How hot should your hot water be?

Can your hot water system actually be too hot? Does it really matter that much? Hot water inside the home is a necessary part of every day life. We use it from cleaning the dishes to showering the dog. So its important that this is done safely. Water that is hotter than 60 degrees is very dangerous especially to older senior citizens and younger children too.

However your water temperature can be too cold. With water sitting at lower temperatures Legionella can grow causing serious health concerns.

Above 70 °C : Legionella dies almost instantly

At 60 °C : 90% die in 2 minutes

At 50 °C : 90% die in 80–124 minutes, depending on strain

At 48 to 50 °C : Can survive but do not multiply

Ideal growth range

Setting too high can scald someone using the water. Setting the water too low can grow Legionella, so what temperature should you set your water. So what should you do?<

Check your hot water temperature - If you have a thermometer at home, run some hot water and test it. The temperature should be no hotter than 55 degrees at the tap, if it is hotter than that you should have your system turned down

Adjust your tempering valve - If your not sure what this is we don't recommend attempting this step on your own. If you do, Check what setting your hot water system is at and then check your tempering valve setting. Your system should be set to 60 degrees or hotter but the tempering valve should be set to deliver water no hotter than 55 degrees at the house