If the water coming out of your hot water lines is too hot or not hot enough, a simple adjustment to your water heater can help ensure your water is at the perfect temperature.

This is true for both gas and electric water heaters, and if done with the proper safety precautions, it can be an easy way to improve the performance and efficiency of your system.

The plumbing experts at United Air Temp provide a step-by-step guide to adjusting the temperature on your water heater, along with guidance on ideal temperature settings and maintenance tips to keep your system operating at its best.

Why You Might Need To Adjust Your Water Heater

Having the right temperature of hot water is key for a variety of reasons:

• Water that’s too cool can impact your comfort and may allow dangerous bacteria to grow.
• Water that’s too hot can cause scalding. 
• You may want to lower your water temperature slightly to save on energy bills.
• You may need to adjust your water temperature to ensure proper water heater performance despite seasonal temperature changes.

Safety Precautions Before Adjusting Your Water Heater

Any homeowner who plans to adjust their own water heater needs to take the proper safety precautions. This means shutting off the power at the electrical panel for an electric water heater and setting the system to pilot mode for a gas water heater.

Once your system is off, check the area to ensure it’s dry to prevent any electrical hazards. Then, grab insulated gloves and a thermometer to help avoid burns.

How To Adjust an Electric Water Heater

1. Locate and remove the access panel and insulation.
2. Use a flathead screwdriver to turn the thermostat dial.
3. Adjust both upper and lower thermostats (if present) for consistency.
4. Replace insulation and panels.
5. Restore power to your water heater.

How To Adjust a Gas Water Heater

1. Find the temperature dial on the gas valve.
2. Turn the dial slightly to the right to increase or turn it left to decrease.
3. Restore the gas supply to the system.

Ideal Temperature Settings & Maintenance Tips

The U.S. Department of Energy and plumbers nationwide recommend setting your water heater to 120°F or 49°C for safety and efficiency. This is the best temperature to prevent scalding and ensure maximum performance.

After adjusting your system, wait three to four hours to test your water temperature and make small adjustments if needed.

You can also schedule annual water heater maintenance, which includes flushing the tank and inspecting for sediment buildup, to help keep your hot water supply at a consistent temperature.

Choose UAT for Water Heater Repair & Maintenance

Need professional and reliable water heater services in the Orlando area? Contact United Air Temp today to schedule with our team of experts. We offer same-day and emergency water heater repairs to ensure that your needs are met quickly. Plus, we provide on-time scheduling and quality work that allows us to build lasting relationships with every customer.

Contact United Air Temp today to schedule water heater services for your Orlando home.