For many people, there’s nothing like 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 should be careful not to 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 cause a safety issue 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 provide adequate hot water for your household.

So, what temperature 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 own water heater.

What Water Heater Temperature Is the Most Efficient?

Although many brands suggest setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a more economical temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Industry experts say 120 degrees hits 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 a particular 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 consistently heating a tank brimming with extremely hot water.

So What Temperature Should My Hot Water Be?

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 needs of most homes, 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 individuals. 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 Hotter Than 120 Degrees?

While many plumbing and heating experts say 120 degrees is the preferred water heater temperature if you’re looking to save money, is it acceptable to set it higher? In addition to personal preference, there are some circumstances where it could make sense to set your water temperature a little higher, between 130-140 degrees:

  • Bacteria: Increased water temperatures can be helpful in eliminating harmful bacteria that can cause or aggravate certain health conditions. This also may be recommended if you know your home has a problem with bacteria, or if any members of the household 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 everyone.
  • 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 properly.

What Temperature Is Too Hot for my Hot Water Heater?

Even though some people like their water exceptionally hot or like to blend hot and cold water to create their ideal 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 home. At 150 degrees, which is considered way too hot, it takes a few seconds for the water to cause third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is particularly unsafe in residences with children or the elderly.

Call Cytech Heating & Cooling L.C. for Your Water Heater Service Needs in McAllen

Water heaters can seem a little mysterious, but the knowledgeable technicians at Cytech Heating & Cooling L.C. know these appliances inside and out. They’ve fixed many brands and models of water heaters throughout the years, so they have the experience to take care of your water heater repair in McAllen.

We also provide water heater replacement, so reach out to us at 956-553-3265 if you suspect you need water heater installation in McAllen. We are happy to check out your system and give a no-cost estimate!