For many people, nothing feels quite as good as a hot shower to get the morning started. While that may just be a great 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 electricity and cost you money. It also can pose a safety concern 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 enough hot water for your dwelling.

So, what temperature is ideal for your water heater? Below, we’ll determine the most efficient temperature to use, when there could be cause to set it a little higher and how hot is too hot for your home's water heater.

What Is the Most Efficient Temperature for a Water Heater?

Although many manufacturers suggest setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a more economical temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Specialists say 120 degrees strikes 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 a home's utility bills. Energy waste is especially a challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models continuously 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.

What's the Right Temperature for My Hot Water?

In many instances, 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 desires of most homes, but not so hot that it could cause burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer choice, especially in homes with younger 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 Higher Than 120 Degrees?

While many energy experts say 120 degrees is the preferred water heater temperature if you’re wanting to save money, is it alright to set it higher? In addition to personal preference, there are a few circumstances where it could make sense 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 useful if you know your home has a problem with bacteria, or if any people who live in your home have a compromised immune system.
  • High usage: If your home tends to use a lot 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 as part of its process, you may need to set your water heater to a higher temperature for it to work effectively.

What Temperature Is Too High?

While some people like their water quite 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. Experts say any temperature hotter 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 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 The Frazier Company for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Omaha

Water heaters can sometimes feel a little mysterious, but the knowledgeable pros at The Frazier Company know these appliances inside and out. They’ve fixed many brands and models of water heaters through the years, so they have the experience to take care of your water heater repair in Omaha.

We also provide water heater replacement, so call us at 402-628-0206 if you think you need water heater installation in Omaha. We are happy to examine your system and provide a free estimate!