Optional
Set water heater temperature to 120°F
120°F is hot enough for comfort and safety while saving energy and preventing scalding.
- How often
- Every 2 yr
- Who
- DIY
- Typical cost
- Free
- Time
- 10 min
Why this matters
120°F is hot enough for comfort and safety while saving energy and preventing scalding.
If you skip it: Higher settings waste energy and risk scald burns, especially for kids.
Who should do it
This is a do-it-yourself task. With basic tools and a few minutes, most homeowners can handle it without hiring anyone.
When to do it
There's no special season for this — just keep it on a every 2 years rhythm so it doesn't slip.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I set water heater temperature to 120°f?+
Plan to set water heater temperature to 120°f every 2 years. 120°F is hot enough for comfort and safety while saving energy and preventing scalding.
How much does it cost to set water heater temperature to 120°f?+
It typically runs Free. This is a do-it-yourself task. With basic tools and a few minutes, most homeowners can handle it without hiring anyone.
What happens if I skip it?+
Higher settings waste energy and risk scald burns, especially for kids.