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What temperature to set your water heater to

The U.S. Department of Energy's home energy checklist says to turn the temperature of your water heater down to the warm setting (120°F). It says you will save energy and avoid scalding your hands.

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What temperature to set your water heater to

Checklist

  • Find the temperature dial or setting on your water heaterOnce
  • Set it to the warm setting, 120°FOnce
  • Check the setting again after any service visit or if the water seems too hotAs needed

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The recommended setting

The DOE Federal Energy Management Program home energy checklist lists this under daily habits: turn down the water heater to the warm setting, 120°F.

Why turn it down

DOE says lowering the setting saves energy and avoids scalding your hands. Check the manual for your model, since dials differ; some are marked only warm, hot or very hot.

Questions

What temperature should a water heater be set to?

DOE's home energy checklist says the warm setting, 120°F.

Does lowering it save money?

DOE says you will save energy. It gives no dollar figure on that checklist.

Sources

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General guidance for typical homes. Follow your equipment manufacturer's instructions and local codes, and hire a pro for anything you're not comfortable doing.