DANGER: Hotter water increases the Potential for Hot Water SCALDS. Households with small children, disabled, or elderly persons may require a 120°F or lower thermostat setting to prevent contact with HOT water.
Water Temperature Setting
The temperature of the water in the water heater can be regulated by setting the temperature dial of the adjustable surface mounted thermostat(s) located behind the jacket access panel(s).
Dual element heaters have two thermostats.
Safety and energy conservation are factors to be considered when selecting the water temperature setting of the water heater’s thermostat(s). The lower the temperature setting, the greater the savings in energy and operating costs.
To comply with safety regulations the thermostat(s) are factory set at 120°F or less where local codes require. This is the recommended starting point.
Water temperatures above 125°F can cause severe burns or death from scalding. Be sure to read and follow the warnings outlined in this manual and on the label on the water heater. This label is located on the water heater near the thermostat access panel.
Mixing valves are available for reducing point of use water temperature by mixing hot and cold water in branch water lines. Contact a licensed plumber or the local plumbing authority for further information.
The chart below may be used as a guide in determining the proper water temperature for your home.
Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds
Temperature | Time To Produce a Serious Burn |
120°F | More than 5 minutes |
125°F | 11/2 to 2 minutes |
130°F | About 30 seconds |
135°F | About 10 seconds |
140°F | Less than 5 seconds |
145°F | Less than 3 seconds |
150°F | About 11/2 seconds |
155°F | About 1 second |
Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute
Reset button | T | R |
|
E | E | ||
S |
| S | |
E |
| ||
R | T | E | |
| |||
Thermostat |
|
|
|
dial pointer |
|
|
|
| 150°F |
| 90°F |
| 125°F |
| |
| TURN OFF | ||
| POWER | ||
| BEFORE | ||
Thermostat | SERVICING | ||
|
|
| |
protective |
|
|
|
cover |
|
|
|
Type 59T thermostat and protective cover.
If adjustment is necessary…
Turn off the power to the water heater.
Remove the jacket access panel(s) and insulation exposing the thermostat(s).
The thermostat protective cover(s) should not be removed.
Using a small screwdriver, set the thermostat(s) dial pointer(s) to the desired temperature.
Replace the insulation and jacket access panel(s). Turn on the power to the water heater.
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