For lots of people, nothing feels quite as good as a hot shower in the morning. While that may 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 scorching can waste 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 allow growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not provide sufficient hot water for your property.

So, what temperature should you set your water heater? In this article, we’ll identify the most cost-effective 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 Water Heater Temperature Is the Most Efficient?

Although many brands encourage setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a more economical temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Experts say 120 degrees provides the right balance between safety and energy usage.

The U.S. Department of Energy states that setting a home water heater temperature at 120 degrees could save up to 22 percent on energy costs. Energy waste is especially a challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models always heat a tank of water in case it is required. If you have the water heater temperature set too high, your water heater is forever heating a tank brimming with super-hot water.

So What Temperature Should My Hot Water Be?

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 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 option, especially in homes with younger children or elderly people. Reduced temperatures also minimize mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need replacement.

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

While many industry experts say 120 degrees is the preferred water heater temperature if you’re wanting to save money, is it OK to set it higher? In addition to personal preference, there are a few scenarios 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 helpful in eliminating harmful bacteria that can cause or worsen certain health conditions. This also may be practical if you know your home has a problem with bacteria, or if any people who live in your home are sick.
  • High usage: If your home has a tendency 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 sufficient hot water for everyone.
  • Old dishwasher: If your dishwasher is an older model and doesn’t heat water on its own, you may need 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 very hot or like to blend hot and cold water to achieve 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 residence. At 150 degrees, which is definitely 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 especially hazardous in households with children or the elderly.

Call Arizona Comfort Systems for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Sierra Vista

Water heaters can be a little mysterious, but the knowledgeable technicians at Arizona Comfort Systems know these appliances extremely well. They’ve repaired many brands and designs of water heaters over the years, so they have the experience to take care of your water heater repair in Sierra Vista.

We also offer water heater replacement, so give us a call at 520-415-5681 if you think you need water heater installation in Sierra Vista. We are happy to check out your system and give a complimentary estimate!