The design of this gas-fired water heater complies with the latest version of ANSIZ21.10.1/CSA4.1 or ANSIZ21.10.3/CSA4.3 as a automatic storage type water heater. The water heater also mixes the hot water it makes with cold water to give you the temperature you want coming out of the shower head. Water heaters are shipped with the thermostats factory set to the temperature of 120-125 F, and that is considered as "safe" or optimal. It probably takes a long time for a large growth to accumulate again in the sediment once it is sterilized. 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. 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. One big one, would be changes in need. 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.  We pride ourselves on making sure each and every client gets our best work and same day reports. 1/ What temperature should the hot water for a building this size be set on? There are many reasons why you might need to consider replacing your hot 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 need help adjusting your hot water heater or troubleshooting any problems, call your local Mr. Rooter Plumbing at (855) 982-2028, or request an estimate online. I agree….I just replaced the thermocouple in my water heater and changed the position in which the setting for the hot water temperature was set for a 110-115 F….now I have to readjust that setting, which I think is optimal: it is warm enough to wash away fats, and with the use of detergent, all the microorganisms should be removed. Remember Dr. Marc Edwards of Virginia Tech who helped prove that Flint Michigan had a lead problem in their water supply? Water Heater Thermostat Control WHITE-RODGERS Installation … settings of the temperature dial will reduce the risk of scald and will reduce your fuel bill.! Turning down the temperature 10 degrees Fahrenheit on your hot water heater saves 3 to 5 percent on energy costs, so a drop from 140 F to 120 F saves you 6 to 10 percent. ****, Step 2: Test the temperature and pressure relief valve, The temperature and pressure relief valve is  critical to safety and proper operation of the tank.Â. This does not heat water, but keeps the pilot light ignited. water heater. But in any case they do not necessarily relate to any specific temperature, just that B is hotter than A, and C is hotter than either A or B. There are also tankless water heaters that heat water on demand. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Adjusting a Gas Water Heater Consider whether your water temperature is in need of adjusting. Gas water heaters have a setting knob that can be turned to adjust the temperature. Different brands of gas water heater control valves may have different labels. While that might not be the best example due to it being a lead issue, the point is that clean water has to flow through dirty pipes and then just sits at the bottom of a water heater tank. Gas water heaters have a setting knob that can be turned to adjust the temperature. A dual-element water heater … 120 degrees is sometimes labeled “Hot” or with a little triangle icon. Appreciate the comment. It scalds us even on pilot! If you want to take a hot shower or have hot water coming from your faucets, a Bradford-White hot water heater is an option you may install in your home. Hot water heaters are one of those forgotten appliances, however it is one that we rely on every day. You’ll likely need to replace the gas control valve (which includes the thermostat). 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. In this post, we’ll discuss the best temperature to set your thermostat in winter, … Sure, it’s still possible to get Legionnaires but most people (~95%) are resistant. 120 degrees is more than adequate for household chores, and especially for showers and baths. Commercial applications are a bit different that residential. The optimal temperature for water heaters is different than faucet temperature. It could literally be a potential life saver. Also the floor under the container is wet and the heater has no feet. 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. What Do We Look For During A Home Inspection? Is it the relief valve or themostat or both? See Figure 2 (page 7). That could be your problem. How to Set Temperature on a Gas Water Heater. Here is  what temperature each letter stands for: Setting it to the 120 degree temperature will protect the tank from overheating and will also reduce the energy/gas used to heat the water. For that reason, since the 1980s new water heaters installed in houses have had the hot water temperature set at 125 degrees or less. are the main culprits. I solved that problem when I recently installed a new water heater in my home. Allow the water heater to sit for a minimum of one hour without using it, and then turn on the faucet closest to the water heater. This mini-flush works great, taking a fraction of the time and can be done while the water heater is up and running.Â. In most cases, here’s what each label means: Sometimes there is a “Vacation” setting. Thank you for the article. To return hot water system to service, open a hot water faucet in kitchen for several minutes before using electrical appliances. I have a new electric water heater. On my water heater I get 120°F water with a setting of ‘B.’ When the temperature at the tap is 120°F the temperature in the tank will be about 130°F which is enough to prevent bacterial growth. When you say 120 or 140, do you A is 120 degrees & B is 140 degrees? Although I’ve done a lot of ground work/research … my questions are as follows: Hot Water Heaters: Pros and Cons of Tankless vs. There are two basic types of water heaters: gas and electric. On older installs, many times the lower element stops working, and then you only have a short supply of hot water. The bottom of a water heater tank is breeding ground for bacteria , especially the type that can cause Legionnaires’ disease. The recommended temperature setting is between 115 degrees and 120 degrees. If you do not hear this sound, that means the temperature and pressure relief valve is bad and needs to be replaced. He discussed EPA’s recommendation of setting our water heaters to 120 degrees. He is currently involved in research at Virginia Tech on Opportunistic Premise Plumbing Pathogens. isn’t that the reason why the city treats water with chlorine and ammonia? The BC Plumbing Code calls for an electric service water heater temperature of 60°C, because storing hot water below this temperature may lead to the growth of legionella bacteria, which poses a health risk (not a concern for gas-type water heaters). Water heaters are factory set at OSHA recommended levels, around 140 degrees. To test the valve simply lift up the lever part way (as seen in the picture to the right), let go and allow it to snap back. The bottom of the tank is corroding? Thats why the blue/red plastic color markers are are on the tank! Of course the problem is scalding at that temperature, which is certainly a problem. Normally this cold water goes to the bottom of the tank via dip tube but if the tube is broken, the cold water would refill at the top which is where hot water is normally taken from. Using a straight screwdriver, adjust the thermostat control towards the desired temperature. With an old water heater, a broken dip tube is often the issue. Place a bucket under the drain valve, which is located at the bottom of the tank. Here’s a good video showing the process: Some factors that may affect your hot water temperature are the distance from the water heater to the outlet, how the pipes are installed, and the condition of the heating element itself. 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? Cooler temperatures mean warmer clothes, chilly nights and maybe even a fire in the fireplace. Do not operate the water heater until it has been fully checked out by a qualified technician, if the water heater: • Has been exposed to fire or damage. They are the most common way to heat water in the United States. He would only get minimal hot water after a lengthy wait! Conventional Tank, Hot Water Heaters: Pros and Cons of Tankless vs. Don't go above b/120F. The odds are low you would get sick from it but there’s been many reported cases. Keep in mind that the thermostat is factory preset to a recommended temperature and changing the setting may increase the potential for serious burns. This has never happened with this heater. The control knob is not calibrated in degrees, but rather Low, A, B, C, Very Hot or something similar. Many modern homes come with dual-element water heaters. Most water heaters do not have a temperature gauge with a readout. Removing the sediment from the bottom of the tank is important. 3- Setting temperature at A, water temperature is below 100. Doing a full tank draining and flush is best, however it is a lot of work and requires shutting down the water heater. 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. 1- Temperature setting is at B, but water temperature is over 160. By following a 3-step annual maintenance plan, it can help to significantly extend the life of your hot water heater. They can be installed on new or existing water heaters. Replace the insulation and panels, then restore power. It’s on warm. Please someone tell me what is our problem with Reem 100 gallon commercial gas heater. Apparently the.water got too hot on high and the relief valve went off. Great question. Triggering sensor “too hot”. Fire or Explosion Harzard. You should hear a gurgling sound as the valve is allowing some water to be released into the drain tub. Fuel sources can be propane, natural gas or electricity. This helps to remove whatever sediment is at the bottom of the tank. How old is the unit? Most hot water heaters have a A-B-C knob. Thanks for the simple, honest answer! 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. Remove the access panels. You would need check state regulations. ****Tip: If going on vacation turn the dial down to “low”. Instead, the thermostat is marked with temperatures or heating ranges. I just found alot of water (2 bathtowels soaked it up) in the holding tin container that sits directly under the watwr heater. For those that are really concerned about the bacteria, permanently setting the temp to between 140-150 AND adding a mixing valve (example) is the best solution. WARNING A B C PI L O LI G T H TI N G L O W H O T V E R Y RISK OF SCALDING when the water heater is in use.c.To ensure complete filling of the tank, let air exit by … Fetch Here Each hot water heater will be different when it comes to the type of handle they have on them. Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system after a period of non-use (generally two or more weeks). Temporarily adjusting the temp to 150 degrees (the max most residential heaters go to) would kill any bacteria almost immediately but as soon as you return to the normal temp, the risk essentially goes back to what it was before. Is located in Loveland, Colorado and provides a full range of home inspections, environmental testing, radon testing and sewer scoping in the Denver Metro and Northern Colorado area. Mixing valves are available at plumbing supply or hardware stores. It helps to prevent rust, corrosion, and also improves efficiency. Rheem Stellar – 5 Star GaS Storage – Hot Water Systems … On the lower front of the water heater.A setting of „6‟ will normally maintain the water temperature at about 60°C.Each number b) Rheem will arrange for the water heater to be tested and assessed on-site.c) … View Document Keep combustible materials at least two feet away from the heater and hot water output pipe. Also, make sure elements working. Allow the water to run for at least one minute to ensure the water is at the maximum temperature and then fill the cup. Personally, I believe a water heater should be. 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). Hydrogen gas is extremely flammable and can ignite. 120 isnt hot enough, 130 might be perfect, but i prefer 140. Installed just over year ago in apartment complex, new one given me nothing but problems. I’ve had my water heater at 110 degrees for decades and never had a problem with that. Re: Standard Water Heater Temp Setting; Author: hj (AZ) Usually the HOT setting is 150 or 160, and A, B, and C, are 120, 130, and 140. You can adjust hot water heater settings to get more hot water if you are unhappy with the recommended temperature. 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! Water heaters can last for 10+ years if it is properly maintained. On a state/a.o. In most cases, here’s what each label means: 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). Thank you for provided a wise, practical, “middle ground” solution. If adjusting the thermostat still doesn’t give you the right temperature, it may be time to replace the water heater element. Most water heaters in the U.S. are the conventional tank water heaters — tall cylinders that heat water slowly at the bottom of the tank and need to run quite often to make sure there is hot water when you want it. Then close the valve and you are done. Some may have a handle, a plastic o-ring (see picture to the right), or a short handle-less stem with a slot for a flat-head screwdriver. This video will share the recommended temperature for all water heaters as well as show you how to adjust the temperature on your water heater control knob. I can’t believe that I’m setting my water heater temperature too high for so many years without something needs to be fixed. Insert your cooking thermometer, and then adjust the settings as desired. The water was 2 3/4″ up the tank. I think. 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. Place a thermometer in a glass of hot water, ours reads 130 degrees recommended for baths, dishwashers. 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. You drink cold water anyway. The cold water comes straight from the lines, and doesn’t sit in a tank for such a long time. Guidelines from the department explain that most hot water heaters are automatically set to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, but that’s usually unnecessary. The problem is when I turned it slightly below the “A” mark, we quickly run out of hot water and even then it’s not hot long enough to my liking. Different brands of gas water heater control valves may have different labels. 5019 Long Dr. Timnath, CO 80547 970-278-9742 720-300-6890 inspectors@rshinspections.com. If you are running out of hot water too quickly (with a 40 gallon W.H. 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. Oftentimes, water heaters will have additional options to either lower or increase the temperature of the water inside. If all else fails, the heating element may be failing, and needs to be replaced. We recently moved to our home and our gas bill comes 500 a month. Your hot water … 2- Bottom is corroding already, called Reem, no replacement until visual water leaks. The water heater must be installed in a manner that prevents contact with combustible materials. Consult a qualified installer or service agency. I have a friend who replaced his own hot water heater but installed it backwards! Most gas control valves have a knob with various labels such as A-B-C on them. 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. Please help, Thank you. you should be at least able to get two 20 minute showers, shower heads use about 2 gal. The water heater is built to produce hot water with the temperature ranging from approximately 80 F to 160 F, or higher when used in commercial applications. Very interesting stuff. Thermostatic mixing valves also mitigate against the dreaded “flush flash.”. Our hot water heat has 3 marked settings: A, B, C (this being the hottest). Gas and electric water heater temperatures are set at the factory, but can be adjusted for your own preferences with only a couple of tools. When the size of a household increases this may put strain on a hot water heater. Turn the handle, ring or screwdriver to open up the valve allowing a few gallons of water to empty in to the bucket. Perhaps your hot water isn’t hot enough no matter what setting your water heater is on. dont get me wrong, it can get hot even for me. How should this be addressed? It would be rare on a new water heater but that’s the first thing I’d check. I have had it for more than a decade. 3/ Thru my research I’ve discovered that it is Hydrogen Sulfide. addition to using the lowest possible temperature setting that satisfies your hot water needs, a means such as a *Mixing Valve should be used at the hot water taps used by these people or at the water heater. The A-B-C knob on a residential gas water heater usually equals 130-140-150 degrees if properly calibrated. I have a new water heater. To accurately find the hot water heater temperature, you will need a cup and a cooking thermometer. The water starts to turn cold with just one person taking a shower. The recommended temperature setting is between 115 degrees and 120 degrees. 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.) Locate the thermostat adjustment beneath the insulation. Here is what temperature each letter stands for: On the other hand, the EPA suggests turning the thermostat down to 120 to reduce power consumption, and a booster heater to reach sanitizing temperatures at select outlets. Check make sure the 2 elements are set to same temp. Tank Water Heaters provide a large volume of dependable, low-cost hot water. It’s interesting that this product isn’t a bit more popular. Best Solar Water Heater Systems On The Market, Best Immersion (Bucket) Water Heater For 2021, Best Water Heater Earthquake Straps For 2021, How To Wire A Hot Water Heater: An Ultimate guide, How To Check Your Water Heater Temperature, How to Set Temperature on a Gas Water Heater, How to Set Temperature on an Electric Water Heater, How to Reset a Water Heater (and Why You’d Need to), https://www.waterheaterhub.com/hot-water-smells-like-rotten-eggs-fix/. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Most gas control valves have a knob with various labels such as A-B-C on them. 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. In the case of the video’s water heater, A, B and C each have an increase of about 10 degrees. What Is The Best Water Heater Temperature Setting? Here is what temperature each letter stands for: there is a lot of very interesting and well conceived information here. I guess it’s one of those things everybody has to consider the slightly higher risk at a cost savings (and vice versa). Most hot water heaters have a A-B-C knob. 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. Conventional Tank →. (I have pics of the thermastate). Sounds like a thermostat issue if the calibration is off by more than +/- 10 degrees. If the water heater is too small for the size of the household, there will be problems. It’s also _cold_, and does not present the fertile breeding environment that a nice comfortably warm “hot water” tank will provide. 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. Either way, since it’s new, contact your installer or place of purchase since it will be under warranty. Annual energy costs for a hot water heater vary from $100 to $200, so this simple change could save you anywhere from $6 to $20 per year. These hot water heaters come in a variety of models that you can connect to a gas line or an electrical outlet. Home » Maintenance » What Is The Best Water Heater Temperature Setting? But finding that setting on the water heater temperature setting dial isn’t easy, because most dials aren’t labeled with numbers. Just because it starts as treated city water, doesn’t mean it will remain 100% safe (see Flint, Michigan). From another point of view, lower temperatures are better for households with small children, while higher temperatures are more efficient at cleaning and sanitizing. 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. If you are worried about it, turn it up to 140 for an hour or two a week, then back down to 120. Well if you’ve got the water heater cranked all the way up to a 140 degrees, you’re mixing too much cold water with too little hot water to make the temperature at the shower head bearable. 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. Advice? What could be the cause of this? Is there something we could do. How to Set the Upper and Lower Thermostats on Dual-Element Water Heaters. 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. For … Turn off the circuit breaker. That will kill off most of the bacteria. Every other page I’ve been to has been long and pretty useless . 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. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, for each 10 degree reduction in water temperature, you can save between 3 … The temperature on your water heater should be set so that it is just hot enough to satisfy your needs. Replacing a Hot Water Heater. Residential tank water heaters typically store between 20 and 80 gallons of hot water hot throughout, usually at the factory setting of 120°F. 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. See: https://www.waterheaterhub.com/hot-water-smells-like-rotten-eggs-fix/. © 2017 Reliable Solutions Home Inspections, 970-278-9742 — inspectors@rshinspections.com, Sellers Guide to Preparing For a Home Inspection, Home Buyers, Preparing To Attend Your Home Inspection. The recommended temperature setting is between 115 degrees and 120 degrees. 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. But many houses still have overly hot tap water… 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. Reading this made me think of a recent lecture I attended. smith, water heater thermostat your hot then a, b, c, settings go 90F, 110F, 120F, 150F. Taking a bit of time once a year to do these 3 simple steps, will help to extend the life of your tank. And like another commenter said, we drink the cold water anyway. Use the labels as a starting point but measure the actual temperature at the closest hot water faucet if you want to be most precise. And pressure relief valve or themostat or both way, since it ’ s new contact... The dial down to “ low ” these hot water heaters to 120 degrees is Sometimes labeled “ ”... Cup and a cooking thermometer drain tub at a, B and C each have an increase of about degrees. Also mitigate against the dreaded “ flush flash. ” installer or place of purchase since it ’ the... That problem when I recently installed a new water heater tank Booster ” matter what your. Allowing some water to run for at least one minute to ensure the water heater control valves have friend. Cup and a cooking thermometer with a little triangle icon me what is problem... 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