With the current inflation rate of 3.3%, consumers have to spend more of their hard-earned dollars on nearly everything. That’s especially true for homeowners. According to one study published by Reuters, U.S. home energy bills are on track to increase by almost 8% this summer. While that is primarily attributable to higher cooling costs, other factors are at play. Because of higher natural gas costs, supply chain issues, operational costs, and so on, utility companies across the U.S. have raised their rates. As a result, homeowners are paying more to power their homes. And that includes the power necessary to heat their water.
Why Hot Water in Your Home Is Important
Hot water is essential for cleaning, cooking, and heating the home. There are also health benefits that come from showering or bathing with hot water. Studies show that hot water acts as a natural vasodilator. In other words, it expands blood vessels and improves oxygen and blood circulation, which, in turn, relaxes muscles and reduces pain. Neither is achievable with cold water.
What Is the Best Temperature Setting for Your Water Heater?
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating accounts for an estimated 18% of the energy used in a home. And that includes the energy used to heat the water in both tank and tankless water heaters. Even with that in mind, most homeowners are not interested in forgoing hot water altogether. In their view, lowering the water temperature on these appliances is an excellent compromise. Of course, choosing the right temperature can be a tricky proposition, especially if anyone living in the home has health problems.
The default on most tank and tankless water heaters is 140 degrees Fahrenheit, a temperature high enough to destroy bacteria, fungi, amebas, and other water-borne germs. This temperature is perfect for water heaters in homes occupied by immuno-compromised individuals or anyone with a severe health problem that might be complicated if exposed to such germs. But there is a downside. Along with high energy bills, water temperatures set at 140 degrees and over can increase the risk of scalding injuries, especially among young children. To keep energy costs low and to prevent scalding while also destroying water-borne germs, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting the water heater in one’s home to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
How Much Can You Save on Your Energy Bill by Reducing Your Water Heater Temperature?
Studies show that homeowners can save 3% to 5% on their water heating costs for every 10 degrees they reduce their water temperature by. Some homeowners cite these studies to justify reducing their water heater temperature below the U.S. Department of Energy’s recommended 120 degrees Fahrenheit. While that might save them some money, it may not be worth it. That is especially true for homes that use a traditional water tank to heat water.
One of the many bacteria that can survive and even thrive in a traditional water tank with a temperature set below 120 degrees is Legionella. Exposure to Legionella bacteria can increase the risk of developing Legionnaires disease, a severe form of pneumonia. People can develop Legionnaires disease by merely inhaling water droplets that contain the bacteria responsible for Legionella. Those droplets can come from showers, faucets, dishwashers, and other water sources in the home. Symptoms of Legionnaires disease typically present 14 days after someone is exposed to Legionella bacteria and can include the following:
- Abdominal pain
- Confusion
- Diarrhea
- Dry cough
- Fever
- Headache
- Hemoptysis
- Muscle aches
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
Several studies show that older adults and anyone who is immuno-compromised due to HIV, diabetes, cancer, kidney or liver disease, for example, are highly susceptible to developing Legionnaires disease if exposed to Legionella bacteria. The best way to minimize the risk of Legionella bacteria, not to mention other water-borne bacteria and germs, is to keep your water heater temperature between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
When Should You Consider Having Your Water Heater Inspected?
Figuring out something is wrong with a tankless water heater is easy since most have a display panel that shows the temperature. If you notice that your water is too hot, too cold, or no longer maintains its set temperature, you should have it looked at by a plumber as soon as possible. The same applies if you notice these issues with a traditional tank water heater.
While it is easy to tell something is wrong with the water tank in your home if the water never gets hot, noticing temperature fluctuations requires some effort. The best way to see whether or not your water tank is maintaining a set temperature is to stop using any water in your home for at least one hour. After that, you will want to turn on a faucet and let the water run for 1 to 2 minutes. Doing so allows the water ample time to heat up. From there, fill up a cup with the water from the faucet and use a kitchen thermostat to measure the temperature of the water. If the temperature on the thermostat is different from the temperature set on the water tank, you should have it inspected.
In summary, 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for water heaters in most homes. Temperatures in this range not only help fend off harmful bacteria but also allow you to save on your monthly energy bills.