TEMPERATURE REGULATION
Short repeated heating cycles caused by small hot water uses can cause temperatures at the point of use to exceed the thermostat setting by up to 30°F (16.7°C). If you experience this type of use you should consider using lower temperature settings to reduce scald hazards.
HOTTER WATER CAN SCALD: Water heaters are intended to produce hot water. Water heated to a temperature which will satisfy space heating, clothes washing, dish washing, and other sanitizing needs can scald and permanently injure you upon contact. Some people are more likely to be permanently injured by hot water than others. These include the elderly, children, the infirm, or physically/ mentally handicapped. If anyone using hot water in your home fits into one of these groups or if there is a local code or state law requiring a certain temperature water at the hot water tap, then you must take special precautions. In addition to using the lowest possible temperature setting that satisfies your hot water needs, a means such as a mixing valve, should be used at the hot water taps used by these people or at the water heater. Mixing valves are available at plumbing supply or hardware stores, see Figure 8. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for installation of the valves. Before changing the factory setting on the thermostat, see Figure 26. Using the lowest hot water temperature that meets your needs will also provide the most energy efficient operation of the water heater.
Never allow small children to use a hot water tap, or to draw their own bath water. Never leave a child or handicapped person unattended in a bathtub or shower.
NOTE: A water temperature range of
The thermostat of this water heater has been factory set at its lowest position. It is adjustable and must be reset to the desired temperature setting to reduce the risk of scald injury. The mark (
) indicative of approximately 120°F (49°C) is the preferred starting point for the control. Some States have a requirement for a lower setting.
Turn the water temperature dial clockwise ( 
) to decrease
the temperature, or counterclockwise ( 
) to increase the temperature.
Should overheating occur or the gas supply fail to shut off, turn off the manual gas control valve to the appliance.
FIGURE 26.
Temperature | Time to Produce 2nd and 3rd |
Setting | Degree Burns on Adult Skin |
VERY HOT = approx. 160° (71°C) | About 1/2 second |
C = approx. 150°F (66°C) | About |
B = approx. 140°F (60°C) | Less than 5 seconds |
A = approx. 130°F (54°C) | About 30 seconds |
= approx. 120°F (49°C) | More than 5 minutes |
Lowest Setting = approx. 80°F (27°C) |
22