Water heaters allow us to have a ready supply of hot water whenever we need or want it. However, the standard thermostat setting on a new water heater may not be comfortable for all individuals. You can adjust the water heater temperature by adjusting the settings of your unit. However, remember that DIY home repairs can be risky, causing serious injuries and costly damage to the home. If you’re not sure what you’re doing, please call a local plumber for help with this task. For everyone else, here are simple steps to adjusting the water heater temperature of your unit.
Before You Begin
Before you adjust your water heater settings, you should read the owner’s manual for instructions on how to operate the unit, including adjusting the thermostat.
Begin by locating the thermostat on your water heater. On most gas water heaters, the thermostat is near the bottom of the tank on the gas valve. However, other water heaters may have the thermostat on the inside of a screw-on panel or plate. Moreover, some even have two thermostats, one for the upper and lower heating elements. Always turn off the electricity before opening the panel!
Steps for Adjusting the Water Heater Temperature
Check the temperature of your water.
The thermostat dial on your water heater can be wrong. Test the water temperature by using a thermometer. Check the water at the water tap farthest away from your water heater.
Mark the current setting.
You need to mark the current setting on your water heater before you adjust the water heater temperature. This gives you a reference point so that you know how much to adjust.
Adjust the water heater’s thermostat.
After marking the current setting, adjust the water temperature by turning the thermostat up or down. Follow the directions in the manual and the ones printed on the unit.
Test the new water temperature.
Wait a few hours before testing the new water temperature. Test the water temperature the same way as you did in step one. You may need to make several adjustments to the heater’s thermostat to get the water to the temperature you desire.
Mark the new thermostat setting.
Once you have the water temperature you desire, mark the new setting on your water heater. Marking the current setting helps you adjust the thermostat if necessary in the future.
Adjusting the water temperature when you are away from home.
To save money, turn your water heater down or off when you plan to be away from home for several days. If you have a gas water heater or you are unsure how to turn off your water heater, turning the thermostat to the lowest setting can still save money on energy costs.
Call an O’Fallon, IL Water Heater Repair Company for Help
If the temperature of your water heater is still not comfortable, you might need a water heater repair technician to service the unit. Remember, water heater maintenance can help ensure that your water heater continues to operate efficiently.
The water heater professionals of Morrison Plumbing, Heating & Cooling work on all types of water heaters, including tankless units. We provide water heater repair and maintenance in O’Fallon, IL.
