For quite a few people, nothing feels quite as good as a hot shower to get the morning started. While that may 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 scorching can waste electricity and cost you money. It also can cause a safety challenge for members of your home. But, if you set your water heater temperature too low, it can permit growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not produce sufficient hot water for your property.

So, what temperature is the right one for your water heater? Below, we’ll determine the most cost-effective temperature to use, when there could be cause 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 suggest setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a more efficient temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Industry experts say 120 degrees strikes the right balance between safety and energy use.

The U.S. Department of Energy reports that setting a home water heater temperature at 120 degrees could save roughly 22 percent on a home's utility bills. Energy waste is a frequent 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 constantly heating a tank filled to the brim with extremely hot water.

What Temperature Should I Set My Hot Water To?

In most cases, the suggested efficient temperature of 120 degrees is the right setting for your water heater. At 120 degrees, the water is heated enough to meet the needs of most homes, but not so hot there's a danger of burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer choice, especially in homes with small children or elderly men and women. Cooler temperatures also decrease mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need replacement.

Can I Raise My Water Temperature Hotter Than 120 Degrees?

While many industry experts say 120 degrees is the best water heater temperature if you’re wanting to save money, is it OK to set it higher? In addition to personal preference, there are some scenarios where it could make sense to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Increased 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 a problem with bacteria, or if any people who live in your home 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 greater 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 as part of its process, you may have to set your water heater to a higher temperature for it to work correctly.

What Temperature Is Too High?

Even though some people like their water very hot or prefer to blend hot and cold water to achieve their perfect 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 just seconds for the water to lead to third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is especially dangerous in homes with children or the elderly.

Call Central Heating & Plumbing for Your Water Heater Service Needs in New Castle

Water heaters can seem a little mysterious, but the knowledgeable pros at Central Heating & Plumbing know these appliances inside and out. They’ve fixed many brands and types of water heaters throughout the years, so they have the experience to tackle your water heater repair in New Castle.

We also offer water heater replacement, so give us a call at 724-401-1843 if you suspect you need water heater installation in New Castle. We are happy to check out your system and produce a complimentary estimate!