For quite a few people, nothing feels quite as good as a hot shower to get the morning started. Even though that may just be a perfect way to wake up and start the day, experts say you can set your water too hot.

Setting your water heater to a temperature that’s too hot can throw away power and cost you money. It also can create a safety issue for members of your residence. 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 household.

So, what temperature is the right one for your water heater? In this article, we’ll establish the most cost-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 advise 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 usage.

The U.S. Department of Energy reports that setting a home water heater temperature at 120 degrees could save approximately 22 percent on energy costs. Energy waste is especially a challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models continuously 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 filled to the brim with very 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 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 younger children or elderly men and women. Reduced temperatures also decrease mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need replacement.

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

While many energy experts say 120 degrees is the preferred water heater temperature if you’re trying to save money, is it alright to set it higher? Beyond personal preference, there are some circumstances where it could make sense 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 exacerbate certain health conditions. This also may be useful if you know your home has an issue with bacteria, or if any residents of the house are sick.
  • High usage: If your home is inclined to use a lot 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 sufficient hot water for all the household's needs.
  • Old dishwasher: If your dishwasher is old and doesn’t heat water itself, 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?

Even though some people like their water very hot or prefer to blend hot and cold water to achieve their desired water temperature, there is such a thing as water that is too hot. Energy officials say any temperature higher than 140 degrees is too hot for a water heater in a residential dwelling. At 150 degrees, which is considered 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 unsafe in homes with children or the elderly.

Call Mechanical Air Systems Co for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Mason City

Water heaters can seem a little mysterious, but the skilled technicians at Mechanical Air Systems Co know these appliances like the back of their hands. They’ve repaired many brands and types of water heaters through the years, so they have the experience to tackle your water heater repair in Mason City.

We also offer water heater replacement, so reach out to us at 641-243-4654 if you think you need water heater installation in Mason City. We are happy to check out your system and produce a complimentary estimate!