Does my water heater have to be set at 120F?
Question:My gas water heater has been set at about 100F, and I've been very comfortable with that for showers, clothes-washing, etc. I've just installed a new dishwasher, with instructions that my water heater should be set at 120F.
If I use the dishwasher 3-4 times per week, am I likely to use more energy by raising the water heater from 100F to 120F full-time, or by letting the dishwasher heat the water an extra 20 degrees a few times each week? If you have expertise in this area, please let me hear your logic. Thanks!
Answers:
If your happy with 100F leave it there. And I think it would cost more if you raised it, because it would have to heat the water longer.
the 120 mrk is for safety sake
it takes 30 minutes to scald yourself with 120 degree water, it takes 30 seconds at 130
sure hotter water helps dishes clean better, but the 120 is so you don'e open the door and get burned and sue
leave it at 100, rinse the dishes of major food before you wash them
no you don't have to it's just a recommendation.we set ours higher cuz we like it that way.
Set the temperature where you want it. Use a insulated water heater jacket to help save energy.
Seems like you have answered your own question .
Meaning if you like it at 100F and that is fine ., then just let the dishwasher heat it the extra 10 or 20 degrees a few times a week . Shouldn't matter all that much on savings .
Note not an expert .
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