You can save money on your energy costs by setting the temperature on your standard holding tank type water heater a few degrees lower. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, lowering your water heater temperature setting by ten degrees can save three to five percent on your water heating costs.
Most water heater come from the factory set at 140 degrees, but it is easy to lower the setting just by turning the thermostat dial down to the desired temperature. Check your owner’s manual for instructions on adjusting the thermostat on your water heater. On a gas water heater, the thermostat is usually found at the bottom of the tank near the pilot light. The thermostat on an electric water heater is usually behind a small panel and there may be two thermostats, an upper an a lower.
Most households don’t need water heated to 140 degrees and water that hot can pose a risk scalding. 120 degrees is usually a good setting for most households and it also slows the development of mineral build up and corrosion. Not only will you save money on your energy bill, but your water heater will last longer.
If you have a dishwasher, check the owner’s manual before you lower the temperature setting on your water heater. Some dishwashers require water temperatures of 130 degrees or more to clean properly. Dishwashers with heat boosters are less sensitive to lower hot water temperatures.
The one disadvantage of lowering the temperature on your water heater is that you may run out of hot water sooner. Since the water is not as hot, you will mix less cold water with the hot water to get the desired shower or bathwater temperature.
