Should You Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature?
Your water heater is a component of your comfort providing hot water for showers and dishwashing. However, have you ever considered the temperature setting on your water heater? Many homeowners overlook this aspect. Adjusting the water heater’s temperature can have a significant impact on energy efficiency, safety and overall comfort.
Safety Considerations for Temperature Setting
Most water heaters come with a default temperature setting of around 140°F (60°C). This high temperature can result in scalding water that may not be necessary for daily use. Hot water poses a risk of scalding injuries to vulnerable individuals. To strike a balance between safety, efficiency and comfort, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your water heater thermostat to 120°F (49°C). At this temperature you can still enjoy showers while reducing the risk of scalding accidents – important for households, with children or elderly residents.
Balancing Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Lowering your water heater’s temperature setting not only enhances safety but also brings energy efficiency benefits. Your water heater continually works to maintain the selected temperature and higher temperatures require energy consumption. To reduce your energy consumption and save on utility bills consider lowering the temperature of your water heater to around 120°F.
This small change can make a difference. However it’s important to find the balance between comfort and savings that works for you. Some homeowners may prefer a temperature while others may opt for a lower one. Just be cautious not to set the temperature low as it could lead to growth in your water heater. If you’re unsure about the setting for your home, it’s advisable to seek guidance from a plumber.
How to Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature
Adjusting your water heater temperature is a straightforward process. Here are the general steps:
- Locate the thermostat: Find your water heater’s thermostat. It’s typically a dial or digital display located on the unit.
- Turn off the power: Before making any adjustments, turn off the power to your water heater. This is usually done at the circuit breaker or by switching off the heater’s power source.
- Adjust the temperature: Use the thermostat control to set the desired temperature. As mentioned earlier, a setting of around 120°F is a good starting point.
- Turn the power back on: Once you’ve made the adjustment, turn the power back on.
EPS Hawaii At Your Service
If you have any concerns about the temperature of your water heater or if you need assistance in modifying it to a safe and energy efficient range feel free to reach out to EPS Hawaii. You can call us at (808) 691-9309 Oahu, (808) 400-8811 Hawaii Island. Our team of professionals is ready and eager to help you strike the balance between comfort and cost savings.
