How to Turn Up the Hot Water Heater Temperature

Most people don’t think about their water heater until there is a problem. Your water heater should be set to a comfortable temperature so that you can enjoy a hot shower or bath without having to wait long. In this guide, we will show you how to turn up the hot water heater temperature so that you can get the most out of your appliance.

Water Heater Recommended Temperature

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) recommends water heater temperature set at the following temperatures:

If your water heater is not set to one of these temperatures, you can adjust it yourself.

How to Adjust Temperature on Electric Hot Water Heater

You can adjust the temperature on your electric hot water heater by following these simple steps:

Cut the power at the breaker

This is important so that you don’t get shocked by the electric current.

Locate the thermostat on your water heater

It will be near the top of the tank and will look like a small dial or switch.

Turn the thermostat to the desired temperature

The higher the number, the hotter the water will be.

Replace insulation and panel(s)

Put everything back together so that your water heater will work properly again.

How to Adjust Temperature on Gas Hot Water Heater

The temperature on your gas water heaters can be adjusted to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your system. The following guide will show you how to turn up the heat on your gas hot water heater:

The temperature on most gas hot water heaters can be adjusted between 120F and 140F. If you’re willing to leave the unit set at a higher temperature setting, then you’ll see an increase in energy efficiency because your tank will no longer have to work as hard to heat the water.

How to Turn Up a Hot Water Heater That's Not Working

You’ll want to remember to prioritize safety first when trying to turn up a hot water heater that’s not working. If you’re not comfortable with doing this yourself, please call a professional to help you out.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to turn up a hot water heater that’s not working:

Step #1: Turn off the power and gas supply

The first is to turn off the power and gas supply to your water heater. This will help to prevent any accidents from happening.

Step #2: Check the water temperature

Once you have turned off the power and gas supply, you’ll want to check the water temperature. This can be done by running the hot water for a bit and seeing what comes out. If it’s not as hot as you’d like, then continue on to step three.

Step #3: Turn up the temperature dial

Now it’s time to turn up the temperature dial on your water heater. This should be located near the bottom of your hot water tank, under an access panel door or lid (usually red in color). Rotate this knob clockwise until you’ve reached its maximum setting, and then wait for about 30 minutes before testing the new temperature again.

Step #4: Turn back on power and gas supply

The last step is to turn back on the power and gas supply to your water heater. This will allow for more hot water production, but also make sure that everything else is working properly as well.

Step #5: Check again in about 3 hours, if needed

If the water temperature is still not as hot as you’d like, then you can check back in about three hours to see if it’s made a difference. Remember that it may take a little while for the new temperature to be fully realized.

If it still does not produce the hot water you want, then there may be a larger issue, and you need to call a professional to come to take a look at it.

How Hot Should Your Hot Water Be?

The temperature of your hot water should be around 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help to ensure that you’re not scalding yourself every time you take a shower or bath. If the water is too cold, then you can adjust the temperature on your hot water heater to make it hotter.

According to the US Department of Energy, you can save about $100 a year on your energy bill by adjusting the temperature on your hot water heater. So, if you’re not happy with the current temperature setting, make some adjustments and see how it makes a difference.

Adjusting Tank-Type Electric Water Heaters

Since water heaters are typically pre-set at the factory to deliver a certain amount of hot water, it is often necessary to adjust the temperature up or down to better meet your needs. The following instructions will help you adjust the tank-type electric water heater in your home:

Locate the thermostat on your electric water heater. It is typically located near the bottom of the tank.
Use a screwdriver to adjust the temperature up or down, as desired. Be sure to consult your water heater's owner's manual for specific instructions on how to make this adjustment.
Once you have made the necessary adjustments, test the hot water supply by running some hot water into a sink or bathtub. If the water is not hot enough, continue to adjust the thermostat up until it reaches the desired temperature.

Tankless Electric Water Heaters

Adjusting the temperature on a tankless electric water heater is similar to how you would adjust a tank-type electric water heater. However, instead of using a screwdriver to make the adjustment, you will need to use an Allen Wrench (sometimes called Hex Key).

The thermostat on a tankless water heater is typically located behind the cover plate. It can be found either near the bottom or top of your unit, depending on its model and design.

Once you have accessed the thermostat, you will need to make an adjustment using an Allen Wrench.

Turning the adjustment clockwise will increase the water temperature, while turning it counter-clockwise will decrease the water temperature.

If you are not sure which way to turn the adjustment, start by turning it slowly in a clockwise direction and wait for about 30 seconds. The heater will cycle on and off as it attempts to reach the new temperature setting. Repeat this step until you achieve the desired temperature setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I not get enough hot water or as much hot water as I used to?

If you do not get enough hot water or as much hot water as you used to, it could be possible that your unit is experiencing problems with its thermostat or heating elements, which are responsible for regulating the temperature and generating heat, respectively. Water heater repair costs vary.

How long does it take for the water heater to adjust the temperature?

It typically takes a water heater three hours to adjust to a new temperature setting. Therefore, if you are not happy with the current water temperature, be sure to give it some time before making any adjustments.

Can I turn up the hot water heater if the water is too hot?

No, if the water is already too hot, then turning up the heat won’t help at all. However, you can check your water heater’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to turn down the temperature if necessary.

Why does my water heater make a “rumbling” noise?

A water heater that makes a “rumbling” noise is typically experiencing problems with its heating elements. If you are hearing this type of noise, it is best to consult with a professional to have the unit serviced.

How can I tell if my water heater needs repairs?

If your water heater is leaking, making strange noises, or not producing enough hot water, it may need repairs. If you are unsure if your unit needs service or what to do next, contact a professional for more information.

Are tankless or “on-demand” water heaters a good alternative?

Tankless water heaters are a great alternative to tank-type water heaters, as they do not use energy or resources when the water is not in use. They also tend to last longer than traditional tanks. However, they can be more expensive to install and may require special wiring.

If you’re not getting enough hot water or if the temperature is not what you want it to be, don’t panic. You can always adjust your water heater temperature by following the steps in this guide. Just make sure that you follow all safety precautions and also check with your local building codes before turning up the temperature on your device.

If you’re not comfortable making the adjustment yourself or need more help, be sure to consult with a professional.