What is the recommended maximum temperature for hot water heaters?

The recommended maximum temperature for hot water heaters is typically set between 110°F and 130°F. This range is considered safe for most household needs, including washing hands, dishes, and laundry. Maintaining the temperature within this range helps to reduce the risk of scalding injuries, which can occur at higher water temperatures, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.

Additionally, keeping the temperature below this threshold while still ensuring sufficient heating for sanitation purposes helps prevent excessive energy consumption and damage to plumbing fixtures. While temperatures higher than this may be used for some specific applications, such as in commercial settings or for disinfection purposes, they pose an increased risk for burns, thus the 110°F to 130°F is a commonly advocated safe practice for residential water heaters.