Water Temperature Regulation
WARNING
Water temperature over 125°F can cause severe burns instantly or death from scalds.
Children, disabled and elderly are at highest risk of being scalded.
Feel water before bathing or showering. Temperature limiting valves are available.
The thermostat is adjusted to the pilot position when it is shipped from the factory. Water temperature can be regulated by moving the temperature dial to the preferred setting. The preferred starting point is 120°F at the “HOT” setting. Align the knob with the desired water temperature as shown in Figure 19A. There is a hot water scald potential if the thermostat is set too high.
NOTE: Temperatures shown on the gas control valve/ thermostat are approximates. The actual temperature of the heated water may vary.
IMPORTANT: Adjusting the thermostat past the 120°F bar on the temperature dial will increase the risk of scald injury. Hot water can produce first degree burns within:
Table 4:
| Time for 1st | Time for | |
Water | Permanent Burns | ||
Degree Burn | |||
Temperature °F | 2nd & 3rd Degree | ||
(Less Severe Burns) | |||
| (Most Severe Burns) | ||
|
| ||
110 | (normal shower temp.) |
| |
116 | (pain threshold) |
| |
116 | 35 minutes | 45 minutes | |
122 | 1 minute | 5 minutes | |
131 | 5 seconds | 25 seconds | |
140 | 2 seconds | 5 seconds | |
149 | 1 second | 2 seconds | |
154 | instantaneous | 1 seconds |
(U.S. Government Memorandum, C.P.S.C., Peter L. Armstrong, Sept. 15,1978)
Figure 19A |
|
Gas Control Valve/Thermostat |
|
Settings |
|
Gas Control/Temperature Knob | |
| 120°F |
Status | Mark |
Light |
|
VAC |
|
Igniter |
|
NOTE: During low demand periods when hot water is not being used, a lower thermostat setting will reduce energy losses and may satisfy your normal hot water needs.
If hot water use is expected to be more than normal, a higher thermostat setting may be required to meet the increased demand. When leaving your home for extended periods (vacations, etc.) turn the temperature dial to the vacation (VAC) setting. This will maintain the water at low temperatures with minimum energy losses and prevent the tank from freezing during cold weather.
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