Water Heater Temperature

[hausdok]

When you inspect a water heater, do you check the temperature setting on the unit and/or confirm temps at faucets with a thermometer?

[Inspectorjoe]

I don't see many water heater thermostats that have actual temperature settings. Most of them have something like A-B-C or VAC-WARM-HOT. The disappearance of numbers is probably an attempt by manufacturers to reduce their liability.

[hausdok]

Hi Joe,

I guess you're referring to gas or oil-fired water heaters versus electric water heaters with the temps on the stat settings. I'm pretty sure that the setting marked by a triangle on gas hot water heater control valve dials is generally around 120°F and the long bar setting that comes next is about 125°F and each bar after that increases temps by approximately 5°F.

ONE TEAM - ONE FIGHT!!!

Mike

[Inspectorjoe]

No Mike, I'm referring to electric. I don't know what the percentages are, but most that I see are a variation of the type below. I'm going to keep track of the next 10 to see just what the percentage is. That may take me till next year though, because the inspection I have booked for this Saturday will be my first in two weeks.

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[hausdok]

Huh,

Yeah, i've seen those but most of the electric ones that I see have the temps. I'll venture a guess that "hot" is about 120°F and that "A" is about 125°F.

ONE TEAM - ONE FIGHT!!!

Mike