If your shower feels more like a bath in lava or an unexpected splash of Arctic water, your water heater’s temperature settings may be off. Whether you’re doing this as part of regular maintenance or because your water just isn’t right, checking the temperature only takes a few minutes. Mr. Rooter Plumbing reminds homeowners that small steps like this can make a big difference in home comfort.
Why the Right Temperature Matters
Your water heater should be set just right—not too hot, not too cold. The recommended setting for most homes is 120°F. This temperature is hot enough to clean dishes and kill bacteria, but not so hot that it causes burns.
If your water is hotter than it needs to be, you might be wasting energy and risking scalding. If it’s too cold, you might not be killing germs properly or getting that nice warm shower you were hoping for. Setting it correctly helps keep your home safe and your energy bill in check.
Step 1: Find Your Water Heater
Start by locating your water heater. Most homes have either a gas or an electric unit. It’s often found in a basement, garage, laundry room, or utility closet.
Before doing anything, always make sure the area is safe. Inspect the area for any leaks or signs of rust. If you see water pooling or signs of damage, stop and call a plumbing repair service. It’s not safe to proceed with the inspection if something appears to be wrong.
Step 2: Check the Current Temperature
One of the easiest ways to check your water temperature is to use a thermometer and test the hot water from your tap.
Here’s how to do it:
- Turn on the hot water at your kitchen or bathroom sink.
- Allow it to run for at least 3 minutes to obtain a steady reading.
- Fill a glass or cup with the hot water.
- Put a kitchen thermometer in the water and wait for the reading.
If it reads over 120°F, it’s too hot. If the temperature is under 110°F, you may need to increase it. Either way, knowing the temperature helps you decide if a change is necessary.
Step 3: Adjust the Temperature Setting
Once you know your current water temperature, it’s time to adjust the heater if needed. The method depends on the type of water heater you have.
For Gas Water Heaters:
- You’ll see a small knob or dial on the outside of the tank, typically marked with settings such as “Low,” “Hot,” or “Very Hot.”
- Turn the dial slightly to adjust. If you're unsure, aim for “Hot,” which is often around 120°F.
- Wait a few hours and retest the temperature at your faucet.
For Electric Water Heaters:
- You’ll need to remove the access panels on the side of the tank (use a screwdriver).
- Behind the panel, you’ll find the thermostat, usually covered with insulation.
- Carefully peel back the insulation and use a screwdriver to adjust the dial.
- Close everything up before turning the power back on.
Remember to always turn off the power to the heater before opening the panel. Safety first!
When to Call a Plumber
If your water heater isn’t heating properly, even after adjusting the settings, or if the water temperature changes quickly without reason, you may need water heater repair. These could be signs of a malfunctioning thermostat, sediment buildup, or an aging unit that requires attention.
A professional plumber can inspect the heater, clean it if needed, and make any repairs to get it back in top shape. Mr. Rooter Plumbing has helped many homeowners with issues just like this and can offer quick, helpful service when needed.
Watch for Other Warning Signs
Keep an eye out for these signs that your water heater might be in trouble:
- Rusty or dirty water coming from the hot tap
- Strange noises like popping or rumbling from the tank
- Water is leaking around the base of the heater.
- Smelly water, especially from the hot side
- Running out of hot water too fast
If you notice any of these issues, don’t wait. A trusted plumbing repair service can help resolve small issues before they escalate into larger, more costly problems. Mr. Rooter Plumbing always recommends regular maintenance checks for this reason.
Keep Your Water Heater Working Longer
A little care goes a long way. Besides checking the temperature, you can help extend your water heater’s life by:
- Flushing the tank once a year to remove sediment
- Checking the anode rod every 2–3 years
- Keeping the area around the heater clean and dry
- Insulating the pipes to reduce heat loss
Sticking to a regular maintenance schedule can help avoid sudden breakdowns or costly water heater repair work. Mr. Rooter Plumbing offers guidance on all these tasks and more to help homeowners feel confident in caring for their system.
Ready to Take Action?
Now that you know how to check your water heater’s temperature, give it a try. It only takes a few minutes, but it can have a significant impact on the safety and comfort of your home. If you find something unusual or your water heater still doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to call a plumber for help. Mr. Rooter Plumbing is always here with support, advice, and expert repair when you need it.
