Having access to hot water is crucial for all homeowners—it ensures you can keep your home clean and bathe comfortably. However, what happens if the water is too warm? The following guide outlines what the proper temperature for your water heater is, so you can keep all plumbing fixtures in top-quality condition. 

How High Should You Set the Temperature?

To ensure property owners are able to customize their hot water settings to suit their exact preferences, all water heaters feature dials. These components allow you to pre-program your appliance to maintain a steady temperature of your choosing.

However, safety organizations and OSHA recommend keeping the temperatures between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit; this will ensure the water is hot enough to kill off dangerous bacteria, like Legionella. If your household has small children or pets, stick to the lower end of that range. Doing so will help prevent any burns or accidents. 

Why Is the Water Heater’s Temperature Setting Important?

The temperature of the water impacts numerous areas of your day-to-day life. For example, if the water is too hot, it can cause burns or scalding when bathing, washing hands, or doing dishes. This is especially problematic for families with young children, as they might not know to slowly regulate the water before using it. In this case, plumbing professionals recommend setting your heater to the lower end of the recommended range. 

If you opt to set it at the lower end of the range, it’s important to avoid dipping below 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Going lower than this can make it difficult to properly sanitize dishes or clothing, which could be risky for family members with suppressed immune systems. 

If you need help properly setting your water heater, turn to the plumbing professionals at Joseph G. Michel & Sons in West Haven, CT. For over 80 years, they’ve provided residents throughout the area with a broad range of plumbing installations, repairs, and maintenance services. They also have a heater contractor on staff to provide expert help on water heater installations and repairs. Call (203) 933-7931 or visit them online to learn more.