Thermostatic mixing valves also mitigate against the dreaded “flush flash.”. With an old water heater, a broken dip tube is often the issue. The culprit of the smell you’re experiencing is likely the anode rod but in some cases it may be incorrect venting in the sewer lines. The tank booster you mentioned is a good solution to prevent scalding if setting the water heater temp higher as well as making hot water last longer. Small bore pipes and long distances will require longer times for the hot water to reach the opening, for example, and pipes that run beneath or outside the home may be subject to winter or summer conditions. The main thing to worry about with your gas water heater thermostat is the temperature setting. Call 1-877-467-2262, Less than 3,000 therms per year? Your water heater accounts for about 18 percent of your home’s energy bill. They can be installed on new or existing water heaters. Thank you for the article. i live in central arkansas and we happen to have great water here; but i do keep my gas water heater at 140. i thought about 150 for a while there, but i dont want to pay the bill for the extra heat i dont need. It would be rare on a new water heater but that’s the first thing I’d check. Thank you for provided a wise, practical, “middle ground” solution. Although manufacturer's usually set water heaters at 140 degrees F, you can reduce your carbon footprint and save money by adjusting your water heater thermostat. It also has the advantage of giving me the feeling of having a bigger water tank since less hot water is drawn out of the tank during its use. Of course the problem is scalding at that temperature, which is certainly a problem. Well, the EPA recommends a hot temperature setting of 120-degrees F for both safety and energy-saving purposes. Residential tank water heaters typically store between 20 and 80 gallons of hot water hot throughout, usually at the factory setting of 120°F. Check the temperature of the water exiting your faucets. Appreciate the comment. Whether you have a gas or electric water heater, the default temperature set from the factory will be between 120ºF to 140ºF. This does not heat water, but keeps the pilot light ignited. I have a new electric water heater. Adjust the temperature to its lowest setting and then run some hot water. It sets off the danger of scalding, which increases with age, and with such conditions as peripheral neuropathy, common in people suffering for many diseases, among which one can count diabetes, in which sensation of hot temperatures can be lessen enough to produce large, and deep scalding burns, serious enough! 3/ Thru my research I’ve discovered that it is Hydrogen Sulfide. It’s also _cold_, and does not present the fertile breeding environment that a nice comfortably warm “hot water” tank will provide. If adjusting the thermostat still doesn’t give you the right temperature, it may be time to replace the water heater element. Next, check the thermostats. The arguments for 120°F temperature setting: If we set the water heater temperature at 120°F, we may get the following advantages as advice by the American Society of Sanitary Engineering – Helps to cut down bills. It allows me to keep my water heater at 140 degrees but will mix the water exiting the tank with cold water so that my hot water can be delivered to my tap at 120 degrees to prevent scalding. Most water heaters do not have a temperature gauge with a readout. Check make sure the 2 elements are set to same temp. Why is following this temperature standard important? before your move. Mark the beginning temperature on your water heater thermostat with a marker, and then turn the thermostat down. The highest will increase the temperature to above 160 degrees. Hot water heater settings are easy to adjust, although electric heaters will require a screwdriver and possibly a small wrench or socket. The gas water heater pilot light or main burner can ignite ... is a local code or state law requiring a certain temperature water at the hot water tap, then you must take special precau-tions. Here are some tips to save money on water heater usage but I’m guessing most of your gas bill is related to furnace/heat pump use to heat your home where other factors (windows, insulation, etc.) Whether you have a gas or electric water heater, the default temperature set from the factory will be between 120ºF to 140ºF. Are your savings getting hotter – or is it just your water heater? Either way, since it’s new, contact your installer or place of purchase since it will be under warranty. The water was 2 3/4″ up the tank. 2- Bottom is corroding already, called Reem, no replacement until visual water leaks. Once the water is hot, fill a cup and get the temperature by placing your thermometer in the water. The main thing to worry about with your gas water heater thermostat is the temperature setting. If the water is above 120 degrees, adjust the dial, wait about three hours and check again. Fill a glass and check the hot temperature. However, by following these simple steps, you can increase the temperature to 140℉ if you choose. This thermostat is a valve in the shape of a dial. Turn off the circuit breaker. 120 isnt hot enough, 130 might be perfect, but i prefer 140. For your safety, Rinnai tankless water heaters come with a maximum temperature default setting of 120℉ to help prevent scalding. Setting the water heater in “vacation mode” is not the only way of saving. On older installs, many times the lower element stops working, and then you only have a short supply of hot water. Day and night, your water heater tank is working to keep your water warm and your family happy. What is wrong? If all else fails, the heating element may be failing, and needs to be replaced. Flow the six (6) step process to adjust your temperature: 1. are the main culprits. Summary. Reading this made me think of a recent lecture I attended. From another point of view, lower temperatures are better for households with small children, while higher temperatures are more efficient at cleaning and sanitizing. If the thermostat isn't sending power to the heating element, replace the thermostat. And like another commenter said, we drink the cold water anyway. 2) Mark the setting, then turn down the thermostat. Every other page I’ve been to has been long and pretty useless . If it still comes out hot then that means that it is faulty and needs to be replaced. 1- Temperature setting is at B, but water temperature is over 160. Here’s how to do it yourself: It’s that easy! Very interesting stuff. To accurately find the hot water heater temperature, you will need a cup and a cooking thermometer. At 130 degrees, any Legionellae would die within a few hours so if that’s the regular temp, there shouldn’t be a need to go any higher since as the risk is super low. https://www.waterheaterhub.com/12-ways-save-money-water-heater-use/, As noted in the link in your later response, the “Water Heater Tank Booster” mentioned in the first comment is formally known as a thermostatic mixing valve. Use code LOWEST by Dec. 19 to start saving. You drink cold water anyway. Once installed, it acts as a programmable setback controller. They cannot be replaced separately from the valve. Learn more…, Low income or credit challenges? That could be your problem. Measure the beginning temperature of your hot water using a thermometer at the tap farthest from the water heater. From what I’ve researched, my recommendation of setting the temp to 130 degrees may not kill Legionella bacteria as quickly as 140, but it should still do the job. If you answered “yes” to either of these questions, you have your natural gas water heater to thank. Water heaters are factory set at OSHA recommended levels, around 140 degrees. I can’t believe that I’m setting my water heater temperature too high for so many years without something needs to be fixed. Gas Water Heater. According to Dr. Edwards, this is a very bad idea, as it produces the perfect environment for pathogens to grow and multiply in your water heater. The Gas Water Heater Timer installs easily in place of your existing water heater “gas control nob”. This temperature will produce enough hot water for every household. Find the dial or thermostat for your water heater. We recently moved to our home and our gas bill comes 500 a month. If you have already set the temperature and are saying to yourself, “I have no hot water” or not enough of it, there are a few factors that may be affecting the heat. Fuel sources can be propane, natural gas or electricity. The location of the dial will vary depending on the model and type of water heater. Run hot water at the tap closest to the water heater for at least three minutes. If 120-degree water is too hot for you to use, try setting the thermostat at 110 degrees. If you have never adjusted your hot water heater temperature, it’s most likely set on the default setting for most manufacturers of hot water heaters, which is 140 degrees Fahrenheit. It scalds us even on pilot! Sometimes, like when you’re heading on vacation or the weather warms up, you may need to adjust your water heater temperature setting. What Temperature Should a Hot Water Heater Be Set At? The cold water comes straight from the lines, and doesn’t sit in a tank for such a long time. This has never happened with this heater. The recommended temperature setting is between 115 degrees and 120 degrees. Keep in mind that the thermostat is factory preset to a recommended temperature and changing the setting may increase the potential for serious burns. See: https://www.waterheaterhub.com/hot-water-smells-like-rotten-eggs-fix/. There is no such requirement in any model plumbing code. Adjusting a Gas Hot Water Heater Temperature Thermostat Setting. It’s interesting that this product isn’t a bit more popular. It’s on warm. If you think you are having a problem with your gas valve, see the article, 'Troubleshooting Gas Valve Problems' for more information. All you have to do is turn it to make an adjustment. Using a straight screwdriver, adjust the thermostat control towards the desired temperature. Sounds like a thermostat issue if the calibration is off by more than +/- 10 degrees. Turning it counterclockwise will decrease the temperature. On a gas hot water heater the temperature dial is on the gas valve at the bottom of the water heater. It should be approximately 120 degrees (or match the setting on your water heater thermostat). It is best not to deviate too far from that mark. You may also choose to turn your hot water heater off completely. Your water heater accounts for about 18 percent of your home’s energy bill. If you have a large house, you may want to look into installing a hot water recirculation system which can mean less time to get hot water in all outlets of the house and well as substantial cost savings over time. Water heaters are factory set at OSHA recommended levels, around 140 degrees. Sign up for SCANA Energy and receive the LOWEST price for two winters: 32.9¢/therm. How Does the Gas Water Heater Timer Work? First, adjust the thermostat setting to lower the water temperature if the thermostat is set above 130 degrees. Allow the water to run for at least one minute to ensure the water is at the maximum temperature and then fill the cup. Locate the thermostat adjustment beneath the insulation. Thats why the blue/red plastic color markers are are on the tank! It is estimated that the average water heater temperature is set to 130ºF in the United States.130ºF IS THE BEST TEMPERATURE TO SET YOUR WATER HEATER as it will reduce the risk of scalding while showering but also be hot enough to meet your dishwasher and … Savings come from turning down of the temperature of your water heater subjected to standby loses and consumption. I do have one follow up question: What do you think of the recommendation some experts make to turn one’s hot water heater up periodically (perhaps a couple times a year) to 150 or 160 degrees to disinfect any lingering dangerous bacteria, then return to the normal temperature? Recommended Temperature Settings. There have been people claiming the maximum allowable storage temperature or thermostat setting on a water heater is 120°F). (retail shop, etc. On the flip side, if your water heater is set too low your water may not get hot enough (short showers), or worse, be at risk of growing bacteria. 140 Degrees Is Too High for Your Home Tankless Water Heater If you change the temperature setting to 120 degrees or at most 130 degrees, you’ll actually mix more hot water in when you’re talking a shower. If you are ready to adjust the temperature for your water heater, follow these steps. Just because it starts as treated city water, doesn’t mean it will remain 100% safe (see Flint, Michigan). When the dip tube pushes cold water to the bottom of the tank, the heating element begins to heat up that cold water. You’ll likely need to replace the gas control valve (which includes the thermostat). You can adjust hot water heater settings to get more hot water if you are unhappy with the recommended temperature. (I have pics of the thermastate). 120 degrees is sometimes labeled “Hot” or with a little triangle icon. However, if you have a compromised immune system or are prone to respiratory conditions, you should consider setting the temperature … This way the extra hot tank water is mixed with cold water right above the tank so you remove the chance of scalding at the faucet. When you say 120 or 140, do you A is 120 degrees & B is 140 degrees? Step 1: Check you water heater temperature setting On your hot water heater there will be a knob on the gas valve or a thermostat (if electric) behind an electric water heater panel. Instead, the thermostat is marked with temperatures or heating ranges. Most hot water heaters have a A-B-C knob. 140 seems perfect for our needs. Remember Dr. Marc Edwards of Virginia Tech who helped prove that Flint Michigan had a lead problem in their water supply? Here are some idea: Set the water heater to 120 degrees F. Lowering to this temperature is more practical and safe. Apparently the.water got too hot on high and the relief valve went off. Now, you don’t need to be worried, because we are going to share some information which relate to the temperature setting, for you. That’s a common standard. Usually, when you purchase your tankless water heater you will find that the manufacturer will already have set the thermostat at a temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Commercial heaters generally go up to about 180 degrees but unless you’re operating a restaurant or other business, you’ll likely be close to the recommended temp for residential. Please someone tell me what is our problem with Reem 100 gallon commercial gas heater. I live in a 22/unit Condo Association and about a year ago, we got a new hot water heater (Rheem-Ruud Universal Commercial Gas Water Heater). There have been people claiming the maximum allowable storage temperature or thermostat setting on a water heater is 120°F). Personally, I believe a water heater should be. Turning the screwdriver clockwise will increase the temperature of the water that the heater will produce. Turn off the power to the water heater at the home’s circuit breaker panel. Insert your cooking thermometer, and then adjust the settings as desired. A water heater set to 120 degrees may be just fine for most people. They cannot be replaced separately from the valve. If your water heater is set too high, you will be paying the price in your energy bill each month. Whether replacing an old water heater or putting the water heater in a new location, the following critical points must be observed: 1. Select a location indoors as close as practical to the gas vent or chimney to which the water heater vent is going to be connected, and as centralized with the water … isn’t that the reason why the city treats water with chlorine and ammonia? but i do a lot of baking and cooking and the high temp keeps me from constant concern about bacteria and makes clean up a relative cinch. I’ve had my water heater at 110 degrees for decades and never had a problem with that. Clean Your Natural Gas Range in 10 Minutes or Less. How should this be addressed? I have had it for more than a decade. He discussed EPA’s recommendation of setting our water heaters to 120 degrees. What could be the cause of this? The valve assembly features a dial which you can use to adjust the temperature. Remove the access panels. Start service up to 90 days SLOW HOT WATER RECOVERY: Thermostat set too low; Heater too small; Turn temperature dial to higher setting; See Sizing Guides. They are the most common way to heat water in the United States. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting a tank-based hot water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. The bottom of the tank is corroding? It’s easy. … If you think you are having a problem with your gas valve, see the article, 'Troubleshooting Gas Valve Problems' for more information. But finding that setting on the water heater temperature setting dial isn’t easy, because most dials aren’t labeled with numbers. What Is The Best Water Heater Temperature Setting? Is there something we could do. Place a thermometer in a glass of hot water, ours reads 130 degrees recommended for baths, dishwashers. I have a friend who replaced his own hot water heater but installed it backwards! Testing the thermostat on a gas water heater is much easier. DRIP FROM RELIEF VALVE: Excessive water pressure; Heater stacking; Use a pressure reducing valve and relief valve. Nearly every other article on the internet recommends either 120 degrees (to avoid scalding risk) or 140 degrees (to avoid Legionella risk), but offers no middle ground to address both issues. And the best part? dont get me wrong, it can get hot even for me. You would need check state regulations. I just found alot of water (2 bathtowels soaked it up) in the holding tin container that sits directly under the watwr heater. For … Gas water heaters have a setting knob that can be turned to adjust the temperature. Energy.gov recommends a water temperature of 120 degrees Farenheit for your water heater. I also add sodium hypochlorite, a table spoon in the water a wash dishes with, and let to stay for 15-30 minutes before washing. I solved that problem when I recently installed a new water heater in my home. Don’t set your water heater to anything below 120 degrees, as diseases can develop in the stagnant water inside the water heater, particularly Legionella, which is … In the rare chance any bacteria makes it to an outlet, only a tiny percentage of individuals even have the possibility of getting Legionairres (and they have to inhale the hot water or steam in a shower). According to the U.S. Department of Energy, for each 10 degree reduction in water temperature, you can save between 3 and 5 … If you don’t notice a difference in water temperature after adjusting the thermostat, it’s also possible you may have a faulty thermostat that needs replacing. Here, the recommended setting of temperature which you should choose, is between around 115 degrees Fahrenheit and 120 degrees Fahrenheit. In the case of the video’s water heater, A, B and C each have an increase of about 10 degrees.