Adjusting the Temperature of Your Electric Water Heater

Water heating provides us with warm water for bathing, cleaning, and other household tasks. However, controlling the temperature on an electric water heater can sometimes be confusing.

That's why we've created this blog post to provide you with the necessary information on adjusting the temperature of your unit.

How Electric Water Heaters Work

Electric water heaters are a common household appliance that heats and stores hot water for daily use. The main components of an electric water heater include the tank, heating elements, thermostat, and temperature adjustment knobs.

Inside the tank is a heater core, which is responsible for heating the water to desired temperatures. Energy from electricity passes through these heating elements, causing them to heat up and transfer the heat to the water.

The thermostat, which is usually located near the top of the tank, monitors and regulates the temperature of the water. The temperature adjustment knobs allow you to adjust this temperature according to your needs.

Why Adjust the Temperature of Your Water Heater?

There are a few reasons why you may need to adjust the temperature of your electric water heater. The first is simply for personal preference—everyone has their own idea of what the perfect water temperature is for them.

Another reason could be energy efficiency. By lowering the temperature, you can reduce your energy usage and save money on utility bills.

Additionally, adjusting the temperature is important for safety. Water that's too hot can cause scalding and burns, especially for children or elderly individuals with sensitive skin.

Recommended Temperature Range

The recommended temperature range for electric water heaters is between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This range is carefully balanced for comfort and safety.

Temperatures lower than 120 degrees pose a risk of bacteria growth in the unit. Bacteria can contaminate the water and cause health problems. Temperatures higher than 140 degrees pose a risk of accidental scalding.

How to Adjust the Temperature

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to adjust the temperature of your electric water heater:

Step 1: Turn off the unit's circuit breaker.

Step 2: Remove the access panel and peel back the insulation.

Step 3: Adjust the thermostat.

Step 4: Close everything, turn on the circuit breaker, and restart the unit.

If you're experiencing issues with your water heater, contact J. Blanton Plumbing for professional assistance. We've been serving local homeowners for over 30 years and can help diagnose and fix any problems you may have.

Get in touch with us by giving us a call or through our contact form!