For many people, there's nothing like a hot shower in the morning. Even though that might be a fantastic 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 above the recommended degree can squander power and cost you money. It also can create a safety issue for members of your household. But, if you set your water heater temperature too low, it can permit growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not provide adequate hot water for your dwelling.

So, what number should you set your water heater? Here, we’ll determine the most effective temperature to use, when there could be justification 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 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 estimates that setting a home water heater temperature at 120 degrees could save approximately 22 percent on a home's utility bills. Energy waste is especially a challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models constantly 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 full of super-hot water.

What Temperature Should I Set My Hot Water To?

In many instances, 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 residents, but not so hot that it risks burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer choice, especially in homes with young children or elderly men and women. Cooler 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.

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

While many energy experts say 120 degrees is the best water heater temperature if you’re looking to save money, is it acceptable to set it higher? Apart from personal preference, there are a couple of different situations where it could make sense to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Hotter water temperatures can be beneficial in eliminating harmful bacteria that can cause or exacerbate certain health conditions. This also may be helpful if you know your home has an issue with bacteria, or if any members of the household are sick.
  • High usage: If your home has a tendency to use a significant amount of hot water simultaneously—showering while also running the dishwasher and washing machine, for example—a hotter water heater temperature may be necessary to make sure there’s enough hot water for everyone.
  • Old dishwasher: If your dishwasher is getting up there in years and doesn’t heat water on its own, 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?

Although some people like their water exceptionally hot or would rather 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 home. At 150 degrees, which is regarded as way too hot, it takes a few seconds for the water to cause third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is especially unsafe in residences with children or the elderly.

Call Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Yukon

Water heaters can seem a little mysterious, but the skilled specialists at Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning know these appliances extremely well. They’ve serviced many brands and models of water heaters over the years, so they have the experience to handle your water heater repair in Yukon.

We also are skilled in water heater replacement, so call us at [[phone]] if you believe you need water heater installation in Yukon. We are happy to take a look at your system and give a no-cost estimate!