Lower Water Temperature for Savings

You can reduce your water heating costs by simply lowering the thermostat setting on your water heater. For each 10 degree Fahrenheit reduction in water temperature, you can save between 3%–5% in energy costs.

Although some manufacturers set water heater thermostats at 140 degrees Fahrenheit , most households usually only require them set at 120 degrees Fahrenheit or even 115 degrees Fahrenheit . Water heated at 140 degrees Fahrenheit also poses a safety hazard—scalding. However, if you have a dishwasher without a booster heater, it may require a water temperature within a range of 130 degrees Fahrenheit to 140 degrees Fahrenheit for optimum cleaning.

Reducing your water temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit also slows mineral buildup and corrosion in your water heater and pipes. This helps your water heater last longer and operate at its maximum efficiency.