Electric Hot Water Heater Thermostat Adjustment

How to set the upper and lower thermostats on dual element water heaters.

Electric hot water heater thermostat adjustment.

Your home s water heater is one of the most important components of your plumbing. You will find two thermostats in your water heater. Replace the insulation and reinstall the access panel. Hot water heater settings are easy to adjust although electric heaters will require a screwdriver and possibly a small wrench or socket.

A dual element water heater uses two heating elements controlled. A rheem water heater leaves the factory with the temperature preset at 120 degrees fahrenheit but you can adjust the temperature on the thermostat anywhere from 90 degrees fahrenheit up to 150. Also according to the eere a lower hot water temperature reduces mineral build up and slows corrosion of your hot water pipes. The top thermostat should be a few degrees higher than the bottom.

And the adjustment cost of water heater is quite high that you must be wanted to keep the distance from it. If your water heater has two thermostats adjust both the same amount. Don t worry we are here to explain to you one of the most important components of the water heater that is none other than the thermostat. For safety reasons the water temperature adjustments for your electric hot water tank are hidden under a couple of layers.

With each 10ºf reduction in water temperature you can save between 3 5 in energy costs so now is a good time to check the temperature on your electric water heater. Many modern homes come with dual element water heaters. If you can stand shorter or cooler showers turning down the thermostat on your water heater is a great way to save on your electric bill each month. With proper maintenance and care your water heater will last for years.

See the articles testing electric water heater thermostats and testing electric water heater elements for information on checking to see if these items are functioning properly.