According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the safest temperature for hot water delivered to your home is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Setting your water heater to this temperature is a key recommendation for safety and efficiency.
Why 120°F is Recommended
Setting your water heater to 120°F offers significant benefits:
- Prevents Scalding: Water temperatures above 120°F can cause serious burns, especially in children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities, as they may not react quickly enough to hot water. Scalding can occur much faster at higher temperatures.
- Conserves Energy & Saves Money: Lowering the temperature reduces the amount of energy needed to heat the water, leading to lower utility bills. The CPSC explicitly states that this decrease in temperature will conserve energy and save money.
Risks of Higher Temperatures
While some might think hotter water is necessary for killing bacteria or better cleaning, temperatures significantly above 120°F dramatically increase the risk of scalding. For example, water at 140°F can cause a third-degree burn in as little as five seconds, whereas water at 120°F takes significantly longer, often several minutes, allowing time to react.
Practical Steps for Setting Your Water Heater
To ensure your home's hot water is at a safe temperature:
- Locate your water heater: The temperature dial is typically on the unit.
- Check the current setting: Many water heaters are factory-set to 140°F, which is too high for safety.
- Adjust the dial: Carefully lower the temperature setting to 120°F. If the dial is marked with "Hot," "Medium," or "Low" instead of temperatures, consult your owner's manual or search online for the equivalent temperature settings for your specific model.
- Test the water temperature: After waiting a few hours for the water in the tank to reach the new temperature, use a thermometer to check the hot water temperature at a faucet farthest from the heater. Run the water for a minute or two before testing.
Adhering to the CPSC's recommendation of 120 degrees Fahrenheit for your water heater setting is the most effective way to ensure the safety of hot water use in your home while also benefiting from energy savings.
