Your home’s water heater is one of the most crucial components of your plumbing system. When you prioritize proper maintenance and care, it can last for several years! Setting the appropriate temperature is one of the many easy ways to care for it.
How you adjust the temperature can depend on whether you have a gas valve water heater or an electric model. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to adjust the temperature, the best temperatures, and more.
What Temperature Should Your Water Heater Be?
According to the Government of Canada, it’s best to set the temperature of your water heater to 60°C (140°F) to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, such as Legionella.
After setting your water heater to 60°C, reach out to a trusted local plumber to install automatic mixing valves on your faucets, showers, and tubs. You can also opt for an anti-scald mixing valve at the water heater itself. These devices regulate water temperature at the point of use, keeping it at or below 49°C (120°F) to help protect your family from scalds.
How to Adjust the Temperature on an Electric Water Heater
If your electric water heater is not at the recommended or safest temperature, take these steps to change it:
- Locate the water heater’s breaker and turn off the power supply to it.
- Locate the water heater’s dial or thermostat, typically found behind an insulated panel.
- Open the access panel with a screwdriver.
- Adjust the temperature with the screwdriver. If your water heater has two thermostats, ensure they read the same temperature.
- Turn the power back on. Use an immersion thermometer to check that the water temperature is safe.
How to Adjust the Temperature on a Gas Water Heater
The process for adjusting the water temperature on a gas water heater can be different than that of an electric model. Take these steps:
- Read the owner’s manual to determine the temperature for each setting on the dial. They can vary across brands.
- Turn the dial clockwise to reduce the setting to the correct temperature.
Keep Children Safe Around Hot Water
Set your water heater to a temperature that is high enough to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, but be sure to take precautions to avoid scalding, especially for young children.
- Install anti-scald devices on your faucets.
- When running a bath for children, start and end with cold water.
- Use an immersion thermometer or your elbow to test the water temperature in the bathtub. It should be at 34°C to 38°C.
Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing® for Help With Your Water Heater
If you need to adjust the temperature on your hot water heater or are experiencing issues with your current unit, contact the plumbing team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing®. Our licensed and insured service professionals provide comprehensive water heater services, including installation, repair, replacement, and maintenance.
