For quite a few people, nothing feels quite as good as a hot shower to get the morning started. Although that might be a great 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 too hot can waste power and cost you money. It also can cause a safety issue for members of your family. 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 temperature should you set your water heater? Here, we’ll identify 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 Temperature for my Water Heater Is the Most Energy Efficient?

Although many brands advise setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a better temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Specialists say 120 degrees hits 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 bills. Energy waste is a frequent challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models always 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 very hot water.

So What Temperature Should My Hot Water Be?

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 residents, 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 individuals. Cooler temperatures also cut down on mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need to be replaced with a new one.

Can I Set My Water Temperature Higher 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 acceptable to set it higher? Apart from personal preference, there are a few scenarios where it could be wise to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Higher water temperatures can be a good way to eliminate harmful bacteria that can cause or worsen certain health conditions. This also may be helpful if you know your home has an issue with bacteria, or if any residents of the house have a compromised immune system.
  • High usage: If your home is inclined to use a large volume 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 to go around.
  • Old dishwasher: If your dishwasher is an older model 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 properly.

What Temperature Is Too Hot for my Hot Water Heater?

Although some people like their water exceptionally hot or prefer to blend hot and cold water to obtain their desired water temperature, there is such a thing as water that is too hot. Experts say any temperature higher than 140 degrees is too hot for a water heater in a home. At 150 degrees, which is considered way too hot, it takes only seconds for the water to create third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is particularly unsafe in residences with children or the elderly.

Call Retro HVAC Service & Installation for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Philadelphia

Water heaters can sometimes feel a little mysterious, but the knowledgeable specialists at Retro HVAC Service & Installation know these appliances extremely well. They’ve serviced many brands and types of water heaters through the years, so they have the experience to take care of your water heater repair in Philadelphia.

We also offer water heater replacement, so contact us at 267-277-3851 if you think you need water heater installation in Philadelphia. We are happy to examine your system and give a no-cost estimate!