Plumbing
How to Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature
December 4, 2024
Adjusting your water heater’s temperature can help improve energy efficiency, prevent scalding, and ensure your water is warm enough for everyday use. It typically involves locating the thermostat and making minor adjustments to increase or decrease the temperature. However, how you turn up your hot water heater’s temperature can vary based on the type and model of unit you have, so consult your manual or a professional plumber for specifics.
To ensure you’re adjusting your hot water heater temperature safely, we’ll review these topics:
- Understanding water heater temperature issues
- Safety precautions before adjusting the temperature
- How to adjust the temperature on a tank water heater
- How to adjust the temperature on a tankless water heater
- Troubleshooting common issues
Now, let’s dive into the details to help you learn how to turn up your water heater’s thermostat.
Looking to Replace Your Water Heater?
If your water heater is outdated, leaks around the tank’s base, or operates inefficiently, it might be time for a replacement. Call the expert plumbers at Bonney, Sacramento’s leading A+ Better Business Bureau member, for water heater installation. Contact us at (800) 444-0551 or use Bonney’s online service booking to schedule services today.
Understanding Water Heater Temperature Settings
While most water heaters are pre-set to 140 degrees F, you can manually adjust this temperature to fit your desired warmth and energy efficiency. However, you must maintain a minimum temperature of 120 degrees F to prevent Legionella and other water-borne diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Legionella grows best in water temperatures between 77 and 113 degrees F.
Lowering your water heater temperature to 120 degrees reduces your unit’s workload, leading to energy savings over time. This temperature also guards against scalding, especially for children and older adults.
Safety Precautions Before Adjusting the Temperature
Before adjusting hot water heater temperatures on a tank-style unit, turn off the power supply on electric models or shut off the gas for gas models to ensure your safety. Additionally, consult the owner’s manual for model-specific instructions, as some units may have unique safety features or adjustment methods.
How to Adjust the Temperature on a Tank Water Heater
Adjusting the temperature on a tank water heater varies slightly based on whether it’s an electric or gas model.
For traditional electric tank water heaters:
- Turn off the power.
- Remove the access panel on the front of the unit.
- Pull back any insulation covering the thermostat if applicable.
- Use a flathead screwdriver to turn the temperature dial to the desired setting.
Electric water heaters have two thermostats, one for the upper element and one for the lower, so ensure you adjust both.
Follow these steps for gas tank water heaters:
- Turn the gas valve to the off position.
- Find the temperature dial on the outside of the unit toward the bottom.
- Turn the dial by hand.
- Relight the pilot.
On both electric and gas tank-style water heaters, you turn the dial clockwise to reduce the temperature or counterclockwise to increase it. You must wait a few hours to test your new temperature setting and repeat these steps if the temperature still isn’t right.
How to Adjust the Temperature on a Tankless Water Heater
Adjusting the temperature on a tankless water heater is much simpler and more precise than tank models. You won’t need to turn the power off before changing the temperature.
- Locate the control panel or digital interface, which is typically located on the front of the unit.
- Adjust the temperature settings by using the buttons or touch screen on the digital interface.
Many models allow you to set specific numeric temperatures like an AC thermostat, making it simple to fine-tune the setting. You can immediately test the new temperature on a tankless water heater because it supplies hot water on demand.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Inconsistent water temperature could be caused by a faulty thermostat, which may require you to reset or replace it. Sediment buildup can also limit the amount of hot water available, requiring you to drain and flush the tank. Finally, it could simply be an incorrect thermostat setting that you’re currently addressing.
If the thermostat isn’t adjusting correctly, it could be a wiring issue or a worn-out component that needs to be replaced. If you’re uncomfortable troubleshooting, it’s best to call a professional.
Setting the correct water heater temperature is essential for safety and efficiency. While adjusting a thermostat is generally DIY-friendly, don’t hesitate to contact a professional if you’re unsure or run into complications.
Speak to the Pros About Water Heater Temperature Issues
If you’re having water heater temperature issues, the professionals at Bonney can help. We offer hassle-free maintenance and services and complete repairs seven days a week. Schedule your water heater repairs or maintenance via Bonney’s online service booking or call (800) 444-0551 today!
Nick Camuso is a plumbing manager at Bonney Plumbing, Sewer, Electrical, Heating & Air. With over 27 years of experience in the plumbing industry, he brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to our company and team. His dedication to his trade and long standing experience has given him the opportunity to help thousands of residential and commercial customers tackle their plumbing needs. Nick takes extreme pride in his work, as well as the workmanship and customer service provided by his entire team, making him one of the most knowledgeable individuals in the Sacramento area in the plumbing industry.