You realize quickly how important water heater temperatures are when you get shocked by a cold shower or find yourself burning your hands while attempting to wash the dishes. Every home’s water heater needs to be set at the right temperature. But what is the right temperature? Below, we’ll walk you through what the ideal temperature setting is (based on general consensus), what factors play a role in your final decision, and how to keep your water heater operating so that it’s warm enough for you.
What Is the General Consensus Around the Ideal Temperature?
If you ask anyone what your water heater should be set at, most are going to agree that 120 degrees Fahrenheit is the ideal temperature setting. It’s considered the best because you aren’t spending a ton of money to keep your water heater at a higher temperature, you won’t have to worry about scalding yourself any time you turn on the hot water, and it’s warm enough to where it will hamper bacterial growth. For the most part, it’s a solid setting. There are some factors to consider, however, which we cover in the next section.
What Factors Play a Role in Your Temperature Setting?
Do you have sensitive skin? If so, a lower temperature setting guarantees you won’t get hurt when you’re taking a shower. Does your dishwasher have a booster heater? If so, a lower temperature is just fine. Many factors play a role in what temperature you set your water heater at, including appliances, skin sensitivity and related immune system concerns, the number of people in your house, and utility expenses. Weigh all of these to figure out whether you align with the temperature setting above or need a better setting.
When Should I Set It Higher?
As stated above, 120 degrees Fahrenheit is sufficient for most homes. But let’s imagine that you have appliances (like dishwashers) that need higher temperatures to successfully clean dishes, or you have older residents who need higher temperatures to ensure that all bacteria are killed before it reaches them. If there’s something in your life that demands a higher temperature, be it these types of concerns or a large family that sucks up all the hot water quickly, the ideal temperature might not be 120 degrees Fahrenheit for you. In scenarios like these, 140 degrees Fahrenheit might be a better setting instead.
Make Sure You Have a Plumber Come and Check Your Water Heater Regularly
Temperature settings can always be thrown out of whack for whatever reason. By having a plumber come and check on your water heater regularly, they can catch developing issues and fix them before they make using your water a challenge.
The ideal temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit, but that isn’t true for everyone. Use the above to gauge which temperature setting is right for you before you commit. If you live in Yuma, AZ or a surrounding area and need water heater services, make your first call to PHD Plumbing.