Is Too High?

Even though some people like their water exceptionally hot or would rather blend hot and cold water to obtain their ideal water temperature, there is such a thing as water that is too hot. Energy officials say any temperature hotter than 140 degrees is too hot for a water heater in a residence. At 150 degrees, which is regarded as way too hot, it takes a few seconds for the water to create third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is considered very hazardous in households with children or the elderly.

Call Connolly Electric & Mechanical for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Cottonwood & Verde Valley

Water heaters can be a little mysterious, but the knowledgeable technicians at Connolly Electric & Mechanical know these appliances like the back of their hands. They’ve serviced many brands and models of water heaters through the years, so they have the experience to take care of your water heater repair in Cottonwood & Verde Valley.

We also offer water heater replacement, so reach out to us at 928-862-5977 if you suspect you need water heater installation in Cottonwood & Verde Valley. We are happy to check out your system and give a complimentary estimate!