For many people, nothing feels quite as good as a hot shower to start the day. Even though that may be a great 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 above the recommended degree can waste energy and cost you money. It also can create a safety challenge for members of your residence. But, if you set your water heater temperature too low, it can permit growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not provide enough hot water for your household.

So, what temp should you set your water heater? Here, we’ll determine the most efficient 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 Temperature for my Water Heater Is the Most Energy Efficient?

Although many brands advise 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 use.

The U.S. Department of Energy reports 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 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 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 residents, but not so hot that it could cause burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer choice, especially in homes with young children or elderly men and women. Lower temperatures also minimize mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need replacement.

Can I Raise My Water Temperature Higher Than 120 Degrees?

While many energy experts say 120 degrees is the preferred water heater temperature if you’re looking to save money, is it OK to set it higher? Beyond personal preference, there are some situations where it could be a good idea to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Higher water temperatures can be beneficial in eliminating 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 has a tendency to use a significant amount of hot water simultaneously—showering while also running the dishwasher and washing machine, for example—a higher water heater temperature may be necessary to make sure there’s adequate hot water for all the household's needs.
  • 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.

What Temperature Is Too High?

Even though some people like their water extremely 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. Experts say any temperature higher than 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 considered very unsafe in residences with children or the elderly.

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

Water heaters can be a little mysterious, but the skilled technicians at Lakeside Heating & Air know these appliances inside and out. They’ve repaired many brands and styles of water heaters over the years, so they have the experience to take care of your water heater repair in Chelan and Wenatchee.

We also are skilled in water heater replacement, so call us at 509-284-4265 if you think you need water heater installation in Chelan and Wenatchee. We are happy to examine your system and provide a free estimate!