For quite a few people, there’s nothing better than a hot shower to get the morning started. Although 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 too hot 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 allow growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not provide adequate hot water for your property.

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

What Temperature for my Water Heater Is the Most Energy Efficient?

Although many companies encourage setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a more economical 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 up to 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 required. If you have the water heater temperature set too high, your water heater is consistently heating a tank full of extremely hot water.

What Temperature Should I Set My Hot Water To?

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 desires of most residents, but not so hot that it risks burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer alternative, especially in homes with younger children or elderly people. Lower temperatures also minimize mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need to be replaced with a new one.

Can I Raise My Water Temperature Higher Than 120 Degrees?

While many industry experts say 120 degrees is the ideal water heater temperature if you’re wanting to save money, is it alright to set it higher? Beyond personal preference, there are a couple of different situations where it could be wise 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 trouble with bacteria, or if any residents of the house have a compromised immune system.
  • High usage: If your home is inclined to use a large volume of hot water at the same time—showering while also running the dishwasher and washing machine, for example—a hotter water heater temperature may be necessary to make sure there’s sufficient hot water for all the household's needs.
  • Old dishwasher: If your dishwasher is an older model and doesn’t heat water itself, you may need to set your water heater to a higher temperature for it to work correctly.

How Hot Is Too Hot for a Water Heater?

Although some people like their water very hot or like to blend hot and cold water to achieve their ideal water temperature, there is such a thing as water that is too hot. Plumbing and heating specialists say any temperature above 140 degrees is too hot for a water heater in a residential dwelling. At 150 degrees, which is considered way too hot, it takes only seconds for the water to cause third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is considered very hazardous in residences with children or the elderly.

Call Desert Husky HVAC/R Services for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Tucson and Phoenix

Water heaters can be a little mysterious, but the skilled pros at Desert Husky HVAC/R Services know these appliances extremely well. They’ve repaired many brands and styles of water heaters through the years, so they have the experience to take care of your water heater repair in Tucson and Phoenix.

We also provide water heater replacement, so call us at 520-416-5415 if you think you need water heater installation in Tucson and Phoenix. We are happy to take a look at your system and produce a free estimate!