GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Statistics About The Average Water Heater Temp

The average water heater temperature output in households is typically set to around 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

In this post, we explore key statistics surrounding water heater temperature settings and their implications for energy efficiency, safety, and cost savings. From the average temperature most water heaters are set at to the potential energy savings of adjusting the thermostat, these data points shed light on the importance of setting your water heater temperature at an optimal level. Join us as we delve into the facts and figures that can help you make informed decisions about your home’s water heating system.

Statistic 1

"The average temperature that most water heaters are set at is 120°F."

Sources Icon

Statistic 2

"A lower water heater temperature setting of 120°F is safe for most homes and could help reduce energy costs."

Sources Icon

Statistic 3

"An estimated 15 million households in the U.S. set their water heater temperature above 120°F."

Sources Icon

Statistic 4

"Turning down your water heater temperature from 140°F to 120°F can save you between 6% to 10% in energy costs."

Sources Icon

Statistic 5

"Raising the water heater temperature back from 120°F to 140°F can take about an hour on a gas heater."

Sources Icon

Statistic 6

"Nearly 23% of U.S. electricity consumed in homes goes towards water heating, with temperatures typically set above 115°F."

Sources Icon

Statistic 7

"Lowering water heater temperature to 120°F from 140°F can prevent severe burns within 5 seconds for most adults."

Sources Icon

Statistic 8

"On average, raising the temperature setting of a water heater to maintain a 120°F water temperature adds approximately 9% in energy costs for each 10°F increase."

Sources Icon

Statistic 9

"Default hot water heater temperature setting for many manufacturers is 140°F."

Sources Icon

Statistic 10

"Maintaining a water heater temperature at 140°F is thought to use 4% to 22% more energy than a 120°F setting."

Sources Icon

Statistic 11

"Recommended water heater temperature for households with a dishwasher and no hot water sanitizing cycle is 130°F."

Sources Icon

Statistic 12

"Raising a water heater temperature above the standard 140°F is only recommended when legionella bacteria are identified in the plumbing system."

Sources Icon

Statistic 13

"The standby heat loss from keeping an electric tank-style water heater at 120°F rather than at 140°F is approximately 1-2% of total hot water energy use."

Sources Icon

Statistic 14

"A water heater temperature reduction from 140°F to 120°F provides a 5:1 safety factor in relation to water scaling and sediment build-up in tanks."

Sources Icon

Statistic 15

"About 11% of US households heat domestic hot water with electricity at temperatures above the recommended 120°F."

Sources Icon

Statistic 16

"A temperature setting of 120°F at the outlet of the water heater is protective against scald injury for most circumstances."

Sources Icon

Statistic 17

"The risk of contracting Legionnaire’s disease falls sharply when domestic hot water systems are maintained at a minimum of 60°C or 140°F."

Sources Icon

Statistic 18

"A temperature setting of 120°F helps your water heater to slow mineral buildup and corrosion in your water heater and pipes."

Sources Icon
Setting your water heater temperature to 120°F is a safe and energy-efficient choice for most households, potentially saving you money while also reducing the risk of burns and promoting water heater longevity. While some households may default to higher temperatures, such as 140°F, the statistics show that a lower setting can provide significant benefits in terms of both energy savings and safety. It is important to consider your specific household needs, such as the presence of a dishwasher or the risk of bacteria, when determining the optimal water heater temperature setting. Overall, opting for a temperature of 120°F strikes a balance between safety, energy efficiency, and equipment maintenance.

Can You Trust Our Report?

The statistics are checked by us and then entered into the database. Our market data reports have been linked to by some of the largest publishers and companies on the Internet.

Learn more about our process here.

... Before You Leave, Catch This! 🔥

Your next business insight is just a subscription away. Our newsletter The Week in Data delivers the freshest statistics and trends directly to you. Stay informed, stay ahead—subscribe now.

Sign up for our newsletter and become the navigator of tomorrow's trends. Equip your strategy with unparalleled insights!