Posted: April 7, 2025

Adjusting Water Heater Temperature for Energy Savings

A Strategy for Saving

Your water heater is one of the most energy-intensive appliances in your home, often accounting for 14 to 18% of your total energy bill. Adjusting the temperature setting can significantly impact your energy costs. By fine-tuning your water heater’s temperature, you can strike a balance between energy efficiency and comfort.

Why Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature?

Most manufacturers set water heater temperatures at around 140°F (60°C) by default. While this ensures hot water is always available, it may be higher than necessary for typical household use. Lowering this temperature can reduce energy consumption, prevent scalding, while still providing sufficient hot water for daily tasks.

The key benefits of lowering the temperature on your water heater are as follows:

1. Energy Savings: For every 10°F reduction in water heater temperature, you can save up to 5% on your energy bill.
2. Safety Improvements: Reducing the temperature minimizes the risk of scalding, particularly important for the safety of children and older adults.
3. Longer Equipment Lifespan: Lower temperatures reduce mineral buildup and corrosion inside the tank, prolonging the heater’s lifespan.

Optimal Temperature Settings

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your water heater to 120°F (49°C) for optimal energy efficiency and safety. This temperature is sufficient for most household needs, including bathing, laundry, and dishwashing.

If your household includes individuals with compromised immune systems, some experts suggest maintaining a slightly higher temperature (of 130-140°F) to minimize the risk of Legionella bacteria growth. In such cases, installing anti-scald devices at faucets can ensure safe usage.

How to Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature

Follow these simple steps to adjust your water heater temperature:

1. Turn off the power. For electric water heaters, switch off the power at the circuit breaker. For gas heaters, set the thermostat to “pilot.”
2. Locate the thermostat. On electric models, you may need to remove a small panel cover. Gas heaters typically have an external dial for temperature control.
3. Adjust the temperature. Use a flathead screwdriver or adjust the dial to set the desired temperature.
4. Test the water temperature. After a few hours, run hot water at the tap closest to your heater. Use a thermometer to ensure the temperature matches your setting.
5. Fine-tune if necessary. If the water is too hot or too cool, make slight adjustments until you find a comfortable temperature.

Additional Tips for Energy Savings

In addition to lowering your water heater temperature, consider these tips for maximizing energy efficiency:

• Insulate your water heater tank: Adding an insulation blanket can reduce standby heat loss, especially if your unit is older.
• Insulate hot water pipes: This minimizes heat loss as water travels from the heater to your faucets.
• Drain sediment regularly: Flushing your tank once or twice a year removes sediment buildup, improving efficiency.
• Upgrade to a high-efficiency model: Modern water heaters are designed to consume less energy while delivering the same performance.

Adjusting your water heater’s temperature is a simple yet effective step toward reducing energy costs and improving household safety. By setting your heater to 120°F and following additional efficiency practices, you can enjoy consistent hot water while saving money and conserving energy. Making these adjustments requires minimal effort but can deliver significant long-term benefits.

Ace-Robbins Knows Water Heaters

At Ace-Robbins we install, maintain, and repair all of the top brands of water heaters—from traditional tank storage water heaters to high-efficiency and compact tankless water heaters to indirect water heaters that work with your boiler. So whether you’re looking to increase the efficiency of the water heater you have or need a new one, we can help.

Contact Ace-Robbins today for more information on water heater service or to request a free estimate.