What Temperature Should My Water Heater Be At?
If your water is running at extremely high temperatures or isn’t quite reaching the temperature that you need, it could be a sign that your water heater is not set to the optimal temperature for you and your family’s needs.
Even though you probably want to, we don’t recommend trying to fix the temperature of your water heater yourself. You should never mess with your water heater temperature unless you know exactly what you’re doing!
The Recommended Temperature For Your Water Heater
The recommended temperature of your water heater relies heavily on the temperatures at which legionella and other harmful bacteria can grow and thrive. In Canada, it is recommended that your water heater should be set to 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit).
This may seem like a relatively high temperature, but you can control the temperature of the water that comes out of your taps by installing automatic mixing valves on faucets, showers, and bathtubs to prevent scalding.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Your Water Heater Temperature
Though the recommended temperature is 120 degrees Fahrenheit, you will find that some sources recommend even higher temperatures. While higher temperatures may be used, it is very important that your water heater is not set below 120 degrees.
You should set your water heater temperature to 120 degrees if your household consists of children or the elderly, or if you live alone as the demand for hot water is lower. Your water heater temperature may be set higher to a level of 140 degrees if your household includes someone who is immunocompromised, if your dishwasher doesn’t preheat, or if you live with more than one person as the demand for hot water is higher.
If you choose to set your water heater temperature to a higher temperature to avoid the presence of bacteria in your water, you may still be able to have bearable water in your taps with the use of a water tank booster. This can help your water temperature stay high while mixing with cold water, to ensure you don’t burn yourself when using it in places like the shower and bathtub.
How An Ideal Temperature Can Help Save You Money
Setting your water heater temperature to an ideal temperature can help you to save money in several ways. Water heaters make up about 14 – 18% of a household’s energy consumption. A reduction of 10 degrees Fahrenheit can see energy savings of between 3 and 5%, but you may run the risk of bacteria in your water system.
If you’re trying to decide on a temperature, it is worth playing around with the temperature until you find a happy medium between your energy bills and the water temperature you like. We would recommend using a trusted plumbing service to change the temperature.
Having an ideal temperature means that you’re likely to save water too. If the water that comes from your faucets is at the temperature you want already, you’re less likely to run the taps for longer trying to heat up or cool down your bath or shower water.
Need A Water Heater Specialist in Pickering? Call Caldwell Plumbing!
If you require water heater maintenance, repairs or installation, then Caldwell Plumbing is here for you. Serving residents of Pickering and the Durham Region, Caldwell Plumbing can help you out with all your plumbing-related needs.
Get in contact with Caldwell Plumbing today to find out more!
