How to Change the Temperature on Your Hot Water Heater

Hi, I'm Glenn with Mr. Rooter Plumbing. In this video, I'm going to show you how to adjust the temperature of your water heater. Your home's water heater is one of the most important components of your plumbing. With proper maintenance and care, your water heater will last for years. One easy way to care for it is to properly set the water heater's temperature.

Gas valve water heaters are really easy to adjust. Find the knob on the valve and set the temperature between 115 and 120 degrees. This lowered setting will protect the tank from overheating and will take less energy to heat the water.

Electric water heaters are a little more intricate, but not hard. First - be sure to shut off power to your water heater. This is really important. Next, remove the panel. Take out the insulation. There are two thermostats on electric water heaters, so I'm going to show you how to adjust both. Take a flathead screwdriver and adjust the temperature to between 115 and 120 degrees. You want your top element to be a little higher than your lower thermostat, so adjust accordingly.

If you find you are having issues or questions, be sure to contact your local, friendly Mr. Rooter plumber.

Thanks for watching and be sure to check out some of our other informative how-to videos!