On a cold winter morning, sometimes there’s nothing better than a hot shower to get you warmed up and ready for your day. But if you’re not careful, the hot water can be a little too hot — for you and your children, and also for your wallet.
Here’s how to make sure you keep you and your family from scalding temperatures when the temptation to move that hot water knob a little further to the left hits. Set your water heater’s temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This will prevent you and your little ones from accidental harm when taking a bath or shower, or even washing your hands.
Some manufacturers do recommend 140 degrees, but if you have young children in your home, it’s especially important keep your temperature setting at 120 degrees or slightly below. Further, lowering the temperature can decrease your bill by an estimated $10-30 annually for each 10 degree decrease in temperature.
But what about your ensuring your water is hot enough to sanitize dishes in your dishwasher? No worries, that’s why dishwashers have heat boosters. Dishwasher manufacturers actually point to monthly water bill savings as a benefit of heat boosters because you don’t have to keep your entire house at a higher temperature to make sure your dishes are clean.
Are there any cons? The only risk of lowering the water heater temperature is may allow bacteria to build up with the lower temperature. However, most people in general good health do not have to worry. If you have a suppressed immune system or chronic respiratory problems consider keeping it at 140. If you have small children, or are elderly, make sure to add mixing valves at each sink or shower which will help prevent you from scalding accident.
###
Have more questions? Call us—we’d love to help! You can reach the professionals at Go Green Plumbing at 336-252-2999 for service 7 days a week/24 hours a day. If water runs through it – We Do It!
