For lots of people, nothing feels quite as good as a hot shower in the morning. Although that may 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 scorching can waste energy and cost you money. It also can pose a safety challenge for members of your household. But, if you set your water heater temperature too low, it can allow growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not supply sufficient hot water for your dwelling.

So, what temp is ideal for your water heater? In this article, we’ll identify 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 Water Heater Temperature Is the Most Efficient?

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

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that setting a home water heater temperature at 120 degrees could save roughly 22 percent on energy bills. Energy waste is a particular 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 forever heating a tank filled to the brim with very hot water.

So What Temperature Should My Hot Water Be?

More often than not, the suggested efficient temperature of 120 degrees is the right setting for your water heater. At 120 degrees, the water is warm enough to meet the needs of most residents, but not so hot that it risks burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer option, especially in homes with young 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 Set My Water Temperature Hotter Than 120 Degrees?

While many plumbing and heating experts say 120 degrees is the preferred water heater temperature if you’re trying to save money, is it acceptable to set it higher? Beyond personal preference, there are a couple of different scenarios where it could be wise to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Increased water temperatures can be beneficial in eliminating harmful bacteria that can cause or aggravate certain health conditions. This also may be useful if you know your home has an issue with bacteria, or if any members of the household are immunocompromised.
  • High usage: If your home has a tendency to use a large volume of hot water all at once—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 all the household's needs.
  • Old dishwasher: If your dishwasher is an older model and doesn’t heat water on its own, you may have to set your water heater to a higher temperature for it to work properly.

What Temperature Is Too High?

Even though some people like their water very hot or like to blend hot and cold water to create their desired 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 residence. At 150 degrees, which is regarded as way too hot, it takes only seconds for the water to lead to third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is especially unsafe in homes with children or the elderly.

Call Lakeside Heating & Air for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Chelan and Wenatchee

Water heaters can seem a little mysterious, but the skilled pros at Lakeside Heating & Air know these appliances extremely well. They’ve repaired many brands and types of water heaters throughout the years, so they have the experience to take care of your water heater repair in Chelan and Wenatchee.

We also provide water heater replacement, so call us at 509-284-4265 if you believe you need water heater installation in Chelan and Wenatchee. We are happy to examine your system and give a no-cost estimate!