Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature by Go Green Plumbing

Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature To Save Money

Do you know what temperature your water heater is set to maintain? Most manufacturers will set them to about 140 degrees Fahrenheit, but that can pose a scalding danger and can cost you big money in the long run.

One concern about lowering the temperature of your water heater is that harmful bacteria will have a chance to flourish at the lower temperature. However, except for pipes that are rarely used where water has an opportunity to stagnate, this is not a concern for most people. Unless someone in your household has a compromised immune system or suffers from chronic respiratory problems, lowering the temperature to 120 should be fine. Another concern is that the dishwasher requires a higher temperature to operate efficiently. This is true, but most dishwashers have a booster heater to get the temperature of the water up to the correct range. You can expect to save $10-30 dollars annually for every ten degree reduction in temperature.

If you choose to keep your water heater at 140 degrees consider adding mixing valves at any point where people will come in contact directly with the water like sinks and showers. This will reduce the likelihood of scalding.

Have a plumbing issue and need some help? Call 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!