Ways to Change a Hot Water Heater Temperature

Why Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature?

Changing your water heater’s temperature might seem minor, but it can have several practical benefits. Many people adjust their water heater settings for comfort, safety, or efficiency reasons. You might notice your water is too hot for comfort or not quite warm enough for a relaxing shower. But beyond personal preference, there are practical reasons for tweaking that thermostat.

• Energy Efficiency: Lowering the temperature can save on energy bills. When your water heater isn’t working as hard, you’re cutting costs and reducing wear and tear, which can help prevent future water heater repairs.   
• Safety Concerns: In households with young children or elderly family members, setting the water heater temperature correctly is critical. Too hot, and you risk scalding; too cold, and you’re facing the potential for bacterial growth, like Legionella, which thrives in lukewarm conditions.
• Prolonging Water Heater Lifespan: A well-maintained water heater operating within optimal temperatures is less likely to need frequent attention from a plumber. It’s a small adjustment that can reduce the need for extensive plumbing repair services over time.

The Advantages of Lowering Your Water Heater Temperature

Turning down the temperature on your water heater does more than just save a few dollars. Here are some key reasons why a lower setting might be the right move for your household:

• Reduced Risk of Burns: Water that’s too hot can be dangerous, especially for younger children and older adults who may be more sensitive. Lowering the temperature can reduce the chance of accidental burns when washing hands or bathing.   
• Preventing Bacterial Growth: While it’s important to keep water at a hot enough temperature to prevent bacteria, setting it too low can cause other problems. Keeping your water heater at about 120°F helps strike the right balance between safety and comfort.
• Energy Savings: Lowering your water heater temperature by 10 degrees can save up to 5% on energy costs. Over a year, these savings can add up, reducing the overall costs associated with hot water.
• Improved Appliance Longevity: Overheating water repeatedly puts stress on the water heater, which can lead to premature wear and tear. Maintaining a lower, more consistent temperature can extend the life of your appliance, whether it’s a traditional tank model or a new tankless water heater installation.

How to Change Your Water Heater Temperature

Adjusting the temperature of your water heater isn’t as complicated as it might seem. You can typically make changes in just a few minutes.

• Locate the Thermostat: For tank water heaters, the thermostat is usually behind an access panel on the side of the unit. For tankless water heaters, there may be a control panel where the temperature can be changed with the push of a button.   
• Check the Current Temperature: It’s helpful to know your starting point. Run hot water from a tap and use a cooking thermometer to test the water’s temperature. The standard recommended setting is about 120°F.   
• Adjust the Dial or Control Panel: If you have a tank water heater, turn the dial slightly up or down to your desired temperature. For tankless models, use the digital controls to set the temperature precisely.
• Secure the Access Panel: If you’ve adjusted a tank model, replace any insulation you moved and secure the panel. This step ensures your water heater continues to operate safely and efficiently.
• Test the Water Again: After making adjustments, let the water heater stabilize for a couple of hours, then test the water temperature again. Make further adjustments if needed until you’re satisfied with the result.

Signs You Might Need Professional Assistance

Adjusting your water heater temperature is generally straightforward, but there are situations where you might want to call in a professional plumber.

• Temperature Fluctuations: If your water heater struggles to maintain a consistent temperature, it could be a sign of a failing thermostat or a buildup of sediment within the tank. A professional plumbing repair service can diagnose and fix the issue before it causes more severe damage.
• Unusual Noises: Popping or rumbling sounds from your water heater can signal that sediment is causing trouble inside the tank. This issue can affect your heater’s efficiency and safety and might require a more in-depth cleaning or part replacement.   
• Corrosion and Leaks: Visible rust, corrosion around the thermostat, or leaks near the water heater base are clear indicators that you need a professional’s touch. In these cases, a plumber in Cleveland will assess whether repair or a complete water heater or tankless water heater installation is the best solution.
• Poor Performance Despite Adjustments: If adjusting the temperature doesn’t lead to noticeable changes or improvements in your hot water supply, it’s a good idea to have your water heater checked. Sometimes, underlying mechanical issues prevent proper temperature regulation.

Do You Need Professional Plumbing Services?

The team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing is ready to help you with all your water heater needs, from minor adjustments to full-scale water heater repairs and new water heater installations. Our skilled plumbers are here to provide the guidance you need to keep your home running smoothly. Reach out to us today to schedule your service.