As a first-time homeowner, making sure there are no inefficiencies with major appliances could amount to hundreds of dollars in energy savings. For instance, a plumber should drain the water heater tank, removing sediment buildup that impacts performance. Adjusting the temperature setting could also keep electricity or gas costs low. To improve the energy efficiency of your water heater and comfort when bathing, below are ways to figure out the right water heater temperature.    

Consider Recommendations for Traditional & Tankless Equipment

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 120 degrees Fahrenheit is the recommended temperature setting for traditional and tankless water heaters in most homes. If the starting temperature of the groundwater is too cold, it might be difficult for an on-demand system to quickly meet the 120-degree outgoing temperature.

A plumber can recommend potential adjustments to reach the correct temperature. If you have a storage tank, you might also want to raise the temperature, as heat can get released into the surroundings. Raising the temperature might also be necessary if faucets are far away from the water heater and pipes are uninsulated. This is because heat is lost as water travels to the destination. 

Think About Who Lives in the Home

Although 120 degrees Fahrenheit is the standard temperature setting, you might want to make adjustments based on who lives in the home. Setting the temperature below 120 degrees is best to prevent burns on children. Although the standard setting should be fine for healthy individuals, the temperature should be set to at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit as a precaution for people who get sick easily. The heat eliminates bacteria growth.  

If you need a plumber to recommend water heater temperature settings based on your household’s needs, reach out to King's Plumbing. The West Chester, OH-based technicians specialize in water heater repairs and installations, which puts them in a position to answer your questions and improve the efficiency of your appliance. So service is never disrupted, they will come to the rescue 24/7 and let you know how to troubleshoot common problems. To schedule a water heater replacement or upkeep in the greater Cincinnati area, call (513) 683-9935. Visit the licensed, bonded, and insured plumbers online to read customer feedback.