For quite a few people, there’s nothing better than a hot shower in the morning. Although that might be a fantastic way to wake up and start the day, experts say you can 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 concern for members of your family. But, if you set your water heater temperature too low, it can enable growth of potentially harmful bacteria and not supply enough hot water for your dwelling.

So, what number is the right one for your water heater? Here, we’ll identify the most cost-effective temperature to use, when there could be reason to set it a little higher and how hot is too hot for your personal water heater.

What Is the Most Efficient Temperature for a Water Heater?

Although many companies advise setting the water temperature at 140 degrees, a more efficient temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Experts 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 roughly 22 percent on a home's utility bills. Energy waste is a frequent challenge for water heaters because traditional tank models constantly 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 full of extremely hot water.

What's the Right Temperature for My Hot Water?

More often than not, the suggested efficient temperature of 120 degrees is the right setting for your water heater. At 120 degrees, the water is hot enough to meet the needs of most members of the household, but not so hot that it could cause burning skin on contact. This makes it a safer option, especially in homes with younger children or elderly men and women. Lower temperatures also minimize mineral deposits in your water heater, which could cause it to break down or need replacement.

Can I Set My Water Temperature Hotter Than 120 Degrees?

While many plumbing and heating experts say 120 degrees is the best water heater temperature if you’re trying 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: Hotter 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 residents of the house have a compromised immune system.
  • High usage: If your home tends to use a large volume of hot water simultaneously—showering while also running the dishwasher and washing machine, for example—a hotter 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 itself, you may have to set your water heater to a higher temperature for it to work effectively.

How Hot Is Too Hot for a Water Heater?

Even though some people like their water extremely hot or prefer to blend hot and cold water to create their desired water temperature, there is such a thing as water that is too hot. Plumbing and heating specialists say any temperature hotter than 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 create third-degree burns. This is why a water heater temperature of 150 degrees is considered very hazardous in households with children or the elderly.

Call 249 Air for Your Water Heater Service Needs in Houston

Water heaters can sometimes feel a little mysterious, but the skilled pros at 249 Air know these appliances like the back of their hands. They’ve repaired many brands and models of water heaters through the years, so they have the experience to handle your water heater repair in Houston.

We also offer water heater replacement, so contact us at 832-263-1969 if you suspect you need water heater installation in Houston. We are happy to check out your system and provide a no-cost estimate!